First Impressions of Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. However, the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand immediately caught my eye with its promise of enhanced security and red dot sight compatibility. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and military communities, so my expectations were high.
My need for this particular holster stemmed from the growing popularity of red dot sights on pistols and the necessity for a secure, duty-grade holster that could accommodate them. I wanted a holster that would stand up to the rigors of daily use while providing quick and reliable access to my firearm, all while being left-hand specific. Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction and the signature Safariland SafariLaminate material.
The holster felt solid and well-made, not flimsy or cheap like some of its competitors. Compared to some generic nylon holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland offered a noticeable step up in terms of build quality and retention. I chose this particular Safariland model over other options like the Blackhawk! Serpa or the Galco M5X Matrix primarily because of the Level-III retention and the proven track record of the ALS/SLS system.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While I was impressed with the overall design and construction, I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios. I was excited to get it out to the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand was at an outdoor shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke and the retention system under controlled conditions. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The draw felt surprisingly natural after a few practice runs, and the ALS and SLS mechanisms disengaged smoothly and efficiently. There were no major issues during this initial session, although I did notice that the initial draw was a little stiff, requiring a deliberate and firm motion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use during training sessions and drills, the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. The SafariLaminate material has held up well to scratches and abrasions, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Cleaning the holster is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime.
Compared to some of the other holsters I’ve used in the past, this Safariland model definitely outperforms them in terms of retention and durability. The Level-III retention system gives me the confidence that my firearm will remain secure, even during strenuous activity.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand
Specifications
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand is designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It is a Level-III retention holster featuring both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS). The holster is constructed from Safariland’s durable SafariLaminate material and is suede-lined to protect the firearm’s finish.
It is designed for left-handed users and features a mid-ride belt loop that accommodates 2.25-inch belts, a standard size for duty belts. The Level-III retention is critical for law enforcement and security personnel who require a high degree of weapon security. The ALS automatically locks the firearm into place upon holstering, while the SLS rotating hood adds an additional layer of security.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS/SLS system provides a secure and reliable retention mechanism, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient with practice, allowing for a quick and decisive response in critical situations.
One minor weakness is that the initial draw can be a bit stiff, requiring a deliberate and firm motion to disengage the locking mechanisms. However, this is a trade-off for the added security provided by the Level-III retention. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand features a well-thought-out design with ergonomics in mind. The mid-ride height positions the firearm at a comfortable and accessible level on the belt. The SafariLaminate material is lightweight yet durable, providing a comfortable carry throughout the day.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release, but with practice, it becomes second nature. The design and construction speak to its quality.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. Regular maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning properly.
With proper care, this holster should provide many years of reliable service. The robust construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as optic hood guards and different belt attachment options. While it does not come with any accessories beyond the standard belt loop, the compatibility with other Safariland products allows for a degree of customization. The ability to add an optic hood guard is particularly useful for protecting the red dot sight from damage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand
Pros
- Exceptional Level-III Retention: Provides unparalleled security for your firearm in demanding situations.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate pistols with mounted red dot sights.
- Durable SafariLaminate Construction: Withstands the rigors of daily use and harsh environments.
- Smooth and Efficient Draw Stroke: Allows for a quick and decisive response with practice.
- Mid-Ride Height: Positions the firearm at a comfortable and accessible level on the belt.
Cons
- The draw can feel stiff initially and requires practice.
- Higher price point compared to some other holster options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high degree of weapon security and reliable access to their firearm. Left-handed shooters who use red dot sights on their pistols will find this holster to be an ideal choice. Those who should skip this product are individuals on a very tight budget or those who do not require Level-III retention.
A must-have accessory is an optic hood guard, and a good quality duty belt is essential for proper support and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand
In summary, the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand is a top-tier duty holster that offers exceptional security, durability, and functionality. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the peace of mind and reliability it provides are well worth the investment.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the Level-III retention system. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm, especially those who use red dot sights.
If you’re looking for a duty-grade holster that you can trust with your life, look no further than the Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level-III OWB Belt Holster w/ Left Hand. Invest in your safety and security today.