Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 Review

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62: A Review After Real Use

For over a decade, I’ve worked with tactical gear, always searching for that perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. Duty holsters are a critical piece of kit, often the first line of defense in high-pressure situations. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 promises that blend, and after extensive testing, I’m here to share my detailed experience.

My existing duty holster, while reliable, lacked the quick draw capability I needed in rapidly evolving scenarios. I was specifically seeking a Level III retention holster with a streamlined design that wouldn’t hinder movement. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62, with its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and mid-ride UBL, appeared to be the solution.

Unboxing the Safariland holster revealed a robust, well-constructed piece of equipment. The plain black finish exuded professionalism, and the molded polymer felt durable and ready for demanding use. Its weight was noticeable but manageable, a necessary trade-off for the Level III retention.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Bianchi Accumold Elite, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 stood out for its intuitive ALS mechanism and comfortable ride height. The Blackhawk felt bulky, while the Bianchi lacked the positive retention I desired. The sleek design of the Safariland made it an easy choice.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster looked and felt professional, but the true test would be its performance in the field. I was excited to see if it could live up to Safariland’s reputation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test took place at the local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This environment allowed me to assess the holster’s speed and security under simulated stress. The holster was tested while moving, shooting from cover, and engaging multiple targets.

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. Even with sweaty hands or light rain, the grip remained secure, and the ALS release was consistently reliable. I could quickly and confidently draw my Sig Sauer P2022.

The draw stroke required minimal adjustment. After a few practice runs, the ALS release became second nature. The mid-ride UBL kept the weapon accessible without hindering movement, which allowed for a smooth and efficient draw.

The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the ALS release lever. A small amount of lubrication and repeated use quickly resolved this, making the draw even smoother. The consistent functionality was a pleasant surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 has proven its reliability. It has been subjected to daily wear and tear, including training sessions, outdoor activities, and routine duty carry. The holster has shown no signs of structural failure.

The holster’s polymer construction is remarkably durable. There are a few minor scratches from regular use, but they do not affect its performance. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s needed. It’s easy to keep the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 in optimal working condition. The durable construction and minimal maintenance requirements ensure longevity.

Having used other duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 outperforms them in both security and speed. Its intuitive design and robust construction make it a clear winner. This is the type of holster that inspires confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel. It features a Level III Retention system, providing a high degree of weapon security. The holster is specifically designed for left-handed users.

This model is finished in plain black, offering a professional, low-profile appearance. It is compatible with the Sig Sauer P2022. The holster uses the ALS (Automatic Locking System), securing the weapon once holstered.

The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable mid-ride carry. This positions the weapon at an optimal height for quick and easy access. The holster includes a Hood Guard for added security.

These specifications are vital for duty use. The Level III retention ensures the weapon remains secure during physical altercations. The ALS provides an intuitive and rapid draw, while the UBL enhances comfort and accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a sidearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw stroke. The mid-ride UBL ensures comfortable all-day carry.

One of its strengths is the ease of drawing the weapon once the ALS is deactivated. With practice, the release becomes second nature, allowing for incredibly fast deployment. However, the Level III retention can be a weakness if the user is not properly trained or under extreme stress, which could slow down the draw.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. Its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry make it a top performer. The smooth draw stroke, and security, provide peace of mind.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster is constructed from a durable, molded polymer. This provides both strength and lightweight carry. The design is slim and compact, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body.

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 is user-friendly, but it does require some practice to master the ALS release. After a few training sessions, the draw becomes intuitive and efficient. The mid-ride UBL is a welcome ergonomic feature, providing a comfortable and accessible carry position.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust polymer construction, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. Proper use will help ensure a long lifespan.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. This keeps the ALS mechanism functioning smoothly. Its simple maintenance and durable build ensure a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with the Hood Guard. This can be upgraded with an optional Sentry for additional security. Safariland offers various UBL options and belt attachments for customized carry.

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. It can be adapted to suit various operational needs. This compatibility enhances its versatility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon security and rapid deployment. It’s especially well-suited for those working in dynamic environments where weapon retention is critical. Left-handed shooters will appreciate the dedicated design.

Those who are new to Level III retention systems or prefer simpler holster designs should skip this product. Individuals prioritizing concealed carry might find the open-carry design unsuitable. It is designed for open carry and duty use.

A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry, providing an additional layer of security. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended for optimal performance. Consider a high-quality duty belt for comfortable and stable carry.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 is an excellent choice for those seeking a secure, reliable, and comfortable duty holster. Its Level III retention and intuitive ALS system provide peace of mind in demanding situations. The robust construction and comfortable mid-ride UBL make it a top-tier option.

At $195.00, the price is justified given the holster’s quality, features, and performance. It’s an investment in your safety and operational effectiveness. The value is clear.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 to any left-handed professional requiring a reliable and secure duty holster. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-278-62 today! Upgrade your gear and enhance your readiness.