Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement, military, and security professionals. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention, providing a secure and reliable carry solution. The high-gloss black STX finish offers a professional appearance, while the ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures a comfortable and stable fit.
For years, I struggled with finding a duty holster that offered both speed and security. Many holsters prioritized one over the other, leaving me feeling either too slow or too vulnerable. The promise of the Safariland 6360 ALS was a compelling solution: fast access with multi-level retention.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS, I immediately noticed the robust construction and the sleek, polished finish. The holster felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear. The fit and finish were impeccable, confirming the quality I’ve come to expect from Safariland.
Compared to my older Safariland SLS holster and a Blackhawk Serpa, the 6360 ALS appeared to offer a more streamlined profile and a potentially faster draw. The ALS mechanism seemed more intuitive than the SLS hood, and the overall design looked less bulky than the Serpa. I chose the Safariland 6360 ALS for its blend of retention levels and reputation for speed.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. The Level III retention meant there were more steps to drawing than I was used to, but the potential for increased security was worth the learning curve. The sleek design and professional finish had me eager to put it to the test on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. The exercise involved rapid draw-and-fire drills, movement, and simulated scenarios to evaluate holster performance in high-stress situations. Weather conditions were dry with temperatures in the mid-70s.
The 6360 ALS performed admirably, even when wet from simulated rain during the exercise. The ALS mechanism remained functional, though a bit slick when wet, and the retention remained secure. Initially, the draw stroke felt slightly slower due to the Level III retention, but with practice, I quickly adapted.
The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provided a stable platform, preventing the holster from shifting during movement and rapid draws. The high-gloss finish, while visually appealing, showed fingerprints and smudges easily. There were no significant issues after the initial range session, but the Level III retention definitely required dedicated training.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during training and duty, the Safariland 6360 ALS has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has held up well to daily wear and tear, with no signs of cracking or structural failure. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, and the retention remains consistent.
The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish shows minor scratches and scuffs from regular use, but nothing significant. Cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous nylon holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS offers far superior durability and retention.
The holster has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing a secure and reliable carry solution with a reasonable draw speed. The initial learning curve was easily overcome with practice, and the peace of mind provided by the Level III retention is invaluable. This holster inspires confidence in its ability to protect my firearm during demanding situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491
Specifications
Retention Level: Level III – This signifies three distinct retention methods, significantly enhancing weapon security. This includes the ALS, a rotating hood, and the weapon light body (if applicable).
Material: STX Hi-Gloss Black – The STX material is a durable, thermal-molded synthetic known for its resistance to scratches and abrasions. The hi-gloss black provides a professional, polished appearance.
Automatic Locking System (ALS) – The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions upon holstering. The weapon is released by simply deactivating the ALS with the thumb as part of the draw stroke.
Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) – The UBL positions the holster slightly away from the body, allowing for a comfortable and ergonomic draw. The mid-ride height offers a good balance between concealment and accessibility.
Hood Guard – A standard feature on the 6360, the hood guard helps to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm. It adds an extra layer of security without hindering the draw stroke.
Finish/Color: STX Hi-Gloss Black – The smooth, reflective surface provides a clean, professional look, suitable for duty use. While aesthetically pleasing, it is prone to showing fingerprints and minor scratches.
These specifications ensure a high level of security, durability, and functionality. The ALS and Level III retention provide peace of mind, while the UBL and overall design enhance user comfort and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS mechanism works flawlessly, providing a positive lock and a smooth, intuitive release. The Level III retention adds an extra layer of security without significantly hindering draw speed.
The holster’s strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS and hood guard work together to prevent unauthorized access, while the UBL ensures a comfortable and ergonomic draw. A minor weakness is the slight learning curve associated with mastering the Level III retention.
Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a high level of security, durability, and functionality, making it a reliable choice for professionals.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS boasts a slim and compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealment, particularly when worn under a jacket or vest. The STX material is lightweight yet durable, providing a comfortable carry experience.
The holster’s design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a natural draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve associated with the Level III retention, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS is built to last, using high-quality materials and robust construction techniques. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The STX material is resistant to scratches and abrasions, minimizing the need for frequent repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS comes standard with a hood guard and a ride UBL. An optional Sentry device can be installed to further enhance retention.
The holster is also compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including weapon lights, laser sights, and magazine carriers. It is also adaptable to different belt widths and mounting platforms, making it a versatile choice for various applications.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides exceptional security, crucial in high-risk environments.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Offers intuitive and fast weapon release while maintaining secure retention.
- Durable STX Hi-Gloss Finish: Ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear, maintaining a professional appearance.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Offers a comfortable and stable carry, improving draw efficiency.
- Slim, Compact Design: Keeps the weapon close to the body, enhancing concealment and maneuverability.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish: Shows fingerprints and smudges easily, requiring frequent cleaning for a pristine look.
- Learning Curve: Level III retention requires dedicated training to master the draw stroke efficiently.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491?
The Safariland 6360 ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of weapon security and reliability. It is also suitable for responsible citizens who prioritize personal safety and open carry.
This holster might not be ideal for those seeking the absolute fastest draw speed, as the Level III retention adds an extra step. It might also be overkill for those who primarily engage in recreational shooting or concealed carry in low-risk environments.
A must-have accessory is a dedicated training regimen to master the draw stroke. Regular practice will ensure that the Level III retention becomes second nature.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-180-491 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, durability, and functionality. While the Level III retention requires practice, the peace of mind it provides is well worth the effort.
At $164.80, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, features, and long-term reliability. It represents a solid investment for professionals and responsible citizens who demand the best in weapon retention.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster that offers a balance of security and accessibility. Invest in your safety and training – you won’t regret it.