First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH is Safariland’s answer to the increasing popularity of red dot sights on duty firearms. It promises Level III retention, a mid-ride height for comfortable carry, and compatibility with a wide range of pistols equipped with red dot sights. I was immediately intrigued by the promise of a duty-rated holster that accommodates the modern needs of law enforcement and tactical users.
My need for this holster stemmed from a recent upgrade to my duty pistol with a red dot sight. Existing holsters simply wouldn’t accommodate the optic, and I needed a secure, reliable option for daily carry. The Safariland 6360rds seemed to offer the perfect blend of security and accessibility.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction and familiar Safariland quality. The holster felt solid and well-made, with a reassuring weight that speaks to its durability. The fit and finish were excellent, showcasing the attention to detail I’ve come to expect from Safariland.
I considered several other red dot-compatible holsters, including models from Blackhawk and Galco. However, Safariland’s reputation for retention and durability, coupled with the ALS/SLS system, ultimately swayed my decision. Other holsters seemed either less secure or less refined.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Safariland 6360rds appeared to be a well-designed and thoughtfully constructed holster, ready to tackle the rigors of daily duty carry. I was excited to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360rds at my local shooting range during a training session. The range provided a controlled environment to practice drawing and re-holstering under pressure. I also spent a day conducting drills in a simulated urban environment to practice movement and weapon presentation.
The holster performed admirably in both dry and slightly damp conditions. The ALS/SLS system provided a secure hold on the firearm, even during rapid movement. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent once I became accustomed to the release mechanisms.
Initially, the ALS release required some adjustment. It took a few repetitions to develop a natural thumb placement for consistent and reliable activation. However, after a short learning curve, it became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are only minor signs of wear on the exterior finish from contact with clothing and gear. The retention mechanisms remain tight and secure.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts. The holster has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. This is after enduring daily exposure to varying temperatures and humidity.
Compared to my previous open-top holster, the Safariland 6360rds offers significantly enhanced retention and peace of mind. I no longer worry about accidental weapon dislodgement during strenuous activity. The Safariland 6360rds has exceeded my expectations in terms of both security and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH is designed to fit specific handgun models with red dot sights. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon upon holstering. The SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood further enhances retention.
It is constructed from Safariland’s durable SafariSeven nylon blend, offering exceptional resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip for a more comfortable and natural draw. The holster’s Level III retention is critical for duty use.
These specifications translate to a holster that is both secure and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The materials ensure longevity, and the retention systems offer peace of mind in demanding situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds excels in its primary function: secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. The ALS/SLS system provides a confident hold, preventing unauthorized removal while allowing for a quick and efficient draw stroke. The mid-ride height strikes a good balance between concealment and accessibility.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry. One area for possible improvement would be a slightly more streamlined ALS release lever. This might make it even easier to activate under stress.
The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated retention holster. It offers a level of security and reliability that is essential for law enforcement and tactical professionals.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds features a thoughtfully designed profile that minimizes bulk while maximizing functionality. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet incredibly durable, reducing the overall weight burden on the user. The mid-ride height promotes a more natural and comfortable draw stroke.
The holster is generally user-friendly, but the ALS release requires a bit of practice to master. Once the user becomes familiar with the system, the draw becomes smooth and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven material is incredibly resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts. The holster is designed for easy field maintenance and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg straps. It is designed to accommodate various red dot sights, ensuring compatibility with the user’s chosen optic.
The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s QLS (Quick Locking System), allowing for rapid attachment and detachment from different platforms. The ability to customize the holster with different accessories enhances its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides a Level III retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure in virtually any situation.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for aftermarket modifications.
- Durable Construction: Built from Safariland’s SafariSeven material, offering excellent resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop provides a comfortable carry position and facilitates a natural draw stroke.
- Trusted Brand: Safariland is a well-respected name in law enforcement and tactical gear, known for quality and reliability.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve: The ALS release requires some practice to master and may not be immediately intuitive for all users.
- Price: The Safariland 6360rds is more expensive than some other holster options on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable holster for a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It is also ideal for tactical shooters who value retention and durability.
Who should skip this product? Those who do not use a red dot sight or require Level III retention may find simpler and more affordable holster options better suited to their needs.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) allows for rapid holster attachment and detachment, enhancing versatility. Regular lubrication of the moving parts will ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-132-NH is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional retention, durability, and red dot sight compatibility. It’s a significant investment, but one that provides peace of mind and reliable performance in demanding situations.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, the security of the retention system, and the Safariland reputation for excellence. The Safariland 6360rds is a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their firearm for personal safety or professional duty.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and red dot-compatible holster. Upgrade your carry setup and experience the Safariland difference.