My Verdict on the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement, military, and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Safariland has built a reputation for producing some of the most reliable and trusted holsters in the industry, and the 6360 lives up to that legacy. Its combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and Level III retention provides peace of mind knowing your firearm is secure, while the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offers a comfortable and customizable fit.
I sought out the Safariland 6360 after an incident where a colleague’s less-secure holster resulted in his sidearm being dislodged during a foot pursuit. I needed a holster that offered exceptional retention, but also allowed for a smooth and rapid draw when needed. Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction and the quality of the materials. The plain black finish is professional and understated, and the holster feels solid and well-made in hand.
Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, the Safariland 6360 stood out due to its intuitive ALS system and the comfortable ride height provided by the UBL. I chose the Safariland because I valued its proven track record in law enforcement and the positive reviews from other professionals. My initial impression was one of excitement and confidence; I felt like I was equipping myself with a holster that could genuinely make a difference in a critical situation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The exercise simulated various scenarios, including foot pursuits, grappling, and rapid weapon deployment. The holster performed exceptionally well under pressure, securely retaining my Smith & Wesson M&P while allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke.
During the exercise, it began to rain, creating slippery conditions. The Safariland 6360 maintained its grip and retention, even with wet hands and clothing. I quickly became accustomed to the ALS release mechanism and found it to be intuitive and reliable, even under stress. There were no issues or surprises during this initial testing phase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use during training and on duty, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The holster is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, and the ALS mechanism requires minimal maintenance.
Compared to other duty holsters I have used in the past, the Safariland 6360 significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed, and comfort. The holster’s secure fit and adjustable UBL provide a stable and comfortable carry, even during extended periods of activity. The Safariland 6360 exceeds expectations, solidifying its place as my preferred duty holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61 is specifically designed for right-handed users and fits the Smith & Wesson M&P pistol. It features Level III Retention, incorporating the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a hood guard for enhanced security. The holster is constructed from a durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing excellent resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion.
The Ride UBL allows for a mid-ride carry position, offering a comfortable and ergonomic draw. The plain black finish provides a professional and low-profile appearance. These specifications are crucial for duty use, as they ensure a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm, while also providing a comfortable and accessible draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable platform for carrying a sidearm. The ALS system automatically engages upon holstering, providing immediate retention. The hood guard adds an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid weapon deployment in critical situations. One minor point of improvement could be a slightly more aggressive texture on the ALS release lever for enhanced grip in wet conditions. Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations, making it an excellent choice for law enforcement, military, and security professionals.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials, providing excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. The Ride UBL offers a comfortable and adjustable fit, accommodating a variety of belt sizes.
The ALS release mechanism is intuitive and easy to use, requiring minimal training. There is a slight learning curve associated with deactivating the retention devices under stress, but with practice, it becomes second nature. The Safariland 6360 is well-designed and ergonomic, making it a comfortable and user-friendly duty holster.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last, with a rugged construction and high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to heat, cold, abrasion, and chemicals, ensuring that the holster will hold up in harsh environments.
The holster is easy to clean and maintain with a damp cloth and mild soap. The ALS mechanism requires occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation. With proper care and maintenance, the Safariland 6360 can provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 includes an installed hood guard for enhanced retention. An optional Sentry device can be installed to provide an even higher level of security. The Ride UBL is compatible with other Safariland mounting options, allowing for customization of ride height and cant.
The holster is also compatible with a variety of weapon lights and lasers, providing increased versatility. The Safariland 6360 offers a range of accessories and customization options, allowing users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS and hood guard provide a secure and reliable retention system, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Smooth and Rapid Draw: The ALS release mechanism allows for a smooth and consistent draw stroke, enabling rapid weapon deployment.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to heat, cold, abrasion, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Ride Height: The Ride UBL offers a comfortable and ergonomic carry position, even during extended periods of activity.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish provides a professional and low-profile look.
Cons
- Learning Curve: There is a slight learning curve associated with deactivating the retention devices under stress.
- Price: The Safariland 6360 is more expensive than some other duty holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. It’s ideal for those working in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. This holster is also a great choice for individuals who participate in tactical training or competitive shooting events.
This product may not be ideal for casual concealed carriers who prioritize a minimalist design or those on a very tight budget. Those who prefer a higher ride or lower ride holster system should also seek other products. A must-have accessory for the Safariland 6360 is a reliable duty belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-219-61 is an outstanding duty holster that offers a winning combination of security, reliability, and comfort. While the price may be higher than some other options, the value is justified by the holster’s exceptional performance and durability. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone who demands the best in weapon retention and carry comfort.
If you are looking for a duty holster that will provide you with peace of mind and a reliable platform for your firearm, then the Safariland 6360 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with the Safariland 6360 today!