First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131 is more than just a piece of plastic; it’s a critical piece of equipment for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone serious about firearm retention. This Safariland holster is designed to securely hold a handgun equipped with a red dot sight, offering Level III retention in a mid-ride configuration. For over a decade, I’ve been involved in the outdoor and tactical industry, and I’ve seen countless holsters come and go.
I needed a duty-rated holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a Trijicon RMR without sacrificing security or draw speed. My previous holster, a Level II retention model from a different manufacturer, felt inadequate for higher-risk situations. The Safariland 6360RDS immediately stood out due to its reputation for robust retention, optic compatibility, and comfortable mid-ride height.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360RDS, the first thing I noticed was the rugged build quality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall construction exuded confidence. It wasn’t lightweight, but it felt substantial and well-made, promising a long service life.
I considered the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D and the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster, but the Safariland‘s proven track record with law enforcement and its refined ALS/SLS retention system ultimately swayed me. While others may offer similar features, the 6360RDS‘s design felt more refined and purpose-built for duty use. I was impressed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131 to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Safariland 6360RDS at the shooting range and during force-on-force training scenarios with my local law enforcement agency. The environment varied from bright sunlight to dimly lit indoor ranges, and I even spent some time working drills in light rain. The holster performed flawlessly in all conditions.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) required a bit of familiarization, but after a few hours of dry-fire practice, drawing became intuitive. The release mechanisms are easy to manipulate with the thumb and middle finger, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw stroke. There were no accidental releases or fumbles during rapid draw drills.
My initial concern was whether the holster would interfere with the red dot sight during the draw. Thankfully, the design of the 6360RDS provides ample clearance, ensuring a clean and snag-free presentation every time. No adjustments were necessary, it just worked.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360RDS has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no signs of cracking or deformation in the SafariSeven™ material, even after being exposed to extreme temperatures and rough handling. The holster has held up beautifully.
The internal suede lining protects the firearm’s finish, and I’ve observed minimal wear on the slide, even after hundreds of draws. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Unlike some leather holsters, the SafariSeven™ material doesn’t require any special conditioning or maintenance.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6360RDS offers significantly greater peace of mind. The Level III retention provides an added layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to my firearm while still allowing for a rapid draw when needed. This is exactly what I was hoping for.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. Its ALS/SLS system offers Level III Retention. This particular model (6360RDS-75029-131) is configured as a mid-ride duty holster.
The holster body is constructed from Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a non-abrasive nylon material. The holster features a suede lining to protect the firearm’s finish. It is designed to fit specific firearm models, in my case, the Glock 17/22 with a red dot sight.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip than a traditional high-ride holster, improving comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor. The holster’s weight varies slightly depending on the firearm it’s designed for, but it generally weighs around 1 pound. It is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, including the QLS (Quick Locking System).
These specifications are crucial for duty use as they provide a balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. The SafariSeven™ material ensures durability and weather resistance, while the ALS/SLS system provides reliable retention without hindering draw speed. The mid-ride height enhances comfort when worn for extended periods, especially when seated in a vehicle.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360RDS excels in its primary function: securely holding a firearm while providing a fast and efficient draw. The ALS/SLS retention system offers three levels of security, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon. At the same time, it allows for a smooth, natural draw stroke with minimal effort.
The strengths of this holster lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry. The ALS/SLS system is intuitive to use, and the mid-ride height makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, the learning curve for mastering the draw stroke can be slightly longer than with simpler holsters.
Overall, the Safariland 6360RDS meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides the security and reliability I need in a duty holster, without sacrificing accessibility or comfort. The design is well thought out and built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360RDS is exceptional. The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster feels solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand harsh conditions.
The ergonomic design of the 6360RDS is also noteworthy. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a comfortable and accessible location on the hip. The ALS/SLS release mechanisms are easy to reach and manipulate with the thumb and middle finger.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the draw stroke, but after a few hours of practice, it becomes intuitive and natural. The holster is user-friendly overall, especially for those familiar with Safariland retention systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360RDS is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster is likely to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The SafariSeven™ material is non-porous and doesn’t require any special conditioning or treatment. The holster is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360RDS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various mounting platforms, belt loops, and leg shrouds. The holster can be easily adapted to different carry positions and preferences. The QLS (Quick Locking System) allows for rapid attachment and detachment from different mounting platforms.
While the 6360RDS doesn’t directly accommodate any firearm modifications beyond a red dot sight, it’s compatible with various belt widths and mounting options. This makes it highly customizable for different users and applications.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131
Pros
- Unmatched Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides Level III retention, offering superior security compared to Level I or II holsters.
- Red Dot Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights, ensuring a clean and snag-free draw.
- Durable Construction: Made from Safariland‘s SafariSeven™ material, the holster is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster in a comfortable and accessible location on the hip.
- Customizable: Compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms and accessories, allowing for personalized configuration.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS/SLS draw stroke may require some practice.
- Price: At $176.40, it is more expensive than some other duty holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-quality, duty-rated holster with Level III retention and red dot sight compatibility. It’s ideal for those who prioritize security, reliability, and durability.
Those who are new to firearms or who prefer simpler, Level I or II retention holsters may want to skip this product. Individuals on a very tight budget might also find the price prohibitive.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory. Additionally, spending time practicing the draw stroke is essential for maximizing the holster’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The price is justified by its robust construction, Level III retention, and red dot sight compatibility.
I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable way to carry a firearm with a red dot sight. If you are looking for a holster that provides peace of mind and allows for a fast, efficient draw, the Safariland 6360RDS is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and order yours today!