First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is a serious piece of kit, designed for professionals who need a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm with a red dot sight. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and military communities, and this holster aims to uphold that reputation. It promises Level III retention, meaning multiple layers of security to prevent unauthorized access to your weapon.
I needed a holster that could reliably retain my duty weapon during foot pursuits and physical altercations, especially now that I’ve transitioned to using a pistol with a red dot optic. Open carry is a must for my patrol duties, but so is ensuring that my firearm stays put, no matter the situation. This holster’s Level III retention and RDS compatibility seemed like the perfect solution.
The holster arrived in a standard Safariland box, well-packaged and protected. My initial impression was that this is a robust and well-made piece of equipment, showcasing the quality I’ve come to expect from Safariland. The material felt durable and the retention mechanisms were smooth and positive.
Compared to my older Safariland 6360 (non-RDS) and a cheaper Level II holster from a lesser-known brand, the 6360RDS immediately stood out. The older 6360 lacked RDS compatibility, forcing me to look at alternatives, while the cheaper Level II holster simply didn’t inspire confidence in terms of retention and durability. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 won out because of its reputation, RDS compatibility, and Level III retention.
I was definitely excited to try it out; a solid, dependable holster is paramount for my peace of mind on duty, and I had high hopes for the 6360RDS. This holster felt like an investment in my safety and professional readiness.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 at the police range during our weekly firearms training. I ran drills involving drawing, firing, re-holstering, and moving between positions. The weather was slightly damp, with a bit of a chill in the air, which would test the holster’s grip and ease of use in less-than-ideal conditions.
The holster performed admirably even with slightly wet hands. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) mechanisms were easy to manipulate, even with gloves. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, and the firearm locked back into place securely after re-holstering. I was able to quickly adapt to the system, and felt confident in its retention capabilities.
Initially, I needed a bit of practice to get the hang of the thumb release for the SLS hood while maintaining a solid grip on the firearm. However, after a few repetitions, the motion became fluid and natural. No other issues arose during the first range session, and I felt a significant increase in confidence compared to the older, less secure holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 has held up remarkably well. It’s been subjected to rain, snow, dust, and the general wear and tear of law enforcement duty. The holster has been bumped, scraped, and even used as leverage during control tactics; it hasn’t failed once.
There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the SafariLaminate finish, but the core structure and retention mechanisms remain fully functional. I clean the holster weekly with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the moving parts. Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360RDS is a clear winner in terms of durability, retention, and overall performance. It has consistently exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my duty gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. It incorporates the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering, and the Self Locking System (SLS) rotating hood, providing Level III Retention. The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, offering excellent resistance to scratches and abrasions.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm at an optimal height for a smooth and efficient draw stroke. This is especially important for officers who wear body armor or have a longer torso. The holster accommodates various firearm models with compatible red dot sights, making it a versatile option. The model reviewed is specifically the 6360RDS-68314-411 which is typically configured for Glock 17/22 with RDS.
These specifications are critical for duty use because they balance security, accessibility, and comfort. The Level III retention ensures that the firearm remains secure during physical confrontations, while the mid-ride height promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke. The durability of the SafariLaminate ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 performs exceptionally well in all aspects of its intended function. The ALS engages automatically upon holstering, providing an audible click to confirm that the firearm is securely locked. The SLS rotating hood is intuitive and easy to manipulate with the thumb.
The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid target acquisition. The retention system provides a high level of security without hindering the speed of the draw. I have experienced no malfunctions or failures of the retention mechanisms during testing or real-world use.
One minor weakness is that the SLS hood can occasionally snag on clothing if not fully rotated during the draw. However, this is easily mitigated with practice and proper technique. Overall, the Safariland 6360RDS meets and exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The SafariLaminate construction provides a balance of durability and weight. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height.
The ALS and SLS mechanisms are strategically placed for easy manipulation with the thumb and fingers. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, even with body armor. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the retention system, but it becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The retention mechanisms are robust and reliable.
With proper maintenance, this holster should provide years of dependable service. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. The holster can be customized to fit various firearm models and red dot sights.
Aftermarket accessories such as optic protectors can be added for increased RDS durability. The Safariland mounting system is also compatible with many popular accessories from other brands, such as drop-leg platforms from Blackhawk and Blade-Tech.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides multiple layers of security to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for custom modifications.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust SafariLaminate, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: Allows for rapid target acquisition and efficient re-holstering.
- Mid-Ride Height: Positions the firearm at an optimal height for comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS and SLS retention systems.
- SLS Hood Snag: The SLS hood can occasionally snag on clothing if not fully rotated during the draw stroke.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm with a red dot sight. It is also a good choice for competition shooters who prioritize retention and a smooth draw stroke. Anyone needing Level III retention should consider this holster.
This product may not be suitable for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealment over retention. Those individuals might find it bulky or overly complicated.
A must-have accessory is a good quality duty belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster. An optic protector for the red dot sight is also a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. Its Level III retention and RDS compatibility make it a valuable asset for professionals who rely on their firearm in high-risk situations.
At $176.40, the price is justified by the quality of construction, the reliability of the retention system, and the peace of mind it provides. While there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the retention mechanisms, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-68314-411 to anyone who needs a top-tier duty holster for a firearm with a red dot sight. Invest in your safety and professional readiness – you won’t be disappointed. Take the leap and get the Safariland 6360RDS today!