Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable, secure carry. This Safariland holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design, offering peace of mind in potentially volatile situations. Its basket weave finish and left-handed configuration cater to specific aesthetic and functional needs, making it a popular choice among uniformed officers.
As a long-time tactical gear enthusiast and trainer, I was looking for a duty holster that offered both superior retention and a smooth, intuitive draw. The Level III designation and the reputation of Safariland for quality and reliability made the 6360 ALS a natural choice. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of daily use and provide quick, confident access to my sidearm in a high-stress environment.
My first impression upon unboxing was that this holster is built like a tank. The materials felt incredibly robust, and the basket weave finish provided a surprisingly tactile grip. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) felt solid and provided a stable platform for the holster.
I compared it to my older Safariland 6280 and a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3. The 6360 ALS felt more streamlined than the 6280 and offered a more intuitive draw than the Serpa. The ALS mechanism felt more secure and less prone to accidental release compared to the Serpa’s push-button system.
Initially, I was impressed by the build quality and retention capabilities of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82. The initial impression was one of confidence – that this holster could handle the demands of duty use. I was excited to get it out to the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6360 ALS at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The range provided a safe and controlled environment to practice drawing and re-holstering under simulated stress. The weather was mild, but the range was somewhat dusty.
The ALS system proved easy to manipulate, even under pressure. The draw stroke felt smooth and natural after only a few practice repetitions. There were no initial issues, and the retention felt incredibly secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 ALS continues to perform flawlessly. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to the elements and subjected to frequent use. The finish has held up remarkably well, showing only slight scuffing around the edges.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new. Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS offers a noticeable improvement in both retention and ease of use. It outperforms my older holsters in every category.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82 boasts several key specifications:
- Level III Retention: Offers three levels of security to prevent unauthorized weapon removal. This is critical for duty carry in unpredictable environments.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. This provides an audible and tactile confirmation that the weapon is secure.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Provides a mid-ride carry position for comfortable and efficient draw. This is vital for all-day comfort and quick access.
- Basket Black Finish: Offers a professional, textured appearance. This provides a secure grip and a classic look.
- Left-Hand Configuration: Specifically designed for left-handed users. This ensures a proper and efficient draw stroke.
These specifications are crucial for a duty holster, ensuring both security and accessibility. The Level III retention is a must-have for high-risk environments, while the ALS provides peace of mind and a rapid draw. The Ride UBL is important for comfort and proper weapon presentation, and the left-hand configuration ensures a tailored fit for left-handed officers.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82 performs exceptionally well. Its primary function of securing and providing access to the weapon is executed flawlessly. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a quick and efficient draw.
The strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the smooth draw stroke ensures a rapid response. The only area for possible improvement would be the addition of an adjustable tension screw for the ALS mechanism, but that is a minor quibble.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS is built with high-quality materials that feel durable and robust. The basket weave finish adds a touch of class and provides a surprisingly secure grip. The weight is balanced, and the Ride UBL distributes the weight evenly on the belt.
It is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to master.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure long-term reliability. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.
It is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. It should last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories. This includes different belt loops, leg shrouds, and light attachments. It can also be used with the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional level of security by preventing the thumb lever from being deactivated.
It is also compatible with many aftermarket accessories from other brands, such as weapon lights and red dot sights. This allows for a high degree of customization to meet individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides superior security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Ensures immediate weapon security upon holstering and a smooth, fast draw.
- Ride UBL: Offers a comfortable and stable carry position.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Intuitive design: Easy to learn and master.
Cons
- Price: It is a more expensive option compared to some other duty holsters.
- Limited adjustability: The ALS tension is not adjustable without modification.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable, comfortable carry. It is ideal for those who work in high-risk environments and need to be able to quickly and confidently access their sidearm. The left-handed configuration makes it a must-have for left-handed shooters.
Those on a very tight budget or who don’t require Level III retention might consider other options. People who prefer a minimalist design may find it too bulky.
A weapon light is a must-have accessory for this holster, as it enhances its functionality and versatility. An optional Safariland Sentry can provide an even higher level of security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-320-82 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and ease of use. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the value proposition is excellent, given its performance and durability.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a high-quality, Level III retention holster. It is a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their sidearm for personal and public safety. Take the plunge and upgrade to the Safariland 6360 ALS for unparalleled peace of mind and performance!