Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 Review

Going All In on the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91

My search for a reliable, high-security holster recently led me to the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91. As someone who has spent over a decade relying on gear in demanding environments, from dusty workshops to unpredictable field conditions, I understand the critical role a holster plays. The need for a secure retention system that also allows for a swift, unobstructed draw was paramount, especially given the specific firearm it was intended for. After a considerable amount of research and considering options like Bianchi and Blackhawk, this Safariland model emerged as a strong contender, promising a blend of advanced security and practical functionality. My initial impression upon unboxing this holster was one of robust craftsmanship; the Hi Gloss Black finish was impeccable, and the overall construction exuded confidence. It immediately felt like a serious piece of equipment, a far cry from flimsy alternatives I’d encountered.

There was a specific incident involving a close call where a standard duty holster failed to adequately secure my firearm during a sudden movement that prompted this upgrade. The thought of a firearm becoming dislodged, even accidentally, is a professional’s nightmare, and I was determined to find a solution that offered superior peace of mind. This experience underscored the importance of Level III Retention systems, and the Safariland 6360’s ALS design immediately caught my eye. While some might opt for simpler retention methods, the combination of ALS and the Hood Guard seemed to offer a robust, layered security approach. My first touch of the polymer and the smooth operation of the retention mechanisms confirmed this holster was built with purpose.

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this Safariland holster took place primarily at the range and during extended periods of carrying while on duty, replicating the scenarios for which it was designed. The mid-ride belt loop offered a comfortable balance, allowing for a natural draw without being too high or too low on the belt. The weapon sat securely, and the smooth draw after disengaging the ALS and Hood Guard was a welcome change from holsters that can feel overly stiff initially. I paid close attention to how the holster performed under dynamic stress, including rapid drawing and re-holstering.

During these initial sessions, I noticed the deliberate design of the retention release. It requires a conscious thumb sweep and then a lift of the Hood Guard, a two-step process that feels secure and deliberate. This design prevents accidental disengagement, which is a critical feature for any duty-grade holster. I did find a slight learning curve in the precise motion to deactivate both retention points simultaneously for the fastest draw, but after a few dozen repetitions, it became second nature. The slim, compact design indeed kept the firearm close to my body, minimizing printing and discomfort during prolonged wear.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 has proven itself to be exceptionally reliable. It has withstood the rigors of regular range training, long shifts, and various environmental conditions, including exposure to moderate dust and occasional light moisture, without any degradation in performance. The Hi Gloss Black finish has maintained its aesthetic appeal, showing only minor superficial scuffs that are expected with active use. The internal mechanism remains smooth, and the retention points continue to engage and disengage with satisfying precision.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, this Safariland model stands out for its consistent performance. Budget-friendly holsters often develop play in their retention mechanisms or begin to bind after heavy use, but this unit shows no such signs. The Level III Retention system continues to feel as secure as day one, and the Hood Guard has remained steadfast, ensuring the firearm stays put. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional light lubrication of the moving parts is all that has been needed to keep it in top working order.

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 is a robust piece of equipment engineered for serious users. Its core feature is the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the firearm once holstered, preventing it from being drawn by unauthorized individuals. This system, combined with the standard Hood Guard, provides Level III Retention, a significant security upgrade over typical Level II holsters. Furthermore, the product details mention that Level IV Retention can be achieved with the optional Sentry installed, offering even greater protection for those who require it.

The holster is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate material, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear. Its Hi Gloss Black finish offers a professional aesthetic that is also relatively easy to maintain. The mid-ride belt loop is designed to accommodate belts up to 2.25 inches wide, a standard for most duty belts, and allows the firearm to sit at a comfortable height for drawing. The design prioritizes a simple, straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated, which is crucial for quick access in critical situations. This model is specifically designed for a Right Hand shooter and, based on the provided specifications, is fitted for the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core functionality, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a swift draw. The ALS system is remarkably effective; a gentle push with the thumb releases the firearm, and the Hood Guard can be quickly swept aside. This two-stage process feels intuitive and secure, greatly reducing the risk of accidental weapon release. The holster’s design ensures a snug fit, preventing any unnecessary movement or rattling of the weapon.

The strengths of this holster are its robust security features and smooth operation. The ALS mechanism is reliable, and the Hood Guard provides an extra layer of confidence. The draw is consistent, provided you practice the specific disengagement sequence. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is the necessity of training for the specific draw stroke. It’s not as simple as a basic friction-fit holster; mastering the ALS and Hood Guard combination takes deliberate practice to achieve maximum speed. However, this is a trade-off for the superior security it offers, and for its intended purpose, this trade-off is entirely justified.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this Safariland holster is immediately apparent. The Safari-Laminate material feels substantial and well-molded, providing a rigid yet slightly yielding structure that cradles the firearm perfectly. The Hi Gloss Black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also appears durable and resistant to minor abrasions, adding to the overall professional look. The slim, compact design is a notable ergonomic advantage, allowing the holster and weapon to ride close to the body, which significantly aids in concealment and comfort during extended wear without snagging on gear or clothing.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride belt loop is well-placed, promoting a natural and efficient draw stroke. It strikes a good balance between accessibility and security, preventing the firearm from being too high on the hip where it might be more exposed or too low where it could be cumbersome. The placement and shape of the ALS release lever are also well-considered, allowing for easy manipulation with the thumb without requiring awkward hand contortions. There is a slight learning curve to disengaging both the ALS and the Hood Guard in a fluid motion, but this is a characteristic of advanced retention systems and not a flaw in design.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from Safari-Laminate and the reputation of Safariland for producing durable gear, this holster is built to last. I anticipate it will hold up exceptionally well to daily duty use for many years. The materials used are resistant to cracking, warping, and general wear and tear, even under strenuous conditions. Its robustness is one of its strongest selling points, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on their equipment.

Maintenance for this holster is refreshingly straightforward. Regular cleaning involves simply wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. For the ALS mechanism, a light application of a silicone-based lubricant applied sparingly to the internal locking components can help maintain its smooth operation over time. There are no complex parts to disassemble or special care instructions, which is a significant benefit for busy individuals. Potential failure points are minimal, primarily related to extreme impact or abuse, which is true for most durable equipment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 comes with the Hood Guard as a standard feature, which is integral to its Level III Retention. The product description also highlights the availability of an optional Sentry accessory that can be installed to upgrade the retention to Level IV. This Sentry accessory, when combined with the Hood Guard, provides an additional layer of security against high-risk threats. The holster is designed to mount onto standard duty belts via its integrated mid-ride belt loop.

While the holster itself is designed for a specific firearm model, its compatibility extends to other Safariland accessories and belt mounting systems, should one wish to change their setup. The choice of finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL, allows for some degree of aesthetic customization, although the core functionality remains the same across these options. The Hi Gloss Black finish on this particular model offers a sharp, professional appearance that is ideal for formal duty settings.

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91?

This Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, or any firearm owner who requires the highest level of retention security. It is ideal for individuals who operate in environments where accidental weapon dislodgement is a significant concern or where there’s a risk of an attacker attempting to take their firearm. If your duty requires strict adherence to firearm retention protocols, this holster is a top-tier solution.

Those who prioritize a balance of high security and practical firearm access will find this holster very suitable. However, individuals seeking a simple, quick-release holster for competition or casual carry where extreme retention is not paramount might find the ALS and Hood Guard system to be overkill. Furthermore, if you frequently switch between different firearm models, you will need to invest in separate holsters for each weapon, as this model has a very specific fit. For optimal performance, pairing it with a sturdy duty belt designed to handle the weight and stress of a duty firearm and holster is recommended.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-320-91 stands as a testament to Safariland’s commitment to producing high-quality, reliable gear for demanding applications. Its Level III Retention capabilities, combined with the efficient ALS mechanism and sturdy construction, make it a truly exceptional piece of equipment. While the price point is higher than many alternatives, the security, durability, and peace of mind it offers are, in my experience, well worth the investment for those who depend on their sidearm.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any professional who requires a secure and dependable way to carry their firearm. It fulfills its promise of advanced retention without unduly sacrificing the ability to draw when needed. If you own a compatible firearm and prioritize safety and security above all else, this Safariland model should be at the top of your list.