Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81 Review

This is What Happened When I Used the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone serious about duty carry and weapon retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement equipment, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a blend of security and accessibility. The basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism, while the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures a comfortable and stable carry.

As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent over a decade evaluating holsters. My primary focus is always on finding that sweet spot between rapid deployment and secure retention. I needed a duty holster that could withstand the rigors of daily carry while providing instant access to my sidearm in critical situations.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the holster’s robust construction. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III felt incredibly solid, and the basket weave finish gave it a professional, yet durable appearance. The retention mechanisms felt positive and secure, inspiring confidence from the get-go.

Compared to other Level III duty holsters I’ve used – like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 or the Bianchi Accumold Elite – the Safariland felt more intuitive in its draw stroke. The Blackhawk! sometimes felt clunky, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the positive lockup I was looking for. I chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III because of its reputation for reliability, the intuitive ALS system, and the added peace of mind offered by Level III retention.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios, but I also appreciated the initial attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. I knew that this holster had the potential to become my go-to duty rig.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III was the shooting range, followed by several days of training exercises simulating various tactical scenarios. I specifically wanted to assess its performance under pressure and in adverse conditions. The range environment was perfect for getting accustomed to the ALS release and practicing my draw stroke.

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III performed admirably in both dry and humid conditions. The ALS release remained consistent, and the firearm remained secure even during rigorous movement. The basket weave provided a secure grip, even with sweaty hands.

It took a few hours to completely acclimate to the ALS system, but the draw stroke quickly became second nature. The straight-up draw is efficient and repeatable, crucial for maintaining speed and accuracy in high-stress situations. After several practice draws, the holster felt like an extension of my arm.

The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the ALS release, which disappeared after a few days of use. Overall, the first use experience was overwhelmingly positive, exceeding my expectations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III continues to impress. It has proven to be exceptionally durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear, even after constant exposure to the elements. The robust construction and high-quality materials have held up remarkably well.

There are only minor scuff marks on the basket weave finish, but the retention mechanisms remain as tight and reliable as day one. The ALS system continues to operate smoothly and consistently.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps the holster clean. A few drops of silicone lubricant on the ALS mechanism ensure smooth operation. Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III requires minimal maintenance.

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III outperforms any other Level III holster I’ve tested. The combination of security, accessibility, and durability is unmatched. The comfortable ride UBL makes extended wear a breeze.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81

Specifications

• Retention Level: Level III – This provides a high level of security, essential for duty carry.
• Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System) – This secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, enhancing safety and preventing unauthorized access.
• Material: SafariSeven™ Nylon Blend – This provides exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture.
• Finish/Color: Basket Black – This offers a professional appearance suitable for duty use.
• Hand: Right Hand – Designed specifically for right-handed users.
• Mount: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) – This allows for comfortable mid-ride carry and easy attachment to various duty belts.
• Hood Guard: Included – This provides an additional layer of security and helps prevent unauthorized access to the weapon.
• Compatibility: Sig Sauer – LAS-TAC 2, P220R/P226R W/ ITI M3 Light W/ Accessory Rails TLR-1, SureFire X200 – Ensures compatibility with specific Sig Sauer models equipped with weapon lights.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The Level III retention and ALS ensure weapon security, while the SafariSeven™ material guarantees durability. The compatibility with Sig Sauer pistols with lights ensures a proper fit and reliable operation.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing a secure lockup. The straight-up draw is fast and intuitive, allowing for rapid target acquisition.

The holster’s strengths include its robust retention, rapid deployment capability, and comfortable carry. A minor weakness is the initial learning curve with the ALS release, but this quickly diminishes with practice. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III boasts a slim, compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. The basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism and improves grip. The Ride UBL provides a comfortable mid-ride carry position.

The holster is exceptionally user-friendly after a short familiarization period. The ALS release is intuitively located and easy to manipulate. The design is well-thought-out, prioritizing both security and accessibility.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last, constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend. The material resists scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, facilitating thorough cleaning and inspection. The robust construction and minimal maintenance requirements make the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III an excellent long-term investment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard for added security. An optional Sentry is available for even higher levels of retention. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds.

The compatibility with Safariland accessories allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. Aftermarket accessories, such as weapon lights and lasers, can also be accommodated, further enhancing the holster’s versatility. The ability to customize the holster ensures a tailored fit and optimal performance.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and rapid deployment. It’s also well-suited for tactical trainers who demand reliability and durability from their gear.

Someone who doesn’t require Level III retention or who prefers a minimalist holster design should skip this product. This holster is built for serious duty carry and might be overkill for casual shooters or concealed carry enthusiasts. A good option would be a simple pancake-style holster for the range, or an IWB (Inside Waistband) holster for concealed carry.

A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster. Consider the Safariland ELS system for added modularity and accessory attachment. A weapon light compatible with the holster is another essential addition.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-7742-81

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster is an outstanding piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of security, accessibility, and durability. It’s a reliable and well-designed duty holster that offers peace of mind and confidence in demanding situations.

The price of $209.99 is justified by the holster’s superior build quality, advanced retention system, and overall performance. It’s an investment in personal safety and professional readiness. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is a must-have for anyone who takes their duty carry seriously.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III. If you’re looking for a Level III duty holster that combines security, accessibility, and durability, look no further. Equip yourself with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III and experience the difference.