Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30

In the world of duty-rated holsters, few names command the respect and trust of law enforcement and military personnel like Safariland. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 stands out as a purpose-built solution for those carrying firearms equipped with red dot sights, offering a blend of security, accessibility, and durability that is paramount in high-stress situations. This holster combines the renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) into a Level III retention package, all while accommodating the increasingly popular red dot optic.

As a seasoned gear specialist, my holster choices have always been driven by the need for reliability and speed – two factors that can be life-saving in my line of work. I needed a duty-rated holster that could accommodate a pistol with a mounted red dot sight, a requirement that many traditional holsters simply couldn’t meet. My initial hands-on experience with the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 left me impressed with its robust construction and intuitive design.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa (Level 2) and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse (Level 1), the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 offered a significantly higher level of retention and security. I chose this holster because of Safariland’s proven track record and the increasing prevalence of red dot sights on duty pistols. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping this holster would live up to the Safariland reputation for quality and performance.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 took place at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. The weather was typical for the area: hot and humid, with a generous coating of dust on every surface. I immediately appreciated how securely the holster held my Glock 17 with a Trijicon RMR, even during dynamic movements and simulated struggles.

The ALS and SLS systems were initially stiff but became smoother with practice, providing confident retention without hindering a quick draw. It took me about an hour of dry-fire practice to become fully comfortable with the draw stroke, which involved deactivating both the SLS hood and the ALS lever simultaneously. The only initial issue was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance between retention and ease of draw.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 has proven to be an exceptionally reliable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even with daily use and exposure to harsh conditions. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms have kept it functioning flawlessly.

Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 surpasses them in terms of both retention and optic compatibility. The ability to securely carry a red dot equipped pistol without compromising on security or draw speed is a game-changer. It has exceeded my initial expectations, solidifying my trust in Safariland products.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS), providing a Level III retention rating. The holster’s mid-ride position places the firearm at an optimal height for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.

The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions upon holstering and is deactivated with the thumb during the draw. The SLS rotating hood further enhances security by preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. This combination of features makes the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 a highly secure and reliable choice for duty carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 performs exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable platform for duty firearms with red dot sights. Its strengths lie in its robust retention system, comfortable mid-ride position, and optic compatibility. One potential area for improvement is the initial stiffness of the ALS and SLS, which requires a break-in period and consistent practice.

Overall, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster. The retention system is intuitive, and the draw stroke becomes fluid with practice.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, offering excellent resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The mid-ride design positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural and efficient draw stroke. While the holster feels robust and substantial, it does not feel excessively heavy or bulky.

The intuitive design requires a short learning curve to master the ALS and SLS release mechanisms. Once mastered, the draw stroke is smooth and efficient, even under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its SafariSeven™ construction, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms.

The durable construction and simple maintenance requirements make the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 a long-lasting and practical investment for professionals.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. This modularity allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. The holster is primarily designed for firearms with red dot sights, offering a secure and protected carry for optics.

Users can also adjust the tension screw to fine-tune the draw stroke to their liking. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 offers excellent customization options for professionals seeking a tailored duty solution.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30

Pros

  • Level III Retention: Offers exceptional security with ALS and SLS locking mechanisms, providing peace of mind in high-risk environments.
  • Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, a crucial feature for modern duty pistols.
  • Durable Construction: Made from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing excellent resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion for long-lasting reliability.
  • Mid-Ride Design: Positions the firearm for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke, reducing fatigue and improving response time.
  • Customization Options: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing users to tailor the holster to their specific needs.

Cons

  • Initial Stiffness: The ALS and SLS mechanisms can be stiff initially, requiring a break-in period and consistent practice.
  • Price: At $255.40, it is a significant investment compared to some other holster options.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30?

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high level of retention and security for their duty firearms with red dot sights. It is also suitable for competitive shooters who need a reliable and efficient holster for dynamic shooting events.

Individuals who prefer simpler, Level I or Level II retention systems or those on a tight budget might find this holster overkill. A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is stiff enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8192-742-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and security for firearms with red dot sights. The price is justified by the quality of construction, innovative retention system, and the peace of mind it provides in high-risk situations.

I would highly recommend this holster to any professional who prioritizes the security and accessibility of their duty firearm. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it.

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