First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702 is a serious piece of kit, designed for professionals who need reliable retention and quick access, especially with a red dot sight (RDS) mounted. Safariland is synonymous with duty holsters, and the 6360RDS builds upon their legacy of quality and innovation. It immediately screams durability and purpose, promising a secure and efficient way to carry a sidearm on duty or in tactical situations.
I needed a holster that offered more than just basic retention for my Glock 17 with a Holosun 507C. I wanted something I could trust while working security details, something that wouldn’t budge during strenuous movement and would offer Level III retention. My previous holster, a simple kydex OWB, wasn’t cutting it; it lacked the security and peace of mind I craved in higher-risk scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360rds felt solid and well-made. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is noticeably robust, and the smooth, almost slippery, interior promises a snag-free draw. The mid-ride height felt comfortable and natural when I strapped it on, and the overall construction exuded quality, with tight seams and a purposeful design.
I was also considering the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906, but neither seemed as specifically tailored for RDS-equipped firearms. The Serpa’s trigger finger release worried me a bit, and the Bianchi felt a little too bulky for my taste. The Safariland felt like the Goldilocks choice: just right.
My first impression was definitely excitement. The Safariland 6360rds appeared to be a serious, well-engineered holster ready to handle the rigors of duty and tactical use. It seemed like a significant upgrade from my previous setup, promising both enhanced security and improved efficiency.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6360rds was the local shooting range, followed by a day of drills at a friend’s private training facility. I focused on drawing, re-holstering, and movement exercises to simulate real-world scenarios. The weather was typical for late summer: hot and humid.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) took a little getting used to, but quickly became intuitive. I found the thumb release to be easily accessible even with gloves, and the draw stroke was consistently smooth and clean. Even with sweat-soaked hands, the grip remained secure, and the weapon cleared the holster without snagging.
The only minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the SLS hood, which required a bit of extra force to disengage. A few applications of silicone lubricant quickly resolved this. Otherwise, the initial range session was flawless.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and a week-long security detail at an outdoor event, the Safariland 6360rds has proven itself to be exceptionally durable. I have also used it during several force-on-force training exercises in varying terrain. The holster still performs flawlessly.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to dirt, rain, and sweat. The SafariSeven™ material shows no scratches or abrasions, and the internal lining remains smooth. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the holster clean.
Compared to my experiences with other duty holsters, the Safariland 6360rds stands out for its combination of security, speed, and durability. It offers a superior level of retention without sacrificing accessibility, making it a clear winner in my book. I have used other Safariland holsters for years with similar performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702 is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. It features both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS). The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, making it highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions.
The ALS locks the weapon in all directions upon holstering, enhancing security. The SLS rotating hood further secures the firearm, requiring a deliberate motion to disengage. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable height for quick and easy access. The holster is duty-rated Level III retention, making it suitable for law enforcement, security, and tactical applications.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s ability to protect the firearm and allow for rapid deployment in critical situations. The RDS compatibility ensures that users can utilize their preferred optic without compromising holster fit or function. The materials used guarantee long-term reliability and resistance to environmental factors.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS/SLS system provides excellent retention, ensuring the firearm remains securely holstered even during rigorous activity. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for quick target acquisition.
The holster’s design allows for a natural and comfortable grip on the firearm during the draw, enhancing usability. While the retention system requires some training to master, it quickly becomes intuitive and efficient. The main improvement I would suggest is a quick reference diagram on the location of the release buttons.
The Safariland 6360rds not only meets but exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster. It provides a level of security and accessibility that inspires confidence in high-stress situations. The precise engineering and thoughtful design make it a top-tier choice for professionals.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both security and user comfort. The SafariSeven™ material is surprisingly lightweight yet incredibly strong. The holster’s shape is contoured to fit the body, minimizing discomfort and maximizing concealment under a jacket.
The ALS and SLS mechanisms are integrated seamlessly into the design, avoiding any unnecessary bulk or sharp edges. The holster is user-friendly, although mastering the retention system requires some initial practice. Overall, the design and ergonomics are excellent, promoting both comfort and efficiency.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds, constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, is built to last. The material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With reasonable care, it should withstand years of hard use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the retention mechanisms. The holster’s robust construction and high-quality materials ensure long-term reliability. The Safariland 6360rds is an investment that will pay off in years of dependable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. While the holster itself does not come with any specific accessories beyond the standard belt loop, the available customization options are extensive.
The holster is also designed to accommodate various red dot sights, ensuring compatibility with popular optics brands like Trijicon, Holosun, and Leupold. This versatility makes the Safariland 6360rds a top choice for those who utilize RDS-equipped firearms. The modular design allows for easy integration with other tactical gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides excellent security against unauthorized access.
- RDS Compatibility: Accommodates firearms equipped with red dot sights.
- Durable SafariSeven™ Construction: Withstands extreme conditions and resists wear and tear.
- Smooth and Consistent Draw: Facilitates rapid target acquisition.
- Modular Design: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS/SLS retention system.
- Price: Relatively expensive compared to some other duty holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters. Anyone who needs a highly secure and reliable holster for their RDS-equipped firearm will benefit from this product. It’s also suitable for competition shooters who require a duty-grade holster for certain events.
If you’re a casual shooter who primarily uses open carry at the range, this holster might be overkill. Its retention system is designed for higher-risk environments. Those looking for a simple, low-cost holster might find the Safariland 6360rds too expensive.
A must-have accessory is a good quality duty belt that can handle the weight of the firearm and holster. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms will ensure smooth operation. Also, consider a Safariland leg shroud for even greater stability and weight distribution.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-702 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. Its ALS/SLS retention system and durable SafariSeven™ construction make it a standout choice for professionals who demand the best. While it may require some initial training and comes at a premium price, the benefits it offers far outweigh the drawbacks.
At $224.20, the price is justified given the quality of materials, engineering, and functionality. It’s an investment in your safety and operational efficiency.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone who needs a duty-rated holster for their RDS-equipped firearm. If you’re serious about security and performance, this is the holster for you. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the Safariland difference!