First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482 is designed for professionals and serious shooters who require a secure and reliable way to carry a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and military communities, and this holster aims to continue that tradition. Its Level III retention system, coupled with a mid-ride design, promises both security and ease of access.
For years, I relied on open-top Kydex holsters for range work, but after a near incident during a training exercise where my sidearm almost took an unexpected tumble, I knew I needed something more secure. The challenge was finding a duty-rated holster that could accommodate a pistol with a red dot sight without sacrificing a smooth draw. I needed Level III retention without sacrificing speed.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6360rds, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction and quality of the materials. The holster felt solid in my hand, with a noticeable heft that spoke to its durability. The fit and finish were impeccable, reflecting Safariland’s attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality gear.
Compared to some other retention holsters I’ve used in the past, this one felt less bulky and more streamlined, even with the added accommodation for the red dot sight. I’ve also tested the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but they didn’t offer the same balance of security, draw speed, and red dot compatibility that the Safariland promised. It seemed a perfect blend of security and convenience.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While I appreciated the robust design and the promise of superior retention, I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. Was I excited? Absolutely. Could it live up to the hype? That remained to be seen.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place at a local shooting range during a law enforcement training day. The weather was typical for our region, hot and dusty, creating a demanding environment for any piece of gear. I ran several drills, focusing on drawing, firing, and re-holstering, paying close attention to the holster’s retention and ease of use.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) worked flawlessly, providing a secure hold on the firearm while still allowing for a smooth and intuitive draw stroke. I quickly adapted to the thumb release, and after a few repetitions, the draw became second nature. No time was wasted figuring it out, it just worked!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be an exceptionally reliable piece of equipment. It has accompanied me on multiple training exercises, from force-on-force simulations to tactical weapons courses. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to the rigors of daily use.
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend material is incredibly durable, resisting scratches, abrasions, and even chemical exposure. Cleaning and maintenance are a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. The performance has only reinforced my belief in the Safariland brand.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the 6360rds has exceeded my expectations in terms of both security and accessibility. It delivers a level of retention that provides peace of mind without sacrificing speed or usability. This is by far the best duty-rated holster I’ve used, period.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System), providing Level III Retention. The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend.
It’s a mid-ride design, positioning the firearm at an optimal height for a comfortable and efficient draw. The finish is a plain black, and it’s designed to accommodate a wide range of popular handguns with red dot sights. The SafariSeven™ material is particularly noteworthy for its resistance to heat, cold, and chemicals, ensuring reliable performance in diverse environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while providing a quick and reliable draw. The ALS and SLS work together to provide a multi-layered retention system that prevents unauthorized access to the weapon. The user can quickly and intuitively disengage both systems with the thumb, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw.
The primary strength lies in its robust retention and red-dot sight compatibility. A potential weakness might be the slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release, but this is quickly overcome with practice. It far exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The 6360rds boasts a user-friendly design, prioritizing both security and comfort. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a natural and easily accessible location. The holster’s construction is robust yet surprisingly lightweight, preventing unnecessary bulk and discomfort.
The holster is very user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve for experienced users. New users will quickly adapt to the retention system through dry practice. The fit is fantastic; the holster is comfortable and the draw is natural.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting durability. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
With proper care, this holster is expected to last for many years. Damage is unlikely, but if necessary, replacement parts are generally readily available through Safariland. This holster is an investment in long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs. This includes different mounting options, such as belt loops, leg shrouds, and MOLLE adapters. Additionally, the holster can be adjusted to accommodate different red dot sight models.
The user can swap out the belt loop for different ride heights and cant angles. The ALS system has no user customization. Aftermarket retention devices are not possible for this holster.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides Level III Retention, ensuring the firearm stays securely in place even during strenuous activity.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights, allowing for a seamless and reliable carry solution.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride height positions the firearm for a comfortable and efficient draw.
- Smooth and Intuitive Draw: The ALS/SLS release is quick and easy to learn, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
Cons
- Some users might find the ALS/SLS release requires some practice to master.
- The plain black finish may not appeal to all users, especially those looking for more specialized colors or patterns.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482?
The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a high-security, duty-rated holster for their firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters who demand a reliable and consistent draw. It’s ideal for anyone prioritizing weapon retention.
This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize open-carry without retention. If you want a budget holster, this is not it. Must-have accessories include a compatible belt and potentially a leg shroud for added stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482
In summary, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28321-482 is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and ease of use. The $176.40 price tag is justified considering the quality of materials, robust construction, and advanced retention system. It’s an investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who requires a duty-rated holster for a firearm with a red dot sight. It provides peace of mind knowing that your weapon is secure, while also allowing for a quick and efficient draw when needed. Upgrade your carry system today!