Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482

In the world of duty gear, few names command the respect and trust that Safariland does. Their holsters are renowned for their robust construction and innovative retention systems, making them a staple for law enforcement and military personnel. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is no exception, boasting the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) combined with a design specifically tailored for firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS).

I’ve spent over a decade working with various law enforcement agencies and security firms, and a secure, reliable holster is paramount. I was searching for a duty holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a Trijicon RMR without compromising security or ease of draw. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 seemed to perfectly fit the bill.

Upon receiving the holster, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The Safariland holster felt weighty and substantial, constructed from durable materials built to withstand daily use and abuse. The finish was clean and professional, reflecting the quality I’ve come to expect from Safariland.

I had been considering a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 holster before deciding on the Safariland. While the Blade-Tech offered a minimalist design, it lacked the robust retention system I needed. The Blackhawk! Serpa was more affordable, but I had reservations about its long-term durability and the potential for accidental disengagements under stress.

My initial impression of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 was one of confidence. It exuded quality and promised the secure weapon retention I desperately needed. I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed under real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 was at the local shooting range. I ran a series of drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering, assessing the speed and smoothness of the system. The holster performed admirably, allowing for a quick and natural draw stroke once I familiarized myself with the ALS and SLS releases.

I also tested the holster during a week-long tactical training course in varying weather conditions. From sweltering heat to torrential rain, the Safariland holster held up surprisingly well. The retention mechanisms remained secure, even when soaked, and the holster never felt slippery or unstable.

It did take some time to become completely comfortable with the dual retention system. Releasing both the SLS hood and the ALS lever requires practice and muscle memory. However, after a few hours of focused training, the draw stroke became fluid and intuitive.

The only initial issue I encountered was some slight rubbing against the red dot sight housing during the draw. A minor adjustment of the holster’s tension screws quickly resolved the problem. Overall, my first experience with the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 was overwhelmingly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 continues to impress. It has become my everyday carry holster, both on and off duty. The holster has proven to be exceptionally durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

Despite being subjected to countless draws and re-holsters, the retention mechanisms still function flawlessly. The outer shell exhibits only minor scuff marks, a testament to the quality of the materials used. Cleaning the holster is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.

In comparison to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 outperforms them in almost every aspect. It is more secure, more durable, and more comfortable to wear for extended periods. This Safariland holster has exceeded my expectations, providing a level of performance and reliability I haven’t experienced with other duty holsters.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is a Level III retention holster designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It is compatible with a wide range of handguns, including Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Sig Sauer models. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at an optimal height for easy access.

The core of its security lies in the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS). The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to disengage. The SLS rotating hood further enhances retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm.

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is crafted from durable SafariSeven nylon blend, providing exceptional resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The holster’s interior is lined with SafariSuede to protect the firearm’s finish. It is available in various finishes, including plain black, basketweave, and STX tactical.

These specifications are crucial for duty use. The Level III retention ensures the firearm remains secure in demanding situations. The mid-ride design offers a balance of accessibility and concealment. The SafariSeven material provides exceptional durability and resistance to environmental factors.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS and SLS work seamlessly together to provide three levels of retention, deterring unauthorized access. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, requiring minimal effort once the release mechanisms are mastered.

The holster’s design accommodates red dot sights without hindering performance. The open top allows for a clear sight picture during the draw, ensuring a consistent shooting grip. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 balances security with accessibility.

One minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the dual retention system. However, with regular practice, the draw stroke becomes second nature. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 has not only met but exceeded my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The mid-ride configuration positions the firearm at an optimal height for easy access without hindering movement. The holster’s molded shape conforms to the body, minimizing discomfort during extended wear.

The use of lightweight yet durable materials contributes to the holster’s overall comfort. The ALS and SLS levers are strategically placed for easy manipulation without compromising grip security. While there is an initial learning curve, the design is ultimately user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly durable, resisting scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The retention mechanisms are robust and reliable, designed for long-term performance.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The holster’s simple design makes it easy to inspect and maintain. With proper care, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 should last for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, drop leg platforms, and tactical light mounts. This modularity allows users to customize the holster to suit their individual needs and preferences. The holster is also compatible with popular red dot sights from brands like Trijicon, Aimpoint, and Leupold.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482?

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their duty weapon, especially if it is equipped with a red dot sight. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who prioritize weapon retention without sacrificing speed.

This holster might not be ideal for casual gun owners or those who primarily conceal carry. The Level III retention system may be overkill for those who don’t require that level of security.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a compatible belt designed for duty gear. A sturdy and properly sized belt is crucial for ensuring the holster sits securely and comfortably.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and performance. While it may require some initial training to master the draw stroke, the benefits of the ALS/SLS retention system are well worth the effort. The holster’s RDS compatibility is a significant advantage for those who use red dot sights.

The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the robust construction, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is securely retained. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75228-482 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster for a red dot-equipped firearm. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed.