First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is a purpose-built holster designed to meet the rigorous demands of law enforcement and tactical professionals who utilize red dot sights on their duty firearms. Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, has engineered this holster to provide Level III retention, ensuring secure weapon carry while still enabling a swift and intuitive draw. This holster immediately struck me as a serious piece of gear, built for serious use.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a duty holster that adequately accommodates a red dot sight without sacrificing security or draw speed. Many holsters I’ve tried felt bulky, cumbersome, or simply didn’t offer the level of retention I needed for peace of mind in high-risk environments. The promise of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 was precisely what I was looking for: a secure and fast solution for carrying a red-dot equipped pistol.
Out of the box, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The materials felt durable, and the finish was clean and professional. Compared to cheaper, injection-molded holsters, the Safariland’s construction exudes quality. I’ve used similar holsters from Bladetech and Blackhawk in the past, but neither offered the same combination of retention level and red dot compatibility in such a streamlined package.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was eager to put the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation. I hoped it would solve the ongoing challenge of safely and efficiently carrying a red-dot equipped duty weapon.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 was at the shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. This provided a controlled environment to assess its draw speed, retention, and overall comfort while moving and engaging targets. I experienced varying weather conditions from sunshine to light rain during the training.
The draw felt surprisingly natural right away. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) disengaged smoothly with my thumb, and the Self Locking System (SLS) hood rotated forward without any fumbling. Even when wet, the grip remained secure, and the draw was consistent. However, I did notice that the mid-ride position took a bit of getting used to compared to my usual high-ride holster setup.
One surprise was how well the holster protected my red dot sight. Even during drills that involved moving through doorways and around obstacles, the optic remained shielded from impacts and scratches. After the first day, I felt confident that this holster would perform well under pressure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use during patrol duties and additional range sessions, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 has proven to be exceptionally durable. I’ve noticed minimal signs of wear and tear, even in high-friction areas. The finish has held up well against scuffs and scratches.
Maintenance has been simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS and SLS mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. Compared to some of the leather holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland requires significantly less upkeep.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is a clear upgrade. Its superior retention system, red dot compatibility, and durable construction give me confidence that my firearm is secure and accessible when I need it most. It definitely outperforms my previous Blackhawk Serpa which I always felt was a liability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features a Level III Retention system, incorporating both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS). The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend, which is non-abrasive to firearm finishes.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. The ALS system secures the weapon immediately upon holstering, while the SLS hood further enhances retention. This combination provides a robust Level III security without hindering draw speed.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of firearms, provided they fit the specific Safariland model designation. It’s important to select the correct model for your specific firearm to ensure proper fit and function. Incorrectly sized holsters can compromise retention and safety.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a fast and reliable draw. The ALS and SLS systems work seamlessly together to provide a high level of security. The intuitive thumb release disengages the ALS, and a simple push forward on the SLS hood allows for a smooth draw.
One strength is its Level III retention, which provides a significant deterrent against unauthorized access to the firearm. A potential weakness could be the need for training to master the draw stroke, especially under stress. Overall, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 meets and even exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is well-designed with a focus on both security and user comfort. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is lightweight yet incredibly durable. The mid-ride position places the firearm in a comfortable position for most users.
The learning curve is minimal, with the ALS and SLS systems quickly becoming second nature with practice. The holster is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights without compromising retention or draw speed. It has an audible “click” which immediately lets you know when the weapon is properly seated.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. Simple cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep the holster in optimal working condition.
The holster is designed for easy field maintenance, with readily accessible components for cleaning and lubrication. Safariland also offers replacement parts and repair services, further extending the lifespan of the holster. This is a buy-once, cry-once product, that will last for many years of service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical weapon lights. The holster is also designed to accommodate various red dot sights, allowing for customization based on the user’s specific needs.
One important customization option is the ability to adjust the tension of the ALS system. This allows users to fine-tune the retention level to their preference. While the holster can accommodate many red dot sights, ensure compatibility before purchasing.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high degree of security, deterring unauthorized access.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted optics.
- Durable Construction: Made from Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
- Smooth and Reliable Draw: ALS and SLS systems allow for a fast and intuitive draw stroke.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Position: Enhances comfort during extended wear.
Cons
- Can require some training and practice to master the draw stroke.
- Higher price point compared to basic retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-quality, secure holster for their duty firearm with a red dot sight. It is also well suited for competitive shooters who want a secure, level 3 retention holster. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is a solid choice.
Individuals who are new to firearms or who prioritize ease of use over maximum security may find the Level III retention system unnecessary or cumbersome. Those individuals would be better served with a less robust level 1 or level 2 retention holster. A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is rigid and supportive to prevent sagging and ensure a consistent draw.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its Level III retention, red dot sight compatibility, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who takes their firearm carry seriously.
While the price of $224.20 might seem steep, the value is justified by the peace of mind and performance that the Safariland provides. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-28392-781 to any professional who demands the best. Take your duty carry to the next level and secure your firearm with confidence.