Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light Review

First Impressions of Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light

For over a decade, my life has revolved around outdoor and tactical gear, from advising law enforcement to guiding weekend warriors. Holsters, in particular, have been a constant companion, and the Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light caught my eye with its promise of robust retention and practical design for the ubiquitous Glock 19 with a weapon-mounted light. This holster aims to deliver Level III retention with a smooth draw, a balance crucial for duty carry and personal defense.

I needed a reliable duty holster that could accommodate a Glock 19 with a Streamlight TLR-1. My previous holster, a Level II retention model from a lesser-known brand, felt inadequate, especially after a near incident during a training exercise. I wanted something I could trust my life to, something that offered both security and speed.

The Safariland arrived in a no-frills package, but the holster itself spoke volumes. The Safarilaminate construction felt solid and durable, with a reassuring weight that hinted at the quality within. The leather-look finish gave it a professional appearance, and the suede lining was a welcome touch, suggesting care for the firearm’s finish.

I was considering a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco retention holster, but Safariland’s reputation for law enforcement-grade gear and the positive reviews citing the ALS/SLS system’s effectiveness swayed me. The Safariland seemed to offer the best combination of security, accessibility, and durability. The choice was also influenced by my department’s policy favouring Safariland duty holsters, ensuring compatibility with existing gear and training protocols.

My first impression was positive; this holster seemed like a serious piece of kit, built for serious situations. I was excited to get it onto my duty belt and put it through its paces. This felt like a step up from my previous holster.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light was at the department’s shooting range during a week-long training course. The range presented various scenarios, including drawing under stress, shooting from different positions, and engaging multiple targets. The weather was typical for late summer: hot, humid, and dusty.

The initial draw stroke felt a bit stiff, requiring a deliberate thumb press to deactivate the ALS and SLS mechanisms. However, after a few repetitions, the motion became more natural, and the draw smoothed out considerably. The mid-ride position felt comfortable and allowed for a full grip on the pistol before drawing. The holster retained the Glock 19 securely during dynamic movements, including running and simulated grappling.

One minor issue arose when dust accumulated around the ALS mechanism, causing it to stick slightly. A quick wipe resolved the problem, but it highlighted the need for regular maintenance in dusty environments. Overall, the first-use experience was positive, building confidence in the holster’s retention and draw speed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland holster has proven remarkably durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the Safarilaminate finish from rubbing against gear, but the holster’s structure remains sound. The ALS and SLS mechanisms continue to function reliably, although I make it a point to clean and lubricate them weekly.

The suede lining has held up well, showing no signs of wear or damage to the Glock’s finish. The mid-ride belt loop remains secure and comfortable, even during extended periods of wear. Compared to my previous nylon holster, the Safariland has far exceeded expectations in terms of durability and retention.

Maintaining the Safariland is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms keep it in top condition. I’ve also applied a leather conditioner to the finish to prevent cracking and maintain its appearance. The holster has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear that I trust my life to every day.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light

Specifications

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light is designed for Glock 19, 19X, 23, and 45 pistols with various weapon-mounted lights, including Streamlight TLR-1, Surefire X300, and Inforce APL. It offers Level III retention through the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS). The holster body is constructed from durable Safarilaminate material with a leather-look finish.

The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for a comfortable draw and allows for the use of body armor. A suede lining protects the firearm’s finish. The holster is available in various colors, including OD Green and STX Tactical finish.

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This internal locking device secures the weapon upon holstering and is released with a thumb press during the draw.
• SLS (Self Locking System): The rotating hood further secures the weapon and can only be released by simultaneously pushing down and rotating forward.
• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Allows the holster to sit lower on the hip for increased comfort and accessibility.
• Safarilaminate Construction: Provides exceptional durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the holster’s security, durability, and user-friendliness. The Level III retention ensures that the firearm remains securely in place, while the mid-ride design allows for a comfortable and efficient draw. The Safarilaminate construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The ALS and SLS mechanisms are intuitive and easy to operate with practice, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw.

The holster’s mid-ride position is comfortable and allows for a full grip on the pistol before drawing. The holster accommodates a variety of weapon-mounted lights, making it versatile for different mission requirements. One potential weakness is the susceptibility of the ALS mechanism to dust and debris, which can cause it to stick. However, this is easily addressed with regular maintenance.

The holster has met my expectations for security, accessibility, and durability. It provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing that my firearm is secure and readily available when needed. The holster performs perfectly.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both security and user comfort. The holster’s construction is robust, with durable materials and precise molding. The mid-ride belt loop distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, reducing fatigue during extended periods of wear.

The ALS and SLS mechanisms are ergonomically designed and easy to operate with the thumb. The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish and reduces friction during the draw. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release, but it becomes second nature with practice.

The build quality is excellent; the materials feel premium, and the construction is solid. The holster feels comfortable in hand and distributes weight well.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light is built to last, thanks to its Safarilaminate construction and robust design. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service. The holster is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth will remove dust and debris, while lubricating the ALS/SLS mechanisms will ensure smooth operation. The suede lining can be cleaned with a soft brush to remove any accumulated dirt. The Safarilaminate finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, but it can be protected with a leather conditioner to prevent cracking.

The holster seems very easy to maintain and repair, if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light comes with a standard mid-ride belt loop. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms. These accessories allow users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is also compatible with a variety of weapon-mounted lights, including Streamlight TLR-1, Surefire X300, and Inforce APL. This versatility makes it a popular choice among law enforcement officers and security professionals. You can’t customize it.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light

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Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light?

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-quality duty holster. It is also suitable for concealed carry, especially for those who prioritize security and are willing to dedicate time to mastering the draw stroke. Those who need open carry.

This product is not recommended for casual shooters or those who are new to firearms. The Level III retention can be overkill for range use or recreational shooting. The training is needed.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a reliable duty belt that can support the weight of the firearm and holster. Regular cleaning and lubrication supplies are also essential for maintaining the holster’s performance.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light

The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and performance. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the smooth draw and comfortable mid-ride position make it practical for daily use. While the ALS mechanism can be susceptible to dust and the learning curve can be steep, these are minor drawbacks compared to the holster’s overall value.

The price is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and security features. Considering the level of protection and peace of mind it offers, the Safariland is a worthwhile investment.

I highly recommend the Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retention Duty Holster For Glock 19 W/ Light to anyone who requires a reliable and secure duty holster. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the confidence that comes with knowing your firearm is safe and readily accessible!