What’s Special About the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a complete duty-carry solution designed for left-handed law enforcement and security professionals. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the industry, this holster combines Level III retention with a comfortable ride, making it a secure and practical choice for everyday carry. It’s built to provide quick access to your firearm while maintaining the highest level of security.
I needed a holster that offered both speed and superior retention. My previous holster, a simple Level II, felt inadequate after a close call during a foot pursuit. I wanted something that would keep my sidearm secure under stress, but wouldn’t slow me down when I needed to draw.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62, I immediately noticed the robust construction. The STX finish felt durable, and the molded design was clearly tailored to the Heckler & Koch USP 9C. The weight felt appropriate for a duty holster; substantial enough to inspire confidence, but not so heavy that it would become a burden throughout a long shift.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 Duty Holster. The Blackhawk! felt less intuitive in its release mechanism, while the Bianchi lacked the same level of active retention as the Safariland. The Safariland offered a better balance of security, speed, and comfort.
My first impression was one of relief. This holster felt like a serious piece of equipment, designed for serious situations. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the shooting range, where I focused on draw speed and re-holstering under pressure. I incorporated the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 into my regular training drills, including timed draws and simulated combat scenarios. The holster was also tested during various range sessions with varying weather conditions.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) proved incredibly intuitive, releasing smoothly with a natural thumb movement. Even with gloved hands, the mechanism functioned flawlessly. I did notice a slight learning curve with the Level III hood, requiring a deliberate downward swipe to disengage, but quickly adapted with practice.
After the first range session, I found the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) to be exceptionally comfortable. The mid-ride position kept the firearm accessible without digging into my side during movement. No major issues presented themselves, but I was aware that the true test would come with extended use in demanding conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 has held up remarkably well. The STX finish shows minimal wear, even after repeated contact with gear and equipment. The retention mechanism remains tight and secure, with no degradation in performance.
The holster has been exposed to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures without any negative impact on its functionality. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The holster’s interior has not exhibited any unusual wear or finish transfer onto the USP 9C’s slide.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 offers a significantly higher level of confidence and security. The added retention features provide peace of mind, especially during strenuous activities or confrontations. The Ride UBL system enhances comfort and allows for a more natural draw stroke, improving overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is designed specifically for the left-handed shooter using a Heckler & Koch USP 9C. It features Level III Retention, achieved through the combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood. The holster’s finish is Plain Black STX, offering a durable and professional appearance.
The ALS engages automatically upon holstering the weapon, securing it until intentionally released by the thumb. The rotating hood adds an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The Ride UBL allows for a mid-ride carry position, optimizing comfort and draw speed.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the holster’s security, accessibility, and comfort. Level III retention is essential for law enforcement, minimizing the risk of weapon takeaways. The ALS provides a fast and intuitive draw, while the Ride UBL ensures all-day comfort, even with a full duty belt.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides a smooth and reliable draw stroke, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition. The Level III retention gives confidence in high-risk environments.
The primary strength is its balance of security and speed. The holster retains the weapon securely, even during rigorous activity, yet allows for a rapid draw when needed. The only minor weakness is the slight learning curve associated with disengaging the rotating hood, which is easily overcome with practice.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. The quality of construction, the reliability of the retention system, and the overall comfort of the Ride UBL make it a top-tier choice for law enforcement professionals.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is designed with the user in mind. The molded construction provides a secure and precise fit for the Heckler & Koch USP 9C. The weight is well-balanced, distributing the load evenly across the duty belt.
The holster is remarkably user-friendly, with an intuitive draw stroke and easily accessible release mechanisms. The Ride UBL positions the firearm at a comfortable height, promoting a natural and efficient draw. Minimal training is required to master the use of the ALS and the rotating hood.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The STX finish is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and weather damage. The robust construction ensures that the holster will maintain its shape and functionality over time.
Maintenance is minimal; the holster can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism is recommended to ensure smooth operation. The holster’s durable design and easy maintenance contribute to its longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 comes standard with the Ride UBL and a hood guard. Safariland offers various accessories to customize the holster further, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and light mounts. The Sentry device adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing users to tailor the holster to their specific needs. While designed primarily for the Heckler & Koch USP 9C, the modular design allows for some compatibility with other similar-sized firearms, though fit and retention may vary.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62
Pros
- Provides Level III Retention, ensuring a high degree of weapon security.
- Features an ALS (Automatic Locking System), offering a fast and intuitive draw.
- Includes a Ride UBL, promoting comfort and optimal draw stroke.
- Constructed with a durable STX finish, resisting wear and tear.
- Designed specifically for the Heckler & Koch USP 9C, ensuring a precise fit.
Cons
- The rotating hood requires a slight learning curve to disengage smoothly.
- Higher price point compared to Level II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is perfect for left-handed law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It is also suitable for concealed carriers who prioritize security and are willing to invest in a top-quality holster. This is great for anyone who requires a solid holster and doesn’t want to worry about printing.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prefer a minimalist holster. It could also be overkill for individuals who do not require Level III retention for their specific needs. A Level II holster would likely be sufficient.
A must-have accessory would be the Sentry device, which adds an additional layer of security to prevent unauthorized weapon removal. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also recommended to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and comfort. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified by the superior quality of construction and the enhanced level of protection it provides. The added confidence boost is often worth the expense.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any left-handed professional who carries a Heckler & Koch USP 9C and requires a Level III retention system. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-291-62 is a must-have. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is secure and readily accessible.