Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411

In the world of duty gear, the name Safariland resonates with professionals who demand uncompromising security and reliability. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411 is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of law enforcement and tactical operators while accommodating the increasingly popular red dot sights on service pistols. It promises a seamless blend of Level III retention, comfortable carry, and rapid deployment, making it an intriguing option for anyone staking their safety on their sidearm.

My journey to this holster started with the realization that my aging Level II holster wasn’t cutting it anymore. I needed a holster that not only provided enhanced retention for the increasingly complex threat landscape but also accommodated my newly installed red dot sight. I was seeking something that felt secure, allowed a fast draw, and wouldn’t break the bank.

The Safariland 6360rds arrived in a no-nonsense package. The immediate impression was one of quality and durability. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt robust, and the overall construction seemed impeccable. It was lighter than I anticipated, which is always a plus when carrying a duty weapon for extended periods.

I considered several alternatives before settling on the Safariland 6360rds. The Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 was a contender, but I’ve always preferred the intuitive thumb-break release of Safariland’s SLS system. The Galco M5X Matrix was another option, but its reliance on friction-based retention didn’t instill the same confidence as the ALS/SLS combination offered by Safariland.

Initially, I was excited but also cautiously optimistic. I’ve used Safariland products before, and they’ve generally lived up to the hype. My hope was that the 6360rds would provide the security and accessibility I needed, without sacrificing comfort or ease of use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6360rds was at a local shooting range during a qualifications day. I spent the day running drills, drawing and re-holstering repeatedly. It was immediately apparent how naturally the ALS/SLS system operates under pressure.

The holster performed flawlessly, even in the somewhat humid conditions of the range. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, and the SLS hood released cleanly with a natural thumb motion. Re-holstering was just as easy, with the ALS automatically engaging upon the weapon being seated.

There was a slight learning curve in getting accustomed to the precise thumb placement needed for optimal SLS release, but after a few practice runs, it became second nature. My only minor issue was adjusting the tension screw for the ALS to find the sweet spot between retention and ease of draw.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to rain, mud, and the general abuse that comes with daily duty. The SafariSeven™ material is remarkably resistant to scratches and abrasions.

Cleaning the holster is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve noticed no degradation in the retention capabilities of either the ALS or SLS mechanisms. It consistently holds the firearm securely, yet releases it smoothly when needed.

Compared to my previous friction-fit holster, the Safariland 6360rds is a massive upgrade. The peace of mind knowing that my firearm is securely retained, combined with the speed and efficiency of the draw, makes it an invaluable piece of kit. It has absolutely outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411 is a duty-rated, Level III retention holster designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS). Its key features include the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS). The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend material.

The ALS engages automatically upon holstering, securing the weapon in place. The SLS rotating hood further enhances retention, requiring a simple thumb motion to disengage. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for comfortable carry and rapid draw. These features combine to provide a high level of security without sacrificing accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS/SLS system provides exceptional retention, preventing unauthorized removal while allowing for a smooth and intuitive draw stroke. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear and doesn’t interfere with body armor or other gear.

The holster’s strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The learning curve is minimal, and with practice, the draw becomes almost instinctive. The tension adjustment allows customization to individual preferences, ensuring a snug fit without hindering the draw. Some users may find the SLS hood slightly bulky, but this is a minor tradeoff for the added security.

It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360rds is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight yet durable, reducing bulk and preventing excessive wear on the firearm’s finish. The mid-ride belt loop distributes weight effectively, minimizing discomfort during prolonged wear.

The ALS/SLS system is ergonomically designed for a natural thumb motion, promoting a consistent and efficient draw stroke. The internal design of the holster minimizes friction, ensuring a smooth draw and re-holstering. It is user-friendly, although practice is required to master the SLS release under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven™ material used in the Safariland 6360rds is known for its exceptional durability. It is resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh environments. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, maintaining its structural integrity and retention capabilities.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple cleaning with mild soap and water is generally sufficient. The ALS/SLS mechanisms are self-lubricating and require minimal upkeep. With proper care, the Safariland 6360rds should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. It is designed to accommodate firearms equipped with popular red dot sights, providing a seamless fit and unhindered operation.

While the 6360rds is primarily designed for specific firearms and RDS combinations, it can often be adapted to fit similar models with minor adjustments. Aftermarket accessories, such as different SLS hoods or retention devices, are available to further customize the holster to individual preferences. The Safariland mounting pattern also means it can be attached to various platforms like drop legs or MOLLE adapters.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28328-411