Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 Review

Beyond Specs: Living with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of essential duty gear designed for law enforcement, security professionals, and anyone demanding uncompromising weapon retention and a smooth, intuitive draw. This holster combines Safariland’s proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, offering a high degree of security without sacrificing speed. It’s a tool meant for high-stakes situations where reliability and accessibility are paramount.

Years back, working patrol in a busy district, I needed a holster that offered both security and rapid access. I was searching for a holster that could stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide peace of mind knowing my firearm was secure.

The Safariland 6360 arrived securely packaged, and my initial impression was one of robust construction and thoughtful design. The plain black finish is professional and understated, and the molded polymer felt exceptionally durable. Compared to a basic Level II retention holster I had previously used and a competitor’s similar Level III model, the Safariland’s ALS mechanism felt significantly smoother and more intuitive.

I was immediately impressed by the secure feel of the ALS and the ease with which I could deactivate it during practice draws. I was excited to get it onto my duty belt and put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to really test the Safariland 6360 was at the range during our department’s weekly firearms training. I ran drills involving rapid draws, re-holstering under stress, and simulated scenarios requiring weapon retention. The holster performed flawlessly, even with sweaty hands and a fast pace.

During a particularly rainy training session, I was concerned about the ALS mechanism becoming sticky or unreliable. The Safariland 6360 continued to function smoothly, even when wet, giving me confidence in its all-weather performance. The draw stroke remained consistent, and the weapon secured positively every time.

It only took a short amount of time to become familiar with the ALS release. The intuitive thumb activation allowed for a natural draw without fumbling. There were no unpleasant surprises; it performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use on duty, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. The polymer construction shows minimal signs of wear, even after exposure to the elements and regular contact with gear. The plain black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and scuffs.

Routine cleaning involves simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth. Occasionally, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This minimal maintenance has kept the holster functioning like new.

In comparison to my previous duty holster, which exhibited significant wear and tear after a similar period, the Safariland 6360 has far exceeded my expectations. The level of security and the consistency of the draw stroke have also boosted my confidence in high-pressure situations. The holster also performed better than some of the other holsters that I have used in the past because of the level of comfort, the adjustability of the UBL mount and of course, the peace of mind that came with the Level III retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and suitability for duty use. It features a Level III Retention, providing a high degree of security against unauthorized removal of the firearm. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, and the included Hood Guard provides additional protection for the release mechanism.

The holster is specifically designed to fit the Smith & Wesson SW99 and Walther P99 pistols, ensuring a snug and secure fit. Its finish is Plain Black, offering a professional and discreet appearance. It is designed for Right Hand users. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable mid-ride carry, placing the weapon in an easily accessible position.

These specifications translate directly to improved security, accessibility, and user comfort. The Level III Retention gives peace of mind in potentially combative situations. The secure fit, the smooth reliable draw cycle and the simple design of this holster all culminate into a duty holster that can be counted on when it matters the most.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 excels in its core function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a rapid and consistent draw. The ALS mechanism engages automatically upon holstering, providing an audible and tactile confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. Deactivation of the ALS is intuitive and requires only a simple thumb swipe, making for a smooth and efficient draw stroke.

The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III Retention offers a high level of protection against weapon takeaways, but the ALS system allows for a surprisingly fast and natural draw. The only area for potential improvement might be the addition of an adjustable tension screw to fine-tune the draw resistance.

The Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. I never had a weapon retention issue nor have I ever had an issue where I could not quickly draw my weapon. I trusted my life with this holster every day and that is the highest compliment I could give.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing bulk and improving concealment. The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, striking a good balance between accessibility and comfort. The polymer construction is robust and lightweight, providing long-lasting durability without adding unnecessary weight.

The holster’s design is inherently user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or modification. The ALS release is ergonomically positioned and easily accessible with the thumb. There is little to no learning curve associated with the Safariland 6360.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust polymer construction of the Safariland 6360 ensures exceptional durability and longevity. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and exposure to harsh environments. With routine cleaning and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism, the Safariland 6360 should provide years of reliable service.

Repairing the Safariland 6360 is straightforward, with readily available replacement parts from Safariland or authorized dealers. The simple design and modular construction make it easy to replace worn or damaged components. The holster can also be easily field stripped with minimal tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 comes standard with a Hood Guard to protect the ALS release and an optional Sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security. The Ride UBL can be swapped out for different belt attachment methods, such as a drop leg platform or a MOLLE adapter. It also offers various finish options, including basket weave, hi-gloss, or STX Tactical.

The Safariland 6360 is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including weapon lights, lasers, and red dot sights. Safariland offers various adapter kits to accommodate different accessories. This modularity and customization make the Safariland 6360 a versatile platform for a variety of mission requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It is ideal for those working in high-risk environments where weapon takeaways are a concern. This holster is for those who prioritize safety and want a holster that can be counted on in stressful situations.

This holster may not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize comfort and concealability over security. Individuals who frequently switch between different firearms may also find the model-specific fit restrictive. Those who are not willing to put in the reps to master the draw cycle might find the Level III retention more of a hindrance than a help.

A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to provide a stable and secure platform for the Safariland 6360.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-84-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and performance. The price of $195 is justified by the quality of materials, the innovative design, and the peace of mind it provides. This holster is not just an accessory; it’s an investment in your safety and professional readiness.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone who needs a dependable and secure duty holster. It’s a tool that I trust my life with every day. If you are looking for a Level III retention holster that doesn’t compromise on speed or accessibility, the Safariland 6360 is the perfect choice.