Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 represents a significant step up in duty holster technology. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, providing both speed and security for law enforcement and security professionals. The addition of the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offers comfortable mid-ride positioning.
My search for a new duty holster stemmed from a need for increased retention without sacrificing draw speed. I wanted something that would hold securely during foot pursuits and close-quarters engagements. Other holsters I’d used felt bulky or had clunky release mechanisms.
My initial impression of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 was overwhelmingly positive. The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish looked professional and durable. It felt solid and well-constructed right out of the box.
Compared to my previous Blackhawk! Serpa holster, the Safariland offered a smoother, more intuitive draw. It felt less prone to accidental release than the Bianchi Accumold I had used years ago. I was immediately excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 took place at my agency’s shooting range. I ran drills involving drawing from concealment, engaging targets at various distances, and re-holstering under pressure. The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions.
I also tested it during a simulated foot pursuit in light rain. The ALS system kept my S&W M&P .45 secure, even when running and maneuvering through obstacles. The draw remained smooth and consistent despite the wet conditions.
The draw stroke felt natural after a short period of familiarization. I did need to adjust the tension screw slightly to achieve my preferred level of retention. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 has proven to be exceptionally durable. The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish has resisted scratches and scuffs remarkably well. The internal mechanisms continue to function smoothly.
I’ve noticed minimal wear and tear on the holster itself. The retention system remains tight and reliable. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland stands out in terms of both durability and functionality. It’s far superior to the molded plastic holsters that tend to crack or break under stress. The Safariland has not disappointed me.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 with or without a thumb safety. The holster features a Level III retention rating. This ensures a high degree of security against unauthorized removal.
It is constructed from a durable Safariland thermal-molded SafariSeven nylon blend. The finish is STX Hi-Gloss Black. This provides a professional appearance and added resistance to scratches and abrasion.
The holster utilizes Safariland’s patented Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. The Ride UBL allows the holster to sit in a mid-ride position on the duty belt. This enhances comfort and facilitates a smoother draw.
These specifications are critical for duty use. The Level III retention provides a significant deterrent against weapon takeaways. The ALS system offers a fast and intuitive draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to a sidearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering. This provides a confident and secure hold.
The draw stroke is smooth and efficient. The thumb naturally disengages the ALS lever during the grip. This promotes a consistent and fast draw time.
The holster’s strength lies in its balance of speed and security. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations. The holster’s one weakness is the high-gloss finish, which can show fingerprints. However, its durability is outstanding.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 is exceptional. The materials feel rugged and durable. The holster’s weight is well-distributed.
The Ride UBL positions the firearm at a comfortable mid-ride height. This improves accessibility and reduces strain on the lower back during prolonged wear. There is a small learning curve associated with the ALS system. But the mechanism becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. Its robust construction and durable materials ensure a long service life.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. This ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 comes standard with a hood guard. This provides an additional layer of security. An optional Sentry can be installed for Level IV retention.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as tactical leg straps and different belt loop configurations. The Ride UBL can be swapped for other Safariland UBLs to adjust the ride height and angle. The system is highly customizable.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The Level III retention provided by the ALS and hood guard ensures maximum weapon security.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: The ALS system disengages intuitively, allowing for a rapid and consistent draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend and STX Hi-Gloss Black finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Ride: The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, reducing strain on the lower back.
- Customizable: The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing for personalized configuration.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish: The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish can attract fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent cleaning.
- Learning Curve: Some users may require a period of familiarization to master the ALS release mechanism.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security contractors. It’s also a good fit for anyone who requires a high-quality, secure, and reliable duty holster.
This holster may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention features. Those looking for a simpler, less secure holster for range use might prefer a Level I or Level II option.
A must-have accessory for this holster is the optional Sentry for Level IV retention. Another good idea is to purchase additional Safariland UBLs to experiment with different ride heights.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security. It provides a winning combination of speed and retention. This makes it a valuable asset for anyone who carries a firearm as part of their profession.
The price is justified by the holster’s quality and features. It is a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize their safety and the security of their firearm.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-519-491 to anyone seeking a reliable and secure duty holster. Invest in your peace of mind and experience the difference a quality holster can make.