First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is a specialized piece of kit designed for professionals who rely on both a firearm and a red dot sight (RDS) in high-stakes situations. It aims to provide Level III retention, ensuring the weapon remains secure while also allowing for a rapid, intuitive draw, even with an optic mounted. I’ve spent over a decade working with law enforcement and military personnel, helping them select and configure their gear, and a holster that balances security, accessibility, and compatibility with modern optics is always a top priority.
My own journey to this particular holster stemmed from a specific need: I was consulting with a local sheriff’s department that was transitioning to RDS-equipped Glock 17s. Their existing holsters were incompatible, and they required a duty-rated option that could stand up to the rigors of daily use while providing the necessary retention. I needed a solution that was not only secure and reliable, but also allowed for a smooth and efficient draw in critical situations.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The material felt incredibly durable, and the overall design screamed “duty-ready.” Compared to some of the cheaper, injection-molded holsters I’ve encountered, this felt like a serious piece of equipment.
I initially considered a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse holster for its modularity, and a Blackhawk! Serpa for its speed. However, I ultimately chose the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 due to Safariland’s reputation for reliability, their proven track record with law enforcement agencies, and the Level III retention. The Serpa’s trigger finger release also concerned me from a safety perspective.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of a holster that could meet the department’s needs, but also aware that retention holsters can sometimes be clunky and slow. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 at a local shooting range, simulating various scenarios that law enforcement officers might encounter. This included drawing from seated positions, while moving, and under simulated stress. I also exposed the holster to different environmental conditions, like rain and dust, to evaluate its performance.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) took some getting used to initially. However, after a few practice draws, the motion became more fluid. The holster retained the weapon securely, even during vigorous movement, and the RDS didn’t snag or interfere with the draw.
One minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the SLS hood. It required a deliberate motion to disengage, which slowed down my draw slightly. This was easily remedied with some silicone lubricant and repeated practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use and dry-fire drills, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the exterior, but the internal mechanisms remain smooth and reliable. I’ve seen no degradation in the retention capabilities.
Maintaining the holster is surprisingly easy. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts is all that’s required. This is crucial for a duty holster that is exposed to the elements on a daily basis.
Compared to my previous experiences with other retention holsters, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 outperforms them in both security and speed of draw. The ALS and SLS provide a secure hold without sacrificing accessibility, making it a significant improvement over older designs.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering, and the Self Locking System (SLS), a rotating hood that further enhances retention. It is duty rated, providing Level III retention for maximum security.
The holster is constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary material known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions. It is a mid-ride holster, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height for a smooth draw. The holster is compatible with a variety of firearms, most commonly Glock, Sig Sauer, and Smith & Wesson models.
These specifications are critical for duty use because they ensure that the firearm remains secure during strenuous activity, while still allowing for a rapid and efficient draw when needed. The RDS compatibility is also essential, as red dot sights are becoming increasingly common in law enforcement and military applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The retention mechanisms are robust and reliable, and the draw stroke is smooth and natural once mastered. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear and allows for easy access to the firearm while wearing body armor.
The main strength of this holster is its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS and SLS provide a high level of retention without significantly slowing down the draw. The weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the retention mechanisms, but this can be overcome with practice.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster designed for duty use. It provides the necessary security and accessibility for law enforcement and military personnel in high-risk situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is both durable and lightweight, making the holster comfortable to wear for extended periods. The mid-ride height positions the firearm at a natural and easily accessible location.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS and SLS, but the design is intuitive once you understand the mechanics. The holster is also designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms with minimal adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction ensures that the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is built to last. The material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the internal mechanisms are well-protected.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts is all that is required to keep the holster in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various mounting options, such as belt loops, drop legs, and MOLLE attachments. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
The holster is also compatible with popular red dot sights from brands like Trijicon, Aimpoint, and Holosun. This ensures that users can use their preferred optic without any compatibility issues.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS and SLS systems provide Level III retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure in demanding situations.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights, making it ideal for modern shooting platforms.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend material is incredibly durable and resistant to the elements, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Smooth Draw: Once mastered, the draw stroke is smooth and efficient, allowing for rapid deployment of the firearm.
- Customizable: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing for personalized configuration.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: The ALS and SLS systems require practice to master, which may slow down the draw initially.
- SLS Hood Stiffness: The SLS hood can be stiff initially, requiring lubrication and repeated use to break in.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a duty-rated holster with Level III retention and RDS compatibility. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who want a secure and reliable holster for their RDS-equipped firearms.
Individuals who prefer a simpler, less secure holster, or those who are unwilling to invest the time required to master the ALS and SLS systems, should skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland belt loop or mounting platform that is compatible with the user’s belt or gear. Silicone lubricant is also recommended for maintaining the smooth operation of the retention mechanisms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and RDS compatibility. While the initial learning curve may be a barrier for some, the benefits of Level III retention and a smooth, efficient draw far outweigh the challenges.
At $176.40, the price is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. It’s an investment in personal safety and professional readiness.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 to anyone who needs a duty-rated holster with Level III retention and RDS compatibility. It is a reliable and effective piece of kit that will provide years of service. If you’re serious about your firearm and your safety, this holster is worth the investment. Secure your sidearm. Secure your peace of mind. Get a Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-481 today.