Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 from Safariland promises a high level of security and functionality for professionals who rely on red dot sights. As someone who’s spent over a decade working in law enforcement and private security, I’ve seen firsthand the critical importance of a reliable and secure holster, especially when using a red dot sight. The promise of Level III retention, combined with the convenience of a mid-ride platform, immediately piqued my interest.

My primary issue was finding a duty holster that could securely accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR without sacrificing a smooth draw. Many holsters either lacked sufficient retention or were not designed to work seamlessly with red dot sights, leading to awkward draws and potential safety concerns. This Safariland model seemed to offer the best of both worlds.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt robust and well-constructed. The materials appeared durable, and the finish was clean and professional. The weight was noticeable but not excessive, suggesting a good balance between strength and comfort.

I considered other options like the Blackhawk T-Series L3D and the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the proven track record of the ALS/SLS retention systems in duty environments. The other holsters felt either too bulky or had retention mechanisms that seemed less intuitive.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to put the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype, but also aware that retention holsters can sometimes be clunky in practice.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 was at an outdoor shooting range, simulating a dynamic training environment. I ran several drills involving movement, drawing, and re-holstering to assess its speed and security. The weather was slightly damp, adding a real-world element of potential slippage.

The draw stroke initially felt different compared to my previous Level II holster, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to disengage both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and the SLS (Self Locking System). However, after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. I appreciated the positive “click” of the ALS engaging upon re-holstering, providing immediate feedback that the firearm was secure. There were no issues related to the damp conditions.

After the first use, I noticed a slight wear mark on the red dot sight housing, indicating contact with the holster body. This was purely cosmetic and didn’t affect functionality, but it was something to note. Otherwise, the initial experience was positive, and I felt confident in the holster’s retention capabilities.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly use, including force-on-force training and range practice, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 has proven remarkably durable. There are minor scuff marks on the outer shell from regular contact with gear and surroundings, but no cracks or structural damage. The retention mechanisms continue to function flawlessly.

Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and lubricate the ALS and SLS mechanisms with a silicone-based lubricant every few weeks. This prevents any sticking or binding. The holster is very easy to maintain.

Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 offers a significantly higher level of security without sacrificing too much speed. It provides a greater sense of peace of mind knowing my firearm is securely retained, especially in close-quarters situations. The mid-ride height also allows for comfortable wear with body armor.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights. Its Level III retention is achieved through a combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS). The holster rides at a mid-ride height for comfortable carry with or without body armor.

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions immediately upon holstering. It’s intuitive to disengage with the thumb during the draw stroke.
• SLS (Self Locking System): The SLS is a rotating hood that further secures the firearm and prevents unauthorized removal. It requires a downward and forward motion to disengage.
• Mid-Ride Height: Positions the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height on the belt, allowing for a smoother draw and improved comfort, especially when wearing body armor.
• Durable Construction: Typically constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its exceptional durability, temperature resistance, and low maintenance requirements. This makes the holster very tough.
• Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed with an open top to accommodate a variety of red dot sights without modification. This is the key feature differentiating it from standard duty holsters.

These specifications contribute to a holster that is both secure and functional. The ALS and SLS provide a high level of retention, while the mid-ride height and red dot sight compatibility enhance user comfort and performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a relatively quick and smooth draw. The retention mechanisms are reliable and easy to operate with practice.

• Retention: The Level III retention system provides a significant deterrent against unauthorized firearm removal, offering a high level of security for duty use. This holster is a retention beast.
• Draw Stroke: With proper training, the draw stroke is smooth and efficient, allowing for quick target acquisition.
• Red Dot Sight Accommodation: The open-top design allows for compatibility with a wide range of red dot sights without requiring any modifications to the holster.
• Potential Weaknesses: The initial learning curve for the ALS/SLS system may be a bit steep for some users. Also, the Level III retention may not be necessary for all applications.

Overall, the holster meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of security and functionality, especially for those who require a high level of retention.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 is designed with the user in mind. The build quality is excellent, using durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.

• Material and Weight: The SafariSeven nylon blend is lightweight yet incredibly strong, offering a good balance between comfort and durability.
• Ergonomics: The mid-ride height and the smooth draw stroke contribute to a comfortable and ergonomic experience.
• User-Friendliness: The ALS and SLS mechanisms are relatively intuitive, but require practice to master. The holster’s simple design makes it very easy to use.

The holster strikes a good balance between durability, functionality, and user comfort.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.

• Lifespan: With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service. This is a holster you can depend on.
• Maintenance: Cleaning is simple and straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the retention mechanisms. The holster is easily maintained.

The holster’s robust construction and low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for professionals who demand reliability and longevity from their gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs.

• Mounting Options: The holster can be mounted on various belt loops, drop leg platforms, and other mounting systems.
• Optional Accessories: Compatible with Safariland’s line of accessory pouches, magazine carriers, and other duty gear. This makes it very versatile.
• Aftermarket Customization: While the holster itself requires no modification for red dot sights, users can customize the draw stroke and retention level with aftermarket springs and components.

The availability of accessories and customization options allows users to tailor the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 to their individual preferences and operational requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a high level of firearm retention and use a red dot sight. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 is ideal for those in high-risk environments where firearm security is paramount.

This product may not be necessary for casual shooters or those who prioritize speed over security. Additionally, individuals who are not comfortable with a Level III retention system might find this holster too cumbersome.

A must-have accessory is a Safariland belt loop or mounting platform that is compatible with the holster.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and functionality. While the initial learning curve may be a bit steep, the benefits of the Level III retention system and the red dot sight compatibility far outweigh the drawbacks.

The price of $176.40 is justified considering the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the enhanced security it provides. For professionals who rely on their firearms for personal and public safety, this holster is a worthwhile investment.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-482 to anyone seeking a reliable and secure duty holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. Upgrade your security and performance today!