The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61: Final Thoughts from Me
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 represents a significant step up in duty holster technology. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and tactical gear. This holster combines their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a secure and reliable platform for carrying a sidearm.
Years in law enforcement taught me the importance of a dependable holster. I had recurring issues with other holsters failing during training exercises, so I needed an upgrade. The sleek design, combined with the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ride, promised a comfortable and accessible carry, which initially drew me to the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61.
Unboxing it, I immediately noted the robust construction and quality of the materials. The plain black finish provides a professional and understated appearance. The holster felt substantial, yet surprisingly lightweight, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand daily use.
Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa and Safariland‘s own 7TS series, the 6360 offered a more streamlined design with a focus on retention. I wanted a holster that minimized the risk of accidental weapon release while maintaining a smooth and intuitive draw stroke, pushing me towards the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61. My initial reaction was excitement. This holster appeared ready to meet the demands of duty carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I field-tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 extensively at the shooting range and during several scenario-based training exercises. This involved both dry-fire drills and live-fire sessions in diverse conditions. Testing occurred in sunny, rainy, and dusty environments.
The ALS system performed flawlessly. The weapon remained securely holstered until intentionally released, even during rigorous movement and simulated grappling. I found the release mechanism intuitive and easy to activate with a gloved hand, facilitating a smooth and fast draw.
Initially, I needed a short adjustment period to familiarize myself with the ALS release motion. There were no significant issues, only a minor need to adjust my grip to consistently deactivate the locking mechanism during a draw. I was impressed with the holster’s security and the ease with which I could adapt to its operation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear, primarily minor scuff marks on the exterior finish from contact with gear. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably, demonstrating the holster’s high-quality construction.
Maintenance has been straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is sufficient to keep it in optimal working condition. It definitely outperformed my previous holster which required constant tension adjustments and repairs.
In comparison to past holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 has significantly exceeded my expectations in terms of security, durability, and ease of use. This holster provides peace of mind knowing my firearm is secure and readily accessible when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 is a Level III retention holster designed for duty carry. It features Safariland‘s proprietary Automatic Locking System (ALS) and includes a hood guard for added security. The specific model, 6360-149-61, is configured for right-handed users and compatible with various Springfield Armory models, including .357, .40, .45, and XD 9mm pistols.
The holster has a plain black finish for a professional look and utilizes a mid-ride belt loop (Ride UBL) for comfortable carry. The ALS activates automatically when the weapon is holstered, and the hood guard further prevents unauthorized removal. These features are vital for ensuring the firearm remains secure in high-stress situations and that a consistent draw can be achieved under pressure.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides reliable retention, while the hood guard adds an additional layer of security without impeding a fast draw. The mid-ride UBL positions the weapon for easy access.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. I found the draw stroke to be smooth and consistent after a short training period. A potential weakness is that some users may find the Level III retention system requires more practice than simpler Level II designs.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 meets and even exceeds expectations. It offers a high level of security and reliability, making it a superior choice for duty carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 boasts a slim and compact design. This allows the weapon to ride close to the body. It improves comfort and minimizes printing when wearing concealed clothing.
The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend, offering excellent resistance to impact, abrasion, and extreme temperatures. The UBL provides a comfortable mid-ride height, and most will find the ergonomics to be user-friendly after a short familiarization period.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 is built to last. Regular use has shown minimal wear, indicating excellent long-term durability. Maintenance is simple.
It requires only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. This makes it easy to maintain its reliable functionality over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 includes a hood guard, which provides an additional layer of security. Safariland offers an optional sentry device that can be installed for even greater retention.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt attachments and accessories. Many users customize their setups with different UBL options or leg shrouds. The ALS system itself is also available in different configurations, allowing for some degree of personalization to suit individual preferences and operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61
Pros
- Level III Retention: Offers exceptional security, reducing the risk of unauthorized firearm removal.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Provides intuitive and reliable weapon retention.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials that withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
- Ride UBL: Positions the weapon for a comfortable and accessible draw stroke.
- Professional Appearance: Plain black finish presents a clean and understated profile for duty carry.
Cons
- Level III Retention Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the draw stroke, especially under stress.
- Potential for Accidental Locking: Incorrect thumb placement during re-holstering can inadvertently activate the ALS.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of firearm retention in a duty setting. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who value a secure and reliable holster with a consistent draw.
This is not the best option for casual shooters or those primarily focused on concealed carry where a lower profile and simpler retention system might be preferable. A must-have accessory is a dedicated training regimen to master the ALS release. Some users may also benefit from additional Safariland accessories like leg shrouds or alternative belt attachments to customize the fit and carry position.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 is an outstanding duty holster that balances security, durability, and accessibility. Its Level III retention system provides peace of mind, while its ergonomic design allows for a smooth and consistent draw stroke.
At $199.99, the price is justified by its superior performance and build quality. This holster is an investment in safety and reliability. I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-149-61 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster.
If you need a dependable holster that you can count on, then this is worth checking out today!