Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482 isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a crucial part of a professional’s daily carry, designed to provide secure retention and rapid access. As someone who’s spent over a decade working with outdoor and tactical gear, I understand the importance of reliable equipment that performs under pressure. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality in the law enforcement and military communities, promising a level of craftsmanship and dependability that’s hard to ignore. This particular model, with its ALS/SLS retention system and compatibility with red dot sights, immediately caught my attention as a potential upgrade to my duty setup.

My existing holster, while functional, lacked the positive retention I desired when navigating crowded environments or engaging in more dynamic training scenarios. I needed a holster that could accommodate my pistol with a red dot sight mounted, a feature becoming increasingly common but not always well-supported by traditional holsters. The promise of Level III retention, combined with the mid-ride height, made the Safariland 6360rds an appealing option.

The Safariland 6360rds arrived in a no-nonsense package, typical of professional-grade equipment. Pulling it out, the immediate impression was one of robust construction and quality materials. The STX Tactical finish felt durable and offered a good grip, while the overall weight was reassuring without being cumbersome. Compared to my previous Level II retention holster, this felt significantly more secure and purposeful.

I considered several other red dot-compatible holsters from competing brands like Blackhawk and Blade-Tech. However, the Safariland’s reputation for durability and its proven track record with law enforcement agencies ultimately swayed my decision. I was eager to see if the holster lived up to the hype, or if it was just another over-hyped piece of gear. Overall, my first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to test its real-world performance.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6360rds was at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I needed to become familiar with the ALS/SLS system and ensure it didn’t impede my draw speed under pressure. The initial draws felt slightly different than my old holster, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to disengage the ALS.

The weather was slightly drizzly that day, providing a mild test of the holster’s grip in wet conditions. The STX Tactical finish maintained a secure feel, even with damp hands. After about an hour of practice, I felt comfortable and confident with the draw stroke and re-holstering process. There were no immediate issues, though the ALS lever did require a firm press to deactivate, something I needed to get used to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a tactical training course, the Safariland 6360rds has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even with consistent use and exposure to varying weather conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.

Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland provides a significantly higher level of retention without sacrificing draw speed once you’re accustomed to the system. I’ve experienced no accidental disengagements or failures, and the holster continues to perform flawlessly. It definitely outperforms my previous setup in terms of security and peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482

Specifications

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482 is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. The automatic locking system (ALS) builds upon the foundation of the self-locking system (SLS). It provides Level III retention, locking the weapon in all directions upon holstering.

This holster is operable with the thumb, allowing the weapon to be drawn straight out of the holster with no twisting required. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable height for most users, balancing accessibility and concealment. It is constructed from durable SafariSeven material, a proprietary nylon blend resistant to heat, cold, and moisture.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS/SLS system provides a tangible sense of security, knowing that the weapon is locked in place until intentionally released. The draw stroke, while requiring practice, becomes intuitive and fluid with repetition.

The main strength of this holster is its Level III retention, offering a significant deterrent against unauthorized access to the firearm. A minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS system. Overall, the Safariland 6360rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated retention holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360rds boasts a functional and ergonomic design, prioritizing security and ease of use. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials, providing a reassuring sense of durability and longevity. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable carry position, minimizing interference with movement and allowing for a full range of motion.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the ALS/SLS system does require dedicated practice. The thumb release is well-positioned and easily accessible, even with gloved hands. The SafariSeven material also provides a comfortable contact point against the body.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360rds, constructed from SafariSeven, is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-term durability. Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

I expect the holster to last for many years with proper care, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their equipment. The robust construction and high-quality materials inspire confidence in its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360rds is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. The holster is designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications. It may also be compatible with certain weapon-mounted lights, depending on the specific model and configuration.

The ability to customize the carry position and add accessories enhances the holster’s versatility and adaptability to individual needs. The Safariland ecosystem of accessories allows users to tailor the holster to their specific requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482?

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of firearm retention and security. It’s especially beneficial for those who carry a pistol with a red dot sight mounted.

Someone looking for a concealed carry holster or a minimalist option should skip this product. A belt slide or IWB (inside the waistband) style is more ideal for concealment than this duty rated holster.
Must-have accessories include a compatible Safariland belt loop or mounting platform to securely attach the holster to your duty belt or vest.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482

The Safariland 6360rds – Als/sls Mid-ride, Duty Rated Level Iii Retention Holster 6360RDS-8328-482 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and performance. The Level III retention, combined with red dot sight compatibility and robust construction, makes it a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on their gear. The holster’s $176.40 price tag is justified by its quality and reliability, making it an excellent value proposition.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 6360rds to anyone seeking a dependable and secure duty holster. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is safely secured. Don’t compromise on safety – invest in a Safariland.