Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 is more than just a holster; it’s a commitment to security and efficient weapon access. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster is designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone who demands a high level of retention in a duty-grade holster. The combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention makes it a standout choice in a market flooded with options.
For years, I’d relied on Level II retention holsters, but an incident during a training exercise highlighted a crucial vulnerability. An aggressive suspect was able to nearly disarm me, shaking my confidence and underscoring the need for enhanced security. I needed a holster that would provide a significant upgrade in retention without sacrificing speed and ease of draw, leading me directly to the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction and purposeful design. The plain black finish offered a professional, understated look, and the weight felt reassuringly substantial without being cumbersome. The materials appeared to be top-notch, and the overall build quality exuded confidence.
Compared to a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 and a Safariland 7TS ALS Level I, the 6360 offered a clear step up in security. While the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt less secure in a scuffle, and the 7TS lacked the additional Level III hood, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 presented a balanced approach. It provided robust retention with a practical and intuitive draw stroke.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and a healthy dose of respect. The holster promised a significant improvement in security, and I was eager to test it in the field. However, the Level III designation also meant a slightly more complex draw, requiring dedicated practice to master.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place at a law enforcement training range, simulating various scenarios involving suspect apprehension and weapon retention. The weather was typical for the region: hot, humid, and dusty. I ran through drills that included foot pursuits, grappling simulations, and weapon presentation under stress.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 performed admirably in these conditions. The ALS system locked the weapon securely in place, preventing any accidental dislodging during strenuous activity. Drawing from the holster required a deliberate sequence of motions: disengaging the hood, releasing the ALS with the thumb, and then drawing the weapon in a smooth, upward motion.
While the draw stroke felt slightly slower compared to my previous Level II holster, the added security was a worthwhile trade-off. Initially, I experienced some fumbling with the hood release, but with consistent practice, the motion became more fluid and natural. After a few hours on the range, I was able to draw the weapon efficiently and confidently.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The holster has been exposed to a wide range of environmental conditions, including rain, mud, and extreme temperatures. Despite this, the holster has shown no signs of significant wear or degradation.
The STX Tactical finish, though not the plain black I chose, is known for its excellent scratch resistance. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable weapon retention. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward: a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 far outperforms them in terms of security and durability. The Level III retention provides a significant peace of mind, knowing that my weapon is secure even in the most challenging situations. I would recommend this to my colleagues.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Level III Retention: Employs a three-tiered system of security, including the ALS (Automatic Locking System), a rotating hood, and the holster body itself. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Automatically secures the weapon once holstered, providing an immediate level of retention. This allows for a secure hold without any active manipulation.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Positions the holster in a mid-ride position, offering a comfortable balance between concealment and accessibility. This enhances the wearability and comfort for long shifts.
- Hood Guard: Comes standard, providing an extra layer of security against attempts to disengage the hood. Helps prevent accidental or unauthorized hood release.
- Slim, Compact Design: Allows the weapon to ride close to the body, improving concealment and reducing snagging. This promotes comfort and ease of movement.
- Fits Beretta 92F, 92FS, 92G, 96, 96G
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s ability to provide secure weapon retention, comfortable carry, and efficient weapon access. The Level III retention offers a significant advantage in high-risk environments, while the UBL and slim design enhance comfort and concealability. The ALS guarantees your weapon is secure.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 excels in its primary function: securing the weapon while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system engages smoothly and reliably, providing a reassuring click to confirm that the weapon is locked in place.
The draw stroke, while requiring practice to master, is ultimately intuitive and efficient. The hood release is well-positioned and easy to access, and the ALS release is activated naturally with the thumb during the draw stroke. A weakness, however, is that re-holstering requires a deliberate and practiced motion.
Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. It delivers a high level of security without sacrificing usability or comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 is designed with both functionality and ergonomics in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing a robust platform for carrying a firearm. The plain black finish offers a professional and understated look.
The UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, allowing for a natural and efficient draw stroke. There is a learning curve due to the Level III retention system, but with practice, the draw becomes fluid and intuitive. The holster body is molded to fit the specific weapon model, providing a secure and snug fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 is built to withstand the rigors of duty use. The STX Tactical finish (again, not my plain black) is exceptionally resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring that the holster maintains its professional appearance even after prolonged use.
The ALS system is also designed for durability, with robust components that are resistant to wear and tear. Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism can help ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 comes standard with a hood guard and the UBL, there are several accessories and customization options available. Safariland offers a variety of belt loops and attachment devices, allowing users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the Sentry locking device, which provides an additional level of security. Users can also customize the draw stroke by adjusting the tension of the ALS system. Aftermarket modifications for the 6360 are plentiful.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of duty use, ensuring long-lasting reliability.
- Comfortable Carry: The UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height.
- Smooth ALS System: Ensures quick and efficient weapon access.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish offers a clean and understated look.
Cons
- Reholstering requires conscious effort and practice
- Level III retention may be overkill for low-risk environments.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention in a duty-grade holster. It’s ideally suited for those who work in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. This is also a good option for private security.
Those who should skip this product include recreational shooters, concealed carry users in low-threat environments, or anyone who prioritizes speed of draw over absolute weapon security. A Level I or Level II holster may be more suitable for these users. Must-have accessories include the Safariland Sentry locking device for added security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and reliable performance. While the Level III retention system requires practice to master, the added security is well worth the effort for those who need it.
At a price of $199.99, the holster represents a solid value proposition, offering a level of security and durability that is unmatched by many competitors. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-73-61 to anyone who demands the best in weapon security and performance. Invest in your safety and order one today!