Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a duty-grade piece of equipment designed for professionals who demand the highest level of security and accessibility. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality in law enforcement and military gear, this holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention, a Level III retention rating, and a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry. It’s built for the left-handed shooter and finished in a discreet plain black, making it a practical and reliable choice for duty, tactical operations, or personal defense.
My search for this particular holster stemmed from a specific need: enhanced security for my duty weapon. I work in a high-risk environment, and the standard Level II retention holster I was using simply didn’t provide the peace of mind I needed. I needed something more robust, more secure, but without sacrificing the speed and ease of draw necessary in a critical situation.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III arrived in typical Safariland packaging – functional and no-nonsense. My first impression was of solid, well-made gear; the holster felt robust and durable in my hands. The plain black finish was clean and professional, and the ALS mechanism clicked into place with a reassuring sound, confirming its secure lock.
Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used, the Safariland stood out for its relatively slim profile and the UBL system. Some competitors felt bulky and cumbersome, hindering movement and drawing the weapon. The Safariland’s design seemed to prioritize both security and ergonomics, a balance I found appealing.
Initially, I was excited but also cautiously optimistic. Level III holsters can sometimes be overly complicated or slow to draw from, but I was hoping the Safariland’s ALS system would provide a good balance of security and speed. The initial handling left me eager to put it through its paces on the range and in realistic scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III took place at my local shooting range. I spent several hours practicing draws, re-holstering, and performing various shooting drills. The weather was typical for the area: humid and slightly dusty, providing a decent initial challenge for the holster’s functionality.
The ALS system required a bit of getting used to, but after a few repetitions, I found the draw to be surprisingly smooth and fast. The thumb release became second nature, and the weapon cleared the holster cleanly and efficiently. Even with sweaty hands, the grip and release remained reliable.
One minor issue arose after the first few hours of use: the UBL seemed to shift slightly on my belt. Tightening the screws on the UBL resolved this issue quickly, and it hasn’t recurred since. Overall, my first range session left me impressed with the holster’s performance and potential.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve worn it during training exercises, patrol duty, and even a few outdoor excursions. The holster has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The Safariland holster’s finish remains intact, with only minor scuff marks from regular use. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure weapon retention. I regularly clean the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III outperforms them in terms of security, comfort, and ease of use. The ALS system gives me confidence that my weapon is secure, and the UBL provides a comfortable carry position throughout the day. It has undoubtedly become my go-to duty holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III – This means the holster incorporates three distinct retention devices to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): This internal locking device secures the weapon upon holstering. It requires only a thumb release to deactivate, allowing for a fast and intuitive draw.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The mid-ride UBL positions the holster lower on the hip for enhanced comfort and allows for the use of body armor.
- Finish/Color: Plain Black – A non-reflective, professional finish suitable for duty use.
- Hand: Left Hand – Designed specifically for left-handed shooters.
- Fits: Smith & Wesson M&P .45 (with or without manual safeties) with ITIM3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC weapon lights – This indicates the specific firearm and accessories the holster is designed to accommodate.
- Hood Guard: Included to provide added security and protect the ALS release.
These specifications are crucial for a duty holster. Level III retention ensures the weapon remains secure, while the ALS allows for a quick draw in critical situations. The UBL enhances comfort during extended wear, and the plain black finish maintains a professional appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to my duty weapon. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The Level III retention gives me peace of mind knowing my weapon is secure, even during strenuous activities.
One slight weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the ALS release. However, with dedicated practice, the draw becomes second nature. Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. The holster is made from a durable polymer material that is both lightweight and resistant to wear and tear. The UBL provides a comfortable carry position, even with body armor.
The holster’s design is user-friendly, with the ALS release positioned for easy access. The initial draw stroke requires a deliberate motion, but after practice, becomes fluid and efficient. The overall design prioritizes both security and ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. The durable polymer construction can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The holster is easy to clean with a damp cloth, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation.
I expect this holster to last for many years with proper care and maintenance. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality, and this holster lives up to that reputation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard for added security. Optional accessories, such as the Safariland Sentry, can be installed to further enhance retention. The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and attachment systems, allowing for customization of the carry position.
While the holster is primarily designed for use with specific weapon lights (as listed in the specifications), it may be compatible with other similar lights with slight modifications. The Safariland website offers a variety of accessories and customization options to tailor the holster to individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62
Pros
- Exceptional Security: The Level III retention and ALS system provide unmatched security for your firearm.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Once mastered, the ALS system allows for a surprisingly fast and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality polymer material is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride UBL positions the holster comfortably on the hip, even with body armor.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish is discreet and suitable for duty or concealed carry.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: The ALS system requires practice to master the draw stroke.
- Light Compatibility: Only compatible with specific weapon lights without modification.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of security and accessibility for their duty weapon. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who want a reliable and durable holster for training and competition.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals who prioritize concealed carry or who are new to firearms. The Level III retention system requires practice and familiarity to operate effectively.
A must-have accessory is a dedicated training regimen to master the ALS draw stroke. Practicing regularly with dummy rounds will help build muscle memory and ensure a smooth and consistent draw in a real-world situation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-5192-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the advanced features, particularly the ALS retention system.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III to anyone who needs a dependable and secure holster for their duty weapon. If you prioritize security, accessibility, and durability, this holster is an investment worth making. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the Safariland difference!