Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component of a professional’s duty rig. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement equipment, has once again delivered a product designed for demanding situations. With its advanced retention system and comfortable UBL mount, this holster promises security, accessibility, and all-day wearability. As someone who’s relied on holsters in various high-stakes environments for over a decade, I was keen to see if the 6360 lived up to the hype.

I was in the market for a new duty holster that offered a higher level of retention than my current Level II model. Increased threats and a changing operational environment demanded enhanced security without sacrificing a smooth, fast draw. My search criteria prioritized a robust retention system, comfortable carry, and proven reliability from a trusted manufacturer.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III immediately impressed me. The plain black finish is professional and understated, the materials feel rugged and durable, and the holster’s overall construction exudes quality. It has a reassuring heft that speaks to its robust build.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite Level 3 holsters before settling on the Safariland. While the Serpa offered a similar level of retention, I had concerns about its long-term durability and the index-finger release system under stress. The Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the Safariland’s refined ALS system. The 6360’s reputation for reliability and the proven track record of the ALS system ultimately swayed my decision.

My first impression was definitely excitement. The Safariland 6360 looked and felt like a serious piece of equipment designed to perform under pressure. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could deliver on its promises.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. I subjected the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III to a range of scenarios, including rapid draws, re-holstering under duress, and simulated physical confrontations. The Safariland 6360 performed admirably, providing secure retention while still allowing for a surprisingly quick and intuitive draw.

I tested the holster in both dry and slightly damp conditions to simulate real-world weather. The ALS system functioned flawlessly regardless of moisture, ensuring reliable retention and release. The initial draw stroke felt smooth and positive. There was a noticeable improvement compared to my previous Level II holster.

The learning curve for the ALS system was minimal. After a few practice draws, the motion became second nature. The UBL ride height felt comfortable and allowed for easy access to the firearm without impeding movement. However, I did notice that the initial re-holstering required conscious effort to ensure the ALS engaged properly.

No major issues arose during my first range session. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III performed exactly as advertised. The fit was secure, the draw was smooth, and the retention was rock-solid.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use during training and on duty, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be an exceptionally reliable piece of gear. The holster has maintained its form and function without any noticeable degradation. It demonstrates the high quality of materials and craftsmanship.

Despite daily wear and exposure to the elements, the plain black finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuff marks appearing in high-wear areas. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, and the UBL mount remains secure and comfortable. Periodic cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to maintain the holster’s appearance and performance. No specialized cleaning products or maintenance procedures have been necessary.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 significantly outperforms them in terms of both security and draw speed. The ALS system provides a tangible increase in retention without sacrificing accessibility. This provides peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations. The UBL mount also enhances comfort during extended periods of wear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance:

• Level III Retention: Provides three independent levels of security to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm. This is achieved through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) hood.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This provides a fast and intuitive draw stroke.
• SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood: Further enhances retention by requiring a deliberate rotation of the hood to release the firearm. This adds an extra layer of security against weapon grabs.
• Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position on the belt for increased comfort and accessibility. This optimizes draw angle and reduces interference with other gear.
• Plain Black Finish: Provides a professional and understated appearance. This blends seamlessly with most duty uniforms and tactical gear.
• Right Hand Configuration: Specifically designed for right-handed users. This ensures optimal ergonomics and draw stroke.
• Hood Guard: Helps to prevent unauthorized access to the SLS hood release. This enhances the security of the holster.
• Fits Springfield Armory XD (9mm, .357, .40, .45): Designed for a precise fit. This ensures secure retention and smooth draw.

These specifications directly impact the holster’s performance and user experience. The Level III retention system provides peace of mind. The UBL mount improves comfort during extended wear. The right-hand configuration optimizes draw stroke. These features combine to make the Safariland 6360 a top choice for law enforcement and security professionals.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing immediate retention without requiring any additional steps. The SLS hood adds another layer of security, making it extremely difficult for anyone other than the user to remove the firearm.

The holster’s strength lies in its ability to balance security with accessibility. The ALS thumb release is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke. The UBL mount positions the holster at an optimal height for quick and comfortable access. However, some users may find that the Level III retention system requires more practice to master than simpler holsters.

The Safariland 6360 definitely meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. Its robust retention system, comfortable carry, and reliable performance make it a standout product in a crowded market.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is constructed from durable SafariSeven nylon blend, which is both lightweight and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster’s molded design provides a snug and secure fit for the firearm, while the UBL mount ensures a comfortable ride on the belt. The weight is well-distributed, preventing the holster from feeling bulky or cumbersome.

The holster is designed to be user-friendly, with the ALS and SLS releases positioned for easy access and intuitive operation. The learning curve is minimal, and most users will be able to master the draw stroke with minimal practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear. The holster’s robust construction ensures that it will maintain its form and function for years to come.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and debris. No specialized cleaning products or maintenance procedures are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers. The optional Sentry device can be added to further enhance the security of the SLS hood.

The holster is also compatible with many popular firearm accessories, such as weapon lights and lasers. However, users should ensure that any accessories are properly fitted and do not interfere with the holster’s retention system.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61