Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261 Review

Getting My Hands on the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261 is a serious piece of duty gear. Safariland is a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical holsters, and this model is designed for those who require both security and rapid accessibility to their sidearm. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and Level III retention offer significant peace of mind, while the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) promises a comfortable and stable carry.

For years, I’ve relied on various open-carry holsters during training scenarios and range days, but lately, I’ve been seeking a more secure option for situations where retention is paramount. My previous Level II holster, while functional, didn’t quite inspire the confidence I wanted in higher-risk environments. I needed a holster that could withstand a determined attempt to disarm me, while still allowing for a smooth, intuitive draw.

The Safariland 6360 arrived in typical Safariland packaging – functional and straightforward. Immediately, I noticed the robust construction and the clean “Nylon Look” finish. It felt solid and well-made in my hands, hinting at its intended durability. The weight was substantial but not excessive, suggesting a good balance between strength and comfort.

Compared to my older Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 and a generic nylon holster, the Safariland 6360 felt like a substantial upgrade. The Serpa’s trigger finger release always made me slightly nervous, and the nylon holster offered minimal retention. I chose the Safariland 6360 specifically for its combination of Level III retention and the renowned ALS system, which seemed to offer the best of both worlds.

My first impression was definitely positive. This holster looked and felt like a serious piece of equipment, ready to handle the demands of duty or tactical applications. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to Safariland’s reputation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360 at a local shooting range that also hosts law enforcement training. I ran drills involving drawing and firing under simulated stress. I also used it during force-on-force training with Simunition pistols.

The weather conditions were typical for a late summer afternoon: hot and humid. Despite the sweat, the holster maintained a secure grip on my Sig Sauer P2022. Drawing from the 6360 required some adjustment, as the ALS release and the hood guard took some getting used to. However, after a few repetitions, the draw became much smoother and more intuitive.

Initially, I fumbled slightly with deactivating both the ALS and the hood guard, particularly under simulated stress. However, after about an hour of practice, I was able to consistently draw quickly and efficiently. The Ride UBL also proved to be very comfortable, keeping the firearm close to my body without hindering movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the holster body itself. The retention mechanisms continue to function flawlessly.

The holster requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. It outperforms them in terms of both retention and durability, and its comfortable carry makes it suitable for extended use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261 is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P2022. It features Level III retention, ensuring a high degree of weapon security. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) automatically secures the weapon upon holstering.

The “Nylon Look” finish provides a professional and durable exterior. The Ride UBL positions the holster in a mid-ride position, offering a comfortable and accessible draw. It’s designed for right-handed users.

• Level III Retention: This is a critical specification, providing a higher level of security than Level I or II holsters, reducing the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This system automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, requiring a deliberate action to release, enhancing safety.
• Ride UBL: The Universal Belt Loop positions the holster for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
• Nylon Look Finish: The nylon-like finish is both durable and provides a professional appearance, resistant to scratches and wear.
• Right-Hand Configuration: Designed specifically for right-handed users, ensuring a natural and efficient draw stroke.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system is intuitive to operate once mastered, and the Level III retention provides exceptional security. The holster’s mid-ride position makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Its primary strength is its retention capability. It’s difficult to disarm someone wearing this holster without significant effort and knowledge of the release mechanisms. The weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the draw stroke, which may be slower compared to Level I or II holsters.

Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. It balances security, accessibility, and comfort effectively.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 is constructed from a robust polymer material that feels both durable and lightweight. The “Nylon Look” finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides a non-slip surface. The holster’s design is relatively slim and compact, minimizing bulk and maximizing comfort.

The Ride UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for a comfortable and natural draw. There is a learning curve associated with the ALS and hood guard, but once mastered, the draw becomes intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 is built to last. The polymer material is resistant to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 comes standard with a hood guard. An optional Sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security.

Safariland offers a wide range of accessories compatible with the 6360, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical accessories. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for versatile carry options.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6360-278-261