Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491 represents a pinnacle in duty holster design. This holster combines the proven Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering exceptional security and a smooth, fast draw. It’s built for law enforcement and security professionals who demand the highest level of protection and reliability. The sleek STX Hi-Gloss Black finish also provides a professional look while resisting scuffs and scratches.
My need for this specific holster stemmed from a departmental shift towards Level III retention for enhanced officer safety. I was looking for a holster that not only met the new requirements but also offered a comfortable and efficient draw. Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III, my initial impression was one of robust construction and thoughtful design. The material felt incredibly durable, and the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) promised a comfortable carry position.
Compared to a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and a Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906, the Safariland felt noticeably more secure and the draw stroke seemed smoother. The Serpa, while popular, has been criticized for its trigger finger release, which I found less intuitive than the Safariland’s ALS system. The Bianchi, a more traditional leather holster, simply couldn’t match the Safariland’s active retention. I was excited by the potential of the 6360 ALS to provide a secure, reliable, and efficient platform for my duty weapon.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III was at the police firing range during a training exercise. We practiced various scenarios, including drawing under stress and retaining the weapon during simulated struggles. The ALS system proved remarkably intuitive. It only required a slight thumb movement to disengage the lock, allowing for a natural and fluid draw.
The holster performed flawlessly in both wet and dry conditions. Even with sweaty hands, I maintained a secure grip and a consistent draw stroke. I did need a short adjustment period to become fully accustomed to the thumb release. However, after a few hours of practice, it became second nature. The initial dry-fire drills provided confidence in its functionality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has held up exceptionally well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the STX Hi-Gloss Black finish, despite regular contact with gear and equipment. The holster has remained secure and reliable throughout countless shifts.
Cleaning is a breeze. I only need to wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland significantly outperforms it in terms of retention, durability, and ease of maintenance. I’ve been consistently impressed with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491 boasts several key specifications. It features Level III Retention due to its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and Hood Guard. The finish is STX Hi-Gloss Black, offering a professional and durable appearance. It’s designed for right-hand users and compatible with Heckler & Koch USP 9 & 40 models.
The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, preventing unauthorized removal. The Hood Guard provides an additional layer of security by preventing the release mechanisms from being easily accessed. The Ride UBL positions the holster at a mid-ride height. This enhances comfort and allows for a smoother draw, especially when wearing body armor.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to a firearm. Its Level III retention gives officers confidence that their weapon will remain secure in any situation. The ALS allows for a fast and intuitive draw stroke. This is crucial in high-pressure scenarios.
A key strength is the balance between security and accessibility. While the holster offers exceptional retention, the draw stroke remains smooth and efficient. One minor weakness might be the learning curve for those unfamiliar with ALS systems, but this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, it exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort during extended wear. The materials used are high-quality and feel incredibly durable.
The holster is designed to be user-friendly. The ALS release is intuitive. The Ride UBL distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long periods.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish resists scratches and abrasions. The internal mechanisms are robust and designed for repeated use. Maintenance is minimal, typically only requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth.
With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. The investment in quality materials and construction ensures longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with the Hood Guard installed. An optional Sentry can be added to further enhance security, converting it to Level IV retention. While the holster itself doesn’t offer many direct customization options, the Ride UBL can be swapped for different belt attachments to adjust ride height and cant.
Safariland holsters are known for their compatibility with a wide range of accessories. These include tactical lights and lasers that attach to the firearm. It’s worth noting the compatibility with various belt loop systems to accommodate different carry styles.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS and Hood Guard provide superior security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: The ALS allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke, crucial in critical situations.
- Durable Construction: The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL positions the holster for optimal comfort, even with body armor.
- Professional Appearance: The sleek design and Hi-Gloss Black finish project a professional image.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS system may require some initial practice for those unfamiliar with active retention holsters.
- Hi-Gloss Finish: The Hi-Gloss finish, while durable, can be prone to showing fingerprints.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of weapon security and a reliable draw stroke. It is also an excellent choice for anyone who carries a firearm in a duty capacity.
This holster might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its Level III retention and size. Those seeking a minimalist or low-profile option may find it too bulky. A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry to upgrade it to Level IV retention.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right Hand 6360-91-491 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price is justified considering the quality of materials, robust construction, and advanced retention features.
I would absolutely recommend this holster to any professional who relies on their firearm for their safety and the safety of others. It’s an investment in peace of mind and operational effectiveness. Upgrade your carry system today; you won’t regret it.