Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a secure, comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this holster combines their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, providing peace of mind in demanding situations. The addition of the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable mid-ride carry, and the nylon-look finish offers a professional aesthetic.
My need for this holster stemmed from a desire for increased weapon security during dynamic training scenarios and while working in environments with a higher potential for weapon disarming attempts. I previously used Level II retention holsters, but I wanted a holster that provided an additional layer of security without sacrificing speed and accessibility. The Safariland 6360 seemed like the ideal solution.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6360 impressed me with its robust construction and clean lines. The nylon-look finish provides a professional and durable exterior. The weight felt substantial, a testament to the quality of materials used, but not cumbersome enough to be uncomfortable during extended wear.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906 Duty Holster before ultimately choosing the Safariland 6360. The Serpa’s release mechanism felt less intuitive to me, and I had concerns about its reliability under stress. While the Bianchi offered a more traditional design, I was drawn to the Safariland’s ALS system for its ease of use and secure retention.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to upgrade to a Level III retention holster, but I also knew that mastering the draw stroke would require practice and dedication. The build quality and reputation of Safariland instilled confidence, but the true test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 at a local shooting range and during a week-long tactical training course. The range provided a controlled environment to practice my draw stroke and become familiar with the ALS and hood guard releases. During the training course, the holster was subjected to more realistic scenarios, including grappling drills and simulated weapon retention attempts.
The holster performed admirably in various conditions. Even when wet from rain or covered in dust from the range, the retention mechanisms functioned flawlessly. The ALS release remained smooth, and the hood guard was easily deactivated with proper technique.
The learning curve was minimal. After a few hours of dry-fire practice, the draw stroke became natural and fluid. The Ride UBL positioned the weapon perfectly for a smooth and consistent draw.
Initially, I noticed that the hood guard could occasionally snag on my gear when seated in a vehicle. This required a minor adjustment to my seating position and gear placement, but it was a negligible issue overall.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The nylon-look finish has held up well to daily abrasion.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. I periodically clean it with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. The holster’s construction allows easy cleaning, preventing buildup of dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous Level II holsters, the Safariland 6360 offers a significant upgrade in terms of weapon security and peace of mind. The Level III retention provides a much greater level of protection against unauthorized weapon removal, and the ALS system is faster and more intuitive than other retention mechanisms I have used. I am extremely pleased with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 boasts several key specifications:
- Retention Level: Level III. This is a crucial specification, indicating the holster features three independent retention devices that must be deactivated before the weapon can be drawn.
- Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System). The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, providing a reliable and intuitive retention method.
- Construction Material: SafariSeven™ Nylon Blend. This proprietary nylon blend provides exceptional durability, resistance to heat and cold, and minimal maintenance.
- Finish: Nylon-Look. This finish offers a professional appearance and enhanced durability compared to traditional finishes.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand. This indicates the holster is specifically designed for left-handed users.
- Mounting System: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The Ride UBL provides a comfortable mid-ride carry position, allowing for a faster and more natural draw stroke.
- Weapon Compatibility: Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without thumb safety. It’s important to confirm that the holster is compatible with your specific firearm model.
- Additional Features: Hood Guard. The hood guard provides additional weapon security and protection against disarming attempts.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance and user experience. The Level III retention and ALS system ensure weapon security, while the durable materials and comfortable carry position enhance usability and long-term reliability. Compatibility with your specific firearm is, of course, paramount.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system is incredibly intuitive, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke with minimal effort.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry position. The ALS mechanism works flawlessly every time, and the hood guard provides an extra layer of security without hindering the draw.
One minor weakness is that the hood guard can sometimes snag on gear if not properly positioned. However, this is easily mitigated with a slight adjustment. Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 features a streamlined and functional design. The nylon-look finish provides a professional and durable exterior, and the holster’s overall shape is compact and unobtrusive.
The build quality is exceptional. The materials used are clearly of high quality, and the holster feels solid and well-constructed. The weight is substantial but not excessive, and the Ride UBL distributes the weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The holster is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release is intuitive, and the draw stroke becomes natural and fluid with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Periodic cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep the holster in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes with a hood guard and the Ride UBL mounting system.
Safariland offers a wide range of accessories and customization options for their holsters. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers. The Safariland 6360 is also compatible with various other Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize their holster setup to meet their specific needs. This compatibility is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides superior weapon security compared to Level II holsters.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Intuitive and reliable retention mechanism that allows for a fast and smooth draw.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that are built to last.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Offers a comfortable mid-ride carry position.
- Nylon-Look Finish: Provides a professional and durable exterior.
Cons
- Hood Guard Snag: The hood guard can occasionally snag on gear.
- Specific Firearm Compatibility: Requires a specific model of holster to fit the firearm properly.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon security and a comfortable carry. It is also well-suited for tactical training courses and high-risk environments.
This product may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention. Those looking for a more streamlined or low-profile holster should explore other options.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a Safariland compatible tactical belt. A sturdy belt is essential for proper holster support and weight distribution.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon security, reliability, and comfort. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use, and the Level III retention provides peace of mind in demanding situations.
At a price of $195.00, the Safariland 6360 represents a solid value proposition. The quality of materials, robust construction, and superior retention justify the cost.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-419-262 to anyone seeking a high-quality duty holster that prioritizes weapon security and user comfort. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it!