Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61 Review

The Good, the Bad & the Real of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61 is more than just a holster; it’s a security system for your sidearm. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a blend of speed and security vital for law enforcement and tactical professionals. This particular model features a plain black finish, right-hand orientation, and the popular Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) attachment.

For years, I wrestled with finding the perfect balance between accessibility and retention for my duty weapon. Many holsters offered one or the other, but rarely both in a package that felt intuitive and secure. The need for a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while allowing for a rapid draw in high-stress situations led me to the Safariland 6360.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360 immediately exudes quality. The sturdy construction, combined with the smooth action of the ALS, spoke volumes about its intended purpose. The plain black finish is professional and discreet, blending seamlessly with standard duty gear.

Compared to my previous holster, a basic Level II retention model from a lesser-known brand, the Safariland 6360 felt like a quantum leap. I also considered the Safariland 7378RDS, known for its compatibility with red dot sights, but ultimately chose the 6360 for its proven Level III retention and lower profile. Another option was the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster, but I found the release mechanism of the Serpa less intuitive than Safariland’s ALS.

My initial impression was one of confidence. The Safariland 6360 felt solid, secure, and well-designed. I knew this wasn’t just another piece of gear; this was a tool I could trust my life to.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland 6360 at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The Ride UBL positioned the holster perfectly, allowing for a natural grip and smooth draw stroke. Even under rapid repetitions, the ALS system engaged flawlessly, securing the weapon each time.

The holster performed admirably in varying conditions. I tested it during a particularly humid range day, and the holster remained functional and secure despite the moisture. While I didn’t have an opportunity to test it in freezing conditions immediately, I have used similar Safariland holsters in the past, and they held up well. Learning the draw motion with the ALS required some initial practice, but quickly became second nature.

After the first range session, I was impressed by the secure retention, but I found myself needing to adjust the tension screw to fine-tune the draw resistance to my preference.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use during training and field exercises, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minor scuff marks on the plain black finish, but the holster itself remains structurally sound. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, even after countless draws and re-holstering.

Maintenance is incredibly simple; I wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6360 significantly outperforms in terms of retention, durability, and overall reliability. It instills a greater sense of confidence knowing my weapon is secure, yet readily accessible when needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61 is designed for specific firearms, in this case, Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2 or sSL-1 weapon lights. It is a right-hand configuration with a plain black finish. The holster utilizes Level III Retention, achieved through a combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a hood guard.

The holster features the Ride UBL attachment, which positions the holster at a mid-ride height for optimal draw and comfort. The ALS engages automatically upon holstering, providing instant security. The hood guard adds an additional layer of retention, requiring a deliberate motion to disengage. The fit caters to the specified Smith & Wesson models with certain weapon lights, emphasizing the holster’s customized design for secure and reliable functionality.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to your sidearm. The ALS mechanism provides a tactile and audible confirmation of secure retention. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, thanks to the well-designed release mechanism and the optimal positioning provided by the Ride UBL.

While the Level III retention adds an extra step to the draw process, it is a worthwhile trade-off for the increased security it provides. The holster is incredibly reliable; I have yet to experience a malfunction or accidental release. It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional; the holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing excellent impact resistance. The plain black finish is professional and low-profile. The Ride UBL offers a comfortable and stable platform, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.

The ALS release lever is ergonomically positioned for easy access with the thumb, requiring minimal effort to disengage. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the Level III draw, but the design is intuitive, and the draw becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster requires minimal maintenance; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient.

With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including the Sentry hood guard, which adds an additional layer of security. The Ride UBL can also be swapped out for other Safariland belt attachments, allowing for customization of ride height and cant. While the holster is designed specifically for certain weapon lights, compatibility with other accessories may vary.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a high level of weapon retention without sacrificing accessibility. It is also well-suited for open carry situations where security is a paramount concern. Individuals using their firearm for home defense and who store their firearm in a holster could benefit from the added security.

This product might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention system. Individuals looking for a minimalist holster for range use might find this holster overkill. A simple Level I or Level II retention holster is better suited for these individuals.

A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure the holster is securely mounted and the weight of the firearm is distributed evenly.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-2192-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price of $207.00 is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and advanced retention features. Its a worthy investment for professionals who rely on their sidearm in high-risk situations.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone seeking a duty holster that provides the ultimate balance of security and accessibility. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with the Safariland 6360 today!