Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster Review

Out of the Box: Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is a name synonymous with duty-grade equipment, and for good reason. Safariland has built a reputation on providing law enforcement and military personnel with reliable, secure, and functional holsters, and the 6360 continues that legacy. Featuring the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, this holster promises both speed and security in high-stress situations.

As a gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each with its own set of promises and shortcomings. I was specifically looking for a duty holster that balanced retention with a smooth, natural draw, something that wouldn’t slow me down in critical moments but would also prevent unauthorized access to my firearm. I’ve had my sidearm taken from me once, and it will NEVER happen again.

My first impression upon unboxing was that this is a serious piece of kit. The materials felt robust, the construction was solid, and the overall design exuded a sense of purpose. Compared to some of the flimsy, budget-friendly options on the market, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster felt like a tank.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, both popular choices, but ultimately chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster for its reputation for durability and the proven effectiveness of the ALS system. While the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt intuitive, I was concerned about its long-term reliability and potential for accidental discharges under stress. The Bianchi offered good retention, but its bulkier design seemed less conducive to comfort and concealment, and the retention lever was more difficult to use.

Excited is probably the best word to describe my initial reaction. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and re-holstering drills. The weather was fairly mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a light breeze, providing comfortable conditions for practice. The ALS system took a little getting used to, requiring a deliberate thumb swipe to disengage the lock.

However, after a few repetitions, it became surprisingly intuitive and fast, enabling a smooth, natural draw stroke. My draw times improved dramatically compared to my previous Level II holster. There was a slight sticking point during the first few draws, but this was quickly resolved by working the action of the ALS system and allowing the interior to break in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, including daily carry during patrol and participation in several tactical training exercises, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster has proven its reliability. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to rain, mud, and the general abuse of daily duty. The Safariland SafariSeven material has held up exceptionally well.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of wiping down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I also occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This holster has exceeded my expectations, providing a level of security and performance that inspires confidence in high-pressure situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is designed for duty use and features several key specifications:

• Retention Level: Level III, offering three points of retention for enhanced security. This is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm, especially in crowded or confrontational situations.
• Automatic Locking System (ALS): An internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions. The ALS is automatically activated upon holstering, adding an extra layer of security.
• Material: Constructed from a proprietary nylon blend. This material is incredibly durable, weather-resistant, and resistant to scratches and abrasions.
• Slim, Compact Design: Keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The slim design also makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Belt Loop Attachment: Designed to fit a variety of belt sizes and styles. It keeps the holster securely in place during rigorous activity.
• Color: Typically available in black, but other colors and finishes may be available depending on the specific model and intended application. The Safariland website shows many variations, but black is most popular.
• Gun Make: Designed for specific firearms, such as Smith & Wesson, Glock, and SIG Sauer. Make sure to choose the model that is compatible with your firearm.
• Barrel Length: Holsters are designed to accommodate specific barrel lengths. Select the appropriate size for your handgun to ensure a secure and proper fit.
• Hand: Available in right-hand and left-hand configurations. Select the proper hand orientation for your shooting hand.
• Holster Type: Belt Holster. This is a traditional style worn on the hip.
• Holster Material: Hard Polymer, specifically Safariland‘s own blend. This ensures durability and long life.
• Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop. This is how the holster is attached to the body.
• Application: Duty. Designed for law enforcement, military and security personnel.
• Fastener/Closure Type: Auto Locking System. Keeps the gun secure until released by the user.
• Fabric/Material: Hard Polymer. Ensures protection of the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable. It provides a positive lock that gives the user confidence that their weapon is secure. The Level III retention adds an extra layer of security, making it difficult for anyone other than the user to draw the weapon.

One of the strengths of this holster is its smooth draw stroke. Once the ALS is disengaged, the weapon clears the holster cleanly and consistently. One area that could be improved is the initial break-in period, which can be a little stiff. However, with regular use, the mechanism smooths out considerably.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The materials are durable yet lightweight, and the holster sits comfortably on the hip. The design is relatively slim, which minimizes printing under clothing.

The holster has a medium learning curve because the ALS system takes some getting used to, but the draw is natural and intuitive. Overall, the design is well-thought-out and user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is simple, primarily consisting of cleaning the holster with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster doesn’t come with a lot of extra accessories, it is highly customizable. Safariland offers a wide range of accessories, including different belt attachments, leg shrouds, and optic covers. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing the user to configure their setup to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high level of security and reliability. This holster is also a good choice for legally armed citizens who prioritize retention and want a duty-grade holster for open carry.

This holster may not be the best choice for those who are new to firearms or prefer a simpler holster design. The Level III retention system takes some practice to master, and the price point may be prohibitive for some users.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a compatible Safariland belt attachment, such as the UBL (Universal Belt Loop), which allows the holster to be worn at a comfortable and accessible height.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. While the price point is higher than some other options, the quality and features justify the investment for those who demand the best. I have come to rely on it implicitly.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster to anyone who needs a reliable, secure, and functional duty holster. If you are looking for a holster that will stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide peace of mind in critical situations, this is it. Invest in your safety and get the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster today!