Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a crucial component of a professional’s duty rig. Designed by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement and tactical communities, this holster offers a blend of secure weapon retention and rapid accessibility. Its Level III retention, combined with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Universal Belt Loop (UBL), makes it a standout choice for anyone needing a dependable and versatile holster.

For years, I’d relied on Level II retention holsters, finding them adequate for range work but lacking the security I needed for more dynamic environments. During a particularly rowdy crowd control event, I felt a moment of vulnerability that made me rethink my gear. The need for enhanced retention without sacrificing speed led me to the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81.

Out of the box, the Safariland holster exudes quality. The basket weave finish on the black material offers a professional look, while the heft suggests solid construction. The ALS mechanism feels robust and confidence-inspiring, and the UBL promises a stable and comfortable ride.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, both reputable options. However, the Safariland’s ALS system seemed faster and more intuitive than the Serpa’s release mechanism, and the Bianchi’s bulkier profile didn’t appeal to me. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 struck the perfect balance of security, speed, and comfort.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of respect. This wasn’t a toy; it was a serious piece of equipment designed for serious situations. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The training involved simulating realistic scenarios, including grappling and weapon retention drills. The holster performed admirably, maintaining secure retention even during intense physical exertion.

The ALS system took a little getting used to at first, but after a few practice draws, it became second nature. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient once the release is mastered. Even when wet from simulated rain during the scenario, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 retained its functionality, allowing for confident draws.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to the elements and rigorous training exercises. The basket weave finish has held up well, resisting scratches and scuffs.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland offers a significant improvement in both security and durability. The peace of mind it provides is invaluable.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 boasts impressive specifications designed for optimal performance. It is a Level III retention holster featuring Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS). The holster is finished in a professional Basket Black pattern, crafted for a right-handed draw, and is specifically molded to fit Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails.

The ALS engages automatically upon holstering, securing the weapon until released with a thumb-operated lever. The Level III retention incorporates the ALS with a standard Hood Guard offering an increased level of security. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster at a mid-ride height for comfortable carry and efficient draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 excels in providing both security and accessibility. The ALS mechanism allows for a smooth and natural draw once the thumb release is activated. The Level III retention provides exceptional peace of mind in high-risk situations.

The primary strength lies in its reliable retention and quick draw capability. One minor weakness is that the ALS release can feel stiff initially, requiring a break-in period. Overall, it exceeds expectations for a duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 is built with durable materials and a thoughtful design. The Basket Black finish provides a professional aesthetic. The UBL positions the weapon comfortably on the hip, and the holster’s molded shape ensures a snug and secure fit.

The holster is user-friendly, though some practice is required to master the ALS release. The learning curve is minimal, and the benefits of enhanced security outweigh the initial adjustment period.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The durable construction and quality materials ensure a long lifespan. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient for maintenance.

Given its robust design, I anticipate this holster lasting for many years. Its ease of maintenance is a welcome bonus.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81 comes standard with a Hood Guard for enhanced security. Safariland offers an optional Sentry device that can be installed to further increase the retention level. The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and attachment systems, allowing for personalized configuration.

While it’s primarily designed for the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails, other firearms may fit with slight modifications, but this is not recommended without consulting Safariland’s compatibility charts. The ability to add the Sentry and customize the belt attachment makes it a highly adaptable system.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-320-81