Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91 represents a pinnacle in duty holster design, offering a blend of security, speed, and durability. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use while providing instant access to your firearm when needed. Its key features include the Automatic Locking System (ALS), Level III Retention, and a mid-ride Universal Belt Loop (UBL), making it a favorite among professionals.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I was looking for a holster that offered maximum retention without sacrificing draw speed for my Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. My previous holster, while functional, lacked the positive locking mechanism I desired for situations where weapon retention was paramount. The Safariland 6360 seemed to strike the perfect balance.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the high-gloss black finish. It’s undeniably professional, though perhaps a bit flashy for some; the holster felt incredibly robust. The molded construction and attention to detail were immediately apparent, reinforcing Safariland’s reputation for quality.
Compared to a similar Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 holster I’d used previously, the Safariland 6360 offered a smoother, more intuitive draw, and the ALS system felt more secure than the Serpa’s retention mechanism. I also considered the Galco FLETCH, but it lacked the active retention needed for duty use. The Safariland won out based on its superior retention and duty-grade build quality.
Initially, I was excited but also slightly apprehensive. Level III retention holsters can sometimes be cumbersome, sacrificing speed for security; however, I hoped the Safariland 6360’s ALS system would mitigate this. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, a feeling that only live-fire testing could resolve.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course designed for law enforcement. The course involved rapid draws, re-holstering under pressure, and simulated close-quarters engagements. I wanted to evaluate the Safariland 6360’s retention and draw speed in a dynamic environment.
During the drills, the Safariland 6360 performed admirably. The ALS system intuitively released the weapon with a swipe of the thumb, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw stroke, even under stress. Re-holstering was equally smooth; the ALS automatically engaged, providing immediate retention.
I experienced mixed weather conditions during testing, including light rain and dusty winds. The Safariland 6360’s construction appeared unaffected by the elements, and the ALS system continued to function flawlessly. The only minor issue was a slight grittiness in the ALS release lever due to dust; however, this was easily resolved with a quick cleaning.
While the draw stroke was intuitive, it did take some time to master the proper grip and thumb placement to consistently disengage the ALS under pressure. After about an hour of practice, I felt comfortable and confident with the system. The UBL’s ride height also took some getting used to; it was slightly higher than my previous holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and integration into my daily loadout during tactical training exercises, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of structural wear or degradation despite constant use and exposure to various environmental conditions. The hi-gloss finish shows minor scuffs, as expected, but the holster’s functionality remains uncompromised.
The Safariland 6360 is surprisingly easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant keeps it running smoothly. This minimal maintenance is critical for gear that’s relied upon in demanding situations.
Having used several Level III retention holsters over the years, including models from Blackhawk and Bianchi, I can confidently say that the Safariland 6360 outperforms them in terms of draw speed, retention security, and overall durability. The ALS system is far more intuitive and reliable than other retention mechanisms I’ve used, and the holster’s build quality is simply outstanding.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance:
- Level III Retention: This is achieved through the combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System), a Hood Guard, and the holster’s molded construction. This ensures a high level of weapon security, preventing unauthorized removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): The core of the Safariland 6360, this internal locking device secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb swipe to release. This system offers unparalleled speed and security.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): This mid-ride UBL allows the holster to be positioned slightly lower on the belt, providing increased comfort and allowing for easier access to the weapon, especially when wearing body armor. The UBL enhances ergonomics and accessibility.
- Hi-Gloss Black Finish: The glossy finish provides a professional appearance and enhances the holster’s resistance to abrasion and environmental factors. The finish provides a professional look.
- Hood Guard: This protective cover over the ejection port helps prevent debris from entering the firearm and adds an additional layer of retention. This addition protects the firearm from external damage.
- Fits Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP: The holster is specifically molded for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, ensuring a secure and precise fit. This ensures proper fit and retention.
- Right-Hand Configuration: Designed for right-handed users, the holster allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke. This design factor impacts user draw speed.
These specifications are vital for a duty holster, ensuring it offers the necessary retention, accessibility, and durability required by law enforcement and military personnel. Each feature has been carefully considered to enhance the user’s performance and safety.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides a near-instantaneous release once the thumb lever is engaged, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw. This is crucial in high-stress situations where fractions of a second can make a difference.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, intuitive ALS system, and comfortable UBL ride height. The ALS is secure and easy to operate. The only minor weakness is that the high-gloss finish can show scratches more easily than a matte finish.
The Safariland 6360 far exceeded my expectations. I went in cautiously optimistic but came out impressed by its real-world performance and build quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 is designed with the user in mind. The contoured shape and mid-ride UBL distribute weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The holster’s construction utilizes a durable thermal-molded SafariSeven nylon blend that is resistant to heat, cold, and moisture.
The holster is remarkably user-friendly, though there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. After a few practice sessions, the draw becomes second nature. The ergonomic design ensures a natural and efficient draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly durable, resisting abrasions, impacts, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. This minimal upkeep ensures the holster remains in optimal working condition, even under harsh conditions. The holster is easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 can be further customized with various Safariland accessories. The UBL can be swapped out for different ride heights, and the Hood Guard can be replaced with an optional Sentry for increased security. The optional Safariland 6001 Sentry provides Level IV retention.
While specifically designed for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, the Safariland 6360 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting hardware. This flexibility allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system, combined with the Hood Guard, provides unparalleled weapon security.
- Smooth, Fast Draw: The intuitive ALS release allows for rapid and consistent draws, even under stress.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly robust and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable UBL Ride: The mid-ride UBL distributes weight evenly and allows for easy access to the weapon.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep the holster in top condition.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish Scratches Easily: The glossy finish is prone to showing minor scuffs and scratches.
- Slight Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release requires some initial practice.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a highly secure and reliable duty holster. It’s also well-suited for civilian shooters who prioritize weapon retention and open carry.
This holster might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention features. Those seeking a low-profile concealed carry holster should consider other options.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure stability and comfort. Additionally, a silicone-based lubricant is recommended for maintaining the ALS system.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-185-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, speed, and durability. While the price tag of $212.60 might seem steep, the quality and performance justify the investment. This holster is a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their firearms daily.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone seeking a Level III retention holster that doesn’t compromise on speed or reliability. If you need to carry with confidence and deploy your weapon quickly, look no further. Upgrade your gear today and experience the Safariland difference!