First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2 is a purpose-built duty holster designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, a necessity in today’s evolving landscape. Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military circles, offers a holster that promises secure retention, a smooth draw, and compatibility with commonly used weapon-mounted optics. I was looking for a holster that provides level III retention without sacrificing speed of draw, and one that would securely accommodate my pistol with its recently installed red dot sight.
My old holster simply wasn’t cutting it anymore. It wasn’t designed for optics, and the retention felt lacking, especially when moving through crowded areas. This led me to the Safariland 6360rds, hoping for a secure, reliable, and purpose-built solution.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360rds immediately struck me as robust and well-constructed. The STX Tactical finish gave it a professional look and feel, and the mid-ride height seemed ideal for comfortable carry without hindering movement. The materials felt durable, promising long-lasting performance, a vital feature for any duty-related gear.
I considered the Blackhawk T-Series L3D and the Galco M5X Matrix before settling on the Safariland 6360rds. The Blackhawk seemed bulky, while the Galco lacked the proven track record of Safariland in duty applications. The Safariland‘s reputation for reliability and its specific design for red dot sights ultimately swayed my decision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for enhanced security and usability, but also aware that a holster is a very personal piece of gear. Only time and real-world use would reveal if the Safariland 6360rds would truly live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6360rds was at the local shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke, re-holstering process, and overall comfort before relying on it in a professional capacity.
The holster performed admirably even in the humid conditions of the range. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) mechanisms were intuitive and provided a reassuring level of security. While there was a slight learning curve in mastering the release sequence under pressure, consistent practice quickly improved my proficiency.
I encountered no significant issues during the initial range session. The red dot sight cleared the holster smoothly, and the mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable and natural draw stroke. I was pleased to find that the holster lived up to its billing of being designed for RDS equipped firearms.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use in both training and real-world scenarios, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering under varying conditions.
The holster has retained its shape and structural integrity. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. It significantly outperforms my previous holster in terms of retention and overall durability.
Compared to my old Level II retention holster, the Safariland 6360rds provides a noticeable upgrade in security without sacrificing speed of access. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who prioritizes weapon retention and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2 is designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights. It utilizes both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III retention. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height.
The holster’s body is constructed from a durable Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, ensuring longevity and resistance to scratches and abrasions. Its compatibility with red dot sights means it can accommodate a wide range of popular optic models. The ALS locks the weapon securely upon holstering, while the SLS further enhances retention with a rotating hood.
These specifications are critical for duty use, where security and accessibility are paramount. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations. The mid-ride height offers a balance between concealment and ease of draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work seamlessly together. Drawing the weapon requires a deliberate and practiced motion, preventing accidental discharge.
The holster’s performance is reliable across a variety of conditions. While mastering the draw stroke under stress requires dedicated training, the system is intuitive and effective once learned. The draw is smooth and the firearm clears the holster without snagging.
The only minor area for improvement would be the SLS hood rotation, which can feel slightly stiff initially but smooths out with use. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds boasts a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic profile. The use of durable materials results in a robust yet relatively lightweight holster. The mid-ride height contributes to a comfortable carry position, distributing weight evenly.
The holster’s design accommodates red dot sights without adding unnecessary bulk. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS/SLS release, but the system is easily mastered with practice. The design is generally user-friendly, especially for experienced users of Safariland holsters.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction and durable materials of the Safariland 6360rds suggest a long service life. The holster has shown no signs of significant wear and tear after several weeks of continuous use.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only periodic cleaning with a damp cloth. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to moisture and chemicals, further enhancing its longevity. The design minimizes areas where dirt and debris can accumulate, simplifying the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and mounting platforms. While the holster itself does not come with any specific accessories beyond the standard belt loop, it can be easily customized to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.
The holster’s design allows for the use of different belt widths and mounting angles. It’s also compatible with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), allowing for rapid attachment and detachment from different platforms. No modifications are necessary for RDS use.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides superior security and peace of mind in high-risk situations.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, ensuring a proper fit and smooth draw.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials for long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Mid-Ride Height: Offers a comfortable carry position and allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Proven Reliability: Backed by Safariland’s reputation for producing durable and dependable duty gear.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS/SLS release mechanism requires dedicated practice and training.
- Initial Stiffness: The SLS hood rotation can feel slightly stiff initially, though it improves with use.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2?
The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of weapon retention and reliability. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters who prioritize security without sacrificing speed.
Individuals who are new to duty holsters or prefer a simpler retention system might find the Safariland 6360rds initially challenging. Anyone not using a red dot optic may be better suited to a simpler/more streamlined holster.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms will help maintain smooth operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-132-2 is a well-designed and durable duty holster that provides a high level of security and reliability. Its compatibility with red dot sights makes it a valuable asset for modern law enforcement and military applications.
At a price of $176.40, the Safariland 6360rds offers a strong value proposition for those who require a Level III retention holster with RDS compatibility. The cost is justified by the holster’s robust construction, dependable performance, and reputation for longevity.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone seeking a secure and reliable duty holster for their red dot sight-equipped firearm. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – order your Safariland 6360rds today and experience the difference.