Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel who demand both retention and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines Level III retention with a comfortable ride height for all-day wear. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and unique Universal Belt Loop (UBL) make it a compelling option for anyone needing a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm.
My quest for this holster began when my department mandated Level III retention for all on-duty officers. I needed a holster that was not only secure but also allowed for a smooth and rapid draw, especially under stress. The initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the Safariland holster felt robust and well-made, a testament to its duty-oriented design.
Compared to my previous Level II holster from a different manufacturer and a colleague’s similarly priced Blackhawk! Level III holster, the Safariland immediately stood out. The ALS system appeared more intuitive and less prone to accidental disengagement than other retention mechanisms I’d encountered. I was excited to put it through its paces on the range and in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at our department’s shooting range during our weekly firearms training. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills under various simulated stress scenarios. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III performed admirably, providing a smooth draw stroke once the ALS release was mastered.
The holster’s performance was also assessed in adverse weather conditions during a simulated active shooter drill in the rain. The Nylon-Look finish proved surprisingly grippy, even when wet, and the retention system remained reliable. The UBL design provided a comfortable and stable platform, even during dynamic movements, though I did need some time to adjust to the draw angle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use during patrol, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be a durable and reliable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the holster body, despite constant exposure to the elements and the rigors of duty. The Nylon-Look finish has resisted scratches and abrasions better than expected.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation. Compared to my previous holsters, this Safariland model requires less maintenance and retains its functionality even when neglected. Its overall performance has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262 is specifically designed for the Heckler & Koch P30 DAO. It utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering and releases with a simple thumb activation. The holster is constructed from a durable, proprietary Safariland material with a Nylon-Look finish for enhanced aesthetics and resistance to wear.
This particular model is designed for left-handed shooters. It features a Level III retention, and can achieve Level IV retention with the addition of the optional Sentry device. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a mid-ride carry position for enhanced comfort and accessibility.
These specifications are crucial for a duty holster because they directly impact the officer’s safety, efficiency, and comfort. The Level III retention ensures the weapon remains secure, while the ALS system allows for a rapid and intuitive draw. The UBL contributes to comfortable all-day wear, which is essential for law enforcement.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying the firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and requires minimal training to master. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for accurate and rapid target acquisition.
While the Level III retention provides excellent security, it does require a deliberate action to release the weapon. This could potentially slow down the draw in certain high-stress situations compared to a Level II holster. The fit for the H&K P30 DAO is precise, offering excellent retention without excessive friction.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s design is slim and compact, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealment under clothing. The Nylon-Look finish provides a professional appearance while offering some resistance to scuffs and scratches.
The UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, facilitating a natural and ergonomic draw stroke. While the holster is generally user-friendly, mastering the ALS release requires some practice to develop muscle memory. The hood guard is a nice addition, helping prevent accidental disengagement of the ALS.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The proprietary Safariland material is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and extreme temperatures. The internal components of the ALS system are robust and well-protected.
Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep the holster in optimal condition. The Nylon-Look finish is easy to clean and resists staining. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard for added security. It is also compatible with Safariland’s optional Sentry device, which increases the retention level to IV. The UBL is designed to work with a variety of Safariland belt loop and mounting options, allowing for customization of ride height and cant.
While the holster is primarily designed for the H&K P30 DAO, it may be compatible with similar-sized handguns with minor modifications. The ALS system can also be adjusted for tension, allowing for a customized fit. There are aftermarket options available for replacing the hood guard with different styles and designs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262
Pros
- Level III Retention: Offers exceptional security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- ALS System: Provides a smooth, intuitive draw once mastered, enhancing speed and efficiency.
- Ride UBL: Ensures comfortable all-day wear and a natural draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Nylon-Look Finish: Provides a professional appearance and resists scuffs and scratches.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the release mechanism efficiently, potentially slowing down initial draw speed.
- Limited Compatibility: Specifically designed for the H&K P30 DAO, limiting its use with other firearms without modification.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private citizens who prioritize firearm retention and security. It is particularly well-suited for those who carry a Heckler & Koch P30 DAO and require a reliable and durable duty holster. Left-handed shooters will appreciate the dedicated left-hand design.
This holster might not be ideal for those who prioritize the absolute fastest draw speed above all else, as the Level III retention requires a deliberate release action. It’s also not the best choice for individuals who frequently switch between different firearms, as it’s specifically molded for the H&K P30 DAO. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry for increased retention.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-295-262 is a well-designed and highly functional duty holster that offers an excellent balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s durability, reliability, and advanced retention features.
I would personally recommend this holster to any left-handed professional who carries a H&K P30 DAO and requires a Level III retention holster. It is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of reliable service. If you’re looking for a secure and dependable holster for your H&K P30 DAO, look no further than the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III.