Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster offers a high level of weapon retention with its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III security, providing peace of mind in demanding situations. Its durable STX Basket Weave finish adds a touch of professionalism while resisting scuffs and scratches, making it a practical and reliable choice for everyday carry.
My agency recently mandated Level III retention holsters, pushing me to explore the market. I needed a holster that balanced security, accessibility, and comfort for extended duty hours.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 felt solid and well-constructed. The STX Basket Weave finish looked sharp, and the ALS mechanism felt smooth and positive during initial testing. The holster had a reassuring heft, hinting at the quality of materials used.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but ultimately chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 due to Safariland’s reputation for durability and the proven reliability of the ALS system. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also seemed like a more stable and comfortable option compared to other belt attachment methods.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster seemed well-made and offered the required level of security, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 during my regular patrol duties. This included range practice, foot patrols in varying weather conditions, and responding to calls requiring physical exertion.
The holster performed admirably in different conditions. Even in heavy rain, the ALS mechanism remained functional, and the STX Basket Weave finish provided a secure grip, preventing slippage.
It took a few days to become completely comfortable with the ALS release. However, with practice, the draw became fluid and natural, nearly as fast as my previous Level II holster.
Initially, the holster felt slightly bulky, but this was expected given the Level III retention. However, the Ride UBL positioned the firearm comfortably on my hip, minimizing discomfort during extended wear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even in high-friction areas.
The holster has shown no signs of structural weakness. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable weapon retention.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the holster clean, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 significantly outperforms them in terms of security and durability. While it took a little longer to master the draw, the added peace of mind and long-term reliability are well worth the initial adjustment.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481
Specifications
- Level III Retention: The holster employs both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood for enhanced security. This is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to the weapon, especially in close-quarters encounters.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. This feature provides an immediate and reliable locking mechanism without requiring any additional action from the user.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Offers a mid-ride carry position for enhanced comfort and stability. This ensures the holster doesn’t shift excessively during movement.
- STX Basket Weave Finish: Provides a professional appearance and resists scratches and scuffs. This helps maintain the holster’s aesthetic appeal and protects it from wear and tear.
- Right-Hand Configuration: Designed specifically for right-handed users.
- Fits: Beretta PX4 Storm DASA or DAO N/A for .45: The holster is molded to fit the specified firearm model, ensuring proper retention and a smooth draw.
- Hood Guard: Standard on the 6360 series to protect the rotating hood.
- Material: Constructed from a durable, proprietary nylon blend. This provides excellent impact resistance and long-term reliability.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and comfort. The Level III retention provides a high level of security, while the ALS system ensures quick and intuitive weapon access.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS mechanism provides a positive and reliable lock, and the rotating hood adds an extra layer of security.
A significant strength is its intuitive operation. While requiring training, the ALS release becomes second nature, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw.
The primary area for potential improvement lies in the initial learning curve. New users might find the ALS release slightly awkward at first, requiring dedicated practice to master.
Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade Level III holster. Its combination of security, accessibility, and durability makes it a worthwhile investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both security and user comfort. The materials used are robust and durable, yet the holster remains relatively lightweight.
The Ride UBL positions the firearm comfortably on the hip. This minimizes discomfort during extended periods of wear.
While there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS, the overall design is user-friendly. The holster is easy to adjust and fits securely on a standard duty belt.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 can be customized with accessories like the Safariland Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security. The UBL can also be swapped for different ride heights and angles.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These include various belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic protectors.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481
Pros
- High Level of Security: Level III retention with ALS provides excellent weapon security.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL ensures a comfortable and stable carry position.
- Intuitive Operation: Once mastered, the ALS release allows for a smooth and efficient draw.
- Professional Appearance: The STX Basket Weave finish adds a touch of professionalism.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: The ALS release requires practice to master.
- Slightly Bulky: The Level III retention system adds some bulk compared to simpler holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon security and reliable performance. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate durable construction and a comfortable carry position.
Individuals who prefer a minimalist holster with the fastest possible draw might want to consider a Level I or Level II option. Those with smaller statures may find the holster slightly bulky.
A must-have modification would be the Safariland Sentry for added security in certain situations. Regular practice with the ALS is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 is an excellent duty holster that provides a high level of security, durability, and comfort. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
The price is justified by the holster’s robust construction, reliable performance, and added peace of mind. It’s an investment in safety and professionalism.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Basket Weave, Right Hand 6360-180-481 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster. If you prioritize weapon security, reliable performance, and long-term durability, look no further. Upgrade your gear today!