Let’s Dive into Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster is a duty-grade holster designed for professionals who require a secure and reliable way to carry their Colt 1911 Government model. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster boasts a robust construction and a multi-level retention system to ensure the firearm stays put until needed. It’s a holster built for serious use, and that’s exactly what caught my attention.
My need for a Level IV retention holster arose after a close call during a training exercise where my previous holster failed to adequately secure my sidearm during strenuous activity. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing a quick and intuitive draw when necessary. This holster promised that level of security and accessibility.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and construction of the Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster. The material felt durable, and the locking mechanisms operated smoothly. The holster had a reassuring weight to it without being overly bulky.
Compared to similar holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Galco FLETCH, the Safariland stood out due to its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS), offering a higher level of retention without sacrificing draw speed. I chose this over others because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the proven reliability of its ALS/SLS system among law enforcement professionals.
My first impression was one of confidence. The holster appeared well-engineered and ready for hard use. It instilled a sense of security knowing that my sidearm would remain safely holstered until I needed it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster at the shooting range during a tactical training session that simulated real-world scenarios. The environment was varied, with drills involving movement, shooting from cover, and weapon transitions.
The holster performed admirably in all conditions. Even in the dusty environment of the range, the locking mechanisms remained functional and reliable. Drawing the weapon was smooth and intuitive after a few practice runs, and the retention system gave me confidence that my firearm would stay secure.
The holster required a short acclimatization period to master the simultaneous release of the ALS and SLS systems. However, after about an hour of practice, drawing became second nature. There were no significant issues encountered during my first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of constant use, including daily carry and multiple training sessions, the Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster continues to perform exceptionally well. The holster has proven to be incredibly durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
Despite constant friction and exposure to the elements, the finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuff marks appearing in high-contact areas. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, durability, and overall reliability. It provides a superior level of security and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster
Specifications
- The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster is specifically designed for the Colt 1911 Government model. This ensures a secure and precise fit.
- It is available in black, which is a common and practical color for duty gear. This provides a professional and understated appearance.
- Designed for left-handed users, catering to the specific needs of a significant portion of the shooting population. The hand orientation is a critical factor for comfortable and efficient use.
- It’s a belt holster, offering a standard and widely accepted carry method. This provides stability and accessibility.
- The holster features a plain finish, which is durable and resists scratches and wear. A plain finish is ideal for professional use.
- Designed for duty applications, emphasizing its suitability for law enforcement, military, and security personnel. It’s built to withstand the demands of daily use in high-stress environments.
- Boasting a Level IV retention rating, providing an exceptional degree of security against unauthorized removal. This is achieved through a combination of the ALS and SLS systems, making it one of the safest options available.
- The holster finish is also plain, continuing the theme of durability and practicality. This ensures a consistent look and feel across the entire product.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster performs its job exceptionally well by securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The Level IV retention system provides a high level of security.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable locking mechanisms, and intuitive draw stroke. Its primary weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the simultaneous release of the ALS and SLS systems, but this is quickly overcome with practice.
It undoubtedly meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It offers a superior combination of security, reliability, and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster features a durable build using high-quality materials. The holster feels solid and well-constructed, giving the user confidence in its ability to withstand rigorous use.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the dual retention system requires some practice to master. The mid-ride height positions the firearm at an optimal level for a smooth and natural draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster is built to last and withstand the demands of daily duty use. With proper care, this holster can provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster can be outfitted with an optional Sentry device for increased security. This provides an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access to the firearm.
Safariland offers a range of accessories, including different belt loops and attachment options, to customize the holster to individual preferences. The holster is also compatible with various mounting platforms, allowing it to be used with different types of gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster
Pros
- Level IV Retention: Provides unparalleled security against unauthorized removal, crucial for duty use.
- Robust Construction: Built with high-quality materials for exceptional durability and longevity.
- Smooth and Intuitive Draw: Allows for a quick and efficient draw after a short training period.
- Compatibility: Can be customized with various Safariland accessories and mounting platforms.
- Trusted Brand: Safariland is a reputable manufacturer known for producing high-quality law enforcement and military gear.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: The dual retention system requires some practice to master.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster?
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a highly secure and reliable duty holster for their Colt 1911 Government model. This is also suitable for anyone prioritizing maximum weapon retention.
This might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those seeking a concealed carry holster, as it’s designed for open carry and maximum security.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry device, providing an additional layer of security, as well as a good quality duty belt to ensure stable and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. It provides a level of retention that inspires confidence.
The price of $157.99 is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and Level IV retention rating. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their firearm for professional use.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster that provides maximum security and reliability. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t regret it.