What You Should Know About the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62
For anyone tasked with reliably carrying a firearm for professional duty or rigorous personal defense, the importance of a secure and accessible holster cannot be overstated. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62 is a critical piece of equipment, designed to offer a high level of weapon retention without compromising draw speed. This particular model promises Level III Retention, a significant benchmark for security in holster design.
My personal need for a robust holster arose after a rather unsettling incident where a standard duty holster allowed for excessive weapon play during a dynamic training exercise, highlighting the vulnerability of less secure systems. This prompted a deep dive into holsters offering enhanced retention. While I considered other manufacturers known for tactical gear, the reputation of Safariland for innovation in retention systems, particularly their ALS (Automatic Locking System), drew me towards this specific unit. My initial impression upon receiving this Safariland model was one of solid construction; the plain black finish felt durable, and the overall heft suggested quality materials.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing began at the range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills with a Beretta PX4 Storm .45 ACP, the specified firearm for this holster. The initial draw required a deliberate, but not overly complex, sequence of movements to disengage the retention devices. Re-holstering was smooth, with a satisfying audible click confirming the weapon was secured.
Throughout the session, I simulated various scenarios including rapid movement, drawing from seated positions, and drawing while under simulated stress. The holster remained stable on my duty belt, demonstrating excellent mid-ride belt loop functionality, keeping the firearm accessible without printing excessively. I did notice a slight learning curve in consistently disengaging all retention levels under intense pressure; however, this is a common characteristic of advanced retention holsters and is mitigated by consistent practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months of consistent use, including several extended range days and active training sessions, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of cracking, excessive wear on the internal retention mechanisms, or any degradation in the ALS Automatic Locking System. The Hood Guard has also held up admirably, providing crucial protection for the firearm’s sights and controls.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional light lubrication of the ALS mechanism keeps it functioning optimally. Compared to previous budget-oriented holsters I’ve used, this Safariland unit offers a vastly superior combination of security and access. The durability and consistent performance are well worth the investment for anyone prioritizing firearm security.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62 is engineered with several key specifications focused on security and usability. It boasts Level III Retention, meaning it requires three distinct actions to draw the firearm: disengaging the ALS thumb break, releasing the Hood Guard, and then performing the straight-up draw. For even higher security, it can be upgraded to Level IV Retention with optional Sentry installed.
The holster features the innovative ALS Automatic Locking System, which secures the weapon the moment it is holstered. The Hood Guard is a standard component, providing an additional layer of protection for the firearm’s rear sight and slide. The Slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, aiding in concealment and comfort. The mid-ride belt loop is designed for optimal balance between accessibility and security, compatible with a variety of duty belt widths. This model is specifically configured for a Left Hand draw and features a Plain Black finish, a popular choice for its professional and low-profile aesthetic.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any duty holster is to securely hold a firearm while allowing for a rapid and controlled draw. The Safariland 6360 excels in this regard, providing a level of security that instills confidence even during high-intensity activities. The ALS Automatic Locking System is incredibly effective; once the weapon is holstered, it is locked in place, preventing accidental disengagement or unauthorized access.
The strength of this holster lies in its multi-stage retention. While the Level III Retention system is robust, the draw sequence, involving the ALS and the Hood Guard, becomes incredibly fluid with practice. The straight-up draw motion is efficient, designed to minimize wasted movement. Its main weakness, if one can call it that, is the slight learning curve associated with mastering the rapid disengagement of both retention devices under stress, a factor common to all high-retention holsters. However, for its intended purpose, it meets and often exceeds expectations for security and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
Safariland’s design philosophy for duty gear is evident in the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62. The materials used are robust and appear designed for long-term use in demanding environments. The plain black finish is not just aesthetically pleasing but also durable, resisting scuffs and abrasions well.
Ergonomically, the holster is designed to integrate seamlessly with a duty belt. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm at a comfortable height for drawing, minimizing the need to reach too high or too low. The shape of the holster guides the firearm smoothly into place during re-holstering, and the ALS engages automatically. While there is no specific grip surface on the holster itself, the contours are shaped to provide a natural hand position for the draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The construction of this holster suggests exceptional durability for its intended use. The Kydex or similar high-strength polymer construction is inherently resistant to wear and tear. I have experienced no signs of cracking or structural compromise even after extensive use, including drops and impacts during training.
Maintenance is minimal and straightforward. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water, and an occasional application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism, will keep it performing at its peak. There are no complex parts to disassemble or delicate components that require specialized care. Potential failure points are exceptionally rare due to the robust design, making it a reliable choice for long-term deployment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62 comes with the Hood Guard pre-installed, a crucial component for its retention level. The product details also mention the availability of an optional Sentry, which can be added to convert the holster to Level IV Retention. This demonstrates Safariland’s commitment to modularity and allowing users to tailor their gear to specific security requirements.
While this specific model is configured with the UBL (Universal Belt Loop), other mounting options like drop-leg platforms or chest mounts are available from Safariland for different configurations. The design is also compatible with various firearm models within its specified fitment, such as the Beretta PX4 Storm .45 ACP, ensuring precise weapon retention. The availability of different finishes like Basket Weave and Hi-Gloss also provides aesthetic customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The combination of the ALS and Hood Guard provides robust security against weapon grabs.
- Reliable ALS System: The ALS Automatic Locking System securely holds the firearm upon holstering without the need for manual thumb snaps.
- Smooth, Controlled Draw: Once mastered, the straight-up draw is efficient and allows for quick weapon access.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-strength materials, it withstands rigorous use in various environments.
- Slim Profile: Designed to ride close to the body, aiding in concealed carry or reducing snag points on a duty belt.
- Ample Protection: The Hood Guard protects firearm sights and controls.
Cons
- Learning Curve for Draw: Mastering the two-step disengagement (ALS and Hood Guard) under stress takes practice.
- Slightly Bulkier Design: Compared to Level I or II retention holsters, the added retention mechanisms increase overall size.
- Specific Firearm Fitment: As with most duty holsters, it is designed for a specific firearm model and caliber, limiting versatility if weapon platforms change.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62?
This holster is ideally suited for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and any individual who requires a high level of firearm retention and security in their daily duties or training. Its robust design makes it perfect for environments where accidental weapon loss or unauthorized access is a significant concern. It’s an excellent choice for those carrying a Beretta PX4 Storm .45 ACP and prioritizing Level III Retention.
Individuals who prioritize maximum firearm security over absolute minimal draw time, or those who are willing to dedicate time to training for a rapid draw from a higher retention holster, will find this unit invaluable. Those looking for a simple, everyday carry holster for a different firearm, or who require only basic retention, might find this model to be overly complex. For optimal use, pairing this holster with a quality duty belt and regular practice with the draw and re-holstering sequence is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-185-62 stands as a testament to Safariland’s expertise in producing high-quality, secure firearm holsters. Its robust construction, reliable ALS Automatic Locking System, and effective Level III Retention make it a superior choice for professionals who demand the utmost security. While it presents a minor learning curve for the draw, the peace of mind it provides is well worth the effort.
Considering its performance, durability, and the critical security features it offers, the price point of $195.00 is justified for a piece of equipment that directly impacts officer safety and operational effectiveness. I would unequivocally recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional carrying a compatible firearm who needs a secure, dependable, and accessibly designed duty holster. For those who understand the importance of advanced retention, this Safariland model is an investment in both safety and confidence.