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

What Makes Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III holster isn’t just another piece of kit; it’s a statement. It is a declaration that you take your firearm security and accessibility seriously. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, this holster boasts a Level-III retention system combining the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for unparalleled weapon security. The mid-ride design positions the firearm for a smooth, natural draw, blending speed with rock-solid retention, and this particular model is tailored for the Springfield XD 45 with a 4-inch barrel, in a tactical STX Flat Dark Earth finish.

My journey to this holster started with a need for a reliable duty holster that could handle the rigors of training and, potentially, real-world scenarios. I was searching for something that offered more than just basic retention; I wanted peace of mind knowing my weapon was secure, yet readily accessible when needed.

Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction. The STX finish felt durable and looked professional, and the overall build quality exuded confidence.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk Serpa (Level II) and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse (Level I), the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS offered a significant leap in retention without sacrificing draw speed. The Serpa’s trigger finger release felt less secure, and the Blade-Tech’s friction retention was simply inadequate for my needs. I chose this holster because I valued security and a smooth draw above all else.

My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. It felt like I was holding a piece of equipment designed for serious professionals.

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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

My first outing with the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS was at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training day. I ran drills involving drawing from concealment under time pressure, performing reloads, and engaging targets at varying distances. The weather was dry and sunny, presenting ideal conditions for testing the holster’s draw speed and retention capabilities.

The ALS and SLS systems worked flawlessly. The draw was smooth and consistent after a short familiarization period, and the weapon remained secure even during rapid movements. I didn’t experience any fumbling or accidental releases.

The initial learning curve involved mastering the simultaneous disengagement of the SLS hood and the ALS lever. Once I ingrained the motion into muscle memory, the draw became intuitive and fast. There were no immediate issues after the first day of use, only a growing sense of confidence in the holster’s performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly range sessions and occasional field training exercises, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has endured exposure to rain, mud, and dust without any degradation in performance. The holster has been bumped and scraped against obstacles, but the STX finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This simple routine has kept the holster in top condition.

Compared to my previous experience with other retention holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS far surpasses them in durability, security, and draw speed. It provides a level of confidence that other holsters simply cannot match.

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

Specifications

• Level III Retention: The combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. This is critical for law enforcement and military personnel who need to ensure their weapon remains secure in high-risk environments.
• Mid-Ride Position: The mid-ride design positions the firearm slightly lower on the hip, facilitating a more natural and comfortable draw stroke. This allows for quicker target acquisition and reduces fatigue during extended wear.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This provides an added layer of security and prevents accidental dislodging of the firearm.
• SLS (Self Locking System): The SLS rotating hood further secures the weapon, requiring a deliberate motion to disengage. This prevents someone from simply grabbing the firearm from the holster.
• STX Flat Dark Earth Finish: The STX finish provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing outer layer, resisting scratches and abrasions. The Flat Dark Earth color offers a tactical advantage in certain environments by minimizing visibility.
• Springfield XD 45 – 4in Fit: This model is specifically molded to fit the Springfield XD 45 with a 4-inch barrel, ensuring a snug and secure fit. A proper fit is essential for reliable retention and a smooth draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III performs its job exceptionally well. The retention system is secure and reliable, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm, while the mid-ride design allows for a fast and natural draw stroke. The holster excels in providing both security and accessibility.

One significant strength is the intuitive nature of the ALS and SLS systems. The draw becomes second nature with practice. A potential weakness, however, is the learning curve for new users.

It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing my weapon is secure, yet readily accessible when needed.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding. Safariland uses high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods, thanks to the mid-ride positioning.

The holster is user-friendly, but there is a learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS systems. Once familiarized, the draw becomes quick and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III is built to last. Its robust construction and durable STX finish ensure it can withstand years of use in demanding environments. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and drop platforms. While this particular model is designed for the Springfield XD 45 with a 4-inch barrel, other Safariland holsters offer compatibility with rail-mounted lights and other accessories. The optional Sentry, which adds a Level IV retention, can be installed for increased security.

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?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of firearm security and accessibility. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who need a reliable and fast draw.

Those who prioritize simplicity and are unwilling to invest time in mastering the retention system might want to skip this product. Someone solely looking for a basic concealment holster may also find the Level III retention overkill.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance and comfort. The optional Safariland Sentry attachment can add an additional level of retention for maximum security.

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

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III is an outstanding duty holster that offers a winning combination of security, speed, and durability. While the price may be higher than some competitors, the added peace of mind and long-term reliability make it a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and proven retention system. It is a holster designed to perform under pressure and withstand the test of time.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS to anyone who takes their firearm security seriously. Invest in your safety and performance. You won’t be disappointed.