First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent over a decade relying on dependable equipment. The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132 immediately caught my attention due to its reputation for security, speed, and compatibility with red dot sights – a critical feature for modern tactical applications. This holster promised a robust Level III retention system without sacrificing a smooth, rapid draw.
My journey to this particular Safariland holster stemmed from a frustrating incident at a training exercise. My previous Level II holster, while comfortable, proved inadequate when subjected to simulated grappling. I needed something more secure, especially given the increasing prevalence of red dot sights on duty weapons; hence, the 6360RDS became a necessary upgrade.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360rds exuded quality. The sturdy construction and durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend inspired confidence. Its weight felt substantial, a testament to its ruggedness, yet balanced enough to suggest comfortable all-day wear.
I considered the Blackhawk T-Series L3D and the Galco M5X Matrix as alternatives. The Safariland ultimately won out due to its superior reputation for ALS/SLS retention, a better mid-ride height for my body type, and proven track record within law enforcement. I was cautiously optimistic – eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field test took place at a week-long tactical training course focused on close-quarters combat. I wore the Safariland 6360rds daily, drawing and re-holstering countless times. The holster’s performance was consistent across various conditions, from sunny days to torrential downpours.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) took a bit of getting used to, requiring precise thumb placement for a clean draw. However, after a few hours of practice, the motion became intuitive and surprisingly fast. I did experience a minor snag when re-holstering in the rain – the ALS lever felt a bit slick – but adjusting my grip resolved the issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 6360rds has proven remarkably resilient. Despite regular exposure to sweat, mud, and rough handling, there are no signs of significant wear or tear. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360rds offers a noticeable improvement in retention and peace of mind. During a vigorous foot pursuit simulation, the weapon remained securely holstered even when I tripped and fell. This confirmed my decision that the additional retention level was a valuable feature.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6360rds is specifically engineered for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III Retention. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for a comfortable and efficient draw. The holster accommodates a wide range of popular duty weapons and red dot sights, making it a versatile choice for law enforcement and tactical professionals. This holster’s ability to accept a red dot without any modification is an enormous advantage.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360rds excels in its primary function: secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. The ALS and SLS work in tandem to provide a robust Level III retention system. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, once the user becomes familiar with the release mechanisms.
One minor drawback is the slightly increased draw time compared to a Level II holster. However, the added security far outweighs the negligible time difference. It consistently meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360rds boasts a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic profile. The SafariSeven™ material provides a comfortable contact point against the body, even during prolonged wear. The mid-ride height offers excellent balance and accessibility.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release, but the design is inherently intuitive. Once mastered, the draw stroke becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is exceptionally resistant to abrasion, impact, and environmental factors. Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanisms is all that’s required.
With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Its long term value is a key selling point.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. It’s designed to accommodate most popular red dot sights without modification. The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), allowing for easy transfer between different platforms.
While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the compatibility with Safariland’s ecosystem allows users to tailor the setup to their specific needs. This modularity is a huge benefit.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS and SLS systems provide unparalleled weapon security.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Accommodates a wide range of red dot optics without modification.
- Durable Construction: SafariSeven™ material ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: Provides a balanced and accessible carry position.
- Proven Reliability: Widely adopted by law enforcement and tactical professionals.
Cons
- Slightly longer draw time compared to Level II holsters.
- Requires practice to master the ALS/SLS release mechanism.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and compatibility with red dot sights. It’s also an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize security and peace of mind in their everyday carry setup. The Safariland 6360rds is ideal for those working in high-risk environments where weapon retention is paramount.
This holster may not be suitable for individuals who prioritize speed over security, or those who are new to firearms and prefer a simpler holster design. Someone seeking a low-profile concealed carry option might also find this holster too bulky. A good weapon light is a must-have accessory to pair with this holster, enhancing situational awareness in low-light conditions.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132
The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-132 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its robust Level III retention, red dot sight compatibility, and durable construction make it an outstanding choice for professionals who demand the best. The price of $176.40 is justified given the holster’s exceptional performance, reliability, and long-term value.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone seeking a secure and dependable duty holster. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference!
