Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III Retention, providing excellent security against unauthorized weapon removal. This particular model is designed for right-handed users and is compatible with Heckler & Koch USP 9C and 40C pistols.
I needed a duty holster that offered both exceptional retention and a comfortable carry position for extended periods. After several concerning near-weapon-snatching incidents reported within my department, the need for a Level III retention holster became undeniably clear. My prior holsters, while comfortable, simply didn’t provide the peace of mind required in high-risk environments.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Safariland holster’s robust construction and the quality of the materials. The nylon-look finish gives it a professional appearance while also providing some resistance to scuffs and abrasions. It felt solid and well-made, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand daily duty use.
I compared it to a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 holster and a Galco leather holster, both of which I have used extensively in the past. The Safariland 6360’s ALS system and Level III retention clearly surpassed the Blackhawk’s Serpa’s single retention point, which I always felt was a bit too easy to defeat. The Galco, while aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, offered significantly less security, making it unsuitable for my current needs.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I was excited about the enhanced security features, I was also aware that Level III holsters can sometimes be bulky and difficult to draw from quickly. Only real-world testing would reveal whether the Safariland 6360 struck the right balance between security and usability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 at the shooting range during a department-mandated firearms qualification. I wanted to get comfortable with the draw stroke and re-holstering procedure under controlled conditions. The weather was sunny and warm, typical for a Southern California day.
The ALS system took a little getting used to at first, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to release the weapon. However, after a few practice draws, the motion became natural and fluid. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) kept the holster securely in place, and the mid-ride height felt comfortable and allowed for a relatively quick draw.
Initially, I experienced some minor difficulty re-holstering, especially while maintaining situational awareness. I occasionally fumbled with aligning the weapon correctly to engage the ALS. This was quickly overcome with practice and focus.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily duty use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. The nylon-look finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being exposed to rain, dust, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention.
There are no signs of stitching failure or cracking in the holster body. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 offers significantly improved retention and durability, giving me greater confidence in its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 boasts several key specifications:
- Level III Retention: Offers three independent levels of security to prevent unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering; release is via a thumb-operated lever.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Allows the holster to be worn at a mid-ride height, enhancing comfort and draw speed.
- Nylon-Look Finish: Provides a durable and professional appearance.
- Hood Guard: Standard on the 6360 series, offering additional security.
- Right-Handed Design: Specifically molded for right-handed users.
- Compatibility: Fits Heckler & Koch USP 9C and 40C pistols.
These specifications are vital for duty use. The Level III retention is a must-have for any officer working in potentially volatile situations. The ALS system ensures that the weapon is secure at all times, and the UBL allows for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 performs its job exceptionally well. The retention is solid, giving me peace of mind knowing that my weapon is secure. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient once the ALS release becomes second nature.
The primary strength is undoubtedly the retention system. It offers a high level of security without sacrificing speed. One area for potential improvement would be to make the ALS release slightly more intuitive for first-time users; however, with practice, this becomes a non-issue.
The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. The peace of mind and functionality it provides are well worth the investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 is designed with both security and user comfort in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the holster feels solid without being overly bulky. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear and allows for a relatively natural draw stroke.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but it is manageable. The UBL attachment provides a stable and secure platform, minimizing movement during dynamic activities.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required to keep it functioning optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 comes standard with the UBL and a hood guard. The 6360 platform is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg straps. An optional Sentry can be installed for Level IV retention.
The holster is also compatible with various aftermarket weapon lights and lasers, provided they are designed for use with the H&K USP Compact. It is critical to verify accessory compatibility before purchasing to avoid potential fitment issues.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The UBL allows for comfortable carry and a relatively quick draw.
- Smooth and Efficient Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the ALS system allows for a fluid and natural draw.
- Professional Appearance: The nylon-look finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- ALS Requires Practice: The Automatic Locking System requires some training to master, particularly under stress.
- Potential for Re-Holstering Issues Initially: Requires focus and proper alignment to ensure smooth re-holstering.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. It is ideally suited for those working in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. Individuals who carry concealed and do not require Level III retention for their operating environment should skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a quality training regimen focused on mastering the ALS system. Dry-fire drills and range practice are essential for developing a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-291-261 is an outstanding duty holster that provides exceptional security, durability, and comfort. The price is justified given the high level of performance and the peace of mind it offers. I would highly recommend this holster to any professional who requires Level III retention.
If you need a reliable, secure, and comfortable duty holster for your H&K USP Compact, the Safariland 6360 is an excellent choice. Train with it, trust it, and carry with confidence.