Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a duty-grade piece of equipment designed for professionals who demand uncompromising security and rapid access to their firearm. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and military communities, and the 6360 lives up to that reputation. This particular model features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a Level III retention system, and a convenient ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry.
I needed a holster that could confidently secure my Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 with a picatinny light rail while also providing a smooth and efficient draw. My previous holster, a generic nylon model, lacked the necessary retention for demanding field work, and the draw was often sluggish and unreliable. I was specifically searching for a Level III retention holster from a reputable manufacturer, and Safariland kept popping up in discussions with fellow instructors and law enforcement officers.
The holster arrived in a no-frills cardboard box, typical of duty gear focused on function over presentation. My initial impression was of robust construction; the SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the hardware was solid and well-secured. The plain black finish, while understated, exuded a professional appearance. The fit and finish were excellent; the 1911-A1 slid in smoothly and locked into place with a reassuring “click.”
I considered other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Miami Classic II shoulder holster. I opted for the Safariland primarily due to its proven track record in law enforcement and the simplicity of the ALS system. The Serpa, while popular, had some concerns regarding its draw technique under stress, and the shoulder holster was not suitable for my specific needs.
My first impression was one of confident satisfaction. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 felt like a serious piece of equipment designed for serious situations, a stark contrast to the flimsier, less secure holsters I had used in the past. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, where I spent several hours running drills focused on drawing, firing, and re-holstering. I also incorporated movement, simulating scenarios that might occur during a foot pursuit or tactical engagement. The weather was typical for a Texas summer – hot and humid.
The holster performed admirably in these conditions. The ALS system was intuitive and easy to disengage, even with sweaty hands. The Ride UBL positioned the holster perfectly for a comfortable and efficient draw, without hindering my movement or creating excessive printing under clothing.
One initial issue I encountered was adjusting to the slightly different draw stroke required by the ALS system. Accidental release of the hood guard occurred a couple of times during my first few draws. However, after a short period of practice, the draw became smooth and natural.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including weekly range sessions, training exercises, and even a stint volunteering security at a local event, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The holster shows minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to considerable abuse. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend has held up remarkably well.
There are no visible scratches or gouges. The retention system continues to function flawlessly. Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 is in a different class altogether. The retention, durability, and ease of draw are significantly superior, providing me with a level of confidence and security that I had not experienced before. It’s a professional-grade tool that inspires confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 is specifically designed for a Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 with a picatinny light rail. It is a Level III Retention holster, indicating a high level of security. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered.
- Category: ALS Holsters
- Finish/Color: Plain Black
- Fits: Springfield Armory – Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail
- Type: Left Hand
- Level III Retention: Offers a very high level of security, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the weapon.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, providing secure retention without any manual steps.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Allows the holster to be worn at a mid-ride position, providing a comfortable and accessible draw.
- Hood Guard: Standard on 6360 holsters. Offers additional security.
- SafariSeven™ Construction: The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, offering extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture.
These specifications are crucial for professionals who rely on their firearm for personal safety and duty performance. The Level III retention and ALS system ensure that the weapon remains secure under any circumstance. The Ride UBL allows for a comfortable carry throughout the day, and the robust construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while providing a smooth and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a quick and natural draw under pressure. The holster’s design minimizes printing, making it suitable for concealed carry if needed.
A key strength is its robust retention capabilities. The level III security gives peace of mind in high-risk environments. One area for potential improvement could be the addition of a slightly more aggressive texture on the ALS release lever for enhanced grip in wet conditions.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 definitely meets my expectations for a duty-grade holster, and exceeds them in terms of its durability and reliability. It performs exactly as advertised, providing uncompromising security and a smooth, efficient draw.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is both lightweight and incredibly durable, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The plain black finish offers a professional and understated appearance.
The holster is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to master with a small amount of practice. The Ride UBL provides excellent stability and prevents the holster from shifting during movement.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. I expect this holster to provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The SafariSeven™ material is non-porous. This makes it resistant to dirt and grime buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 includes a hood guard. Optional sentry is also available to enhance the security. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds.
The compatibility with various accessories makes the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 a highly versatile platform that can be adapted to meet individual needs and preferences. Adding a leg shroud, for instance, transforms the holster into a tactical rig suitable for SWAT operations or other high-risk scenarios.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unmatched security and prevents unauthorized removal of the weapon.
- Intuitive ALS System: Allows for a fast and natural draw stroke under stress.
- Durable SafariSeven™ Construction: Withstands the rigors of daily use and provides long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Ride UBL: Positions the holster for optimal draw speed and all-day comfort.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish is understated and suitable for duty use.
Cons
- Slightly higher price point compared to some other Level III holsters.
- Requires some practice to master the ALS draw stroke.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-quality, secure holster for their Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 with a picatinny light rail. It’s ideal for those who prioritize retention and reliability in demanding environments.
Those who might want to skip this product are individuals on a very tight budget or those who don’t require Level III retention. A basic Level II holster might suffice for casual range use.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a quality gun belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster. Proper setup and adjustment are also crucial for optimal performance and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers uncompromising security, reliability, and performance. While the price may be slightly higher than some competitors, the quality and features justify the investment.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 offers excellent value. It’s a long-lasting piece of equipment. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any professional or serious enthusiast who demands the best.
If you’re looking for a holster that you can trust your life to, look no further. Invest in the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-56-62 and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible when you need it most.