First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is a name that carries weight in law enforcement and tactical circles, and for good reason. Safariland has built a reputation for producing incredibly durable and reliable holsters that stand up to the rigors of daily duty. This particular model, the 6360RDS, is designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights, offering Level III retention and a mid-ride carry position, making it a holster that immediately commands attention.
I’ve spent years searching for the “perfect” duty holster, one that balances security, speed, and comfort. My biggest challenge has always been finding a holster that accommodates a red dot sight without sacrificing retention or ease of draw. Many holsters either offer insufficient protection for the optic, or make the draw unnecessarily complicated. This led me to the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2.
Out of the box, the Safariland holster felt incredibly robust. The STX Tactical finish looked and felt durable. Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco retention holster I’ve used, the Safariland‘s ALS/SLS system seemed far more intuitive and secure.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; excited about the potential, but also aware that only real-world testing would reveal its true strengths and weaknesses. Given my prior experiences with other duty holsters, I was eager to see how this one would perform under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 was at the shooting range. I ran a series of drills focused on drawing, firing, and re-holstering under time constraints. The weather was hot and humid, typical for a summer day at the range.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) mechanisms took a little getting used to, but I quickly adapted. The draw stroke felt smooth and natural once I adjusted my thumb placement. There were no issues with retention, even during rapid movements.
The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance between retention and ease of draw. After a few minor adjustments, the holster performed flawlessly. I was very impressed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use in training scenarios, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 has proven its worth. It has been exposed to rain, dust, and even a few accidental bumps and scrapes. Despite the abuse, the holster shows minimal signs of wear.
The STX Tactical finish is surprisingly durable. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Comparing it to other holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland stands out for its robust construction and consistent performance.
It surpasses my previous experiences with retention holsters by a wide margin, offering a secure carry and a reliably smooth draw. I feel confident in the holster’s ability to perform in any situation. It is a game changer.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) for Level III Retention. The holster is a mid-ride style, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height for most users.
The holster body is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven material, a nylon blend that’s incredibly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion. It’s duty rated, meaning it’s built to withstand the demands of law enforcement and military use. The specific model number 6360RDS-832-551-2 signifies the gun model it fits, the hand orientation, and the color/finish.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, durability, and usability. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security against unauthorized removal of the firearm. The SafariSeven material ensures the holster will withstand extreme conditions without cracking or warping.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 performs its primary job – retaining and quickly deploying a firearm – exceptionally well. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work in tandem to provide a secure hold, yet allow for a fast and intuitive draw. The mid-ride height offers a good balance between accessibility and concealment.
The holster’s biggest strength is its retention system. It gives a level of confidence that my firearm is secure in any situation. One area for potential improvement would be to make the SLS hood slightly easier to disengage with gloved hands.
Overall, it definitely meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides peace of mind, knowing that my firearm is secure and accessible.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is designed with both functionality and user comfort in mind. The SafariSeven material is surprisingly lightweight, and the mid-ride height makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The molded design fits the firearm perfectly, ensuring a secure and snug fit.
There’s a slight learning curve associated with the ALS/SLS system, but the motions become second nature with practice. The design is intuitive and allows for a natural draw stroke once mastered.
The build quality is top-notch; the materials feel premium, and the construction is solid. The holster inspires confidence in its durability. The weight distribution is well-balanced, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is built to last. The SafariSeven material is incredibly resistant to wear and tear. Given proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The holster doesn’t require any special lubricants or treatments. The durable construction and easy maintenance make it a practical choice for demanding environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These accessories include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
The holster is also designed to accommodate various red dot sights, making it a versatile option for shooters who prefer using optics. It’s compatible with many popular mounting platforms, such as the QLS system, allowing for quick and easy holster swaps. The ability to customize the holster with various accessories significantly enhances its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides Level III Retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: Made from SafariSeven material, which is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion.
- Mid-Ride Height: Offers a comfortable carry position that balances accessibility and concealment.
- Customization Options: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories for personalized setup.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS/SLS system requires some practice to master the draw stroke.
- Price: It can be more expensive than other holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and anyone who requires a highly secure and reliable duty holster. It is also excellent for competitive shooters who prioritize retention and speed. The red dot sight compatibility makes it a great choice for shooters who use optics on their firearms.
This holster may not be the best choice for those new to firearms or those who prefer simpler, less secure holsters. It also might be overkill for concealed carry purposes where extreme retention isn’t necessarily the highest priority. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland QLS system for easy holster attachment and removal.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the quality and features justify the investment. The Level III retention, red dot sight compatibility, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious shooters.
I would personally recommend this holster without hesitation. If you’re looking for a duty-grade holster that you can rely on in any situation, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-551-2 is definitely worth considering. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it!