Let’s Talk About Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a critical tool for professionals who demand the utmost security and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement equipment, this holster boasts a Level III retention rating, combining both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) for unparalleled firearm security. For years, I’ve relied on duty holsters, and the Safariland name always surfaced as the gold standard, which is why I was excited to test this particular model.
As a seasoned professional, I needed a duty holster that offered both maximum weapon retention and a comfortable carry. I was tired of holsters that either felt like they were going to drop my firearm or required an unnatural contortion to draw. The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster seemed like it could address these issues.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 was a straightforward affair. My initial impressions were positive, noting the robust construction, the durable STX finish, and the overall solid feel of the holster. The materials felt high-quality, and the mechanisms operated smoothly from the get-go.
I’ve used a few other Level III retention holsters over the years, specifically models from Blackhawk and Bianchi. The Blackhawk felt bulky and the release mechanisms were a bit clunky for my liking. The Bianchi, while well-made, didn’t offer the same level of intuitive operation as the Safariland.
I was genuinely excited to try this holster out. The reputation of Safariland, coupled with the promise of Level III retention and a comfortable mid-ride, piqued my interest and gave me high expectations. I was hopeful that the Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster would finally solve my ongoing holster woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster at my local shooting range, simulating duty conditions with various drills involving movement and weapon manipulation. It was a controlled environment, but it allowed me to focus on draw speed, retention effectiveness, and overall comfort during extended periods of wear.
I ran drills in both dry and humid conditions to see how the grip and retention mechanisms would perform. The ALS and SLS systems functioned flawlessly even with sweaty hands. I found the draw to be surprisingly intuitive once I got used to the release sequence, though there was a slight learning curve.
Initially, the SLS hood required some practice to disengage smoothly under pressure. However, after a few dozen repetitions, the motion became second nature. There were no malfunctions or unexpected releases, which immediately instilled confidence in its reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be incredibly durable. I’ve worn it during training exercises involving physical exertion, and it has held up without any noticeable wear and tear.
The STX finish has resisted scratches and scuffs effectively. The internal mechanisms continue to operate smoothly, requiring minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster definitely outperforms them in both retention and comfort. It provides a secure carry without sacrificing draw speed or ease of use, a critical combination for anyone in a duty environment. The holster is easy to clean with a simple wipe-down using a damp cloth and mild soap.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster
Specifications
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster is designed for a variety of firearms, offering specific models tailored to different gun makes and sizes. It features a Level III Retention rating, providing a high degree of security against unauthorized removal.
The holster integrates both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) which secures the weapon upon holstering and the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height. The body is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend, resistant to heat, cold, and moisture.
These specifications directly impact the holster’s performance by offering a balance between security and ease of access. The Level III Retention provides peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations. The mid-ride height allows for a comfortable draw stroke and prevents the holster from digging into the wearer’s side.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster performs exceptionally well in securing and providing quick access to the firearm. The draw is smooth and consistent after practicing the release sequence.
The ALS and SLS mechanisms work flawlessly, providing a strong and reliable hold. A potential area for improvement might be in the initial learning curve of the SLS hood, which could benefit from a more intuitive design.
The holster far exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. Its combination of security, comfort, and ease of use is truly impressive.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360’s build quality is outstanding. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is both lightweight and incredibly durable.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the SLS hood requires some practice to master. Once the draw sequence is learned, it becomes seamless and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster is built to last for years under demanding conditions. The materials are resistant to wear, tear, and environmental factors.
Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is generally sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. This includes various belt loop options, leg shrouds, and tactical weapon lights.
It can also be used with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for quick and easy holster swaps between different platforms. The holster is compatible with many popular firearm-mounted lights from Streamlight and SureFire, enhancing its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster
Pros
- The Level III Retention provides unparalleled security, ensuring the firearm stays in place even during strenuous activity.
- The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke.
- The ALS and SLS mechanisms are both reliable and intuitive after practice.
- The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction is exceptionally durable and resistant to the elements.
- The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing for customization.
Cons
- The SLS hood requires a learning curve to disengage smoothly.
- The price point may be a barrier for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster?
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of firearm retention in a duty environment. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who need a secure and reliable holster for dynamic shooting scenarios.
Those who should skip this product might include individuals looking for a concealed carry holster due to its size and retention level. This holster is designed for open carry and duty use.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) which allows the user to quickly attach and detach the holster from different platforms like a vest or a different belt. This allows for quick and easy reconfiguration of gear.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, durability, and functionality. While the price might seem steep, the peace of mind and performance it offers are well worth the investment.
The Safariland Model 6360 Als/sls Mid-ride, Level Iii Retentionâ„° Duty Holster is an investment in your safety and effectiveness. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm in a duty capacity. Don’t compromise when it comes to your gear – choose the Safariland 6360 and experience the difference.
