Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster in plain black, right-hand configuration (6360-560-61), is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a quick, efficient draw. This holster from Safariland combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, offering a secure and reliable platform for carrying a sidearm. It’s built for professionals who need immediate access to their firearm while maintaining the highest levels of security against unauthorized access.

My search for a new duty holster began when my department mandated Level III retention for all officers. I needed a holster that wouldn’t just meet the requirement on paper, but one that would genuinely provide a secure carry without hindering my draw speed in critical situations. After years of using various retention holsters, I was looking for something that combined reliability with a streamlined design.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The plain black finish is professional and understated, and the holster felt solid in hand, a testament to Safariland’s reputation for quality. The fit and finish were impeccable, with no rough edges or signs of sloppy manufacturing.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900. However, the Safariland stood out due to its ALS system, which seemed more intuitive and less prone to accidental release than the Serpa’s push-button mechanism. The Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of active retention as the Safariland.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was excited to try out the ALS system and see if it lived up to the hype, but I also knew that Level III retention holsters can sometimes be bulky and slow to draw from. I was hoping that the Safariland 6360 would strike the right balance between security and speed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III was at the department’s qualification range. I spent several hours practicing my draw and reholstering under the watchful eye of our range master. The holster was tested with a Kimber 1911 w/rails and Surefire X300 light, as indicated in the product specifications.

The ALS system took a bit of getting used to, but I quickly found the thumb release to be intuitive and natural. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, even with the added retention mechanisms. I also practiced drawing and reholstering in various positions, including seated in my patrol car and while wearing gloves, and the holster performed flawlessly in all scenarios.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of law enforcement duty. The finish has held up well, and the ALS system continues to function smoothly and reliably.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. The holster has consistently outperformed my previous Level II retention holster, offering a higher level of security without sacrificing draw speed.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is designed for duty use and incorporates several key features to ensure weapon retention and ease of use. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The Level III retention includes the ALS, a hood guard, and an optional Sentry for Level IV retention.

The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary material that is non-abrasive to firearm finishes and performs in extreme temperatures. It’s designed to fit specific firearms, in this case, Kimber 1911s w/rails (Gold Combat RL, Custom TLE/RL w/Surefire X200 or X300), Springfield Armory 1911s w/rails (Operator w/Surefire X200 or X300 light), and Wilson 1911s w/rails (CQB w/Surefire X200 or X300 light). The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster for a mid-ride carry, offering a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock that gives the user confidence that their weapon is secure. The addition of the hood guard adds another layer of security, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the firearm.

The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid target acquisition. The holster’s slim profile keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The only potential weakness is that the holster requires a light to properly retain the firearm for some models, which could be a drawback for those who prefer not to use a weapon-mounted light.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is thoughtfully designed for both security and comfort. The SafariSeven™ material is durable and lightweight, making the holster comfortable to wear for extended periods. The mid-ride UBL positions the weapon at a natural angle for drawing, reducing strain on the wrist and shoulder.

The ALS thumb release is ergonomically positioned for easy access, and the hood guard is designed to be quickly and easily deactivated with minimal effort. The holster’s slim profile minimizes bulk and allows for a full range of motion. The plain black finish is professional and understated, blending seamlessly with most duty uniforms.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring that the holster will hold up well over time. The ALS system is robust and reliable, designed to function flawlessly even after repeated use.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation. With proper care, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard and the Ride UBL. Additional accessories include the Safariland Sentry, which adds Level IV retention. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options.

The holster is also designed to accommodate various weapon-mounted lights, such as the Surefire X200 and X300 series. The ability to customize the holster with different accessories and mounting options allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences. Be sure to select the correct model for your firearm and light combination for optimal fit and retention.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a quick, efficient draw. It’s especially well-suited for those who carry a 1911 with a weapon-mounted light and need a reliable duty holster.

This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealment over retention. If you prefer a low-profile holster for everyday carry, or if you don’t use a weapon-mounted light, there may be better options available.

A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry for those requiring Level IV retention. Also, consider a quality duty belt that is stiff and sturdy enough to support the weight of the holster and firearm.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-560-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and performance. While the initial investment of $207.00 may seem steep, the holster’s durability and functionality justify the price, especially for those who rely on their firearm for their safety and the safety of others.

I would highly recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who needs a dependable and secure way to carry their sidearm. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is a worthy investment that will provide years of reliable service. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, look no further than the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III. Upgrade your carry today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible when you need it most.