From Curiosity to Confidence: My Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 Review
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a secure carry. Safariland has built a reputation on delivering reliable and durable holsters, and this model promises to be no exception, offering both speed and security in a sleek package. My initial intrigue stemmed from needing a holster system that could confidently retain a firearm during foot pursuits, while still allowing for a rapid, efficient draw when needed, a constant challenge I faced in my previous role.
I was seeking a Level III retention holster, meaning it requires at least three distinct actions to release the firearm. The hi-gloss finish appealed to my preference for a professional look and ease of cleaning, something crucial in maintaining gear integrity. Upon unboxing, the holster’s solid construction was immediately evident, feeling robust and well-made with no play between components. The hi-gloss black finish was immaculate, giving it a polished, professional appearance.
Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906, I chose the Safariland due to its reputation for superior retention mechanisms and the smoother, more intuitive draw stroke. The Blackhawk, while popular, can sometimes have a sticky release, and the Bianchi lacked the refined finish and positive lock of the Safariland. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; this holster felt like a serious piece of kit, engineered for performance and reliability. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 during a series of live-fire drills at my local shooting range. The drills focused on drawing from concealment under pressure, simulating real-world scenarios. Even in the sweltering heat of a Texas summer, the holster performed admirably, with no issues related to the weather.
The draw took some practice to master, as deactivating both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Hood Guard simultaneously required muscle memory. However, after a few hours of repetition, it became second nature, and my draw speed significantly improved. The only initial issue was a slight difficulty manipulating the Hood Guard with gloved hands, which required adjusting my technique slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. The hi-gloss finish has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scuffs from everyday wear and tear. Cleaning is a breeze – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth restores its pristine shine.
The ALS mechanism remains smooth and consistent, providing confidence in the holster’s ability to retain the firearm under duress. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall durability. This holster gives me confidence that my firearm is secure, yet readily accessible when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 is designed for specific firearms, including Sig Sauer P220R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer, P220R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer, P226R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer, P226R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer. The holster is a right-hand draw model with a Hi Gloss Black finish. The holster integrates the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for weapon security and Level III retention.
The “Ride UBL” refers to the Universal Belt Loop (UBL) attachment, which positions the holster at a mid-ride height for comfortable carry and a smooth draw. The inclusion of the Hood Guard offers additional protection against unauthorized access to the firearm. These features contribute to a holster that balances accessibility, security, and user comfort. The precise firearm fit ensures proper retention and reduces the risk of accidental disengagement.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 excels in its primary function: secure firearm retention and rapid deployment. The ALS provides an audible and tactile confirmation when the firearm is properly holstered, instilling confidence in its security. The Level III retention system adds an extra layer of security, requiring intentional actions to release the weapon, making it extremely difficult for anyone other than the user to draw the firearm.
The draw stroke, once mastered, is fluid and efficient, allowing for quick target acquisition. The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with deactivating the retention mechanisms, but this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The UBL attachment positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, minimizing interference with movement. The hi-gloss finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also facilitates easy cleaning and maintenance.
The holster is constructed from durable materials, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding environments. There is a slight learning curve associated with the retention system, but the intuitive design makes it relatively easy to master. The ergonomic design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke, minimizing wasted movement.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The durable construction materials and robust design ensure a long service life, even with heavy use. The hi-gloss finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, maintaining its professional appearance.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The ALS mechanism is designed for smooth, reliable operation and requires minimal maintenance. With proper care, this holster will provide years of dependable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 comes standard with a Hood Guard for enhanced weapon security. Safariland offers an optional Sentry device that can be installed for an even higher level of retention. The UBL attachment is compatible with various belt widths, providing versatility in mounting options.
The holster can be used with different Safariland belt loops and accessories, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences. The ALS mechanism can be adjusted for tension, allowing the user to fine-tune the draw stroke. The Safariland ecosystem offers a wide range of accessories for further customization and optimization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides superior weapon security, making it ideal for duty use.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Offers a smooth, intuitive draw while ensuring secure retention.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Hi-Gloss Finish: Provides a professional appearance and is easy to clean.
- Ride UBL: Offers a comfortable mid-ride height for a smooth, efficient draw.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the release of the retention mechanisms.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other Level III holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and a secure carry. It is also suitable for those who appreciate a professional appearance and a smooth, efficient draw.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who are new to firearms or who prefer a simpler holster design. A must-have modification is practicing the draw stroke until it becomes second nature.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon security, a smooth draw, and outstanding durability. The price is justified by the superior quality, reliability, and performance. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable way to carry their firearm.
If you’re looking for a holster that offers both speed and security, look no further than the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-774-91. Invest in your safety and peace of mind today.