Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster Review

The Most Honest Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster Review Online

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that you take your firearm and your safety seriously. Safariland has built a reputation on providing law enforcement and military personnel with reliable and robust holsters, and the 6360 is a prime example of that legacy. This holster boasts the ALS (Automatic Locking System), Level II retention, and the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve spent years searching for the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. My primary need was a holster that would provide superior retention in dynamic environments while still allowing for a smooth and rapid draw. Having used several Level I and Level II retention holsters in the past, I was looking for something that offered a significant upgrade in both security and speed.

Out of the box, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster felt incredibly solid. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt rugged, and the overall construction inspired confidence. I had been considering a Bladetech holster and a Raven Concealment Systems option, but I ultimately chose the Safariland for its proven track record within law enforcement and the perceived increase in retention with the ALS system.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It felt different from the leather and Kydex holsters I was accustomed to. The unique locking mechanism sparked my curiosity; could it live up to the hype and provide the security I was after?

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster was at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical training course. The weather was typical for late spring – sunny with a slight breeze, but the dry, dusty conditions of the range would prove a good test. The course involved a lot of movement, including running, kneeling, and drawing from various positions.

The ALS system performed flawlessly, keeping my firearm securely in place during all the drills. Despite the dust and grit, the locking mechanism remained smooth and responsive. I did need some initial time to adjust to the thumb release, but after a few practice draws, it became second nature.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight bit of chafing from the UBL against my hip during prolonged movement. This was easily remedied with a slight adjustment of my belt and the addition of a thin undershirt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster has proven its worth. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven™ nylon blend despite consistent exposure to the elements and rigorous training sessions. Cleaning the holster is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster significantly outperforms them in terms of retention and durability. Its robust construction gives me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster

Specifications

• The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster is designed specifically for duty use. This means it prioritizes retention, durability, and ease of access under stress.
• It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) which secures the firearm upon holstering. The system requires only a thumb release to disengage.
• The holster is constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary nylon material that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions. This ensures the holster maintains its shape and functionality in extreme conditions.
• It utilizes the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), allowing for multiple carry positions and compatibility with various belt sizes. This provides enhanced comfort and stability on the user’s belt.
• The listed model is designed for a Colt with a 5-inch barrel. Ensure the holster model matches the specific firearm for proper fit and function.
• This holster is available in Black with a Basketweave finish, providing a professional and low-profile appearance.
• The holster is designated for the Left hand. Choosing the correct hand orientation is critical for safe and efficient operation.
• The retention level is Level II, indicating that it features two independent retention devices. This provides a higher level of security compared to Level I holsters.

These specifications are essential for understanding the holster’s intended use and its capabilities. The materials, retention level, and carry options all contribute to the overall performance and suitability for specific applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a quick and reliable draw. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and provides a positive engagement, ensuring the firearm stays in place until needed.

The Level II retention offers a significant degree of security, making it ideal for open carry or duty situations where the potential for weapon retention is a concern. One weakness is that the initial learning curve for the thumb release can be slightly longer compared to simpler retention systems.

Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations in terms of security, speed, and reliability. It’s a tool that inspires confidence in high-stress situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend provides a robust and weather-resistant platform. The holster’s weight is balanced, contributing to a comfortable carry.

The ergonomic design allows for a natural grip and draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but with practice, it becomes seamless.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster is built to last. With proper care, it should withstand years of regular use.

Maintaining the holster is simple; a regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient. This minimal maintenance ensures reliable performance over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options.

While there are no readily available third-party modifications specifically for the ALS mechanism, the holster itself is compatible with most standard-sized firearms within its designated model. Ensure any accessories or modifications do not interfere with the safe and reliable operation of the ALS system.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level II Plus w/ Ride UBL Holster