Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61 Review

My Real Take on the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61 isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a commitment to security, accessibility, and professional performance. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve encountered countless holsters, each promising a blend of retention and swift deployment. This Safariland offering, however, immediately stood out with its Level III retention, the ALS (Automatic Locking System), and the practical Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop).

My path to the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III was born out of necessity. I needed a duty holster that offered maximum firearm security while ensuring a smooth, intuitive draw under pressure, a challenge often faced in dynamic tactical environments. Unboxing the holster revealed a robust, plain black design, exuding quality craftsmanship and a reassuring sense of durability. The weight felt substantial, a testament to the quality materials used in its construction, and the fit and finish were immaculate.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, the Safariland 6360 immediately felt superior. I chose this model over others due to its proven track record in law enforcement and military applications, where failure is not an option. My initial reaction was one of excitement, knowing that I had a serious piece of equipment that could handle the rigors of daily duty.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III was at the shooting range, a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the draw stroke and retention system. I tested it extensively with my H&K P2000, drawing and re-holstering hundreds of times. The holster performed flawlessly in both dry and slightly wet conditions, maintaining a secure grip on the firearm while allowing for a surprisingly fast draw.

The learning curve was minimal; the ALS system is intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to disengage the lock during the draw stroke. Initially, the hood guard felt slightly awkward, but with practice, it became a natural part of the draw sequence. A slight surprise came when running through drills; the mid-ride UBL positioned the firearm perfectly, allowing for a more natural and comfortable draw than higher-riding holsters I’d used before.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, including range training, field exercises, and daily carry, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the holster body, with the finish holding up well against scuffs and scratches. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall comfort. It has instilled a greater sense of confidence in my ability to retain my firearm in a struggle, while still being able to access it quickly when needed. It’s clear that this holster is built to withstand the demands of professional use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III Holster is designed for right-handed users and features a plain black finish. It is specifically molded to fit the H&K P2000. The holster incorporates a Level III Retention system, offering exceptional firearm security.

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This internal locking device secures the weapon once holstered, and is released with a simple thumb activation during the draw. This adds a layer of security while not hindering a quick, clean draw.

• Hood Guard: The standard hood guard provides additional security by preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. It requires a deliberate movement to disengage before the draw.

• Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The UBL positions the holster in a mid-ride configuration, offering a comfortable and natural draw angle. This promotes faster and more efficient target acquisition.

• Durable Construction: Constructed from a proprietary nylon blend, the holster body is both lightweight and incredibly durable, able to withstand the rigors of daily use in harsh environments. This promises longevity and consistent performance.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s ability to securely retain the firearm, offer a fast and efficient draw, and withstand the demands of professional use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to a firearm. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a secure lock while allowing for a smooth, intuitive draw. The Level III retention offers an added layer of security, ensuring the firearm stays in place even during strenuous activity or potential confrontations.

The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. A potential area for improvement could be the hood guard, which some users might find slightly cumbersome initially; however, with practice, this becomes second nature. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations, offering a high level of performance and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The holster is constructed from a durable, lightweight polymer blend that feels robust and well-made. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height, providing a comfortable and natural draw angle, enhancing ergonomics.

The learning curve is minimal, thanks to the intuitive design of the ALS system and the ergonomic placement of the release mechanism. The holster is designed to be user-friendly, even under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last, utilizing high-quality materials and robust construction techniques. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

The durable construction and ease of maintenance make the Safariland 6360 a reliable and long-lasting investment. Its design is intended to withstand the stresses of daily duty use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard and the Ride UBL. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry, which further enhances security. While the holster is primarily designed for use with the H&K P2000, it can be adapted to other firearms with compatible Safariland holster bodies.

The ability to add the Sentry enhances the holster’s versatility and adaptability to specific user needs, making it a truly customizable piece of equipment.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who prioritize firearm security and accessibility. It’s also well-suited for tactical training and competitive shooting, where a reliable and efficient holster is essential. Anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention will benefit significantly from this holster.

Individuals who prefer simpler, Level I or Level II retention systems, or those who frequently switch between different firearms may find this holster less suitable. A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which further enhances security and prevents unauthorized access to the firearm.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-97-61 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price is justified given the quality of materials, robust construction, and proven track record of the Safariland brand. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a top-tier retention system that doesn’t compromise on draw speed or user-friendliness.

If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a secure and accessible platform for your H&K P2000, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is an excellent choice. Invest in your security and performance – you won’t be disappointed.