Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 isn’t just a holster; it’s a commitment to duty, a promise of security, and a testament to the Safariland legacy. Designed for law enforcement and security professionals, this holster offers Level III Retention with the renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System), ensuring your firearm stays put until you need it.
For years, I’ve sought a duty holster that balances retention, speed, and comfort without compromise. Many holsters I’ve used in the past sacrificed one aspect for another, leaving me wanting more. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 presented itself as a potential solution, boasting the reliability I demand and the features I need.
Unboxing the holster, I immediately appreciated its robust construction and clean design. The plain black finish exudes professionalism, while the weight feels substantial without being cumbersome. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) promises a comfortable mid-ride carry, something I desperately needed after years of dealing with uncomfortable duty belts.
Compared to the ubiquitous BlackHawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Safariland 7TS ALS, the 6360 stood out due to its refined ALS mechanism and the proven durability of the Safariland brand. The Serpa, while popular, has faced criticisms regarding its retention system in high-stress situations, while the 7TS polymer, while durable, lacks the classic feel of the 6360’s SafariSeven™ nylon blend. I chose the 6360 for its established reputation and the peace of mind it offers.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to test its retention capabilities and see if it lived up to the hype surrounding the ALS system, hoping it was the last duty holster I would need to buy for a long time.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The scenario involved dynamic movement, simulated suspect encounters, and the need for rapid weapon deployment.
The holster performed admirably in both dry and slightly wet conditions (thanks to a light drizzle). The ALS system provided secure retention during sprints and grappling drills, yet allowed for a surprisingly quick draw with proper technique.
Initially, disengaging all three levels of retention (hood guard, ALS, and optional Sentry – which I didn’t have installed) required some practice. However, after about an hour of focused repetition, the movements became fluid and intuitive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in a variety of training environments, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 has proven remarkably durable. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend has resisted scratches and abrasions, maintaining its professional appearance.
Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dirt and grime. Compared to my previous leather holster, the 6360 requires significantly less maintenance and shows no signs of cracking or drying.
The 6360 has surpassed my expectations in terms of retention, speed, and comfort. It has become an indispensable part of my duty gear, providing confidence and reliability in any situation.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 is specifically designed for duty carry and emphasizes weapon security and accessibility. It is constructed from a proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend.
Level III Retention: This ensures a high level of security, requiring multiple deliberate actions to release the firearm. This includes the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): This system automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw. It is intuitive and efficient.
Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Designed for mid-ride carry, the UBL positions the holster lower on the hip, enhancing comfort and allowing for greater range of motion. This improves ergonomics.
Hood Guard: This standard feature protects the rotating hood from accidental disengagement, adding another layer of security. It’s a crucial part of the Level III retention system.
Plain Black Finish: Provides a professional, non-reflective appearance suitable for duty use. The finish is durable and resists scratches.
Right-Hand Configuration: Designed for right-handed users, optimizing access and draw speed. This ensures a natural and efficient draw stroke.
Compatibility: Specifically molded to fit the Sig Sauer P229R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer and P229R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer. Precise molding ensures secure and rattle-free carry.
These specifications collectively create a holster that is secure, comfortable, and efficient for duty use. The thoughtful design and durable materials make it a reliable choice for professionals.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system is the star, providing consistent and reliable retention without hindering draw speed once mastered.
The holster’s Level III retention provides a good balance. It keeps the weapon secure during strenuous activity while still allowing for a reasonably quick draw.
The 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster in this category. Its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry make it a top performer.
Design & Ergonomics
The 6360’s design prioritizes both security and user comfort. The Ride UBL positions the holster at an optimal height, preventing it from digging into the hip or restricting movement.
The holster’s design facilitates a smooth and natural draw stroke. The ALS release is intuitively positioned for easy thumb access.
The 6360 offers a comfortable and ergonomic design, enhancing the user’s ability to carry and deploy their weapon efficiently. The learning curve is minimal.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from SafariSeven™, a proprietary nylon blend, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The 6360 is designed for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 is designed for modularity. While the model 6360-744-61 comes with the Hood Guard already installed, an optional Sentry can be added to increase the level of security.
The Ride UBL can be swapped out for different belt attachments, such as a drop leg platform or a different offset mount. The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, allowing for personalized customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61
Pros
- Level III Retention: Offers superior security compared to Level I or II holsters, preventing unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Provides a smooth, intuitive draw while ensuring the weapon is securely locked in place when holstered.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Enhances comfort by positioning the holster at an optimal mid-ride height, allowing for greater range of motion.
- Durability: Constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, resisting scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures for long-lasting performance.
- Professional Appearance: Plain black finish provides a non-reflective, professional look suitable for duty use.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires dedicated practice to master the multi-step draw process, particularly for those unfamiliar with Level III retention systems.
- Bulk: Level III retention adds some bulk to the holster compared to simpler designs, which might be a concern for concealed carry (though this is designed as a duty holster).
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of weapon retention and reliability. It is also suitable for private security or anyone needing open carry with enhanced security.
This product is not ideal for those prioritizing concealed carry due to its bulk and Level III retention features. Casual shooters or individuals unfamiliar with duty-style holsters might find the learning curve challenging.
A must-have accessory is a training weapon compatible with the holster. Practice is key to mastering the draw stroke.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and performance. While it requires practice to master the draw stroke, the peace of mind and confidence it provides are well worth the investment.
The price is justified by the holster’s robust construction, innovative retention system, and comfortable design. If you are a professional who relies on your firearm, this holster is a worthwhile investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-744-61. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with a holster that will stand up to the demands of the job.