Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating. Its key features include a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry and a straight-up draw for rapid deployment, making it a compelling choice for those needing a secure and accessible holster.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I was seeking a holster that offered both robust security and effortless access. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while ensuring my firearm was readily available when needed. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 seemed to fit the bill perfectly with its reputation for reliability and retention.
Unboxing the holster revealed a solid piece of equipment. The plain black finish was professional and understated, and the holster felt substantial without being overly heavy. The material felt durable, promising longevity in demanding environments.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, both reputable options. However, the Safariland ALS system’s smooth operation and proven track record edged out the competition. I also appreciated the ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) which allows for comfortable mid-ride carry.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. It felt like a tool built for serious use, not just a piece of plastic. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This simulated real-world scenarios, including drawing under stress and moving through various obstacles. The holster performed admirably, securely retaining my S&W M&P .45 (without thumb safety) while allowing for a smooth, consistent draw.
Despite intermittent rain during the training, the holster’s grip remained reliable. The ALS system’s automatic locking mechanism gave me confidence that the weapon was secure, even when maneuvering in awkward positions. The draw stroke remained fluid and intuitive, even with wet hands, reinforcing the holster’s ease of use.
The initial draw required a bit of practice to master the ALS release while simultaneously deactivating the hood guard. Once I became familiar with the motion, it became second nature. There were no unexpected snags or malfunctions during the entire training session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and occasional security details, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 has proven exceptionally reliable. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly.
The holster has maintained its shape and retention capabilities, even after being subjected to repeated draws and re-holstering. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient. The durable construction and robust materials inspire confidence in its longevity.
Compared to my previous duty holster, a Safariland 6280, the 6360 offers a noticeable improvement in draw speed and overall comfort. The ride UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height for quick access, and the ALS system provides a more secure lockup compared to the older SLS (Self Locking System). The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 has definitively outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61
Specifications
- Category: ALS Holsters. This categorizes the holster as part of Safariland’s Automatic Locking System line, emphasizing its security features.
- Finish/Color: Plain Black. The plain black finish provides a professional and low-profile appearance.
- Fits: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 without thumb safety. This holster is specifically molded to fit the S&W M&P .45 variant without a thumb safety, ensuring a secure and precise fit.
- Type: Right Hand. Designed for right-handed users, catering to the dominant hand for optimal draw and re-holstering.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61‘s specifications directly impact its performance. The precise fit for the S&W M&P .45 ensures secure retention and a smooth draw. The right-hand orientation and mid-ride height promote natural and efficient weapon deployment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 excels in providing secure retention and rapid deployment. The ALS system automatically engages upon holstering, providing a tactile and audible confirmation of lockup. The Level III retention, incorporating the ALS and hood guard, provides a high degree of security against unauthorized removal.
The straight-up draw is intuitive and efficient, minimizing unnecessary movements. The holster’s strengths lie in its robust security, reliable performance, and user-friendly design. The main weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the simultaneous ALS release and hood guard deactivation.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 has exceeded my expectations in terms of security and accessibility. It strikes a perfect balance between retention and speed, making it an ideal duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment. The plain black finish is professional and discreet. The molded construction provides a secure and precise fit for the specified firearm.
The holster is relatively lightweight, minimizing added bulk. The ride UBL positions the weapon at a comfortable and accessible height on the belt. The holster design requires some initial familiarization, particularly regarding the ALS release and hood guard.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing exceptional resistance to scratches, abrasions, and temperature extremes. The robust construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments. Minimal maintenance is required – typically, a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism can ensure smooth operation. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 comes standard with a hood guard for enhanced weapon security. Safariland offers an optional Sentry device that can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV. The UBL can be replaced with other belt attachments from Safariland, such as a drop leg platform.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories. These include different UBL heights and quick-release systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, making it suitable for duty use.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, ensuring peace of mind.
- Ride UBL: Positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, improving draw speed and accessibility.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
- Smooth, Straight-Up Draw: Enables a quick and efficient draw stroke once the retention devices are deactivated.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release and hood guard simultaneously.
- Specific Fit: Only compatible with the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without thumb safety.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a duty-grade holster with a high level of retention. It is also an excellent choice for those who prioritize quick and efficient weapon deployment. This holster is ideal for individuals who carry the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 (without thumb safety).
This holster is not suitable for individuals who own firearms other than the specified Smith & Wesson M&P .45 variant without a thumb safety. Novice users who are unfamiliar with Level III retention systems may find the learning curve challenging. Those who prefer simpler holster designs with minimal retention features should also consider other options.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which increases the retention level to Level IV, providing an even higher level of security. Regular maintenance and lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61
In summary, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s robust construction, innovative retention system, and comfortable design. This holster is a worthwhile investment for professionals who demand the best in terms of weapon security and accessibility.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 to anyone seeking a high-quality duty holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P .45 (without thumb safety). Its combination of security, comfort, and performance makes it an outstanding choice for demanding environments. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-61 and experience the difference.