First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30 is a serious piece of kit, designed for professionals who need a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm, especially when equipped with a red dot sight. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster world, and this model promises to deliver on that reputation. This holster combines the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III retention, offering a high degree of security while still allowing for a smooth and efficient draw.
My journey to finding this holster started with a new pistol purchase and the addition of a red dot sight. I needed a duty-grade holster that could accommodate the optic, provide excellent retention, and allow for a natural draw stroke. Several holsters were considered, but the Safariland 6360rds seemed to offer the best combination of security, speed, and compatibility.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging, well-protected and with clear instructions. My first impression was that the construction was robust and the materials felt high-quality, giving me immediate confidence in its durability. The holster itself is surprisingly lightweight considering the level of retention it offers.
Compared to some other Level III retention holsters I’ve used from brands like Blackhawk and Bianchi, the Safariland 6360rds stood out for its intuitive design and refined locking mechanisms. I chose it over the others because of Safariland’s proven track record in law enforcement and military applications, and the ALS/SLS combination offered a level of security I felt was essential for my specific needs. I was excited to see if it would live up to the hype and provide the secure and reliable carry I needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360rds at my local shooting range, running drills focused on drawing and reholstering under pressure. The range provided a controlled environment to practice with the retention systems and get comfortable with the draw stroke. The holster performed admirably in dry conditions.
It also saw action during a recent training day in less-than-ideal conditions, namely light rain and dusty terrain. The ALS and SLS mechanisms remained functional without any hiccups, even when coated with dust and moisture. Getting accustomed to the unlocking sequence took some practice, but quickly became second nature. The draw was consistently smooth and efficient after a few hours of repetition.
My initial experience was positive, even though unlocking the SLS hood while simultaneously deactivating the ALS lever required some focused practice. There were no unexpected snags or malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly range sessions and incorporating the Safariland 6360rds into my everyday carry, its durability and reliability have been impressive. I’ve noticed very minimal wear and tear, mainly slight scuffing on the STX finish. The holster’s construction appears to be holding up exceptionally well.
I’ve found that a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning smoothly. Occasionally, I’ll use a silicone-based lubricant to ensure the locking mechanisms remain fluid, but this is more of a preventative measure. It is not a necessity. Compared to other holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360rds requires less maintenance.
Overall, the Safariland 6360rds has exceeded my expectations for a duty-grade holster. Its retention, draw speed, and durability are a definite step up from my previous experiences.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It employs the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. Building on this, the Self Locking System (SLS) further enhances retention by adding a rotating hood that must be deliberately disengaged before drawing.
This particular model is a mid-ride holster, positioning the firearm at a height that allows for a smooth and natural draw stroke. It is made from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary material known for its resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The holster is duty-rated Level III retention, offering a high level of security against unauthorized removal. It is also important to note that the 6360rds series is available in various fits to accommodate a wide variety of handguns and weapon light configurations.
The integration of ALS and SLS provides a Level III retention rating that is crucial for law enforcement and military personnel. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction offers unmatched durability in harsh environments. Finally, the mid-ride height offers a balance of accessibility and concealment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds performs exactly as it is designed to: providing secure retention and a reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically, and the SLS hood is easily manipulated with the thumb during the draw stroke. It quickly becomes a fluid and consistent motion with practice.
The primary strength of the Safariland 6360rds is its security. The dual retention systems provide a high degree of confidence that the firearm will remain in the holster until needed. The only potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the unlocking sequence, but this is quickly overcome with practice. The holster absolutely meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360rds is exceptional, with the SafariSeven™ nylon blend feeling robust and well-formed. The holster feels surprisingly lightweight for its size and level of retention, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The ergonomic design facilitates a natural and efficient draw stroke.
The Safariland 6360rds is relatively user-friendly. The ALS and SLS mechanisms are intuitive once understood. However, it requires some initial practice to become proficient with the unlocking sequence.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, offering excellent resistance to wear, tear, and environmental factors. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to extreme temperatures and chemicals. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
The Safariland 6360rds is easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanisms are generally sufficient to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various mounting platforms such as belt loops, drop-leg platforms, and MOLLE adapters. The holster is also designed to accommodate firearms with different red dot sight footprints. Some users may find it necessary to adjust the tension screws to achieve the optimal draw speed and retention.
Compatibility with Safariland’s diverse mounting systems enhances the holster’s versatility. The ability to fine-tune retention allows users to tailor the holster to their specific preferences and needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30
Pros
- Level III Retention: The combination of ALS and SLS offers unparalleled security, making it ideal for duty use or high-risk environments.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications or compromises.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend material is extremely resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Smooth and Efficient Draw: With practice, the unlocking sequence becomes second nature, allowing for a fast and fluid draw stroke.
- Mid-Ride Height: Positions the firearm at an optimal height for a comfortable and natural draw.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS/SLS unlocking sequence requires dedicated practice.
- Price: At $207.60, it is more expensive than some other holster options on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of firearm retention and reliability. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize security and consistency in their draw stroke. Any responsible gun owner looking for a top-tier holster for open carry or duty use would benefit greatly from this model.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals who prioritize concealment over retention, as its size and design are geared towards open carry and duty applications. It may also be overkill for casual shooters who primarily use their firearms at the range.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper stability and weight distribution. For those who frequently train in low-light conditions, a weapon-mounted light compatible with the holster is a worthwhile addition.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-412-MS30 is a top-of-the-line duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and performance. While the price may seem high, the quality of materials, innovative design, and exceptional retention make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious shooters.
The price is justified given the level of security and durability it offers. It’s a buy-once-cry-once product that will last for years to come.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone who needs a Level III retention holster for their firearm equipped with a red dot sight. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t regret it.