First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492
In the world of duty gear, Safariland reigns supreme, and the 6360RDS – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492 is no exception. This holster is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS), a necessity in today’s tactical landscape. It boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS), promising Level III Retention for maximum security, a combination that immediately piqued my interest.
My previous holster setup wasn’t cutting it anymore, primarily due to the addition of an RDS to my duty weapon. The old holster simply wasn’t compatible, making a secure and efficient draw impossible. I needed a duty-rated holster that not only accommodated the optic but also offered a reliable retention system I could trust my life to.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6360RDS, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The Safariland signature SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable and resistant to scratches. The mid-ride height seemed perfect for a comfortable and accessible draw, and the overall design looked well-thought-out and professional.
I considered other RDS-compatible holsters, like the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D and the Galco M5X Matrix, but Safariland‘s reputation for quality and the proven track record of the ALS/SLS system swayed me. The Blackhawk! felt a bit too bulky, and the Galco didn’t inspire the same level of confidence in its retention capabilities. The Safariland won out for its balance of security, accessibility, and overall quality.
My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. This Safariland 6360RDS appeared to be the solution to my holster woes, promising a secure and efficient way to carry my RDS-equipped duty weapon. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at the shooting range, simulating various scenarios I might encounter on duty. I ran drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering, focusing on speed and efficiency. The Safariland 6360RDS performed admirably.
I also tested the holster in different weather conditions, including rain and high humidity. The SafariSeven™ material held up well, showing no signs of slippage or degradation. The holster also worked fine when dusty and dirty.
The draw stroke felt natural, with the ALS and SLS releases becoming intuitive after only a few repetitions. Initially, I needed to consciously think about deactivating both systems, but muscle memory quickly took over. There were no unexpected issues or surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360RDS has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite daily wear and tear, there are minimal signs of wear and tear. The SafariSeven™ material is indeed as tough as advertised.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS and SLS mechanisms to ensure smooth operation, but that’s about it. Compared to my previous holster experiences, the Safariland 6360RDS has been a significant upgrade in terms of durability and reliability.
Previously, I have used several other holsters that did not hold up to daily use. The Safariland 6360RDS outperforms the other holsters with its strong, protective shell.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492
Specifications
The Safariland 6360RDS is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for drawing. The Self Locking System (SLS) further enhances retention, employing a rotating hood that must be disengaged before drawing.
The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height. It is constructed from SafariSeven™, a proprietary nylon blend that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion. The Safariland 6360RDS achieves Level III Retention, meaning it incorporates multiple security mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal of the weapon.
These specifications are crucial for duty use, where firearm security and accessibility are paramount. The Level III Retention provides peace of mind, while the mid-ride height facilitates a quick and efficient draw. The durable construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360RDS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and facilitating a quick draw of an RDS-equipped firearm. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work seamlessly together, providing a high level of security without hindering draw speed. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, requiring minimal effort once the retention devices are disengaged.
The holster’s strength lies in its robust retention and user-friendly design. One potential area for improvement could be the SLS hood; some users might find it slightly awkward to disengage initially, but this is a matter of personal preference and training. The holster exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360RDS boasts a well-designed and ergonomic form factor. The SafariSeven™ material provides a comfortable fit against the body. The mid-ride height strikes a good balance between accessibility and concealment.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although familiarization with the ALS and SLS mechanisms is necessary. The learning curve is relatively short.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360RDS is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear. The holster should provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance.
Maintenance involves only periodic cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts. The holster is easily field-stripped for thorough cleaning if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360RDS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. Users can customize the ride height and cant of the holster to suit their individual preferences.
The holster is also designed to accommodate various red dot sights. It is compatible with popular weapon lights from Streamlight and SureFire.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492
Pros
- Level III Retention: Offers unparalleled security for duty carry.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, ensuring a secure fit.
- Durable Construction: Made from SafariSeven™ material, resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion.
- Mid-Ride Height: Provides a comfortable and accessible draw stroke.
- Easy to Maintain: Requires minimal cleaning and lubrication.
Cons
- SLS Hood: Some users may find the SLS hood slightly awkward to disengage initially.
- Price: The Safariland 6360RDS is more expensive than some other holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492?
The Safariland 6360RDS is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who carry a firearm with a red dot sight and require a high level of security. It is also suitable for competitive shooters who prioritize retention and speed.
Individuals who do not carry a firearm with an RDS or who do not require Level III Retention may find this holster overkill. Those seeking a more budget-friendly option may want to explore other alternatives.
A weapon light is a must-have accessory for this holster, especially for duty use. A Safariland drop leg platform is also a popular modification for those who prefer a lower ride height.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28327-492 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its robust retention, RDS compatibility, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their firearm for personal safety or professional duty. The price is justified.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360RDS to anyone seeking a secure and reliable holster for their RDS-equipped firearm. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is safe and accessible when you need it most!