One Month Later: Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81 Review
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. It blends Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III Retention, offering a secure and reliable carry solution. The ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the firearm for a comfortable and efficient draw, while the basket weave finish provides a classic, professional look.
I needed a holster that offered maximum retention without sacrificing speed and ease of access. My previous holster, a Level II retention model, didn’t provide the peace of mind I wanted in high-risk situations. The Safariland 6360 seemed like the perfect upgrade, balancing security with a smooth draw.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6360 is impressive. The basket weave finish is clean and consistent, and the holster feels incredibly robust. The ALS system operates smoothly, and the firearm locks into place with a reassuring click.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 series. The Blackhawk! Serpa, while popular, utilizes a trigger finger release, which I personally find less safe than the thumb-activated ALS system. The Bianchi, while durable, lacks the refined feel and retention capabilities of the Safariland 6360.
My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a touch of intimidation. The Level III retention seemed complex at first, but after a few practice draws, I quickly gained confidence. This holster felt like a serious piece of gear, ready for serious duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training day. The range included various drills, such as drawing from concealment, shooting on the move, and engaging multiple targets. The holster performed admirably in all scenarios.
The Safariland 6360 was exposed to light rain and moderate temperatures (around 60°F). The ALS system remained functional, and the UBL maintained a secure grip on my duty belt. Even with slightly damp hands, I was able to establish a solid purchase on the firearm and execute a smooth draw.
The Safariland 6360 required a short adjustment period. Releasing the ALS and hood guard simultaneously took some practice, but after about an hour of dry-fire drills, it became second nature. The UBL’s mid-ride position also felt slightly different than my previous holster, but I quickly adapted.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight “stickiness” when re-holstering the firearm. This was easily resolved by applying a small amount of silicone lubricant to the interior of the holster. Other than that, the first use was seamless and confidence-inspiring.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a month of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 continues to impress. I’ve worn it daily during training, range sessions, and even some low-profile security details. The holster shows no signs of weakening or malfunction.
The basket weave finish has held up remarkably well to everyday wear and tear. There are a few minor scuffs, but the holster still looks professional and presentable. The ALS system operates just as smoothly as it did on day one, and the UBL remains firmly attached to my belt.
Maintenance is straightforward. I periodically wipe down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Every couple of weeks, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 is in a different league. The Level III retention provides significantly more security, and the ALS system allows for a faster, more intuitive draw. This holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81 boasts several key specifications. It features Level III Retention for maximum security. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon automatically upon holstering.
The holster comes with a Hood Guard as standard. It is designed for a Sig Sauer P2022. It’s configured for Right Hand draw.
The holster features a Basket Weave finish for a professional appearance. It includes the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable mid-ride carry. The slim, compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body.
These specifications translate to enhanced safety, comfort, and accessibility. The Level III retention prevents unauthorized access to the firearm. The ALS allows for a rapid, intuitive draw under stress.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The Level III retention adds an extra layer of security, deterring attempted weapon grabs.
The holster’s strengths lie in its balance of security and speed. The ALS allows for a surprisingly fast draw despite the Level III retention. The UBL positions the firearm for a comfortable and efficient grip.
One area for potential improvement is the stiffness of the hood guard release. While effective, it requires a deliberate motion that could be slightly faster with a redesigned mechanism. Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 features a durable, well-constructed design. The materials are high-quality, and the holster feels solid and robust. The slim profile prevents excessive bulkiness, and the UBL distributes weight evenly.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the Level III retention system. The ALS release is intuitive, and the draw stroke is smooth and natural. The Basket Weave finish adds a professional touch.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the construction is solid and reliable. With proper care, this holster should provide years of dependable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required to keep the holster in top condition. The robust design ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories. The optional Sentry enhances security. Different UBL heights and angles can be used.
Many users replace the standard hood guard with a Hood Guard/Sentry combination for added protection. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Offers maximum security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Fast and Intuitive ALS Draw: Allows for a rapid, efficient draw despite the high level of retention.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty and harsh environments.
- Comfortable Ride: The UBL positions the firearm for a comfortable and ergonomic carry.
- Professional Appearance: The basket weave finish provides a classic, professional look.
Cons
- Stiffness of Hood Guard Release: The hood guard release mechanism could be slightly smoother and faster.
- Price Point: The Safariland 6360 is more expensive than some other duty holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters who prioritize security and a fast draw.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize comfort over security. If you’re looking for a simple, low-profile holster for concealed carry, there are better options available.
A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt designed to support the weight of a firearm and holster. Some users may also benefit from replacing the standard hood guard with a Hood Guard/Sentry combination for added security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-278-81 is an excellent duty holster that balances security, speed, and durability. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment.
The price is justified by the holster’s superior level of retention, fast draw, and robust construction. The Safariland 6360 is a professional-grade piece of equipment designed to perform reliably under pressure.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone who needs a secure and dependable duty holster. If you’re serious about your safety and the security of your firearm, this is the holster for you. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference.