Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071 Review

First Impressions of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071

As someone who has spent over a decade relying on gear in some of the most demanding environments – from dusty workshop floors to unforgiving field conditions – I approach new equipment with a healthy dose of skepticism and a keen eye for detail. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071 arrived at a time when I was reassessing my personal protection setup. My previous holster, while functional, lacked the robust retention features I increasingly felt were necessary for my line of work, prompting a search for something more secure.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The Cordovan Basketweave finish lent a professional, almost traditional aesthetic, which was a departure from the stark, utilitarian look of some tactical gear. It felt substantial in the hand, hinting at the durable materials used without being overly bulky. I had considered other brands known for their duty-grade holsters, but Safariland’s reputation for ruggedness and their ALS system specifically drew me in. My first reaction was one of confident expectation; this unit felt like it was built to last and perform.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this Safariland holster took place on the range and during routine daily carry. The primary goal was to assess its security, ease of draw, and overall comfort when paired with my Springfield Armory XD. Inserting the firearm for the first time felt secure, with a satisfying click as the ALS mechanism engaged. The draw stroke required a deliberate sequence of actions—disengaging the thumb release while simultaneously pulling upward—which felt deliberate and secure, exactly what one expects from a Level III retention holster.

Even with the initial learning curve of mastering the ALS and the hood release, the process became intuitive within a few practice draws. The mid-ride UBL system kept the firearm comfortably accessible without impeding movement, and the Cordovan Basketweave finish, while aesthetically pleasing, also provided a good grip surface against my clothing. I experienced no issues with dust or minor moisture, as the holster’s design inherently protects the firearm’s critical components.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent daily wear and frequent range sessions, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster has proven itself to be exceptionally reliable. The constant engagement and disengagement of the ALS system, along with the securing of the hood, has shown no signs of wear or degradation. The Cordovan Basketweave finish, while showing minor scuffs from incidental contact, remains intact and still presents a professional appearance.

Durability is clearly a strong suit; there are no cracks, no loosening of components, and the retention mechanisms remain as firm as day one. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of occasional cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap to remove dust and debris, which is straightforward given the holster’s robust construction. Compared to previous, less secure holsters I’ve used, this Safariland unit significantly outperforms them in terms of longevity and consistent retention, even when subjected to rigorous activity.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071

Specifications

This Safariland holster boasts Level III Retention, meaning it has three distinct security measures to prevent unauthorized firearm access. It can even be upgraded to Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed, which is a significant security upgrade for critical environments. The core of its security lies in the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which positively locks the weapon in all directions once holstered.

This system ensures that the firearm remains secure until the user intentionally deactivates the lock. The holster also comes standard with a Hood Guard, providing an additional layer of protection against the firearm being grabbed. Its slim, compact design is crucial for allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during extended wear. The mid-ride belt loop offers a balanced position for draw and retention.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster is to securely house a firearm while allowing for a quick, controlled draw. It excels at this. The ALS mechanism is robust, requiring a deliberate thumb press to release, making accidental disengagement highly improbable. The hood release is equally secure yet accessible with a practiced motion.

The draw from this unit is exceptionally smooth once all releases are deactivated; it’s a simple, straight-up pull. This ensures that in a high-stress situation, the draw is efficient and unimpeded. The holster’s Level III Retention offers superior security over simpler designs, which is a critical advantage for duty or personal defense applications.

Design & Ergonomics

Safariland has clearly put significant thought into the design of this duty holster. The Cordovan Basketweave finish, while traditional, is applied to a durable polymer that feels substantial and well-molded. The fit for the Springfield Armory XD series is precise, with no excessive play or looseness, which is paramount for reliable retention.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride UBL is a key feature. It positions the firearm at a comfortable height for drawing, striking a good balance between accessibility and concealment beneath a cover garment. The contours of the holster are smooth, minimizing potential snag points on clothing.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from robust, injection-molded polymer, this Safariland holster is built for longevity. I’ve subjected it to routine bumps and scrapes without any adverse effects on its structural integrity or retention capabilities. The materials resist abrasion and are non-reflective, which is beneficial in professional settings.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a soft brush is usually sufficient to keep it clean. For deeper cleaning, mild soap and water work effectively. The design inherently repels dirt and debris, requiring minimal upkeep to maintain peak performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster comes equipped with an installed Hood Guard and the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system, designed for 2″ belts. Safariland offers various accessory options to enhance security and functionality. These include the optional Sentry, which can be added to the ALS mechanism to provide Level IV Retention.

While this particular model is set up for the Springfield Armory XD, Safariland offers a vast array of holsters for different firearm models. The UBL is also adaptable to various mounting platforms, allowing for further customization of how the holster is worn.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071?

This Safariland holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible civilians who require maximum firearm retention. Anyone prioritizing security and peace of mind over a faster, simpler draw will find this unit invaluable. It’s ideal for individuals who need to carry concealed or openly in environments where accidental firearm exposure or disarming is a significant concern.

Those who prioritize speed above all else in a draw, or who have limited hand strength and dexterity, might find the multi-stage release challenging without dedicated practice. For general range use where retention is less critical, simpler holsters might suffice. However, for duty or high-risk personal carry, this model is highly recommended.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6360-148-071 stands as a testament to Safariland’s commitment to providing top-tier security and reliable performance. Its robust Level III Retention system, combined with a comfortable and functional design, makes it an outstanding choice for professionals and those who demand the highest level of firearm security. While it requires a deliberate draw stroke, the confidence it instills in knowing your firearm is securely retained is well worth the investment and practice.

Considering its exceptional durability, flawless functionality, and the peace of mind it provides, the price of $195.00 is justified for the security it offers. I would unequivocally recommend this holster to anyone prioritizing steadfast retention and quality construction for their Springfield Armory XD firearm. It’s not just a holster; it’s a critical piece of equipment built for reliability.