First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2 arrives as a serious piece of kit, immediately signaling its intent: secure firearm retention with rapid accessibility, especially for red dot sight-equipped pistols. Designed for duty use by law enforcement and military personnel, the Safariland holster incorporates both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS), creating a Level III Retention holster that inspires confidence. It aims to bridge the gap between unwavering security and lightning-fast draws, a critical balance in high-stakes situations.
After years on the force, I needed a holster upgrade that could accommodate my increasingly common optic-equipped sidearm and deliver unparalleled security. I was seeking something that wouldn’t slow me down in a critical situation but would prevent unauthorized access to my weapon. The promise of Safariland’s renowned retention systems, combined with the RDS compatibility, made this holster a must-try.
Unboxing the 6360RDS, the immediate impression is one of robust construction. The durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend feels substantial and well-molded, while the mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and stable carry position. The overall build quality exudes professionalism and hints at a long service life, something that is critical for duty gear.
Compared to my previous Safariland 6280, which lacked RDS compatibility, and a cheaper Blackhawk! Serpa, which I found lacking in true retention, the 6360RDS promises a more comprehensive and secure solution. I chose the 6360RDS because I needed a holster purpose-built for red dot sights, while maintaining the rock-solid retention Safariland is known for. The Blackhawk! Serpa system was concerning because I did not feel it was enough to prevent someone from taking the weapon from me.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster felt sturdy and well-designed, but I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype. I hoped it would provide the perfect balance of retention and draw speed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at the shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills with my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. The range provided a controlled environment to get accustomed to the ALS and SLS mechanisms. I wore it during several qualifications as well.
The Safariland 6360RDS performed admirably in dry and sunny conditions. The SLS hood rotated smoothly, and the ALS released with a positive click every time. Re-holstering was equally smooth, with the ALS automatically engaging to secure the firearm.
The learning curve was minimal; after a few practice draws, the ALS/SLS system became intuitive. However, mastering the draw under pressure would require more reps. The mid-ride position felt natural and allowed for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.
The initial surprise was the slight amount of play in the holster body, but this did not affect the retention or draw. Also, I was happy to find that my RDS did not get in the way of drawing, as some models can.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including patrol duty, tactical training, and competitions, the Safariland 6360RDS has proven its reliability. I have since trusted my life to it. The Safariland 6360RDS shows minimal wear and tear, mainly minor scuffs on the SafariSeven™ material, further emphasizing its ruggedness.
The holster has seen action in rain, mud, and extreme temperatures without any noticeable degradation in performance. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most debris. I did notice the suede lining requires special attention as it wears.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the 6360RDS surpasses them in both retention and RDS compatibility. It provides a superior level of security and peace of mind in unpredictable environments, so I feel much better about the safety of my sidearm.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III Retention, ensuring maximum weapon security.
The holster body is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, which is non-abrasive to firearm finishes and highly resistant to heat, cold, and moisture. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable height for most users.
The ALS locks the weapon in all directions upon holstering, activated automatically when the weapon is fully seated. The SLS rotating hood further secures the firearm and requires a deliberate motion to defeat, making it extremely difficult for unauthorized personnel to remove the weapon. These features are vital because they provide a multi-layered defense against attempted weapon grabs.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360RDS excels in its primary function: secure weapon retention with rapid accessibility. The ALS/SLS system provides a high level of security without sacrificing draw speed, once the user becomes familiar with the system.
One strength is the intuitive nature of the ALS/SLS system; with practice, drawing the weapon becomes second nature. A potential weakness could be the reliance on fine motor skills under extreme stress; however, proper training mitigates this concern. It is extremely rare to find a holster this secure that is still very easy to draw from.
The Safariland 6360RDS largely exceeds expectations; it delivers a level of security and peace of mind that is unmatched by other holsters I have used. The RDS compatibility is seamless, allowing for an unobstructed draw and re-holstering.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional; the Safariland SafariSeven™ material feels robust and durable. The mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and stable carry position. The weight is reasonable considering the level of retention provided.
The design is user-friendly, and the ALS/SLS system is intuitive to operate once mastered. The learning curve is minimal, but dedicated practice is essential to achieve optimal draw speed and efficiency.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360RDS is built to withstand years of hard use, and based on my experience, it will likely deliver on that promise. The SafariSeven™ material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental extremes.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the holster in optimal condition. The internal components are accessible for lubrication if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360RDS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical attachments. While it is not directly customizable with third-party components, the Safariland ecosystem provides ample options to tailor the holster to individual needs.
The holster readily accommodates various red dot sights, making it a versatile choice for users who run optics on their pistols. Other Safariland accessories like the QLS (Quick Locking System) fork and receiver plate also work to allow for quick transfer of the holster between various mounting platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- RDS Compatibility: Seamlessly accommodates red dot sights without hindering draw or re-holstering.
- Durable Construction: Built from Safariland’s SafariSeven™ material for exceptional resistance to wear and environmental extremes.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and stable carry position.
- Intuitive Operation: The ALS/SLS system becomes second nature with practice, allowing for a rapid and efficient draw.
Cons
- The ALS/SLS system requires dedicated training to master.
- Price point may be prohibitive for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and RDS compatibility. Competitive shooters who prioritize security and consistent draws will also benefit from this holster.
Individuals who primarily carry concealed and prioritize comfort over maximum retention might find this holster overkill. Those on a tight budget may also find the price point prohibitive.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. Additionally, a Safariland QLS system can greatly enhance the holster’s versatility.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-7502-752-2 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention with RDS compatibility. The $224.20 price is justified, considering the build quality, features, and peace of mind it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who prioritizes weapon security and requires a reliable, RDS-compatible platform. If you are looking for a duty-grade holster that will perform under pressure, look no further. Invest in your safety and choose the Safariland 6360RDS.