First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters cross my workbench. When I first laid eyes on the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481, I knew it was different, a purpose-built piece of kit designed to meet the demands of serious users. It boasts Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS), combined with a mid-ride height and specific accommodation for red dot sights (RDS).
My interest in this holster stemmed from a growing need within our training cadre. We were transitioning to pistol-mounted red dots but struggling to find Level III retention holsters that could reliably secure the weapon without interfering with the optic. The Safariland 6360rds seemed like the ideal solution to bridge that gap.
Out of the box, the holster felt solid, a reassuring weight of quality materials. The construction appeared robust, with thick Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend that promised long-lasting durability. The molding was precise, clearly designed to interface seamlessly with a specific firearm and RDS combination.
Compared to other Level III retention holsters I’ve used, the Safariland immediately stood out for its streamlined design and intuitive operation. Many competing holsters felt bulky or required overly complex release mechanisms. The Safariland appeared to offer a more refined balance of security and accessibility.
My first impression was definitely excitement, coupled with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was eager to put the Safariland 6360rds through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation. I needed to know if it really could provide the security and accessibility that my team demanded.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6360rds was at our law enforcement training facility. We ran drills focusing on rapid deployment from concealment, weapon retention during simulated struggles, and transitions between primary and secondary weapons. The holster was subjected to a barrage of stress, mimicking real-world scenarios.
The Safariland 6360rds performed admirably, even in adverse conditions. A sudden downpour turned the range into a muddy mess, yet the holster maintained a secure grip on the firearm. Despite the slick conditions, the SLS hood and ALS lever remained easily accessible, allowing for smooth and reliable draws.
The initial learning curve was surprisingly short. The SLS hood was intuitive to disengage, and the ALS lever fell naturally under my thumb. Within a few repetitions, drawing and reholstering became second nature.
The only surprise after the first day of use was how effectively the mid-ride height positioned the firearm. It offered a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment, making it suitable for both open and concealed carry applications.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360rds continues to perform exceptionally well. The holster has seen action during multiple training exercises, range sessions, and even a few backcountry excursions. Its dependability and ruggedness have consistently impressed me.
Durability has proven to be a significant strength. Despite being subjected to constant abrasion, the SafariSeven™ nylon blend shows virtually no signs of wear and tear. The internal suede lining has also held up well, protecting the firearm’s finish from scratches.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Occasionally, I’ll use a silicone-based lubricant to ensure the SLS hood and ALS lever continue to operate smoothly.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6360rds surpasses them in terms of retention, accessibility, and overall durability. It strikes an ideal balance between security and speed, making it a valuable asset in high-stress situations. It offers a level of confidence that is hard to find in competing products.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481 is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. The Self Locking System (SLS) further enhances retention with a rotating hood.
Level III Retention: This holster provides three levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This is critical for duty carry, where weapon retention is paramount.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): This internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions. It’s deactivated with a simple thumb release.
SLS (Self Locking System): The rotating hood further secures the weapon and helps prevent attempts to snatch it from the holster. It is intuitively disengaged with the thumb during the draw stroke.
Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip. This enhances comfort and allows for easier access while wearing body armor or other tactical gear.
SafariSeven™ Construction: The holster body is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend. It is highly durable, temperature resistant, and non-abrasive to firearm finishes.
RDS (Red Dot Sight) Compatibility: The holster is specifically molded to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. This eliminates the need for modifications or compromises in retention.
Suede Lining: The interior of the holster is lined with soft suede. This protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and abrasions.
These specifications are critical for duty use because they prioritize security, accessibility, and durability. The Safariland 6360rds is designed to withstand the rigors of law enforcement, military operations, and other high-stress environments. The RDS compatibility ensures seamless integration with modern firearms setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm with a red dot sight. The ALS and SLS work in perfect harmony to provide multiple layers of security. The intuitive thumb release allows for a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
Retention: The Level III retention system instills confidence that the firearm will remain secure. Even during rigorous activity or close-quarters combat.
Draw Speed: Despite the robust retention system, the holster allows for a surprisingly fast draw. The ALS and SLS are intuitive to disengage with practice, minimizing draw time.
Compatibility: The holster is compatible with a wide range of firearms and red dot sights. Ensure you select the correct model for your specific weapon.
Comfort: The mid-ride height and ergonomic design contribute to a comfortable carry experience. It minimizes chafing and distributes weight evenly.
One minor weakness is that the SLS hood can occasionally require a bit of force to disengage, especially when new. This issue typically resolves itself with regular use as the mechanism breaks in. Overall, the Safariland 6360rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated Level III retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360rds is exceptional. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend feels incredibly durable and resistant to impacts and abrasions. The weight is substantial but not excessive, providing a sense of quality without being cumbersome.
The holster is remarkably user-friendly. The ALS and SLS mechanisms are intuitive to operate, even under stress. The mid-ride height positions the firearm for optimal access, and the overall design minimizes interference with movement. The design is incredibly functional without sacrificing comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly resistant to wear and tear, and the internal suede lining protects the firearm’s finish. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts are usually sufficient. The holster is also resistant to most common solvents and cleaning agents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including:
QLS (Quick Locking System): Allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the holster from different platforms. This allows easy transfer from belt to vest.
Various Belt Loops and Mounts: Offers flexibility in how the holster is worn. These options include different ride heights and cant angles.
While the Safariland 6360rds is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it is often compatible with aftermarket belt loops and mounting systems from other brands. However, it’s always best to verify compatibility before making any modifications.
There are no included accessories other than what is required to attach it to your belt.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481
Pros
- Unparalleled Level III Retention: The ALS/SLS combination provides exceptional security, giving peace of mind in any situation.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights without compromising retention.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly tough and resistant to wear, tear, and extreme conditions.
- Fast and Intuitive Draw: With practice, the ALS/SLS system allows for a surprisingly quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: Positions the firearm for optimal accessibility and all-day comfort, even with body armor.
Cons
- SLS Hood Stiffness: The SLS hood can be stiff initially, requiring some break-in and practice.
- Price Point: Higher price compared to some other Level III retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481?
The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for:
- Law enforcement officers requiring a high-retention duty holster.
- Military personnel seeking a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm.
- Private security professionals who need a durable and dependable holster.
- Hunters or outdoorsmen carrying a sidearm for protection in bear country.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who don’t require Level III retention and prefer a simpler holster design.
- Individuals on a very tight budget, as there are more affordable options available (though not with the same level of quality and security).
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Consider adding a Safariland QLS system for rapid holster changes between platforms.
- Ensure you have the correct belt width and mounting hardware for your specific needs.
- Practice regularly with the ALS/SLS system to develop a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-481 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. It offers unparalleled Level III retention, exceptional durability, and surprisingly fast draw speeds, all while accommodating firearms with red dot sights.
The price may be higher than some alternatives, but the quality and performance justify the investment. This holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone who needs a secure and reliable Level III retention holster for their firearm with an RDS. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t be disappointed. Choose Safariland. Choose confidence. Choose the 6360rds.