Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster Review

How the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster Changed My Routine

For years, my duty rig carried a particular piece of gear that, while functional, always felt a bit like a compromise. It was a solid holster, but it lacked the specific retention and security I craved, especially in unpredictable environments. This led me on a hunt for a more robust solution, one that wouldn’t leave me second-guessing its ability to keep my sidearm secure. Enter the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster, a piece of equipment that promised a higher echelon of firearm retention and a streamlined draw.

My search for a replacement was spurred by a minor incident during a training exercise that, thankfully, had no serious repercussions. However, it highlighted a slight wiggle room in my existing setup that I couldn’t live with. I considered a few other high-level retention holsters, but Safariland’s reputation in the law enforcement and tactical communities always pulled me back. My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster was one of serious craftsmanship; the SafariLaminate material felt substantial, yet surprisingly light. This was clearly built for serious duty.

This mid-ride holster immediately felt like a significant upgrade, offering a reassuring sense of security that eased my previous anxieties. It promised to integrate seamlessly into my existing gear setup without sacrificing mobility or ease of access. I was eager to put this rig through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland name.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this mid-ride duty holster took place during a multi-day tactical training course. The environments varied from simulated urban settings to more open, rugged terrain. Throughout the course, I subjected the holster to frequent drawing and re-holstering cycles, as well as prolonged periods of movement, including running and tactical maneuvering. The SafariLaminate construction proved its mettle, resisting scuffs and abrasions even when brushing against concrete and gravel.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) were remarkably intuitive. Despite the added layers of retention, the draw stroke felt surprisingly smooth and efficient once I practiced disengaging the locks. There was a slight learning curve to mastering the precise motion required to defeat both retention mechanisms simultaneously under pressure, but it was minimal.

One unexpected positive was how the mid-ride position kept the firearm close to my body, minimizing snag points during rapid movement or when navigating tight spaces. This design choice, so often overlooked, made a significant difference in comfort and operational fluidity during dynamic scenarios.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use on and off duty, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It’s been exposed to dust, occasional light rain, and a wide range of temperatures without any degradation in performance. The suede lining has done an admirable job of protecting my firearm’s finish, showing no signs of undue wear or scratching.

Durability is clearly a hallmark of this holster. There are no cracks, no stiffness in the retention mechanisms, and no loosening of the attachment points. It continues to hold my Springfield XD securely, just as it did on day one.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional light application of silicone lubricant on the rotating hood mechanism keeps everything running smoothly. Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used over the years, this Safariland model stands out for its robust construction and consistent performance, easily surpassing more budget-friendly, albeit less secure, options.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster is engineered for professional use, featuring a Level III Retention system that provides exceptional firearm security. Its construction utilizes SafariLaminate, a rugged and durable material designed to withstand harsh conditions while remaining relatively lightweight. The holster’s internal suede lining is crucial for preserving the firearm’s finish, preventing scratches and wear.

This model boasts the patented ALS (Automatic Locking System), which engages immediately upon holstering, securing the weapon without the need for manual thumb breaks. Complementing this is the SLS (Self Locking System), a rotating hood that adds a secondary layer of retention, further safeguarding the firearm from unauthorized access or accidental dislodging. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster closer to the body, enhancing comfort and concealment while facilitating a natural and quick draw.

It is designed to accommodate firearms with or without rail-mounted lights, specifically mentioning compatibility with the Insight Technology M3 light attachment. The Hood Guard is a standard feature, offering additional protection to the firearm’s rear sight. For those requiring even greater security, an optional Sentry attachment can upgrade the retention level to Level IV. The holster is made for Springfield Armory weapons, and this specific configuration is black.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any duty holster is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster excels in both these aspects. The ALS mechanism is incredibly positive; you can feel and hear the firearm lock into place with a distinct click upon re-holstering. This provides immense confidence that the weapon is secure, even during strenuous activity.

The SLS hood, while adding complexity, is smoothly integrated into the draw stroke. Once the ALS is disengaged with the thumb, a simple upward sweep of the thumb releases the SLS hood. This sequence becomes second nature with minimal practice, resulting in a surprisingly fast straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated. It meets and exceeds expectations for duty-level retention, offering peace of mind that is invaluable in high-stress situations.

Compared to simpler, open-top designs, the added retention levels on this Safariland model are its defining strength. While simpler holsters might offer a slightly faster “raw” draw, the security provided by the ALS/SLS system is a critical trade-off that I, and most duty professionals, are happy to make.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster is a testament to thoughtful engineering focused on law enforcement needs. The SafariLaminate construction offers a rigid yet surprisingly trim profile, which is essential for minimizing bulk on a duty belt. The matte black finish is utilitarian and professional, resisting glare in various lighting conditions.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride position is a sweet spot for many users, striking a balance between accessibility and concealment. It allows for a full firing grip to be established while the firearm is still holstered, which is a critical factor for speed during a draw. The contoured shape of the holster also provides a comfortable fit against the body, preventing the common discomfort associated with rigid holsters digging into the hip during extended wear.

The placement of the retention mechanism controls is intelligent. The thumb naturally falls onto the ALS release, and the SLS hood is easily manipulated with the thumb as it sweeps upward. There’s no fumbling or awkward contortions needed to access your firearm.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, this Safariland duty holster is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to impacts and abrasions, meaning it can handle the inevitable bumps and scrapes of daily duty or rigorous training without showing significant wear. The internal components, particularly the ALS and SLS mechanisms, are robust and designed for repeated use over thousands of cycles.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Regular cleaning involves wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. For optimal function, a very small amount of silicone lubricant applied periodically to the rotating SLS hood and any moving parts ensures smooth operation. There are no complex adjustments or finicky parts that require specialized tools.

The only potential long-term concern, as with any holster, would be excessive grit or debris finding its way into the retention mechanisms, which could eventually cause stiffness. However, with basic care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model comes as a standalone holster, but Safariland offers a range of compatible accessories that enhance its functionality. The most notable optional accessory is the Sentry, which easily attaches to the holster body, upgrading the retention from Level III to Level IV by adding a front-facing hood. This is a valuable option for individuals operating in extremely high-risk environments or those who require the absolute maximum level of firearm retention.

The holster is designed for attachment to standard duty belts via its belt loop, which is a fixed design for optimal rigidity. While it’s not designed for modular belt systems like some other brands, its fixed loop ensures a stable platform for the firearm. The Insight Technology M3 light compatibility is a key feature, allowing users to carry a railed weapon with a common light attachment without needing a different holster.

The ability to upgrade to Level IV retention with the Sentry is a significant customization point. It allows users to adapt their gear to evolving operational requirements without needing to purchase an entirely new holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster?

This Safariland holster is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and firearms professionals who require a high level of firearm retention. It’s perfectly suited for duty environments where weapon security is paramount and where rapid access is still a critical need. Anyone operating in dynamic situations or environments with a high risk of weapon compromise will benefit greatly from this holster’s security features.

Individuals who prioritize firearm security above all else, even at the cost of a slightly more complex draw than a simple open-top holster, will find this model exceptionally well-suited. Those already familiar with or invested in the Safariland ecosystem will also appreciate the seamless integration and familiar quality. It is not the best choice for casual range use if maximum retention isn’t a primary concern, or for those needing a universal holster for multiple firearms.

For those carrying firearms with Insight Technology M3 or similar rail-mounted lights, this holster is a superb option. For anyone needing even greater security, investing in the optional Sentry attachment to achieve Level IV retention is a highly recommended complementary accessory.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster

The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster is, without question, a premium piece of duty gear. It delivers on its promise of exceptional firearm retention without overly sacrificing draw speed or comfort. The robust SafariLaminate construction, combined with the intelligent ALS and SLS retention systems, provides a level of security that instills confidence in the most demanding situations.

Considering its build quality, advanced retention features, and the reputation of the Safariland brand, the price point of $167.99 feels justified for the security and reliability it offers. For any professional who relies on their sidearm for their livelihood and safety, this holster represents a wise investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III Holster to any duty-minded individual seeking uncompromising firearm security and dependable performance. It’s a tool that allows you to focus on the mission at hand, knowing your weapon is exactly where it should be.