Uncovering the Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster: Real Review
The quest for dependable firearm retention and rapid access is a constant for anyone who carries a sidearm. When my trusty, but aging, duty holster for my Colt Government 1911 started showing significant wear and losing its snug fit, I knew it was time for an upgrade. The need for something more secure, especially in dynamic situations, drove me to seek out a robust solution. After a bit of research, the Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster caught my eye, promising advanced retention without compromising draw speed.
First impressions out of the box were positive; the molded polymer felt solid, with a reassuring heft. Unlike my previous holster, which was a generic molded leather, this piece felt purpose-built, with clear attention to the mechanics of securing a firearm. I had briefly considered some Kydex options, but the known durability and established reputation of Safariland’s ALS/SLS systems made them a more appealing choice for my needs. There was an immediate sense of confidence that this holster would perform as advertised.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this holster were, predictably, the range and my departmental training facility. I wanted to simulate the stresses of a typical duty day, from drawing under pressure to re-holstering repeatedly throughout drills. The holster was mounted on a standard duty belt, allowing me to experience its carry comfort and security during movement.
In terms of conditions, it endured dusty outdoor ranges and the occasional light drizzle during outdoor tactical scenarios. The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster performed admirably, maintaining its retention and allowing for a smooth, consistent draw once the retention mechanisms were disengaged. The initial learning curve was minimal; the ALS lever felt intuitive, and the SLS hood, while an extra step, is a well-understood safety feature in the duty world.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent daily wear and frequent training sessions, the holster has held up exceptionally well. The polymer shows only minor cosmetic scuffs, but functionally, it remains as solid as the day I received it. There are no signs of cracks, stiffness in the locking mechanisms, or any degradation in its ability to securely hold my Colt Government 1911.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used over the years, this Safariland model stands out for its unwavering reliability. Budget-friendly options often develop looseness or sticking points over time, but this holster’s construction seems to resist those common failure modes. Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of silicone lubricant to the moving parts keeps everything operating smoothly.
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 Colt 1911 Government model, and in this instance, it’s configured for a Left-handed shooter. It’s a Belt Holster with a Plain Black finish, intended for Duty applications. A key specification is its Level IV Retention, achieved through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood, with the potential for Level IV when an optional Sentry device is added.
These specifications translate directly into security and accessibility. The ALS system automatically locks the weapon upon holstering, preventing accidental dislodges. The SLS rotating hood adds a further layer of security, requiring deliberate action to disengage. This combination, particularly the Level IV Retention capability, is crucial for law enforcement and security professionals where weapon retention is paramount.
Performance & Functionality
The core job of any holster is to securely hold a firearm and allow for a rapid, efficient draw. The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster excels here. The ALS lever is positioned perfectly for the thumb, allowing for a natural disengagement during the draw stroke. The SLS hood, while an extra step, is easily flipped up with the index finger.
Its primary strength is the confidence it inspires in weapon retention; I never worry about my 1911 coming loose, even during intense physical activity. The draw stroke is simple and straight up, as advertised, once both retention devices are deactivated. The slim, compact design also ensures the firearm rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
Crafted from durable, injection-molded polymer, the build quality of this Safariland holster is evident. The finish is a utilitarian, non-reflective black, suitable for professional environments. The design prioritizes function over form, with clean lines and robust construction.
Ergonomically, the holster is well-designed for its intended purpose. The ALS lever is accessible without being overly sensitive, preventing accidental release. The SLS hood is shaped to be easily manipulated under stress. The firearm sits snugly within the holster, with no excessive wobble or looseness.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its polymer construction and Safariland‘s reputation, this holster is built for longevity. Under typical duty conditions, it should last for many years without significant degradation. The moving parts, like the ALS lever and SLS hood, are designed to withstand repeated use.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with water and a mild soap, followed by thorough drying, is sufficient for most use cases. Applying a light coat of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism and the SLS hood pivots can ensure continued smooth operation. There are no obvious weak points or common failure areas I’ve encountered.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster comes with a mid-ride belt loop that is compatible with a variety of duty belt widths. The product description also mentions the ability to add an optional Sentry device, which further enhances retention security.
While this specific model is tailored for the Colt Government 1911, Safariland offers a vast array of mounting options and accessories for their holsters. This allows users to customize how the holster attaches to their gear, whether it’s a belt loop, a drop-leg platform, or even a tactical vest.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster
Pros
- Superior Weapon Retention: The combination of ALS and SLS systems provides excellent security against takeaways.
- Intuitive Draw Stroke: Once disengaged, the draw is smooth and natural.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust polymer, it’s built to withstand harsh environments.
- Slim Profile: The design keeps the firearm close to the body, aiding concealment.
- Trusted Manufacturer: Safariland has a long-standing reputation for quality duty gear.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: This is not a budget holster, reflecting its advanced features and build quality.
- Two-Step Draw: The ALS and SLS mechanisms require two distinct actions for the draw.
- Specific Firearm Fit: It is designed for a particular gun model, limiting its versatility if you carry multiple types of handguns.
Who Should Buy Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster?
This holster is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and serious competitive shooters who carry a Colt Government 1911 and require a high level of weapon retention. Anyone who operates in environments where weapon security is paramount, and quick access is still a necessity, will benefit greatly from this holster. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer a duty-grade setup with multiple retention layers.
Individuals seeking a minimalist, concealable holster for off-duty carry might find the Level IV Retention system to be more than they need, potentially adding unnecessary bulk and complexity. Those carrying firearms other than the Colt Government 1911 will, of course, need to look at different models. For maximizing its utility, ensuring proper belt fit and considering the optional Sentry device for ultimate security are recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster
The Safariland Colt Government 6360 Locking Holster is a top-tier piece of equipment that delivers on its promises of robust retention and efficient access. Its construction is solid, the mechanisms are reliable, and the overall performance instills confidence in any professional who relies on their sidearm. While the investment is higher than many other holsters on the market, the peace of mind and security it offers are, in my experience, well worth the price.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone carrying a Colt Government 1911 in a duty capacity or for rigorous training scenarios. For those who demand the best in weapon retention and don’t compromise on quality, this Safariland model stands out as an exceptional choice. It’s a testament to why Safariland remains a leader in the tactical gear industry.