First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement of preparedness, a testament to the commitment to duty. From Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical excellence, this holster promises a secure and readily accessible platform for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) immediately piqued my interest, promising Level III retention without sacrificing draw speed.
As a gear specialist, I’ve always prioritized security and accessibility, a constant struggle to balance these needs. My previous Level II holster felt inadequate after upgrading to a pistol with a red dot sight; the fit was awkward and retention questionable. I needed a duty-rated holster that accommodated the optic without compromising on safety or speed.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360rds exudes quality. The STX finish offers a rugged, professional appearance, while the overall construction feels incredibly solid and durable. It’s heavier than my previous holster, a reassuring sign of robust materials and construction.
Compared to other red-dot compatible holsters I considered, such as the Blackhawk T-Series and the G-Code SOC, the Safariland stood out due to its proven retention system and mid-ride height. I appreciated the Safariland’s legacy and the assurance that comes with a product trusted by countless law enforcement agencies. My initial impression was a blend of excitement and confidence – finally, a holster that seemed built for the demands of real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6360rds was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The weather was typical for early spring – damp and breezy, providing a good test of the holster’s retention in less-than-ideal conditions. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, paying close attention to the ALS and SLS mechanisms.
The draw stroke took some getting used to, but quickly became intuitive with practice. The thumb release for the SLS felt natural, and the ALS disengaged cleanly as I gripped the pistol. There were no unexpected snags or delays, even with wet hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a multi-day tactical training course, the Safariland 6360rds has proven its reliability. The holster shows minimal signs of wear, with only minor scuff marks on the STX finish. The retention mechanisms remain strong and consistent.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I periodically wipe down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, and occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the moving parts. Comparing it to my previous holsters, the Safariland significantly outperforms in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure and readily accessible, regardless of the environment.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542 is designed for specific firearm models, ensuring a snug and secure fit. This particular model (6360RDS-582-542) is configured to fit Glock 17/22 pistols equipped with red dot sights. It boasts Level III Retention, thanks to Safariland’s proven ALS and SLS systems.
The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for both comfort and accessibility. Its design also accounts for various red dot sights, preventing any obstruction during the draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work in tandem to provide a high level of retention, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. The mid-ride height strikes a good balance between comfort and concealment, making it suitable for both open and concealed carry (where permitted).
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and compatibility with red dot sights. A potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS releases, but this is easily overcome with practice. Overall, the Safariland 6360rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360rds is exceptional. The SafariSeven nylon blend feels incredibly strong and durable, and the overall construction is solid and well-finished. The holster is relatively lightweight considering its robust design.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the ALS and SLS releases require some familiarization. Once mastered, the draw stroke is smooth and consistent. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a comfortable and easily accessible location.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and construction, the Safariland 6360rds is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6360rds doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories, it is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms and accessories. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences, such as thigh rigs or MOLLE attachments. The holster is also designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights, eliminating the need for specialized modifications.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides exceptional security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Accommodates most popular red dot sights without modification.
- Durable Construction: Built from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
- Mid-Ride Height: Offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
- Proven Reliability: Trusted by law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Cons
- ALS/SLS Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the retention releases.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some competing holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542?
The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high-quality, duty-rated holster with Level III retention and red dot sight compatibility. It’s also a great option for responsible armed citizens who prioritize security and reliability.
Those who should skip this product might include individuals who are new to firearms or who prefer simpler, less-secure holsters. It might also be overkill for casual range shooters who don’t require the level of retention offered by the Safariland 6360rds. A must-have accessory for this holster is a compatible Safariland mounting platform to customize the carry position.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-582-542 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises. Its robust construction, reliable retention, and red dot sight compatibility make it an excellent choice for anyone who demands the best in security and accessibility.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure. I would personally recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone who needs a duty-rated holster with Level III retention and red dot sight compatibility. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.