Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand both retention and accessibility. Safariland is a well-known and trusted name in the industry, renowned for its durable and reliable holsters. This particular model features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention, Level III security for added protection, and a Mid-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry.

I needed a holster for my S&W M&P .45 that offered a high level of security without sacrificing a smooth and fast draw. I was previously using a Level II holster, but with increased concerns about weapon retention in my line of work, a Level III system became a necessity. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to be the perfect balance between safety and speed.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the robust feel and construction of the holster. The STX Basket Weave finish looked professional and provided a good grip. The holster felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 holster before choosing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III. The Serpa, while popular, has had some documented safety concerns regarding the trigger finger during the draw. The Bianchi was a solid choice but lacked the refined draw stroke and proven track record of the Safariland ALS system.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. I knew that Level III holsters could sometimes be slower to draw from. I was eager to test the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III and see if it lived up to its reputation for speed and security.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the holster at my department’s shooting range, focusing on drawing and reholstering drills. I needed to become comfortable with the ALS release and the hood guard deactivation. The weather was hot and humid, presenting a good test of the holster’s grip and retention in less-than-ideal conditions.

The draw required a deliberate thumb press to disengage the ALS, followed by a downward sweep of the hood. It definitely took some practice to master the sequence without fumbling. However, after a few hours, the draw became much smoother and more natural.

My initial concern was the draw speed, but with focused practice, I was able to achieve a competitive time. I encountered no issues with the holster’s mechanics during the first use. I did notice some slight wear on the firearm’s finish, but this is common with most duty holsters.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. The STX Basket Weave finish shows minimal wear, and the internal locking mechanisms function flawlessly. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme heat, without any performance degradation.

The holster has held up remarkably well to the rigors of daily duty. There are only minor scuffs and scratches on the exterior. The internal components still operate smoothly.

Cleaning is relatively simple; I use a damp cloth to wipe down the holster. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III offers significantly better retention and durability. The peace of mind knowing my firearm is secure is invaluable.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482 boasts several key specifications. These include Level III Retention, ALS (Automatic Locking System), a Hood Guard, a Mid-Ride UBL, and an STX Basket Weave finish. It is designed for left-handed users and specifically molded to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without a thumb safety.

• Level III Retention: This provides a high level of security, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the firearm. The added security measures help prevent firearm theft during confrontations.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This allows for a fast and intuitive draw stroke when needed.
• Hood Guard: The hood guard adds another layer of security and protection for the firearm. The hood prevents the ALS from being accidentally disengaged.
• Mid-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The Mid-Ride UBL positions the holster lower on the belt, providing a comfortable and natural draw. This also allows for better clearance with body armor.
• STX Basket Weave Finish: The basket weave texture provides a professional look and enhances grip. It is also more durable and resistant to scratches than plain finishes.

These specifications translate into a holster that is both secure and functional. The Level III retention and ALS provide excellent security, while the UBL ensures comfortable carry. The basket weave finish adds a touch of class and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in both performance and functionality. It provides a secure and reliable way to carry a firearm while maintaining a relatively fast draw. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use with practice, and the hood guard adds an extra layer of protection.

The holster securely retains the weapon, even during strenuous activity. The draw is smooth and efficient once the user becomes familiar with the system. It meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.

The main strength is its balance of security and speed. The weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the draw stroke. Overall, it’s an excellent holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is both functional and ergonomic. The holster is slim and compact, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. The STX Basket Weave finish provides a good grip and a professional appearance. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear.

The build quality is top-notch, using durable materials. The holster’s weight is substantial but manageable, providing a feeling of security. It is surprisingly comfortable, even during prolonged use.

The learning curve is moderate, requiring some practice to master the ALS release and hood guard deactivation. Once mastered, the draw is smooth and efficient. Overall, it is a well-designed and ergonomic holster.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily duty. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. Replacing worn parts is also straightforward, extending the holster’s lifespan. This holster is designed for longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes with a Hood Guard installed. The optional Sentry, which provides Level IV Retention, can be installed for even greater security. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds.

While specific to the S&W M&P .45 without thumb safety, the UBL allows for mounting on various platforms. It works with many tactical vests and belt systems. Be sure to use accessories specifically designed for Safariland holsters.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention. It’s ideal for those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without a thumb safety and need a reliable and secure duty holster.

This product is not suitable for individuals who prioritize speed over security or those who are unwilling to dedicate time to practice the draw stroke. Also, those who prefer open-carry or concealment holsters should look elsewhere.

A must-have modification would be the optional Safariland Sentry for Level IV retention. Additionally, consider a Safariland leg shroud for increased stability and weight distribution.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Left Hand 6360-419-482 is an exceptional duty holster that provides a superior balance of security, durability, and functionality. While there is a slight learning curve, the benefits of Level III retention and the reliable ALS system far outweigh the drawbacks. At $149.99, the price is justified considering the level of security and peace of mind it offers.

I would highly recommend this holster to any law enforcement or security professional who carries a Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without a thumb safety. If you prioritize weapon retention and want a duty holster that will withstand the test of time, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and security; you won’t regret it.