Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61 is more than just a holster; it’s a commitment to safety, security, and speed. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military equipment, this holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, ensuring your firearm stays put until you decide it’s time to draw.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I needed a duty holster that could keep my sidearm secure during dynamic training scenarios. I was looking for a holster that provided a confident hold without sacrificing draw speed. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to strike that balance perfectly.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and clean lines. The plain black finish gives it a professional, no-nonsense look, and the weight felt substantial without being cumbersome. The molded shape looked precise, promising a snug and secure fit for the specified firearm.
I considered several other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite. The Safariland 6360 won me over because of its reputation for reliability, the intuitive ALS system, and the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) which allows for a comfortable mid-ride carry.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Safariland 6360 exudes quality and gives off the feeling of a reliable companion. I was eager to get it out on the range and see if its performance matched its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6360 at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The environment was controlled but dynamic, involving rapid movements, simulated combat scenarios, and varying degrees of stress. I wanted to see how the holster performed under conditions that mirrored real-world duty situations.
Even with sweat-soaked hands, the Safariland 6360 performed admirably; the ALS release was consistently smooth and reliable. The weapon drew cleanly and quickly, even while moving from a seated position. The UBL provided a stable platform, preventing the holster from shifting during sprints and transitions.
The learning curve was minimal; the ALS system is intuitive, allowing for a quick draw with minimal practice. I was able to achieve consistent draw times within minutes of familiarizing myself with the release mechanism. The hood guard also proved useful, preventing accidental disengagement of the ALS.
The only initial issue was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the ideal balance between retention and draw speed. After a few minor adjustments, the draw stroke became consistently smooth and fast.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly use in training and simulated duty environments, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the holster body, despite repeated use and exposure to the elements. The plain black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I periodically apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. The holster’s construction is robust and well-thought-out making it easy to clean and maintain.
Compared to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360 outperforms them in terms of both security and draw speed. The ALS provides a confident level of retention, while the UBL offers a comfortable and stable platform for all-day carry. It’s a significant upgrade from older Level II retention holsters I used to use.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61 is designed to offer a high level of security and accessibility for law enforcement and military personnel. It features Level III Retention, meaning it has three independent security measures to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm. It also boasts the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered, activating automatically without requiring manual engagement.
The holster includes a Hood Guard, which provides an additional layer of security and protects the ALS release mechanism from accidental activation. It is designed with a slim, compact profile that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, aiding in concealment and preventing snagging. The included Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for mid-ride carry, offering a comfortable and accessible position for the firearm.
The model reviewed comes in a Plain Black finish. It’s specifically designed for Right Hand users and fits the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without manual safeties with ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon lights. The holster type is a standard Duty holster.
These specifications are critical for ensuring the holster’s effectiveness. The Level III Retention is essential for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm, especially in high-risk environments. The ALS provides an intuitive and reliable security measure that enhances draw speed. The specific fit for the S&W M&P .45 ensures a secure and proper fit, optimizing both retention and draw speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III performs its job exceptionally well. The combination of the ALS and hood guard provides a high degree of security, while still allowing for a smooth and rapid draw. The mid-ride UBL offers a comfortable carry position that is accessible while sitting or standing.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and user-friendly design. The ALS is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress. The mid-ride UBL provides a stable and comfortable platform for all-day carry.
The primary weakness is the potential for a slightly slower draw compared to Level I or Level II retention holsters due to the multiple release mechanisms. However, with practice, this difference is minimal and the added security is well worth the trade-off. It meets and exceeds expectations, providing a balance of security, speed, and comfort that is ideal for duty use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 boasts excellent build quality, utilizing durable materials that withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster body is made from a rigid, impact-resistant polymer that provides excellent protection for the firearm. The plain black finish is both professional and discreet. The weight is substantial without being cumbersome, striking a balance between durability and comfort.
The design is user-friendly, with an intuitive ALS release and a comfortable mid-ride carry position. There is a minimal learning curve; the ALS system is easy to master with a small amount of practice. The hood guard is easily deactivated with a thumb swipe, adding another layer of security without significantly impacting draw speed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last, capable of withstanding years of heavy use. The durable materials and robust construction ensure that the holster will hold up under the most demanding conditions. With basic care, the Safariland 6360 should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism with silicone lubricant will ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes standard with the Hood Guard and the Ride UBL. One can further customize it with an optional Sentry installed. The Sentry adds another layer of security.
While the Safariland 6360 is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it is compatible with many popular belt systems and attachment platforms. The UBL can be easily swapped out for other belt loops or attachment devices.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61
Pros
- High Level of Security: The Level III retention and ALS provide a secure hold on the firearm, preventing unauthorized access.
- Intuitive ALS System: The Automatic Locking System is easy to learn and operate, even under stress.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Carry: The Ride UBL offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
- Durable Construction: The holster is made from robust materials that are built to last.
- Smooth and Rapid Draw: With practice, the ALS allows for a smooth and rapid draw.
Cons
- Slightly Slower Draw*: Level III retention adds a small amount of time to the draw stroke compared to lower-level retention holsters.
- Specific Firearm Fit*: The holster is designed for a specific firearm model, limiting its versatility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-security duty holster. Those working in high-risk environments or who prioritize firearm retention above all else will benefit most from the Safariland 6360.
Those who prioritize the absolute fastest draw time above all else, or who prefer a more minimalist holster design, might want to skip this product. Also, those who carry multiple firearm models should not buy this product due to the specific firearm fit requirement.
A must-have modification would be to experiment with different UBL heights to find the most comfortable and accessible carry position. Also, users can add a Safariland flashlight to the handgun.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-4192-61 is an outstanding duty holster that provides a superior combination of security, speed, and comfort. Its rugged construction, intuitive ALS system, and comfortable mid-ride carry make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm.
The price of $207.00 is justified given the quality of materials, robust construction, and the added security provided by the Level III retention system. It’s a solid investment for anyone who relies on their firearm for personal protection or professional duty.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III to anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and secure duty holster. If you value the safety and security of your firearm, and demand a holster that can stand up to the rigors of daily use, then the Safariland 6360 is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible!