First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is more than just a piece of plastic; it’s a statement. It promises security, speed, and reliability – everything a professional or serious enthusiast demands from their duty gear. Safariland has a long-standing reputation for quality, and this holster aims to uphold that legacy, especially with the rising popularity of red dot sights on pistols.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each claiming to be the “next best thing.” What piqued my interest in the 6360RDS was the combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) retention mechanisms, coupled with its red-dot sight compatibility. I was looking for a duty-rated holster that would accommodate my Glock 17 with a Trijicon RMR, providing both rock-solid retention and a fast, intuitive draw.
Unboxing the 6360RDS, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and clean lines. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the mid-ride height seemed perfect for comfortable carry without sacrificing accessibility. Compared to my older Safariland ALS holster (without the SLS and RDS compatibility) and a generic Level II retention holster, the 6360RDS felt like a significant upgrade in terms of both security and functionality.
Honestly, my initial reaction was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. Safariland holsters are generally excellent, but Level III retention can sometimes feel clunky or slow. I was eager to see if the 6360RDS could truly deliver on its promise of speed and security in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was typical for that time of year: humid, with temperatures hovering around 85 degrees. I needed something that could handle the rigorous training and keep my pistol safe.
The holster performed admirably under these conditions. The ALS and SLS mechanisms were easy to disengage with practice, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke, even with sweaty hands. It took about an hour of dry-fire practice to become comfortable with the release sequence, but once mastered, the draw was surprisingly fast and intuitive.
Initially, the only minor issue I encountered was the SLS hood occasionally snagging on my thumb during the draw, but this was easily corrected with a slight adjustment to my grip. I immediately trusted that my pistol was safe in this holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including daily wear during training and two weekend-long tactical courses, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, even on the high-friction areas around the ALS and SLS mechanisms. The SafariSeven™ material seems incredibly resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts with silicone spray keeps it functioning smoothly. Compared to my previous nylon holsters, which required frequent cleaning and often showed signs of fraying, the 6360RDS is a significant improvement in terms of longevity and ease of maintenance. This holster has impressed me so far.
Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, this outperforms them all. The 6360RDS offers a superior blend of security, speed, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is meticulously engineered for duty use, incorporating several key features that contribute to its performance. The primary retention system is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering and is released with a simple thumb swipe. This system works in combination with the Self Locking System (SLS) rotating hood, providing Level III retention.
The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, known for its exceptional durability, resistance to heat and cold, and non-abrasiveness to firearm finishes. It also features a mid-ride belt loop that positions the holster at an optimal height for both comfort and accessibility. Finally, the 6360RDS is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, offering a generous channel for the optic.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The Level III retention ensures that the firearm remains secure in high-stress situations, while the RDS compatibility allows users to take full advantage of their optic-equipped pistols. The mid-ride height strikes a balance between comfort and accessibility, making it suitable for extended duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP performs its intended job with remarkable efficiency. The combination of ALS and SLS provides a secure and reliable retention system without sacrificing draw speed. It took a few days to learn the release sequence, but once mastered, it became second nature.
One of the strengths of this holster is its intuitive operation. The ALS release is naturally positioned for the thumb, and the SLS hood rotates smoothly out of the way. However, the SLS hood can sometimes snag on gear.
Overall, the 6360RDS meets and often exceeds expectations. It provides a level of security and speed that is unmatched by many other duty holsters on the market.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is exceptional. The SafariSeven™ material feels incredibly robust, and the holster’s overall construction inspires confidence. The mid-ride height and comfortable contouring make it pleasant to wear for extended periods.
The 6360RDS is relatively user-friendly, although the Level III retention system does require some practice to master. The ALS and SLS mechanisms are designed for intuitive operation, but new users may need to spend some time dry-firing to develop muscle memory. The learning curve is manageable and well worth the effort for the added security.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is expected to last for many years with proper care. The SafariSeven™ material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the holster’s overall design minimizes stress points. With routine cleaning and occasional lubrication, it should provide reliable performance for a long time.
Maintaining the 6360RDS is relatively simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Silicone spray can be applied to the ALS and SLS mechanisms to keep them operating smoothly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. Users can customize the holster to suit their specific needs and preferences. Safariland also offers various mounting options that allow the holster to be attached to MOLLE platforms or other gear.
While the 6360RDS is primarily designed for Safariland accessories, it may be compatible with some accessories from other brands, provided they adhere to standard mounting patterns. Experimentation may be required to ensure proper fit and function.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The combination of ALS and SLS provides Level III retention for superior security.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: Made from SafariSeven™ nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
- Smooth Draw: With practice, the ALS and SLS mechanisms allow for a fast and intuitive draw.
- Mid-Ride Height: Offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the Level III retention system requires practice and familiarization.
- SLS Snag: The SLS hood can occasionally snag on gear or the thumb during the draw.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high-level of security and reliability from their duty gear. It’s also an excellent choice for serious shooting enthusiasts who prioritize safety and want a holster that can accommodate their red dot-equipped pistols. Anyone who carries a pistol with a red dot sight as part of their daily job is a primary candidate for this holster.
Individuals who are new to firearms or who do not require Level III retention may find this holster to be overkill. The learning curve associated with the ALS and SLS mechanisms may be frustrating for those who are simply looking for a basic open-carry holster. Anyone seeking a concealed carry holster should also avoid it.
A must-have accessory for the 6360RDS is a good quality duty belt that is stiff enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster. A weapon light is also a worthwhile addition, as many tactical scenarios require the use of both hands.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and reliability. While the Level III retention system requires some practice to master, the added security is well worth the effort. The RDS compatibility is a welcome feature for those who use red dot sights on their pistols, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
At $207.60, the price is certainly justified given the holster’s quality and features. It is an investment in safety and peace of mind.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-131-MS30-NP to anyone who needs a high-quality, duty-rated holster that can accommodate a red dot sight. Upgrade your gear today and experience the Safariland difference!