First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP is a name that speaks volumes in the world of law enforcement and tactical professionals. Safariland is renowned for its durable, reliable, and highly functional holsters, and the 6360RDS is no exception, designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. As someone with over a decade immersed in outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, but the promise of a Level III retention holster that doesn’t compromise on draw speed or security is always intriguing.
My journey to acquiring the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP stemmed from a specific need: upgrading my duty rig to accommodate a new pistol with a mounted red dot sight. The old holster, while serviceable, simply couldn’t handle the optic, and I wasn’t willing to sacrifice the enhanced target acquisition and situational awareness that the RDS offered. I needed a holster that was both secure and allowed for a swift, intuitive draw, especially under pressure.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust build quality of the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP. The thick, durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt like it could withstand just about anything I could throw at it. The weight was substantial, a testament to the quality of materials used, but not so heavy as to be cumbersome on the belt.
I considered other options, like the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D and the Galco M5X Matrix, but the Safariland‘s reputation for retention and the specific RDS compatibility ultimately swayed my decision. I had previously used a Safariland ALS holster without an optic cut and was impressed by its durability and ease of use; I trusted that this would be a superior upgrade. My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation – would it live up to the hype and justify the investment?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP was the local shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke, the retention mechanisms, and overall comfort before trusting it for duty use. The weather was typical for the area – slightly humid with a hint of a breeze.
Right away, I noticed how smoothly the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) disengaged with practice. The thumb naturally found the release, and the pistol cleared the holster without any snagging or hesitation. However, I discovered the draw required adjusting my grip slightly to ensure consistent activation of the ALS, which was expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, both on the range and during duty shifts, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP has proven its worth. It handles daily wear and tear with ease. There are no noticeable signs of wear on the SafariSeven™ material, even after repeated contact with gear and clothing.
The holster requires minimal maintenance; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland offers a far more secure and confident carry, especially when engaging in physical activities like running or climbing. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and reliability. It’s constructed from Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, which is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions. The holster features both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III Retention, ensuring the firearm remains securely in place until deliberately drawn.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for a smooth, natural draw stroke. This model is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications or aftermarket adjustments. The durable construction and retention systems are critical for maintaining control of the firearm in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP excels in its primary function: securely retaining and readily deploying a firearm. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work in tandem to provide a high level of security without sacrificing draw speed. It takes some training and practice to master the draw, but after a while it becomes second nature.
The holster’s strength lies in its unparalleled retention capabilities, giving a user the confidence to perform physically demanding tasks without worrying about their weapon coming loose. A weakness to acknowledge is that the learning curve for mastering the dual retention system can be a bit steeper than some other holsters. It absolutely meets my expectations and provides the peace of mind I need in a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP features a robust design that emphasizes both durability and user comfort. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, and the mid-ride height provides a comfortable and natural draw angle.
The holster’s interior is smooth and well-molded, preventing unnecessary wear and tear on the firearm’s finish. There’s a bit of a learning curve to fully utilize the ALS and SLS systems, but the controls are ergonomically placed and easy to access with practice. The build quality is top-notch, and it feels great on the hip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP is built to last, thanks to its SafariSeven™ construction and robust design. The material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and temperature extremes, ensuring it can withstand years of hard use.
Maintenance is simple: A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. Due to the simplistic design there are virtually no parts to break or that require replacing. Its durability ensures it will serve faithfully for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical weapon lights. The ability to customize the holster to individual needs is a significant advantage, allowing users to tailor their carry setup to specific mission requirements. While the holster itself doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, its compatibility with the Safariland ecosystem opens up a world of possibilities.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled security without sacrificing draw speed.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications.
- Durable SafariSeven™ Construction: Resistant to heat, cold, abrasions, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Smooth, Consistent Draw Stroke: Allows for a quick and efficient draw with practice.
- Mid-Ride Height: Offers a comfortable and natural draw angle.
Cons
- Learning curve: The dual retention system takes time and practice to master.
- Price: The initial investment can be higher than some other holster options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP?
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a high level of weapon retention and reliability. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone who carries a firearm with a red dot sight and needs a holster that can accommodate the optic without compromising security or draw speed.
This product is probably not the best fit for those looking for a concealed carry option due to its size and Level III retention system. Individuals new to firearms and holsters may find the dual retention system challenging to learn initially. A must-have accessory would be a Safariland compatible belt that is rigid enough to properly support the holster and firearm.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and functionality. While the initial investment may be higher than some other options, the peace of mind and performance it provides are well worth the cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry a firearm with a red dot sight. If you prioritize weapon retention and demand the best in quality and performance, the Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-832-702-2-MS30-NP is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your carry today!