Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701 is a serious piece of kit from a company synonymous with law enforcement and tactical professionals: Safariland. Designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, this holster promises Level III retention in a mid-ride configuration, blending security with a relatively comfortable draw. I’ve spent years relying on Safariland holsters, and I was eager to see how this RDS-compatible model would perform.

My agency recently authorized red dot sights on duty pistols, and I needed a holster that could accommodate the new optic while maintaining our required Level III retention. I was tired of bulky, complicated holsters that felt like a chore to use. The Safariland 6360rds promised a streamlined design with reliable retention, something I desperately needed in my line of work.

The initial unboxing revealed a holster that felt robust and well-made. The familiar SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt durable, and the ALS/SLS mechanisms operated smoothly right out of the box. It wasn’t flashy, but it screamed professional-grade.

Compared to some other RDS-compatible holsters on the market, the Safariland 6360rds immediately stood out for its lower profile and seemingly more intuitive retention system. I considered a Blackhawk! T-Series holster, but the Safariland felt less bulky and promised a faster draw. I also looked at a few custom Kydex options, but none offered the proven track record and Level III retention of the Safariland.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a holster that addressed the need for RDS compatibility without sacrificing security, but I was also wary of whether it would truly live up to the hype in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360rds at the range during our quarterly firearms qualification. This involved timed drills, shooting from various positions, and simulating stress scenarios. I also wore it during a few low-profile patrol shifts to get a feel for its comfort and concealability.

The holster performed admirably in dry conditions, with the ALS/SLS system providing positive retention throughout all drills. The draw was surprisingly quick and intuitive once I got used to the thumb placement for disengaging the retention devices. Even with gloved hands, I was able to reliably draw my weapon without fumbling.

I encountered one slight issue during my first use: The initial learning curve of disengaging both the ALS and SLS took a little practice. After a few hours on the range, drawing became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend has shown no signs of significant wear or damage, despite being exposed to the elements and the rigors of daily duty. The retention system remains smooth and secure.

Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. I’ve noticed no degradation in performance due to exposure to rain or sweat. Compared to previous leather holsters I’ve used, the Safariland requires significantly less maintenance.

The Safariland 6360rds significantly outperforms my previous duty holsters, especially those not designed for red dot sights. The RDS compatibility alone makes it a game-changer, and the added security of the Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III retention. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend.

The ALS secures the weapon upon holstering, and is released with a simple thumb activation. The SLS rotating hood further secures the weapon and requires a downward push and rotation to disengage. This combination provides a high level of security against unauthorized removal while still allowing for a relatively quick and efficient draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm equipped with a red dot sight while allowing for a fast and reliable draw. The Level III retention provides a significant deterrent against weapon grabs, which is crucial in law enforcement and tactical applications. The mid-ride configuration strikes a good balance between accessibility and comfort.

The holster’s primary strength lies in its robust retention system and durable construction. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture, ensuring the holster remains functional even in harsh environments. One area for potential improvement is the initial learning curve for the ALS/SLS release.

Overall, the Safariland 6360rds meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty-rated retention holster. Its RDS compatibility, combined with its security and durability, makes it a top contender in its category.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360rds boasts a relatively low-profile design, considering its Level III retention capabilities. The SafariSeven™ material is surprisingly lightweight, and the mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear. The holster’s shape is molded to securely fit specific firearm models, ensuring a snug and wobble-free fit.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although the ALS/SLS system requires some practice to master. The thumb placement for disengaging the retention devices is intuitive once learned, but it may take some getting used to for those unfamiliar with Safariland holsters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360rds, constructed from SafariSeven™, is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The material is resistant to heat, cold, and chemicals, and it won’t scratch or mar the finish of your firearm. Proper care is crucial to prolong its lifespan.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms. The simple design and durable materials contribute to its long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting options, including belt loops, drop-leg platforms, and chest harnesses. This allows users to customize the holster’s carry position to suit their specific needs and preferences. The retention system is non-adjustable, however, the holster is designed to fit specific firearm models with common red dot sight configurations.

The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for rapid holster detachment and attachment. The wide range of available accessories and mounting options enhances the holster’s versatility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701?

The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and RDS compatibility. It is also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize security and a fast draw. This holster is well-suited for anyone operating in high-risk environments where weapon retention is paramount.

Those who may want to skip this product are individuals who prioritize concealability above all else, as the Level III retention system adds some bulk. Also, casual shooters who are not concerned about weapon retention may find the price and complexity of the Safariland 6360rds unnecessary.

A must-have accessory for the Safariland 6360rds is the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for rapid holster detachment and attachment. This is particularly useful for those who need to switch between different carry positions or platforms.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-701 is a well-designed and highly functional holster that delivers on its promise of security and RDS compatibility. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified by the holster’s durability, reliability, and exceptional retention capabilities.

The value proposition is strong, especially for those who rely on their firearm for personal or professional safety. The peace of mind provided by the Level III retention system is well worth the cost.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone who needs a secure and reliable holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. If you are looking for a duty-rated holster that will withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a high level of weapon retention, the Safariland 6360rds is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!