Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon carry and a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable positioning on the belt. Its nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance while maintaining durability.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was searching for a holster that offered both unparalleled security and practical accessibility for my 1911. Having witnessed firsthand the dangers of inadequate weapon retention, I needed a solution that I could trust implicitly in high-stress situations. The reputation of Safariland and the Level III retention of the 6360 model immediately piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction and quality of materials. The nylon-look finish gives it a clean, professional aesthetic, and the holster felt solid in my hand. The ALS mechanism engaged smoothly, and the UBL seemed well-designed for a comfortable and secure fit on my duty belt.
Compared to other holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III felt significantly more secure. While the Serpa offered a quick draw, I always had concerns about accidental releases, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the active retention I desired. The Safariland offered a superior balance of speed and security.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I felt confident that this holster would provide the level of retention and accessibility I needed for my specific use case. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 seemed like a serious piece of equipment designed for serious professionals.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 at a local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention under controlled conditions. I ran drills simulating various scenarios, including drawing from a seated position, drawing while moving, and re-holstering under pressure. The holster performed flawlessly.
During a particularly dusty day at the range, I paid close attention to how the ALS mechanism functioned. Even with dust and grit accumulating on the holster, the release remained smooth and reliable. I was impressed by its consistent performance even in adverse conditions.
The draw stroke required some initial adjustment, as the ALS release needed to be deactivated simultaneously with establishing a proper grip. However, after a few hours of practice, the draw became fluid and intuitive. I found the mid-ride UBL to be comfortable, positioning the weapon at an optimal height for quick and natural access.
The only initial issue I encountered was the tightness of the hood guard. It took some effort to reliably deactivate it during the draw stroke. However, I adjusted the tension screw, which resolved the problem.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 continues to perform exceptionally well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The nylon-look finish has held up remarkably well, with no fraying or discoloration.
Maintenance is straightforward. 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. The holster has proven to be incredibly durable and easy to maintain.
In comparison to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360 surpasses them in terms of retention, durability, and overall comfort. It provides a level of confidence and security that I haven’t experienced with other holsters. It has exceeded my expectations in nearly every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 is specifically designed for 1911 pistols without rails, including Colt Government 1911s, Smith & Wesson 1911s, Springfield Armory Model 1911-A1s, and STI/SVI 1911s without rails. It’s a right-hand holster featuring Level III retention. The holster’s finish is a professional-looking nylon weave.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, requiring a simple thumb release for a straight-up draw. The Level III retention provides an extra layer of security with the addition of a rotating hood guard, making it highly resistant to unauthorized weapon removal. These features are paramount for law enforcement and security personnel.
The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster for a mid-ride carry, offering a comfortable and accessible draw. The UBL is adjustable to accommodate different belt sizes, ensuring a secure and stable fit. This is critical for all-day comfort and consistent draw speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 performs its job exceptionally well, providing secure weapon retention and a smooth, reliable draw. Its accuracy relies on the user’s training and grip acquisition after the draw. It delivers unparalleled reliability and comfort.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its Level III retention system, which provides a high degree of security against weapon takeaways. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, allowing for a quick and efficient draw. A potential weakness could be the initial learning curve required to master the ALS and hood guard release simultaneously.
Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 boasts a robust and durable build quality. The materials used are high-quality, providing both rigidity and flexibility. The holster is designed to ride close to the body.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release and hood guard. However, once the user becomes accustomed to the system, the draw becomes smooth and intuitive. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) design further enhances user comfort by positioning the holster at an optimal ride height.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep the holster in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 comes standard with a hood guard installed. An optional Sentry can be added to convert the holster to Level IV retention. The UBL is also compatible with other Safariland mounting platforms.
The holster is designed to accommodate 1911 pistols without rails, so accessories such as weapon lights or lasers that require a rail cannot be used directly with the holster. However, there are aftermarket rail adapters available that could potentially be used. It’s important to ensure that any modification is tested thoroughly before relying on it in a duty situation.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Smooth and Reliable ALS Mechanism: Allows for a quick and efficient draw once mastered.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride UBL: Positions the holster for optimal accessibility and comfort.
- Professional Nylon-Look Finish: Offers a clean and professional appearance.
Cons
- ALS/Hood Guard Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the simultaneous release.
- Limited Customization Options: Designed specifically for 1911 pistols without rails, limiting accessory compatibility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It is ideal for those who carry a 1911 pistol without rails and prioritize security and durability.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer a simpler, lower-level retention holster or those who require a holster that accommodates a 1911 with rails and mounted accessories.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland holster cleaning kit to ensure proper maintenance of the ALS mechanism. Additional UBL variants may be considered to suit different carry preferences.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261
In summary, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort. Its Level III retention system and smooth ALS mechanism make it a standout choice for professionals who demand the best.
The price is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and the peace of mind it provides. It’s an investment in your safety and the security of your weapon.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-53-261 to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster for their 1911. If you prioritize security, reliability, and a professional appearance, this holster is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety, invest in Safariland.