First Impressions of Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve handled countless holsters. But the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster immediately caught my eye for its promise of secure weapon retention, compatibility with red dot sights, and mid-ride height. This holster combines the Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) with their Self Locking System (SLS) creating a formidable level of security, while still allowing for a smooth and efficient draw.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a duty holster that effectively accommodated my increasingly common red dot equipped sidearms without sacrificing retention. Many holsters felt clunky or unreliable, especially in dynamic training scenarios. The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster appeared to be the answer to that problem, offering a Level III retention system specifically designed for RDS-equipped firearms.
Upon unboxing, the holster exuded quality. The SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction felt robust and the suede lining promised to protect my firearm’s finish. The holster’s design appeared well thought-out, with the ALS and SLS mechanisms intuitively placed.
I considered other options, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Blade-Tech WRS Level 2, but neither offered the same combination of RDS compatibility and Level III retention I desired. The Safariland seemed to strike the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and modern feature set.
My first impression was one of excited anticipation. This holster appeared to be a significant upgrade and a welcome addition to my duty gear. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster was the shooting range, followed by force-on-force training scenarios. I used a Glock 19 Gen 5 with a Streamlight TLR-2 weapon light and a Trijicon RMR red dot sight. The holster was tested during various drills, including drawing under stress, re-holstering, and weapon retention exercises.
The holster performed admirably in dry and sunny conditions. The ALS and SLS systems were easy to manipulate with gloved hands, and the draw stroke felt natural and fluid after a few practice repetitions. No issues occurred during initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster continues to impress. It has become my go-to duty holster. It has accompanied me through countless training sessions and range days.
The SafariLaminate construction has proven to be incredibly durable. Despite being subjected to scrapes, bumps, and exposure to the elements, the holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. Cleaning is simple, typically requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth.
In comparison to previous Level II holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster provides a noticeable increase in weapon security without significantly hindering draw speed. I’ve also found the mid-ride height to be ideal for comfortable all-day wear. The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster has truly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
Specifications
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster boasts several key specifications:
- Retention Level: Level III, offering a high degree of weapon security.
- Material: SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction, ensuring durability and protection.
- Locking Systems: Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) provide redundant security measures.
- Compatibility: Designed for firearms with red dot sights (RDS) and compatible with specific weapon lights (Streamlight TLR-2G, TLR-2HL, TLR-2).
- Ride Height: Mid-Ride position for comfortable all-day wear.
- Gun Make/Model: Available for various Glock models (Glock 45, Glock 23, Glock 19), among others.
These specifications are critical for duty use. Level III retention provides a significant deterrent against unauthorized weapon removal. The SafariLaminate construction withstands the rigors of daily use. RDS compatibility allows officers to utilize modern optics without compromising holster security.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system automatically locks the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for deployment. The SLS rotating hood further enhances security and prevents accidental weapon removal.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, intuitive operation, and comfortable carry. One potential area for improvement would be to further refine the SLS hood release to accommodate users with smaller hands. Despite being well-suited to several firearm models, the holster also comes with no adjustability.
The holster meets and often exceeds expectations for duty-grade gear. It provides a level of confidence and security that is unmatched by lesser holsters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster features a well-considered design that balances security, accessibility, and comfort. The SafariLaminate material is both durable and relatively lightweight, preventing excessive bulk. The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear.
The holster is generally user-friendly, with both the ALS and SLS releases easily accessible with the thumb. Some users may require a short period of practice to master the draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme temperatures. Internal mechanisms are robust and designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanisms are sufficient to keep the holster in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is primarily designed as a stand-alone unit, but it is compatible with Safariland‘s extensive line of accessories. These include various belt attachments, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. The holster also supports the addition of specific weapon lights.
The key customization aspect is the ability to select a model compatible with specific firearm and optic combinations. However, extensive aftermarket customization options are limited.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled weapon security, crucial for duty applications.
- RDS Compatibility: Accommodates red dot sights without compromising retention or draw speed.
- Durable Construction: SafariLaminate material withstands rigorous use and extreme conditions.
- Intuitive Operation: ALS and SLS systems are easy to learn and operate, even under stress.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: Allows for comfortable all-day carry and a natural draw stroke.
Cons
- Limited Adjustability: The holster offers minimal adjustment for different firearm sizes or user preferences.
- SLS Hood Size: The SLS rotating hood may be slightly large for users with smaller hands, potentially hindering ease of operation.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and the ability to use red dot sights. It is also an excellent choice for private citizens who prioritize security and carry a firearm for self-defense.
Individuals who should skip this product may include those who do not require Level III retention, prefer a minimalist holster design, or use firearms with uncommon optic configurations.
Must-have accessories might include a compatible Safariland belt attachment for optimal stability and comfort, as well as a high-quality gun belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
In summary, the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is an outstanding duty holster that offers a superior blend of security, accessibility, and durability. The $183.99 price tag is justified by its robust construction, innovative retention systems, and compatibility with modern optics.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry a firearm with a red dot sight. It is a worthwhile investment in personal safety and professional performance.
If you’re looking for a duty holster that can stand up to the toughest challenges, look no further than the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster. Equip yourself with confidence.