Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 represents a significant leap in duty holster design, blending secure weapon retention with practical accessibility. From the ALS (Automatic Locking System) to its durable construction, this holster is engineered for professionals who demand unwavering reliability in high-stress situations. It offers Level III Retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure until needed, while the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable carry and efficient draw.
My search for a new duty holster started after experiencing a near weapon-retention incident during a foot pursuit. The old holster lacked sufficient security features, making me acutely aware of the need for an upgrade. I needed a holster that provided not only secure retention but also a smooth, intuitive draw under pressure.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The basket-weave black finish exuded professionalism, and the overall feel was solid and dependable. The ALS mechanism clicked reassuringly, providing immediate confidence in its security.
Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 Tactical Holster and the Safariland 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, the 6360 stood out due to its Level III Retention and its Ride UBL system designed for duty belts. The Serpa, while popular, didn’t offer the same level of security as the ALS, while the 7TS was geared more towards concealment than open-carry duty. I chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 for its combination of security, accessibility, and suitability for duty use.
My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension, would the Level III retention impact draw speed? The overall build quality and retention system looked promising. I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 was at the shooting range, focusing on draw speed and weapon retention drills. I simulated various scenarios, including drawing under stress and attempting to dislodge the weapon with both hands. The ALS system proved intuitive to disengage while still providing a secure hold during movement.
During a rainy range session, the basket-weave finish provided a surprisingly good grip, even with wet hands. The release mechanisms continued to function smoothly without any sign of slippage. Initially, the draw stroke felt slightly different due to the Level III retention, requiring a more deliberate motion.
After the first few draws, I quickly adapted to the release mechanism, and my draw speed became almost as fast as with my previous Level II holster. There were no malfunctions or failures of the ALS system. The Ride UBL kept the holster stable during movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the holster body or the ALS mechanism. The basket-weave finish has resisted scratches and scuffs remarkably well.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth keeps the holster looking professional. Lubricating the ALS mechanism with a small amount of silicone-based lubricant ensures smooth operation. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 has outperformed my previous holsters in terms of durability and retention reliability.
Compared to my previous experience with leather holsters, which required constant maintenance and were prone to stretching, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 has been a significant improvement. It maintains its shape, retention, and professional appearance with minimal effort. It’s become an essential part of my duty gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 boasts several key specifications. It features Level III Retention, the ALS (Automatic Locking System), and the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The finish is Basket Black, and it’s designed for a right-hand draw.
These specifications are critical for duty use. Level III Retention provides a high degree of security, preventing unauthorized weapon removal. The ALS allows for a fast, intuitive draw while maintaining secure retention. The Ride UBL offers a comfortable and stable carry position, essential for extended wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides a secure hold, preventing accidental weapon release. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient once the release mechanism is mastered.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81’s greatest strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The release mechanism requires deliberate action but is intuitive under stress. One potential weakness could be the added time required for the draw compared to Level I or Level II holsters, but this is offset by the increased security.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. The retention system is reliable, the draw is smooth, and the build quality is exceptional. I have complete confidence in its ability to perform in critical situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 is outstanding. It is constructed from durable Safariland’s SafariSeven™ nylon blend, which provides excellent resistance to wear, abrasion, and moisture. The weight is substantial without being cumbersome, providing a sense of security and quality.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the Level III retention system. The ALS release is intuitive, but requires practice to master. The Ride UBL positions the holster comfortably on the duty belt, allowing for a natural draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 is designed for long-term durability. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that the holster will withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care, the holster should last for many years.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that is required. The holster is designed to be field-serviceable, with replacement parts available from Safariland.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 comes standard with a Hood Guard. An optional Sentry can be installed for increased security. The Ride UBL is compatible with other Safariland belt attachments, allowing for customization of ride height and cant.
The holster is compatible with various firearm-mounted lights and lasers, depending on the specific model. Safariland offers a range of accessories, including leg straps, tactical weapon lights, and magazine carriers that can be integrated with the holster system. Many accessories from other brands that are compatible with the Safariland mounting pattern can also be used.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high degree of weapon security, preventing unauthorized removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Offers a smooth, intuitive draw while maintaining secure retention.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Ensures comfortable and stable carry on a duty belt.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality SafariSeven™ nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
- Professional Appearance: Basket-weave black finish exudes professionalism.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the Level III retention release mechanism.
- Added Draw Time: Draw may be slightly slower compared to Level I or Level II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high degree of weapon security in an open-carry environment. It is ideally suited for duty use, providing a balance of retention, accessibility, and comfort.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals prioritizing concealed carry or those who require the absolute fastest draw speed. It’s designed for professionals who need a reliable Level III retention system. Must-have accessories include a compatible firearm-mounted light and an optional Sentry for increased security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The combination of Level III retention, the ALS system, and durable construction makes it a top choice for professionals who demand the best.
The price of $195.00 is justified by the quality, security, and durability of the holster. I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-79-81 to anyone looking for a Level III duty holster. Upgrade your security and confidence today!