First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising security and quick access. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561 caught my eye because of its integration of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS), combined with its specific design for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The promise of Level III retention for duty use, without sacrificing a smooth draw, is a compelling one.
My need for this holster stemmed from a recent agency-wide upgrade to red dot sights on our duty pistols. We required a holster that offered the same, if not better, level of retention as our existing Safariland SLS holsters, but that would accommodate the new optics. The moment I unboxed the Safariland 6360rds, I was impressed by its robust construction. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall design appeared well thought out.
Compared to the older Safariland 6280 and some competing models from Blackhawk!, the 6360rds immediately felt more refined. The 6280, while reliable, lacks the RDS compatibility, and the Blackhawk! options I’ve used didn’t quite offer the same confidence-inspiring retention. My initial excitement was high; this felt like a professional piece of kit ready for serious use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6360rds was at the agency’s qualification range. I spent the day running drills, practicing draws from concealment, and working on re-holstering under stress. The holster performed admirably in the dry, sunny conditions.
The ALS/SLS system was initially a bit stiff, requiring a firm thumb press and deliberate rotation to release the weapon. However, after a few dozen draws, the action smoothed out significantly. There were no malfunctions or unexpected releases during the entire session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, including regular range sessions and a week-long tactical training course in varied terrain, the Safariland 6360rds has proven remarkably durable. Minor scuff marks are visible on the SafariSeven™ finish, but the holster shows no signs of structural weakness or degradation. The retention system continues to function flawlessly.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after range use is usually sufficient. I’ve occasionally applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS/SLS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, especially after exposure to heavy rain or dust. Compared to my previous Safariland 6280, the 6360rds offers superior RDS compatibility without compromising retention or durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at an optimal height for comfortable carry and a smooth draw. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) locks the weapon securely upon holstering, while the SLS (Self Locking System) provides an additional layer of retention with a rotating hood.
The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, offering exceptional durability, water resistance, and resistance to extreme temperatures. The Level III retention rating provides a high degree of security, making it suitable for duty use by law enforcement and military personnel. The molded sight track and red dot optic space provides a secure fit without damaging the firearm or optic.
Performance & Functionality
The 6360rds excels in both retention and draw speed. The ALS/SLS system provides a confident Level III retention, deterring unauthorized access while still allowing for a fast, intuitive draw. After some practice, the draw stroke becomes second nature, requiring only a natural thumb press and rotation of the SLS hood.
The only slight weakness is the initial stiffness of the ALS release, which can be overcome with regular use and a touch of lubrication. Overall, the Safariland 6360rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster. It offers a secure, reliable, and relatively fast draw in a robust package.
Design & Ergonomics
The mid-ride design is comfortable for extended wear, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly across the belt. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight and doesn’t cause excessive sweating or chafing. The holster’s design is relatively user-friendly, although the ALS/SLS system requires some initial familiarization.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from SafariSeven™, the Safariland 6360rds is built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. It is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster is also easy to clean and maintain. Regular wiping with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanism are typically sufficient to keep it in optimal working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical accessories. Many users opt to replace the standard belt loop with a drop-leg platform for tactical applications. The holster is also compatible with various red dot sights, making it a versatile choice for users who prefer to customize their firearms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561
Pros
- Level III Retention: Offers a high level of security for duty use.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: Made from SafariSeven™ material, resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
- Mid-Ride Design: Provides comfortable carry and a smooth draw stroke.
- ALS/SLS System: Intuitive and reliable retention system that can be mastered with practice.
Cons
- Initial stiffness of the ALS release mechanism.
- Price point may be prohibitive for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561?
The Safariland 6360rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their duty firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize retention and draw speed. Individuals looking for a simple, low-retention concealed carry holster should skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality duty belt that can properly support the weight of the firearm and holster. Some users may also want to consider a drop-leg platform for tactical applications.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-561 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and RDS compatibility. While the price point is higher than some competing models, the durability and performance justify the investment for professionals who rely on their firearms in high-stress situations. The ALS/SLS system requires some practice to master, but once familiar, it provides a confident and relatively fast draw stroke.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a Level III retention holster for a firearm with a red dot optic. If you need a duty-grade holster that you can depend on, pull the trigger on the Safariland 6360rds.