Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of duty gear designed for professionals who demand both security and rapid access. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military equipment, this holster boasts a Level III retention system, ensuring your firearm stays put until you need it. Its basket weave finish and mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offer a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality.
My journey to this holster started years ago, on patrol. I needed a holster that wouldn’t let go of my weapon during a scuffle, yet allowed for a swift, intuitive draw when every second mattered. I was looking for the perfect balance of security and speed.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The basket weave pattern provides a nice tactile feel. The holster felt sturdy and well-made, promising durability.
I considered a few other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 because of Safariland’s reputation for superior retention mechanisms and the comfortable mid-ride UBL. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) seemed like a more reliable system than the Serpa’s release button, and the Bianchi’s materials felt less robust.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. Would it live up to the hype? Only time and rigorous testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, running drills that simulated various scenarios encountered during patrol. I focused on drawing speed, re-holstering, and retention under simulated stress. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 performed admirably.
The range conditions were dry and sunny, ideal for getting a feel for the holster’s draw stroke. I also tested it during a simulated rain drill, where the basket weave provided excellent grip even with wet hands. The draw remained consistent even when soaked.
There was a slight learning curve getting used to the ALS release, but it quickly became second nature with practice. Once mastered, the draw felt remarkably fast and efficient. I also tried using gloves with the holster and found no issues in drawing and reholstering my sidearm.
The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the ALS mechanism, which loosened up after a few dozen draws. After initial use, I was confident that the holster would be a solid and reliable part of my gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 has proven its worth. It has become an integral part of my kit. It has held up exceptionally well under various conditions.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the general wear and tear of daily use. The basket weave finish has retained its appearance and hasn’t shown any significant fading. It has withstood being banged around in and out of the car as well as the rough and tumble of training exercises.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism benefits from occasional lubrication with a silicone-based product to ensure smooth operation. I’ve found that keeping the holster clean and lightly lubricated helps maintain its reliability.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 outperforms them in both retention and draw speed. It has exceeded my expectations. I have no qualms relying on this holster in any environment.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 with or without manual safeties, and accommodates various weapon lights like the ITIM3, M3, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, and X300, as well as the LAS-TAC. It’s a right-hand holster, featuring a basket black finish. The finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
It boasts a Level III retention system, incorporating the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. An integrated hood guard further enhances security. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm for a comfortable and natural draw.
These specifications are crucial for duty use. Level III retention provides a high degree of security against unauthorized removal, while the weapon light compatibility ensures optimal functionality in low-light conditions. The mid-ride UBL strikes a balance between accessibility and concealment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 performs its primary function of securing and providing quick access to a firearm exceptionally well. The ALS engages automatically upon holstering, providing a reassuring click. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent after mastering the release.
The holster’s strength lies in its robust retention and intuitive draw. A potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS release. The holster lives up to and even exceeds my expectations given my previous experience with other duty holsters.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 is excellent, with durable materials and precise construction. The basket weave finish adds a touch of class, while the holster’s weight is balanced enough to be comfortable during extended wear. The molded polymer offers a great combination of strength and flexibility.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the ALS release requires some initial practice. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm for a comfortable and natural draw stroke. I found the ergonomics to be well-suited for both static positions and dynamic movements.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 is built to last. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure long-term reliability. With proper care, this holster should provide years of dependable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts, such as the ALS lever or UBL hardware, are readily available from Safariland. I believe this holster should last for years with the recommended maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 comes standard with a hood guard for enhanced security. An optional Sentry device can be added to further increase the retention level to Level IV. The UBL is compatible with other Safariland belt attachments, allowing for customization of ride height and cant.
The holster is designed to accommodate various weapon lights, enhancing its versatility. It’s also compatible with different Safariland mounting platforms, such as drop leg platforms and MOLLE attachments. The ability to customize the holster with accessories makes it adaptable to different operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81
Pros
- Exceptional Level III retention provided by the ALS (Automatic Locking System). This ensures the firearm stays secure until deliberately drawn.
- Durable construction and high-quality materials. The holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Compatibility with weapon lights. Enhances low-light performance.
- Comfortable mid-ride UBL. Provides a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Basket weave finish. Offers a professional appearance and improved grip.
Cons
- Initial learning curve with the ALS release. Practice is required to master the draw stroke.
- The price point of $207.00 may be a barrier for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-security, rapid-access holster. It is especially well-suited for those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P .45 with a weapon light.
This holster might not be ideal for casual shooters or those seeking maximum concealment due to its Level III retention and mid-ride configuration. An inside-the-waistband holster may be more suitable.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry system for those who need an even higher level of security (Level IV). Regular cleaning and lubrication are also recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. Its Level III retention system, weapon light compatibility, and comfortable mid-ride UBL make it a valuable asset for law enforcement and security professionals.
The price of $207.00 is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and security features. It’s an investment in your safety and professional readiness.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-5192-81 to anyone seeking a high-quality, dependable duty holster. Upgrade your gear today and experience the Safariland difference!