Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411

In the world of duty gear, few names command the respect and trust that Safariland does. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411 is their answer to the growing demand for secure, reliable holsters that accommodate red dot sights on duty pistols. Designed with law enforcement and military professionals in mind, this holster aims to provide Level III retention without sacrificing speed or accessibility.

For years, I struggled with finding a duty holster that balances security and ease of draw while also accommodating the increasingly common red dot sight. My previous holsters either lacked the necessary retention level for serious duty use, or they were cumbersome and slow, especially under stress. The promise of the Safariland 6360rds to solve this dilemma is what drew me in.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360rds, I was immediately struck by the robust construction and the familiar Safariland quality. The holster felt solid in hand, and the finish was clean and professional. The mid-ride height seemed perfect for comfortable carry and a smooth draw stroke.

Compared to some cheaper, generic Level II retention holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360rds felt like a significant upgrade in terms of both security and build quality. I had also considered a Blackhawk! T-Series holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its proven track record within law enforcement and the Safariland reputation for superior retention mechanisms. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if the Safariland 6360rds lived up to its reputation on the range and in real-world scenarios.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland 6360rds took place at my local shooting range, where I focused on draw speed, re-holstering, and retention under various simulated stress conditions. I subjected the holster to a variety of drills. These ranged from basic draws and re-holstering to more dynamic movements like drawing on the move and retention attempts from different angles.

I quickly discovered that the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) worked seamlessly together to provide a secure hold on my pistol. Drawing felt intuitive and relatively fast, although it required a bit of practice to master the simultaneous release of both retention mechanisms. The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions.

However, a light rain shower during one of my range sessions revealed a minor issue: the SLS hood could become slightly slick when wet, making it a bit harder to disengage quickly. It wasn’t a major impediment, but something to be aware of. It certainly highlighted the need for consistent training in all weather conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and daily wear during training scenarios, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to some rough handling and exposure to the elements. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction appears to be holding up exceptionally well.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris. In my opinion, the Safariland 6360rds has significantly outperformed my previous duty holsters in terms of both security and long-term durability. The enhanced retention system and robust construction provide a level of confidence that my previous holsters simply couldn’t match.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411 is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry and a smooth draw. The holster utilizes both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) for Level III retention.

The holster body is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary material known for its resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions. It offers protection for the firearm and optic. The ALS engages automatically upon holstering, locking the weapon securely in place, while the SLS rotating hood further enhances retention.

These specifications are critical for duty use because they provide a balance of security, accessibility, and durability. The red dot sight compatibility ensures that officers can utilize modern optics without sacrificing holster performance. The robust construction guarantees that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a relatively quick and efficient draw. The combination of the ALS and SLS provides a high level of retention, making it very difficult for someone to disarm an officer without their knowledge. The draw stroke requires a specific technique: simultaneously depressing the ALS lever with the thumb while rotating the SLS hood forward.

With practice, this becomes a fluid motion. However, it does require dedicated training to ensure proficiency under stress. The holster performs admirably in various scenarios, providing consistent retention and reliable access to the firearm. The only area where improvement could be made is the slickness of the SLS hood in wet conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland 6360rds prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The mid-ride height allows for a comfortable carry position that doesn’t interfere with movement. The holster is also relatively lightweight, further enhancing comfort during extended wear. The SafariSeven™ material is smooth and doesn’t cause excessive rubbing or chafing against the body.

While the retention mechanisms add a layer of complexity to the draw stroke, they are relatively easy to learn and use with practice. The holster is designed to be user-friendly for right-handed shooters, with the ALS lever and SLS hood positioned for easy access with the thumb. The only learning curve involves mastering the simultaneous release of both retention systems.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360rds is built to last, thanks to its SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction. This material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty. The holster is also relatively easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Periodic lubrication of the retention mechanisms may be necessary to ensure smooth operation. I expect the Safariland 6360rds to provide years of reliable service with proper care. This certainly justifies its initial cost.

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. The holster is primarily designed for use with pistols equipped with red dot sights, but it can also be used with pistols without optics.

It’s also compatible with a variety of weapon lights. The ability to add accessories and customize the holster makes it a versatile option for duty use. It ensures that it can be adapted to different roles and mission requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411?

The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and red dot sight compatibility. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters who participate in dynamic shooting sports that require secure holsters.

This holster may not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals who prioritize speed over security. Those looking for a minimalist, low-profile holster might also find the Safariland 6360rds to be too bulky. A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-45028-411 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, durability, and red dot sight compatibility. While it requires dedicated training to master the draw stroke, the peace of mind provided by its Level III retention system is well worth the effort. The price is justified.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone who needs a reliable and secure holster for duty use. Invest in your safety and performance. The Safariland 6360rds is a worthy addition to any serious professional’s gear.