Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481 represents a pinnacle in duty holster design. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster combines security, accessibility, and comfort. It’s specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without a thumb safety, featuring the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level III retention and a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry. The STX Basket Weave finish offers a professional and durable exterior.

My career in law enforcement demanded a holster that was both secure and allowed for a swift draw. Many holsters claim to offer both, but few deliver in real-world, high-stress situations. I was particularly drawn to the Safariland 6360 because of its reputation for reliability and the added security of Level III retention.

The Safariland 6360 arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected. My initial impression was that of quality; the STX Basket Weave finish looked incredibly durable and professional. The holster felt solid, yet surprisingly lightweight considering its Level III security features.

I considered several other holsters, including the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6360 for its superior ALS system and the proven track record of the Safariland brand among law enforcement professionals. The smooth, intuitive draw and re-holstering were key selling points.

From the moment I held it, I was impressed with the fit and finish. The holster felt like a professional piece of equipment, designed with the user’s safety and efficiency in mind. I was excited to finally have a holster that I could trust my life with.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360 at the shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention. The holster performed flawlessly, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke every time. The ALS system was intuitive to disengage, even under simulated stress.

During a training exercise in light rain, the Safariland 6360 maintained its grip and function. The STX finish proved to be water-resistant, and the ALS system didn’t suffer from the damp conditions. It instilled confidence knowing that my firearm was secure regardless of the weather.

The learning curve was minimal; after a few practice draws, the muscle memory for the ALS release became second nature. The mid-ride UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for my draw stroke. It felt like a natural extension of my body.

The only minor issue I experienced was a slight tightness initially in the ALS release mechanism. However, after a few hundred draws, this smoothed out completely, and the release became effortless. It’s a break-in period that’s common with many high-quality holsters.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even on the high-friction areas of the holster. The STX Basket Weave finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and scuffs.

The holster has required minimal maintenance; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly without any need for lubrication. It highlights the quality of materials and construction.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 significantly outperforms them in both security and comfort. The ALS system provides a level of retention that I haven’t experienced with other holsters. The mid-ride UBL makes it far more comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481 is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without a thumb safety. It features Level III Retention, achieved through the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Hood Guard. This offers a high degree of security against unauthorized firearm removal.

The holster boasts a durable STX Basket Weave finish, providing both a professional appearance and resistance to wear and tear. It is a right-hand configuration, ensuring an ergonomic draw for right-handed users. The inclusion of the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster at a mid-ride height, enhancing comfort and accessibility.

The ALS, or Automatic Locking System, is a key feature, securing the weapon once holstered. It requires only a simple thumb release to disengage, facilitating a rapid and intuitive draw. The Hood Guard offers an additional layer of security. It helps to prevent unauthorized access to the weapon from above.

These specifications contribute directly to the holster’s performance, ensuring both security and ease of use. The ALS system’s smooth release mechanism enables quick and reliable access to the firearm when needed. The mid-ride UBL enhances comfort for all-day wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to the firearm. The ALS system is incredibly reliable, ensuring the weapon stays locked in place until intentionally released. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient.

One of the key strengths of this holster is the intuitive nature of the ALS release. Even under stress, the thumb instinctively finds the release lever, allowing for a rapid draw. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, knowing that the firearm is secure against potential threats.

One area for potential improvement could be the addition of an optional SLS (Self Locking System) hood for enhanced security, although the included hood guard is already effective. Some users may prefer a different belt loop configuration, but the UBL offers versatility and is generally well-regarded. Overall, it exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort, particularly during extended wear. The STX Basket Weave finish provides a professional look while adding to the holster’s durability.

The holster is designed to be user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release mechanism is intuitive, and the mid-ride UBL positions the firearm for a natural draw stroke. The holster’s weight is well-balanced, preventing discomfort or fatigue.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The STX finish is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and moisture, ensuring the holster maintains its professional appearance. The ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The ALS system may benefit from occasional lubrication to maintain smooth operation, but this is not typically required. With proper care, the Safariland 6360 should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 comes standard with a Hood Guard installed, offering an additional layer of security. An optional Sentry can be installed to further enhance the retention level, providing Level IV security. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific security needs.

The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loop configurations and leg shrouds. While it is primarily designed for the S&W M&P .45, some users may find that other similarly sized firearms can be accommodated, though fit and retention should be carefully tested. The compatibility with various accessories allows for a high degree of customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-419-481