Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. This holster combines Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design, offering exceptional security without sacrificing speed and ease of draw. The “Nylon-Look” finish provides a professional appearance while offering resistance to scratches and abrasions.
For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that balanced security with a smooth, intuitive draw. I’d used holsters that were either too bulky, making movement difficult, or lacked the necessary retention for high-risk environments. My search ended when I discovered the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III, after hearing rave reviews from colleagues about its reliability and comfort.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the holster’s robust construction and attention to detail. The “Nylon-Look” finish felt durable and professional, and the overall weight struck a good balance between sturdiness and comfort. The ALS mechanism engaged smoothly, and the hood guard provided an additional layer of security that instilled confidence.
Compared to my previous duty holsters from Blackhawk and Uncle Mike’s, the Safariland 6360 offered a noticeable upgrade in both retention and comfort. The Blackhawk SERPA, while fast, lacked the Level III retention I needed, and the Uncle Mike’s nylon holster felt flimsy and unreliable. The Safariland provided a much more secure and professional feel, making it the clear choice for my needs.
My initial impression was one of excitement and relief. I felt confident that the Safariland 6360 would provide the security and performance I needed in a duty holster. It promised to be a reliable and comfortable companion, ready to perform when the stakes were high.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at the shooting range, focusing on drawing and reholstering drills. I also used it during several training exercises that simulated real-world scenarios.
The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions, providing a smooth and consistent draw stroke. I also tested it in wet conditions by simulating rain with a hose and found that my grip on the weapon stayed very secure. The ALS mechanism remained reliable, even with wet hands.
The draw stroke was initially a bit different from what I was used to, but I quickly adapted after a few practice sessions. The ALS system requires a slight thumb movement to release the weapon, which became intuitive after repeated practice. No issues were noticed during the initial phases of testing and implementation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. The “Nylon-Look” finish has held up well to daily wear and tear, showing minimal signs of abrasion.
The holster requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism has remained smooth and reliable, requiring no lubrication or adjustments. Compared to my previous holsters, which often required frequent adjustments and repairs, the Safariland 6360 has been a hassle-free experience.
The Safariland 6360 has exceeded my expectations in terms of both security and comfort. Its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable carry have made it an indispensable part of my duty gear. It is a noticeable improvement over prior experiences with inferior products.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262
Specifications
Category: ALS Holsters. This signifies its core function as a holster utilizing Safariland’s Automatic Locking System.
Finish/Color: Nylon-Look. This finish provides a professional appearance and offers resistance to scratches and abrasions.
Fits: Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. This indicates the specific firearm that this holster is designed to accommodate, ensuring a secure and proper fit.
Type: Left Hand. This specifies that the holster is designed for left-handed users.
Level III Retention. This important safety feature ensures the firearm stays securely holstered, reducing the risk of accidental removal.
ALS Automatic Locking System. The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to release it.
Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The UBL allows the holster to ride slightly lower on the belt, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic draw.
Hood Guard. This feature adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and comfort. The Level III retention and ALS system provide peace of mind, while the UBL and ergonomic design ensure a comfortable and efficient draw. The specific firearm fit is critical for ensuring proper function and safety.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides a high level of security without hindering the speed of the draw, once mastered.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry. The only potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS system, but this is quickly overcome with practice. The product absolutely meets and arguably exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The “Nylon-Look” finish provides a professional appearance and resists wear and tear.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the ALS system requires some initial familiarization. The UBL provides a comfortable and ergonomic carry, reducing fatigue during extended periods of use. The system is intuitive once practiced.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
The holster requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The ALS mechanism may benefit from occasional lubrication, but this is not typically necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes standard with a hood guard. Additional accessories, such as the Safariland Sentry, can be installed to further enhance security. The holster is also compatible with a wide range of Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms.
The ability to customize the holster with different accessories and mounting options is a significant advantage. It allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences. Be sure to choose wisely when selecting options.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high degree of security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: The ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke once mastered.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL positions the holster for a comfortable and ergonomic carry.
- Professional Appearance: The “Nylon-Look” finish provides a sleek and professional look.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: The ALS system requires some practice to master.
- Caliber Specific: This particular model fits only the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262?
The Safariland 6360 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. It is particularly well-suited for those who work in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.
This holster may not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize speed over security. The ALS system requires a deliberate thumb movement to release the weapon, which may not be necessary for those who primarily engage in recreational shooting.
A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security. Also, a quality gun belt is crucial for ensuring a stable and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6360-185-262 is an exceptional duty holster that offers a superior combination of security, comfort, and durability. Its robust construction, reliable retention system, and ergonomic design make it a worthwhile investment for any professional who relies on their firearm for protection.
At $195.00, the price is justified given the holster’s quality and features. The Level III retention and ALS system provide peace of mind, while the comfortable carry and durable construction ensure long-term value.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster. It is a reliable and effective tool that will provide years of dependable service. Invest in your safety and performance – get the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III today!