Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-419-492
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster in STX Hi-Gloss Black for a left-handed shooter, specifically model number 6360-419-492, is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. It combines the proven Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a high degree of security without sacrificing speed of draw.
My need for a holster like this arose from consistently needing a reliable and secure way to carry my sidearm during tactical training scenarios and range work, particularly when simulating real-world duty situations. I wanted something that offered both retention and a smooth, consistent draw.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360, my first impression was of its robust construction and the slick, professional look of the STX Hi-Gloss Black finish. The holster felt solid and well-made, with no obvious points of weakness.
Compared to other Level II and Level III holsters I’ve used from brands like Blackhawk and Blade-Tech, the Safariland 6360 immediately felt like a step up in terms of retention mechanism refinement and overall build quality. The ALS system appeared more intuitive than the thumb-break systems on some older holsters.
My initial reaction was excitement; this seemed like a holster that could stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide a high level of confidence in firearm retention, a primary concern in high-stress environments. The left-handed configuration was, of course, perfect for my needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-419-492 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session, simulating various scenarios requiring quick draws and re-holstering under pressure. The weather was dry and moderately warm.
The holster performed admirably in this setting. The ALS system was intuitive to disengage, allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw once I mastered the correct thumb placement.
Initially, I experienced a slight learning curve in consistently deactivating the ALS during a draw while maintaining a solid grip, but after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including weekly range sessions and a few more intense training courses, the Safariland 6360 has held up exceptionally well. The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish shows some minor scuffs from repeated contact with gear and clothing, but the holster’s structural integrity remains excellent.
The ALS system continues to function smoothly and reliably, even after being exposed to dust and dirt during outdoor training. Maintenance has been minimal, mostly involving wiping down the holster with a damp cloth to remove surface debris.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360 has significantly outperformed them in terms of retention security and draw speed, once the ALS system is mastered. It is now my go-to duty holster for any situation requiring Level III retention.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-419-492
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster is specifically designed for left-handed shooters and is finished in STX Hi-Gloss Black. It’s built to accommodate the S&W M&P .45 without a thumb safety.
The key features are the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for Level III retention and the included Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for a mid-ride carry position. It also includes a hood guard for added security.
The ALS secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. This is a critical feature for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
The Level III retention provides an additional layer of security compared to Level I or II holsters. This makes it suitable for law enforcement and security personnel who require a high degree of weapon retention.
The Ride UBL allows the holster to ride slightly lower on the belt. This improves comfort and allows for easier access to the weapon, especially when wearing body armor.
The included hood guard protects the ALS release mechanism from accidental activation. This ensures the weapon remains securely holstered until intentionally drawn.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in providing a secure and reliable method for carrying a duty weapon. The ALS system offers excellent retention, while the straight-up draw is quick and efficient once the release is mastered.
The holster’s primary strength is its combination of security and speed. The ALS prevents unauthorized removal of the weapon, while the intuitive draw allows for rapid deployment in critical situations.
A potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. However, with practice, this becomes a non-issue.
The Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. It offers a superior balance of security, speed, and comfort compared to many competing products.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend, providing excellent impact resistance and weather resistance. The holster feels solid and well-built, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.
The holster is relatively comfortable to wear, especially with the Ride UBL allowing for a mid-ride carry position that distributes weight evenly. The ALS system is user-friendly once mastered, but does require practice to ensure consistent and efficient draws.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is designed to last for years under normal use conditions. The SafariSeven nylon blend is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. The holster is designed to be easily field-maintainable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes standard with the Ride UBL and a hood guard. Additional accessories, such as the Safariland Sentry, can be installed to further increase the level of retention.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. It is also generally compatible with aftermarket accessories designed for Safariland holsters. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual user preferences and mission requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-419-492
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon.
- Smooth, Straight-Up Draw: Once mastered, the ALS allows for a quick and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Carry: The Ride UBL allows for a comfortable carry position, especially when wearing body armor.
- Easy Maintenance: The holster is simple to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release requires practice.
- STX Hi-Gloss Finish: The finish can be prone to scratches with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-419-492?
The Safariland 6360 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private military contractors who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable, quick draw. It is also suitable for competitive shooters who prioritize security and consistency.
This holster might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealability over retention. The Level III retention system adds bulk and requires practice to master.
A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is stiff enough to support the weight of the holster and weapon. Regular practice with the ALS system is also essential to ensure proficiency.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-419-492
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster is a top-tier duty holster that provides an excellent balance of security, speed, and comfort. Its robust construction and reliable ALS system make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention.
The price is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is securely holstered. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to any left-handed professional seeking a dependable Level III duty holster. Equip yourself with the Safariland 6360 and experience the confidence that comes with carrying a secure and reliable holster.