Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 Review

My Experience with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62: Here’s the Truth

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel who require a high level of weapon retention. As someone who has spent years working in tactical environments, I understand the importance of a secure and reliable holster, especially when carrying a firearm in potentially dangerous situations. This holster combines Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a robust security solution without sacrificing speed and ease of draw.

I initially sought out this holster because I needed a Level III retention system that was also compatible with my Springfield XD 9mm. My previous holster, while comfortable, lacked the security required for my current role, and I needed something that would prevent unauthorized access to my firearm while still allowing for a smooth and efficient draw when needed. Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and clean design.

Compared to similar holsters from BlackHawk and Alien Gear, the Safariland felt significantly more robust. I chose the Safariland over the BlackHawk due to its superior reputation for durability and the more intuitive design of the ALS system compared to BlackHawk’s SERPA. It also seemed a more appropriate professional choice than the more modular, but less duty-oriented, Alien Gear offerings. My first impression was a mix of excitement and reassurance, knowing I had invested in a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 was at the shooting range during a firearms qualification session. The weather was moderately humid, and I was conducting various drills involving drawing and re-holstering my Springfield XD 9mm. The ALS system initially took a little getting used to, but after a few repetitions, the draw stroke became smooth and instinctive.

The holster performed exceptionally well, maintaining a secure grip on my weapon while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. Even with sweaty hands, the holster’s grip remained firm, and the ALS system never faltered. The only minor issue was the initial stiffness of the hood guard, which required some breaking-in to operate smoothly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in a variety of conditions, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 has proven to be exceptionally reliable and durable. I’ve used it in rain, extreme heat, and dusty environments, and it has consistently performed without any malfunctions. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight scuffing on the exterior finish.

Maintaining the holster is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous holster, which required frequent adjustments and repairs, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability. It outperforms previous retention holsters I’ve used from Bianchi and Uncle Mike’s, especially in its long-term durability and consistent draw.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users and features a plain black finish. It incorporates Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon once holstered. This holster boasts Level III Retention, and with the optional Sentry installed, it can be upgraded to an even higher level of security.

• Category: Als Holsters
• Finish/Color: Plain Black
• Fits: Springfield Armory – .357, .40, .45, XD 9mm
• Type: Left Hand

These specifications ensure compatibility with specific firearms and cater to left-handed users. The plain black finish is ideal for a professional appearance and minimizes visibility. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster in a mid-ride configuration, providing a comfortable and ergonomic draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive locking mechanism that prevents unauthorized removal of the weapon. The Level III retention adds an additional layer of security, requiring deliberate manipulation of the hood guard to release the firearm.

The holster’s design allows for a smooth, straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated. Its strengths lie in its robust security, ease of use (once mastered), and durable construction. A potential weakness is the initial learning curve for the ALS system, particularly for those unfamiliar with Safariland holsters. It more than meets expectations as a duty holster and provides the necessary security and reliability for law enforcement professionals.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and solid construction that can withstand the rigors of daily duty. The holster is relatively lightweight, minimizing added bulk and discomfort.

The Ride UBL provides a comfortable and ergonomic fit, positioning the holster at an optimal height for drawing. The ALS release is easily accessible and intuitive once the user becomes accustomed to its operation. While there is a slight learning curve, the holster is generally user-friendly and well-designed for its intended purpose.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. It can withstand extreme conditions and heavy use without showing significant wear and tear. The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. It is designed for duty use and its construction reflects the expectations of a long service life under harsh conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 includes a hood guard as standard. An optional Sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security.

The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. Although specifically designed for the Springfield XD 9mm, its modular design means it is likely compatible with other firearms with similar dimensions, albeit without the same level of perfect fit.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention in a duty setting. It is especially well-suited for those who carry a Springfield XD 9mm and prefer a left-handed holster.

Those who should skip this product include individuals seeking a concealed carry holster or those who prioritize simplicity over maximum security. A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which adds an extra layer of retention.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon retention, durability, and functionality. While the price of $195.00 may seem high, it is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and proven reliability of the Safariland brand. I would personally recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who needs a secure and dependable way to carry their firearm.

If you are looking for a Level III retention holster that can withstand the demands of daily duty and provide a smooth, efficient draw, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-149-62 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and peace of mind by choosing a holster that you can rely on in any situation.