Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262 isn’t just a holster; it’s a statement. It shouts reliability, security, and professional-grade performance, all wrapped in a package designed for the left-handed shooter. Safariland is a name synonymous with law enforcement and military applications, and this holster aims to deliver that same level of confidence to anyone who carries.
I was seeking a holster that provided both a secure carry for my railed 1911 with a weapon light and Level III retention, without sacrificing speed and comfort. The need for a reliable duty holster became apparent after an unfortunate incident where a poorly designed holster led to an accidental magazine release during a training exercise. I immediately knew I needed a Safariland.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360 impressed me with its robust construction. The nylon-look finish gave it a professional, yet low-profile appearance, and the overall feel was solid and reassuring. The holster felt like it could take a serious beating and keep my firearm secure.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster, but Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specific ALS (Automatic Locking System) swayed my decision. The ALS system seemed like a more intuitive and reliable retention method compared to the Serpa’s button release. The Alien Gear holster, while customizable, lacked the proven track record of Safariland in high-stress environments.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to test its real-world performance and see if it lived up to the hype. The Safariland 6360 felt like a serious piece of equipment, and I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I needed to get comfortable with the ALS system under pressure. The range was dusty, which is a common occurrence.
The draw stroke felt natural after a few repetitions, and the ALS release was intuitive. The holster performed flawlessly even with dust accumulating on the locking mechanism. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the firearm perfectly for a smooth draw.
There were no immediate issues. I was surprised by how quickly I adapted to the ALS. The release felt very natural with proper training.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 continues to perform exceptionally well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some minor scuff marks on the nylon-look finish. The Ride UBL maintains its secure attachment to my belt.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I periodically apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
This holster far outperforms any other duty holster I’ve used. It offers a superior combination of security, speed, and comfort. The Safariland 6360 sets a new standard for duty holsters in my experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is designed for left-handed shooters. It ensures a proper and efficient draw stroke.
It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered. This drastically reduces the risk of accidental firearm removal.
It has Level III Retention. This means it incorporates multiple security features to prevent unauthorized access.
The holster is constructed with a durable nylon-look finish. The finish gives it a professional appearance while being resistant to abrasions.
It comes with the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). This allows for a mid-ride carry position for increased comfort and accessibility.
The Hood Guard is standard. It protects the thumb lever from accidental deactivation.
This model is designed to fit Kimber 1911 w/rails (Gold Combat RL, Custom TLE/RL w/Surefire X200 or X300 light), Springfield Armory 1911 w/rails (Operator w/Surefire X200 or X300 light), and Wilson 1911 w/rails (CQB w/Surefire X200 or X300 light). Note: Holster will not retain weapon without light attached.
These specifications are vital because they directly impact the user’s safety, comfort, and performance. The ALS system ensures weapon security, while the Ride UBL enhances comfort and draw speed. The durable construction guarantees long-term reliability, and knowing the compatible firearm models is crucial for proper fit and function.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in providing a secure and accessible carry for railed 1911s with weapon lights. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, and the ALS system provides unparalleled retention.
Its greatest strength lies in its reliability. The ALS mechanism is simple yet effective, providing a high level of security without hindering draw speed. One potential improvement could be a slightly more tactile feel to the ALS release lever.
It meets and even exceeds my expectations. It provides a level of security and accessibility that I haven’t found in other duty holsters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 boasts a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials ensuring long-term durability.
The holster is user-friendly with a slight learning curve to master the ALS release. However, once mastered, the draw stroke becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last. The durable nylon-look finish and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes with a standard Hood Guard installed. This model can be further customized with an optional Sentry installed for added retention.
While not included, the Safariland is compatible with various Safariland belt attachments. You can also use other brands of UBLs with similar mounting options.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system provides unparalleled security, preventing unauthorized firearm removal.
Cons
- The holster will not retain weapon without a light attached. This limits its versatility.
Smooth and Consistent Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the ALS release allows for a fast and efficient draw.
Durable Construction: The nylon-look finish and robust materials ensure long-term reliability.
Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL positions the firearm perfectly for comfortable all-day carry.
Compatibility with Railed 1911s with Weapon Lights: Specifically designed to fit these firearms with lights attached.
The ALS release requires training. It’s not as intuitive as some other retention systems out of the box.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262?
The Safariland 6360 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private citizens who prioritize firearm security. It is ideal for individuals who carry railed 1911s with weapon lights and require Level III retention.
This product might not be suitable for those who prefer a more minimalist holster or those who do not carry a weapon light on their firearm. It’s also not for those unwilling to invest time in mastering the ALS release mechanism.
A must-have modification is the Sentry for increased retention. Training courses dedicated to the ALS system could further enhance proficiency.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-560-262 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises. It provides a superior combination of security, speed, and comfort.
The price is justified by its robust construction, reliable performance, and peace of mind. This is especially considering the inherent safety and security this holster provides.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster for their railed 1911 with a weapon light. Invest in your safety and carry with confidence. It’s a purchase you won’t regret.