First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement. Safariland has built a reputation on providing law enforcement and military personnel with reliable, durable, and highly functional holsters, and this model, specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights (RDS), continues that tradition. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the field, I know firsthand the importance of a holster that can withstand the rigors of duty while providing quick and secure access to your firearm.
For years, I’ve been struggling with finding a holster that could accommodate my Glock 19 with a mounted Trijicon RMR without compromising retention or draw speed. Many “universal” RDS holsters felt flimsy, insecure, or added unnecessary bulk. This led me to the Safariland 6360RDS, a holster designed with the specific needs of RDS-equipped firearms in mind.
The Safariland 6360RDS arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Upon opening, I was immediately struck by the robust construction and clean design. The STX finish had a matte, non-reflective quality that screamed professional-grade.
Compared to my older Safariland ALS holster and a generic kydex RDS holster, the 6360RDS felt significantly more substantial and well-engineered. I chose this particular Safariland model because of Safariland’s reputation for exceptional retention systems and the mid-ride height, which I find offers a good balance between comfort and accessibility while wearing body armor. My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360RDS at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The weather was typical for late summer: hot, humid, and dusty. The primary focus was on drawing and engaging targets quickly and efficiently while moving.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) retention mechanisms required a bit of practice to master, but after a few repetitions, the draw became smooth and intuitive. I found that even with sweaty hands, the grip on the SLS hood was positive, and the ALS release was easily accessible. The holster performed flawlessly under these conditions, providing secure retention without hindering my draw speed. There were no unexpected issues or surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a two-day tactical carbine course, the Safariland 6360RDS has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are some minor scuff marks on the STX finish, which is expected, but the holster shows no signs of structural wear or degradation. The retention mechanisms still function perfectly, and the holster continues to provide a secure and consistent draw.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime. Compared to my previous experience with kydex holsters that required constant tightening of screws, the Safariland 6360RDS has required virtually no maintenance. It significantly outperforms my previous duty holster in terms of both retention and durability, giving me confidence in its ability to perform under pressure.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701 is a duty-rated holster designed for law enforcement and military professionals. It is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights.
- Retention Level: Level III (SLS, ALS). This provides a high level of security, requiring multiple deliberate actions to draw the weapon.
- Material: Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is exceptionally durable, heat-resistant, and non-abrasive to firearm finishes.
- Ride Height: Mid-ride. Offers a balance between comfort and accessibility while wearing body armor.
- Finish: STX finish. Provides a matte, non-reflective surface that is resistant to scratches and abrasions.
- Compatibility: Glock 17/22 with Red Dot Sight. This holster is designed specifically for these models but may accommodate similar-sized firearms.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s ability to provide secure retention, withstand harsh environmental conditions, and allow for a quick and efficient draw. The Level III retention is essential for duty use, ensuring that the firearm remains secure even during physical altercations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360RDS excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing immediate Level I retention. The SLS hood further enhances security, requiring a simple thumb rotation to disengage before the draw.
The main strength is undoubtedly its retention system. It is intuitive and provides a high degree of confidence that the firearm will remain secure. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent. One area for potential improvement could be the profile of the SLS hood, which could be slightly lower to further enhance draw speed. Overall, it meets and even exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360RDS features a simple and functional design. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, and the mid-ride height offers a comfortable carry position. The holster’s profile is relatively slim, minimizing bulk and maximizing mobility.
The build quality is exceptional, with precise molding and durable hardware. It’s exceptionally user-friendly after a short training period. The SLS and ALS mechanisms become second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Safariland 6360RDS is built to last. The SafariSeven material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the holster shows no signs of cracking or deformation even after months of heavy use. Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360RDS comes with a standard belt loop attachment. Safariland offers a wide range of accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and quick-release systems, allowing for extensive customization. The holster is also compatible with most Safariland mounting platforms, providing flexibility in how it is worn and deployed. This includes compatibility with popular brands like Blackhawk! and G-Code, ensuring a wide range of mounting options.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701
Pros
- Exceptional Level III retention with ALS and SLS. Provides a high degree of security in demanding environments.
- Durable SafariSeven construction. Withstands harsh conditions and resists wear and tear.
- Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. Ensures proper fit and function with RDS optics.
- Smooth and consistent draw stroke. Allows for rapid and reliable target engagement.
- Wide range of accessories and customization options. Provides flexibility in how the holster is worn and deployed.
Cons
- SLS can feel a little bulky until you get used to it.
- Price point is higher than some kydex options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high-quality, duty-rated holster for their RDS-equipped firearms. It’s also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize retention and reliability.
This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters who are primarily concerned with comfort and concealment. For those users, a smaller, less bulky option might be more appropriate. A must-have modification is a Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) fork, which allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the holster from different mounting platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-75029-701 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the quality and reliability justify the investment, especially if your life may depend on it. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360RDS to anyone who needs a duty-grade holster for their RDS-equipped firearm. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, then don’t hesitate to add this holster to your kit.