Let’s Talk About Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models
For over a decade, my life has revolved around equipping individuals with the gear they need to perform under pressure. From law enforcement officers to weekend warriors, I’ve seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t, and when it comes to holsters, Safariland is a name that consistently rises to the top. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models is a duty holster designed for secure weapon retention and comfortable carry.
I needed a holster solution for off-duty carry and range days that offered both security and a comfortable draw. My primary requirement was Level II retention, but I also wanted something that could adapt to different carry positions if necessary. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL seemed to be the perfect blend of security, accessibility, and versatility.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL, my initial impression was that this is a serious piece of kit. The basket weave finish, coupled with the robust polymer construction, exudes quality and durability. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, a crucial factor for all-day carry.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Miami Classic II shoulder holster, but the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt unnatural, and the shoulder holster wasn’t ideal for range work. The Safariland offered a thumb-activated release that felt intuitive and a belt slide mount, offering a balance of retention and practicality. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL seemed to provide a superior blend of speed and safety.
I was cautiously optimistic. The Safariland name carries a certain weight, but I’ve been burned by hyped-up gear before. I was excited to see if the 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL could live up to its reputation and meet my specific needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The weather was mild and dry, but the high volume of drawing and re-holstering would test the holster’s ergonomics and retention capabilities. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) proved to be instinctive and provided a reassuringly secure lock on my Colt Government 1911.
Even after a few hours of intense training, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL remained comfortable against my hip. The mid-ride height allowed for a natural draw stroke, and the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) kept the holster stable during movement. I experienced no issues with the holster interfering with my draw or re-holstering, even when performing under pressure.
There were no issues after the first use. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, and the retention was rock solid, even during simulated scuffles.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of near-daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL has proven to be incredibly durable. I’ve used it during range sessions, weekend training courses in all types of weather, and off-duty carry. The holster shows no signs of significant wear or tear.
The polymer body of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL remains rigid and scratch-resistant, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. I occasionally wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This minimal maintenance keeps the holster in top condition.
Compared to other Level II holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL has consistently outperformed them in terms of comfort, retention, and durability. It is one of the best duty holsters I’ve ever used.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is specifically designed for the Colt Government 1911. It features a Level II Plus retention rating, combining the ALS (Automatic Locking System) with the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood for enhanced security. The holster is constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary material that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions.
The basket weave finish provides a professional appearance, while the left-hand configuration caters to left-handed shooters. The included Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows the holster to be worn in a mid-ride position. This position provides a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and comfort. The Level II Plus retention ensures that the firearm remains secure during strenuous activity, while the durable construction guarantees long-lasting performance. The UBL mount provides a stable and comfortable carry platform for all-day use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system allows for a rapid and intuitive draw stroke, while the SLS hood adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized access. The holster’s snug fit ensures that the firearm remains stable and secure during movement.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its exceptional retention capabilities combined with its ease of use. One minor improvement would be a slightly smoother SLS hood rotation, although this has improved with use. Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL exceeds expectations in terms of both security and usability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction provides a balance of rigidity and flexibility, while the basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism. The mid-ride height allows for a natural draw stroke, and the UBL mount distributes the weight of the firearm evenly across the belt.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is remarkably user-friendly, despite its advanced retention features. The ALS release is instinctive and easy to operate, even under stress.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL requires minimal maintenance. Simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a light coat of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism is sufficient to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic mounts. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. The Ride UBL is easily swapped for different belt attachments or leg platforms if needed.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is also compatible with many aftermarket accessories, such as weapon lights and red dot sights, provided they are compatible with the Colt Government 1911 platform.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Exceptional Level II Plus Retention: The ALS and SLS combination provides a secure and reliable retention system, keeping your firearm safe in any situation.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL and mid-ride height provide a comfortable and stable carry platform for all-day use.
- Intuitive Draw Stroke: The ALS release allows for a rapid and natural draw stroke.
- Customization Options: The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland and aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- SLS Hood Rotation: The SLS hood rotation can be slightly stiff initially.
- Price: The initial cost may be higher than some other holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize weapon retention and reliable performance. Those who carry a Colt Government 1911 and require Level II Plus retention will benefit most.
Individuals who are new to firearms or prefer simpler holster designs might find the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL to be overkill. Someone wanting a very slim, low profile holster may want to consider other options.
A good quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. A weapon light compatible with the Colt Government 1911 is also a worthwhile addition for low-light situations.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and comfort. Its intuitive design and reliable performance make it a top choice for professionals and responsible gun owners alike.
At $195.00, the price is justified by the holster’s superior quality and features. While there are cheaper holsters available, they simply cannot match the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL in terms of retention, durability, and overall performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL to anyone seeking a reliable and secure holster for their Colt Government 1911. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t regret it.