Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 represents a pinnacle in duty holster design, blending security, speed, and comfort for law enforcement and security professionals. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement gear, this holster incorporates the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level III Retention and a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for enhanced comfort and draw speed. Its hi-gloss black finish provides a professional appearance, while the left-hand configuration caters specifically to southpaw shooters.
I’ve spent years searching for the “perfect” duty holster; one that balances retention with a smooth, natural draw. I was looking for a Level III holster that didn’t feel like a Level III – something that wouldn’t slow me down when fractions of a second count. My previous holsters felt bulky, cumbersome, and often required excessive force to draw, compromising my grip and stance.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92, the first thing that struck me was its sleek, professional finish. The hi-gloss black was immaculate, and the build quality felt solid, reassuring me of its durability. The material felt rigid and substantial, but not overly heavy; it felt like a high-quality duty piece.
Compared to my previous Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 holster and a generic nylon Level 3 holster, the Safariland immediately felt superior. The Blackhawk! felt flimsy in comparison, and its retention mechanism was prone to accidental releases. The nylon holster, while offering decent retention, was bulky and lacked the smooth draw of the Safariland.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. I was eager to test its retention system and draw speed under pressure, but also concerned whether the ALS mechanism would be intuitive enough for quick deployment. It looked promising, but only real-world use would tell the whole story.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 took place at the local shooting range during a practical pistol course. This course simulated real-world scenarios, involving movement, cover, and rapid target acquisition. The weather was typical for the area – slightly humid with temperatures hovering around 75°F.
The Safariland 6360 performed admirably under these conditions. The ALS system proved intuitive and easy to manipulate even under stress, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw stroke. The mid-ride UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for my body type, enhancing both comfort and draw speed.
There was a slight learning curve initially in mastering the release of the ALS while maintaining a proper grip. After a few practice runs, however, the motion became second nature, and I was consistently drawing faster than with my previous holsters. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including weekly range sessions, tactical training exercises, and even some light hiking, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 continues to impress. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with no cracks, fading, or loosening of screws.
The Safariland 6360 has proven remarkably durable. The *STX finish has held up extremely well against abrasion, and the internal components show no signs of corrosion or fatigue. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland outperforms them in every aspect. Its superior retention, draw speed, durability, and comfort make it the clear winner. This holster has significantly improved my confidence in carrying and deploying my firearm safely and effectively.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92
Specifications
- Level III Retention: Employs both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a Hood Guard to provide three levels of security. This ensures the firearm remains securely holstered during rigorous activity or attempted disarming.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. The ALS is deactivated with a simple thumb swipe, allowing for a fast and intuitive draw.
- Hood Guard: Protects the ALS release lever from accidental activation. The hood further enhances security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Slim, Compact Design: Allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and improves concealment, while also enhancing comfort.
- Simple Straight Up Draw: Once all releases are deactivated, the draw is smooth and natural. This allows for quick and efficient weapon deployment in high-pressure situations.
- Mid-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height. This enhances draw speed and reduces interference with body armor or other gear.
- Hi-Gloss Black Finish: Provides a professional and durable finish. The hi-gloss finish is easy to clean and resists scratches and abrasions.
- Left-Hand Configuration: Designed specifically for left-handed shooters. Ensuring a proper and safe draw stroke for left-handed individuals.
- Fits Beretta 92F, 92FS, 92G, 96, 96G: Specifically molded to fit these Beretta models. Provides a secure and precise fit for the designated firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 excels in its primary function: securing and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS provides excellent retention without hindering draw speed, and the mid-ride UBL enhances comfort and accessibility. It delivers confidence in its security and effectiveness.
A key strength is the intuitive ALS mechanism. A weakness is the initial learning curve for mastering the ALS release, although this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, it exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, utilizing durable materials and robust construction. The Safariland 6360 feels solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its long-term reliability.
There is a slight learning curve due to the ALS, but the overall design is user-friendly. The mid-ride UBL enhances comfort and allows for a natural draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction and high-quality materials of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 suggest it will last for years with proper care. The STX finish is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland, further extending the holster’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories. The Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) allows for quick holster swaps between different platforms.
The Safariland 6360 can be customized with different belt loops and leg shrouds. It also allows for the addition of an optional Sentry device for added security.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized access.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Offers a smooth and intuitive draw stroke.
- Mid-Ride UBL: Enhances comfort and draw speed.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of duty use.
- Professional Appearance: The hi-gloss black finish projects a professional image.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release.
- Price: Higher price point compared to some other duty holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high-quality, secure, and reliable duty holster. The Safariland 6360 excels in demanding environments.
Individuals seeking a minimalist holster with minimal retention or those on a very tight budget might skip this product.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland QLS system for quick holster swaps. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-73-92 is an exceptional duty holster that balances security, speed, and comfort. While the price may be higher than some competitors, the superior quality and performance justify the investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable Level III retention system. The Safariland 6360 offers peace of mind and confidence in demanding situations. Invest in your safety and effectiveness – you won’t be disappointed.