First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 is a specialized piece of gear designed for law enforcement and security professionals who rely on red dot sights on their sidearms. Safariland is a trusted name in the industry, known for producing robust and reliable holsters. What immediately sets this model apart is its Level III retention, providing an added layer of security crucial in high-risk environments, especially when paired with an optic.
I needed a duty holster that could accommodate a pistol with a red dot sight without sacrificing retention or speed of draw. Many holsters compromise on one or the other, leading to either increased risk of weapon loss or slower response times. This seemed like the perfect solution to my needs.
Upon unboxing, the holster felt solid and well-constructed, reflecting the high standards I associate with Safariland products. The materials appeared durable, and the finish was clean and professional. The mid-ride height seemed ideal for balancing accessibility and comfort.
Compared to a standard Safariland 6360 without RDS compatibility or a cheaper Level II retention holster from another brand, the 6360RDS felt significantly more robust and purpose-built. I chose this particular model for its reputation for reliability, its compatibility with red dot sights, and the added security of Level III retention. I was excited to see if it would live up to the hype and provide a secure, fast, and reliable platform for my duty weapon.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 during a live-fire training session at my local range. The session involved various drills, including drawing under pressure and rapid target acquisition. The holster performed admirably in dry conditions, with a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I became accustomed to the ALS/SLS system.
During the training, a brief downpour provided an opportunity to assess its performance in wet conditions. The grip remained secure, and the retention system continued to function flawlessly despite the moisture. The draw remained consistent, demonstrating the holster’s reliability regardless of environmental factors.
There was a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release, but after a few repetitions, it became intuitive. Initial concerns about the added step of disengaging the SLS were quickly dispelled as I found it added negligible time to my draw, yet significantly increased security.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use during duty shifts and training exercises, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 has proven to be exceptionally durable. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even with frequent use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to maintain its appearance and functionality.
The Safariland 6360rds has consistently outperformed other holsters I’ve used in the past, especially regarding retention and security. The added Level III retention gives me the peace of mind knowing my weapon is secure, even during physical altercations or rigorous activity. It truly shines in its ability to balance security, speed, and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS). It features both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III retention. The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): This internal locking device secures the weapon upon holstering. It is released with a simple thumb swipe, facilitating a fast and intuitive draw.
- SLS (Self Locking System): The rotating hood provides an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. It is easily disengaged with the thumb during the draw sequence.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: This allows the holster to ride slightly lower on the hip, enhancing comfort and accessibility. It also helps distribute the weight of the firearm more evenly.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s security, speed, and overall user experience. The ALS/SLS system provides superior retention, the SafariSeven™ material ensures long-term durability, and the mid-ride height optimizes comfort and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure, reliable, and accessible platform for a duty weapon equipped with a red dot sight. Its level of retention instills confidence while drawing, and re-holstering becomes second nature. The holster’s strengths lie in its ability to strike a perfect balance between security, speed, and ease of use.
The primary weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS/SLS system. However, with practice, this becomes a non-issue. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360rds is outstanding, utilizing durable materials that provide years of reliable service. The holster feels robust and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily use. The mid-ride height strikes a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealability.
The ALS/SLS system requires some initial practice but quickly becomes intuitive. The thumb release is ergonomically positioned, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke. While there is a slight learning curve, the overall design is user-friendly and well-suited for duty applications.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 is built to last. Its durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction ensures long-term resistance to wear and tear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6360rds is expected to provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance. The durable construction ensures resistance to abrasions and impacts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. While the holster is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, it can also accommodate pistols without optics. Compatibility with various mounting platforms ensures versatility and adaptability to different operational requirements.
The ability to customize the holster with different mounting options and accessories enhances its adaptability to individual preferences and mission requirements. The Safariland ecosystem ensures seamless integration with a wide range of tactical gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides superior security without sacrificing speed of draw.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights, ensuring a secure and reliable fit.
- Durable Construction: Made from Safariland’s SafariSeven™ nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
- Mid-Ride Height: Balances comfort, accessibility, and concealability.
- Customizable: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories and mounting options.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS/SLS release.
- Price: More expensive than some Level II retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize security and reliability. It is an excellent choice for anyone who carries a firearm with a red dot sight and requires Level III retention.
This product might not be the best choice for casual range shooters or individuals who prioritize simplicity over advanced retention features. Those on a tight budget may also find the price point prohibitive.
A must-have accessory would be a Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) kit for easy holster transfer between different mounting platforms. Also, consider a compatible tactical belt for optimal stability and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-552 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price is justified by its robust construction, advanced retention system, and compatibility with red dot sights.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who requires a secure and dependable platform for their duty weapon. It is a worthwhile investment that provides peace of mind and enhances operational effectiveness. If you’re serious about your gear, the Safariland 6360rds is a must-have.