Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models isn’t just a holster; it’s a duty-grade piece of equipment designed for professionals who demand the utmost in weapon security and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for Level-III Retention, providing multiple layers of security without sacrificing a smooth, straight-up draw. Its mid-ride height positions the firearm for optimal comfort and draw speed, making it a top choice for uniformed officers and security personnel alike.

I needed a holster that I could trust with my life, something that offered both rock-solid retention and lightning-fast access. My old Level II holster, while adequate, just didn’t provide the peace of mind I needed in potentially volatile situations. The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models promised a significant upgrade in security and speed, piquing my interest immediately.

Out of the box, the Safariland holster feels incredibly robust. The STX Plain Black finish looks professional and feels durable, promising resistance against the inevitable scrapes and bumps of duty use. The polymer construction feels solid, but it is surprisingly lightweight, a crucial factor when carrying a firearm for extended periods.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but both felt less intuitive and seemed to prioritize retention over draw speed. The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models struck the perfect balance, offering a secure carry without hindering my ability to quickly deploy my sidearm. My decision was based on years of positive experiences with Safariland products, combined with the superior retention system and mid-ride height.

Initially, I was impressed by the build quality and retention system. I was eager to test its real-world performance and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models at the local shooting range, running drills to simulate various real-world scenarios. I focused on drawing from the holster under pressure and re-holstering quickly and efficiently. The range offered a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the ALS/SLS system.

The weather was typical for the area – humid and dusty. I wanted to see how the holster performed with sweaty hands and in a potentially abrasive environment. The ALS and SLS mechanisms continued to function smoothly, even with a bit of dust accumulation.

It took a few hours to fully adjust to the release sequence of the ALS and SLS mechanisms. After some practice, drawing became almost instinctive. The mid-ride height proved comfortable and allowed for a natural, efficient draw stroke.

The initial concern I had was if the SLS hood would get in the way, but with practice, my thumb naturally found the release. My only issue, initially, was getting used to drawing without inadvertently pushing the weapon further into the holster.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous use in both training and on duty, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use in demanding conditions. The STX finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and abrasions.

Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The holster’s construction allows for easy access to the internal mechanisms for lubrication, ensuring smooth operation. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS and SLS levers.

Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models is a significant upgrade in both security and comfort. It provides a higher level of retention while maintaining a smooth and rapid draw. The difference is night and day.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models, specifically the 6360-97-62-2 model, is designed for H&K European Weapons. It features a 2.0-inch belt loop and is a left-hand configuration. It comes in STX Plain Black.

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. It requires a simple thumb release to disengage, making for a quick and intuitive draw.
• SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood: The rotating hood adds an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. It must be rotated forward before the weapon can be drawn.
• Level III Retention: This combination of ALS and SLS provides Level III Retention. With the optional Sentry installed, the holster achieves Level IV Retention.
• Slim, Compact Design: The holster’s design allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This improves concealability and reduces printing.
• Simple Straight Up Draw: Once the releases are deactivated, the weapon can be drawn straight up. This minimizes unnecessary movements and enhances draw speed.

These specifications are crucial for ensuring the holster’s performance in a duty environment. The ALS/SLS system provides multiple layers of security, while the mid-ride height and straight-up draw facilitate rapid weapon deployment. The durable construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models excels in its primary function: securely holding a firearm while allowing for a rapid and controlled draw. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work seamlessly together to provide a high level of retention without hindering draw speed.

The holster’s strength lies in its ability to balance security and accessibility. However, new users may require practice to master the release sequence. One potential weakness is that the SLS hood can sometimes snag on clothing.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations in terms of security and durability. However, the learning curve for the ALS/SLS system is something potential buyers should be aware of.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models is built from high-quality polymer, offering a balance of durability and weight. The holster feels substantial without being overly bulky, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, but mastering the ALS/SLS release sequence requires practice. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and natural draw position.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models is built to last. The robust polymer construction and durable STX finish ensure that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in a duty environment.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms will keep the holster functioning smoothly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. These include various belt loops, leg shrouds, and the optional Sentry device for Level IV Retention.

The holster can be customized with different belt attachments to suit individual preferences. It’s also compatible with a range of Safariland tactical accessories. However, customization options are somewhat limited compared to some other holster systems.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models?

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It’s ideal for uniformed duty use, tactical training, and any situation where weapon security is paramount.

This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and Level III Retention system. Also, those who prefer simpler holster designs with minimal retention mechanisms might find the ALS/SLS system overly complex.

A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV Retention. Regular maintenance and lubrication are also crucial for ensuring smooth operation.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security and performance. The ALS/SLS system provides multiple layers of retention. The durable construction ensures that it can withstand the demands of daily use.

At $195.00, the price is justified given the holster’s quality, security features, and durability. It’s an investment in your safety and the security of your firearm.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models to anyone who needs a reliable, secure, and accessible duty holster. It is a top-tier product that will not disappoint. If you need a duty holster you can trust your life to, look no further.