Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster

The Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster is a stalwart piece of kit designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand both rapid access and unwavering retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a company renowned for its quality duty gear, this holster combines the proven SLS (Self Locking System) with the innovative ALS (Automatic Locking System) to achieve Level III retention. This ensures a secure carry while enabling a swift, intuitive draw under pressure.

My quest for a reliable duty holster started when my department mandated Level III retention for all uniformed officers. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily patrol, offer a secure hold on my Glock 17, and facilitate a quick draw when seconds count. The Safariland 6362 seemed to tick all the boxes, promising a balance of security and speed that other holsters struggled to achieve.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust build quality. The SafariLaminate construction felt incredibly durable, capable of withstanding the daily wear and tear of police work. The suede lining was a welcome touch, promising to protect the finish of my firearm from scratches and scuffs.

Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906 Duty Holster, the Safariland 6362 stood out with its intuitive ALS system. The Blackhawk! felt a bit clunky, and the Bianchi relied more on friction, which can degrade over time. The Safariland’s positive locking mechanisms instilled more confidence.

Initially, I was excited but also slightly apprehensive. Level III retention can sometimes mean a complex and slow draw. I hoped the Safariland 6362 would live up to its reputation for a smooth, instinctive release without sacrificing security.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Safariland 6362 was during a standard patrol shift in a busy urban environment. I focused on practicing my draw stroke repeatedly during down time, getting a feel for the SLS hood rotation and the ALS release. The holster performed admirably, offering a smooth and consistent draw even while seated in the patrol vehicle.

The holster held up well in the humid conditions, with the SafariLaminate resisting moisture effectively. After a few hours of use, I found the draw stroke became more intuitive, and the release mechanisms didn’t hinder my speed significantly. I did notice a slight learning curve with the SLS hood, requiring some practice to disengage smoothly under stress.

No major issues surfaced during the initial use, but the stiffness of the SLS hood latch concerned me slightly. I wanted to ensure it would loosen slightly over time.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6362 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The SafariLaminate shows minimal signs of wear, even after numerous contacts with doors, walls, and other obstacles during patrol. The suede lining has effectively protected my Glock’s finish.

Regular cleaning and lubrication of the locking mechanisms have kept the draw smooth and consistent. The SLS hood latch loosened slightly over time, making the draw even faster and more natural. The holster has consistently outperformed my previous Level II retention holster, offering a significant upgrade in security without sacrificing speed.

Compared to my previous nylon duty holster, the Safariland 6362 is noticeably more rugged and resistant to damage. It is a significant improvement in both durability and functionality.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Safariland. Safariland is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality law enforcement and tactical gear.
• Gun Make: Glock. This holster is specifically designed for Glock pistols.
• Gun Model: Glock 17. It fits the Glock 17 perfectly, offering a snug and secure fit.
• Barrel Length: 4.5 inches. The holster is designed for the standard Glock 17 barrel length.
• Holster Type: Belt Holster. It is designed for open carry on a duty belt.
• Holster Material: SafariLaminate. SafariLaminate is a durable, proprietary material known for its resistance to wear and tear.
• Light/Laser Attachment: Compatible with SureFire X300, SureFire X200, Insight Technology M3, Streamlight TLR-1, Streamlight TLR-1HL, SureFire X300U. It accommodates a wide range of weapon lights.
• Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop. It features a secure belt loop attachment for stability.
• Finish: STX Tactical. The STX Tactical finish provides a non-reflective, professional appearance.
• Application: Duty. This holster is designed for law enforcement and security professionals.
• Belt Loop/Snap Width: 2.25 inches. It fits standard 2.25-inch duty belts.
• Model Generation: 5. This represents the latest generation of the Safariland holster design.
• Fastener/Closure Type: SLS – Self Locking System, ALS – Automatic Locking System. These systems provide Level III retention.
• Retention Level: Level III. It provides a high level of security against unauthorized removal.
• Holster Finish: STX Tactical. Offers a matte, textured finish for enhanced grip and reduced glare.
• Fabric/Material: SafariLaminate. A tough, thermal-molded material that resists scratches and abrasions.

These specifications highlight the Safariland 6362’s focus on durability, compatibility, and security for duty use. The ability to accommodate various weapon lights is particularly valuable in low-light conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster excels in its primary role: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS and SLS systems work together seamlessly to provide Level III retention. The draw stroke, once mastered, is surprisingly quick and efficient.

The main strength of this holster is its unparalleled retention. The combination of ALS and SLS makes it extremely difficult for anyone other than the user to remove the firearm. However, the holster’s complexity may present a slight learning curve for new users.

Overall, the Safariland 6362 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. It offers the perfect blend of security, speed, and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6362 features a hi-ride design that positions the firearm comfortably on the hip. The SafariLaminate construction is both lightweight and durable. The ergonomic design of the SLS hood and ALS release allows for a natural and intuitive draw stroke.

The holster feels well-built and robust, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily duty use. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the retention systems, the overall design is user-friendly and comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariLaminate construction of the Safariland 6362 ensures exceptional durability. This holster is built to withstand years of heavy use in demanding environments. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the locking mechanisms are recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6362 should provide years of reliable service. It is designed for professional use, and the maintenance requirements are minimal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6362 is compatible with a range of accessories, including various weapon lights from SureFire and Streamlight. The holster can also be upgraded to Level IV retention with the addition of an optional Sentry attachment. Safariland offers a variety of belt loop options to accommodate different belt sizes and carry preferences.

The modular design of the Safariland 6362 allows users to customize the holster to meet their specific needs and preferences. The ability to add a Sentry attachment for Level IV retention is a valuable option for high-risk situations.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster?

The Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of firearm retention and a reliable draw. It is ideal for those who work in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.

This holster may not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize speed over security. It requires dedication to practice and master the draw stroke, and the Level III retention may be overkill for everyday carry.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a quality duty belt that can support the weight of the firearm and holster without sagging. Regular lubrication of the locking mechanisms is also essential for maintaining smooth operation.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster

The Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and performance. The combination of the ALS and SLS systems provides unparalleled retention. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use.

The price of the Safariland 6362 is justified by its quality, durability, and performance. It is an investment in a crucial piece of equipment that can potentially save lives.

I would highly recommend the Safariland Model 6362 ALS/SLS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who demands the best. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it.