Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a sophisticated piece of equipment designed for security, speed, and comfort. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, this holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III Retention, offering peace of mind in demanding situations. The inclusion of the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for a comfortable mid-ride carry, optimizing both draw speed and concealability.
As a left-handed shooter who spends considerable time on the range and occasionally assists with firearms training, I needed a duty holster that could keep my sidearm secure without hindering my draw. I sought a holster that provided multiple levels of retention, ensuring that the firearm wouldn’t be easily accessible to others, while still allowing for a smooth and quick draw when needed.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62, my initial impression was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. The plain black finish provides a professional, low-profile appearance, and the materials felt robust and durable. The holster had a reassuring weight, indicative of the quality of the components.
I was also considering the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 series. The Safariland stood out due to its reputation for reliability and the proven track record of the ALS system. It felt like a system designed for real-world use rather than just a product on a spec sheet.
My first impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. I was eager to integrate the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 into my setup and experience the performance firsthand, confident that it would meet my stringent requirements.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 took place at my local shooting range. I ran several drills, focusing on draw speed, re-holstering, and overall comfort while moving. The weather was slightly damp, adding another element to the test.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 performed remarkably well in the slightly damp conditions. The ALS system provided a secure hold, even with wet hands, and the draw remained consistent and smooth. Initially, the Level III retention required a bit of practice to deactivate quickly and efficiently, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.
The learning curve was minimal; within an hour, I felt completely comfortable and confident with the draw stroke and re-holstering process. I encountered no significant issues during the first range session, only a slight adjustment to my grip to ensure consistent ALS release.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The finish has held up well, showing no scratches or fading.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each range session is generally sufficient to keep it clean and functioning smoothly. I’ve previously used holsters with less robust retention systems, and the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 outperforms them significantly in terms of security, draw speed, and overall comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is a duty holster designed for left-handed users, featuring Level III Retention. It incorporates Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon once holstered. The holster includes a Hood Guard as standard and is available in a plain black finish.
The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a mid-ride carry position, and it is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. It’s also compatible with the optional Sentry, providing Level IV Retention when installed. These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s security level, ease of use, and compatibility with various duty belts and firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 performs exceptionally well in its primary role: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system provides a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The Level III retention adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the firearm.
One strength is the smooth and intuitive draw stroke once the retention mechanisms are disengaged. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm for optimal grip and draw speed. A minor weakness is that the initial learning curve may require some practice to master the deactivation of the Level III retention under stress. It undeniably meets and exceeds expectations, providing a level of security and performance that inspires confidence in high-pressure situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is outstanding. The materials are robust and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The holster sits comfortably on the hip, thanks to the Ride UBL, which distributes weight evenly and prevents excessive strain on the belt.
The design is user-friendly, though mastering the Level III retention requires some initial practice. The ALS release is intuitive and easily accessible with the thumb. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is designed for individuals seeking a high level of weapon retention and security, combined with a smooth and efficient draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is built to last. The robust materials and solid construction suggest that it will withstand years of use under demanding conditions. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 comes with the installed Hood Guard. Customization options include the addition of a Sentry for Level IV Retention and various belt loop attachments to adjust the ride height and angle.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is generally compatible with other Safariland accessories such as different UBLs, leg straps, and tactical mounting systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides exceptional security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- ALS System: Offers a smooth and reliable draw, with tactile and audible confirmation of weapon lock.
- Ride UBL: Positions the firearm for optimal grip and draw speed, enhancing comfort during extended wear.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Compatibility: Works with various Safariland accessories and mounting systems, offering customization options.
Cons
- Level III retention may require practice for efficient use under stress.
- The plain black finish, while professional, may be too understated for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and security. It’s also ideal for firearms instructors who prioritize safety and controlled access to their sidearm.
Individuals who prefer a simpler, lower-profile holster with minimal retention features might find this holster overkill. A must-have modification is the Sentry for those requiring Level IV retention, providing an even greater degree of security in high-risk environments.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price of $195.00 is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and advanced retention features.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and secure way to carry their firearm. If you value the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is secure, yet readily accessible when needed, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-320-62 is an investment you won’t regret.