Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. However, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 immediately caught my eye due to its promise of Level III retention and compatibility with red dot sights. It’s a holster designed for serious use, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the Safariland name.

I’d been searching for a duty-rated holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. Most Level III retention holsters I’d used previously required significant modification to fit a red dot, which always felt like a compromise. This Safariland offering seemed to address that specific need directly.

Unboxing the 6360RDS, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall design exuded quality. It had a reassuring weight to it, without feeling overly bulky.

Compared to my older Safariland 6280 and a generic Level II retention holster I used for range days, the 6360RDS felt like a significant upgrade. The 6280 didn’t accommodate red dots at all, and the generic holster, while functional, lacked the refined retention and security features I needed for serious applications. I chose the 6360RDS hoping for a superior balance of security, accessibility, and red dot compatibility.

My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to get it onto my duty belt and see how it performed in real-world scenarios. It appeared to be a meticulously crafted piece of equipment designed for professionals.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 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-2832-131-MS30 was the shooting range, followed by several days of simulated duty scenarios. I needed to confirm it could withstand quick draws, re-holstering under pressure, and retention during simulated physical altercations. The weather conditions were varied, from hot and sunny to damp and slightly muddy.

The holster performed admirably in all conditions. Even with sweaty hands, the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) mechanisms were easy to manipulate. I did need a few practice draws to become completely comfortable with the release sequence, but the movements quickly became second nature. I experienced no issues with the draw even when wearing gloves.

I encountered one minor surprise during my initial use. The mid-ride position, while comfortable, positioned the firearm slightly lower than I was accustomed to. This required a slight adjustment to my draw stroke.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven™ nylon blend, even after repeated exposure to abrasion and the elements. The locking mechanisms remain smooth and consistent.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the locking mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. It outperforms my previous holsters in terms of both security and durability.

Compared to my older holsters, the 6360RDS provides a noticeably higher level of confidence. The Level III retention gives me peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure, while the smooth and consistent draw stroke allows for rapid deployment when necessary. It is a definite upgrade from my previous carry methods.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 is designed to accommodate specific firearms with red dot sights, in this case a Glock 17/22. It is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a non-abrasive nylon material. The holster features both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) for Level III retention.

The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for a comfortable and accessible draw. The holster is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, being heat and chemical resistant. It’s also designed to not damage the firearm’s finish.

These specifications are crucial for a duty holster. The Level III retention ensures the firearm remains secure during physical activity and potential confrontations. The SafariSeven™ material provides long-lasting durability and protects the firearm’s finish. The red dot compatibility is a must-have for modern law enforcement and tactical applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS and SLS mechanisms provide a secure lock on the firearm, while still allowing for a smooth and rapid draw with practice. The mid-ride position offers a good balance of comfort and accessibility.

The primary strength of the holster is its Level III retention combined with red dot compatibility. This is a relatively rare combination, and Safariland executes it flawlessly. One potential area for improvement might be a slightly more intuitive release mechanism for the SLS, but this is a minor critique. It undeniably meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 is excellent. The SafariSeven™ material feels robust and durable. The mid-ride design is comfortable for extended wear, and the holster conforms well to the body.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, though it does require some practice to master the release sequence. The ALS and SLS mechanisms are straightforward, but muscle memory is essential for a smooth and efficient draw. A quick-start guide or training video would be a helpful addition.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 is expected to last for years under normal use. The material is resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanisms are all that’s required. Parts can be replaced, if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is primarily designed for firearms with red dot sights, so choosing the correct model based on your optic is essential. You can also customize it with various Safariland tactical accessories such as a flashlight mount. The SafariSeven™ material doesn’t require any special care products, which is a welcome feature.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30

Pros

  • Level III Retention: Provides superior security and peace of mind.
  • Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without modification.
  • Durable SafariSeven™ Construction: Resists abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures for long-lasting performance.
  • Smooth and Consistent Draw: Allows for rapid deployment with practice.
  • Customizable with Safariland Accessories: Offers flexibility to tailor the holster to specific needs.

Cons

  • Some users may find the SLS release mechanism requires getting used to.
  • Higher price point compared to Level II retention holsters.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30?

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a high level of security and red dot sight compatibility. If you use a red dot and need a duty-rated holster, this is a top contender.

Individuals who prioritize simplicity and are not concerned with Level III retention might find a Level II holster more suitable. It is also not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and retention mechanisms. A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to properly support the weight and maintain stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-2832-131-MS30 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises. The combination of Level III retention, red dot sight compatibility, and durable construction makes it a top choice for professionals who demand the best.

While the price is higher than some other holsters, the added security and features justify the investment. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm with a red dot sight. Upgrade your gear and experience the difference that quality and innovation can make.

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