Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering exceptional security without sacrificing speed. Its hi-gloss black finish provides a professional appearance, while the Universal Belt Loop (UBL) allows for comfortable and stable carry.
My career in tactical gear has always been about finding the perfect balance between security, speed, and comfort. I needed a duty holster for my personal M&P that would not only retain the firearm securely but also allow for a rapid draw in high-pressure situations. I was looking for a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing the confidence that my weapon would stay secure.
The Safariland 6360 arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected with foam inserts. My initial impression was one of quality; the hi-gloss finish was flawless, and the overall construction felt incredibly robust.
I had previously used a BlackHawk! Serpa Level 2 and a Safariland 7378RDS, both solid holsters. However, the Serpa’s release mechanism made me nervous, and the 7378RDS, while comfortable, lacked the retention level I desired for duty carry. The 6360 seemed like a perfect middle ground, offering the security of a Level III system with Safariland’s renowned ALS.
The Safariland 6360 immediately felt like a professional piece of gear. The fit and finish were superb, and the retention system engaged with a reassuring click. I was excited to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention drills. I tested it while running through various drills and obstacle courses.
The holster performed admirably, even in less-than-ideal conditions like a light rain shower. The ALS system released smoothly and consistently, allowing for a rapid draw, and the Level III retention gave me peace of mind that the weapon was secure. It took some practice to become proficient with the release, but the learning curve was manageable.
The only initial issue was the UBL, which felt a bit bulky against my body armor. However, adjusting the position slightly alleviated this.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are only minor scuffs on the hi-gloss finish.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking new. The holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability, outperforming previous holsters I’ve used in similar applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91 boasts several key specifications:
Level III Retention: This crucial feature combines the ALS (Automatic Locking System) with an additional security measure, typically a rotating hood or secondary lock, providing exceptional weapon retention. Level III retention is vital for duty carry, especially in environments where weapon security is paramount.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, engaging the ejection port. This system is intuitive and allows for a quick and natural draw once deactivated.
Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The UBL allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position, providing a comfortable and stable platform. The mid-ride height is ideal for use with body armor and allows for a more natural draw stroke.
Hi-Gloss Black Finish: The hi-gloss finish provides a professional and durable exterior. This finish is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a polished look on duty.
Fits Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 with Thumb Safety: This holster is specifically molded to fit these firearm models, ensuring a secure and precise fit. A proper fit is crucial for both retention and a smooth draw.
Right-Hand Configuration: Designed for right-handed shooters. This ensures proper ergonomics and accessibility.
These specifications contribute directly to the holster’s performance and overall user experience. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the ALS and UBL allow for a smooth and efficient draw. The durable construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system is reliable and intuitive, allowing for a smooth and rapid draw with minimal training.
The Level III retention provides superior weapon security compared to Level I or II holsters. The hood guard offers an extra layer of protection against attempted weapon grabs. The only minor weakness is the slight learning curve required to master the release mechanism.
The holster exceeds expectations in terms of retention and durability. It provides a level of confidence that is essential for duty carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 is constructed from durable SafariSeven nylon blend. The material is extremely tough and abrasion resistant.
The holster is designed to ride comfortably in a mid-ride position, allowing for a natural draw stroke. While the UBL can feel bulky, it provides a stable and secure platform. The learning curve is manageable, and the ALS system becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven nylon blend is exceptionally durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster is designed to last for years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes standard with a hood guard. An optional sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different UBLs and light-bearing adapters. The modular design allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides superior weapon security, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring peace of mind in high-risk situations.
- Smooth and Rapid Draw: The ALS system allows for a quick and natural draw, enabling a fast response in critical moments.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials, the holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty and harsh environments.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL allows for a comfortable and stable carry, even with body armor.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a polished and professional look, suitable for law enforcement and security personnel.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release mechanism requires some practice.
- UBL Bulk: The Universal Belt Loop can feel bulky, especially when worn with body armor.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91?
The Safariland 6360 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw. It is ideal for those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm or .40 with a thumb safety and need a reliable duty holster.
This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention system.
A must-have modification is a Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) adapter. The QLS allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the holster from the belt, making it convenient to switch between different carry positions or loadouts.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-619-91 is an excellent duty holster that provides a superior level of weapon retention, a smooth and rapid draw, and exceptional durability. The Safariland 6360 is worth the price for those who demand the best in weapon security and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who requires a reliable and durable duty holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm or .40. Invest in your safety and performance; get the Safariland 6360 today!