Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and tactical professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a secure, comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, providing enhanced security without sacrificing draw speed. This left-hand model, finished in STX Plain Black, is specifically molded for a Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without thumb safety, offering a snug and reliable fit.
As a left-handed shooter working in high-risk environments, I needed a holster that offered both superior retention and a comfortable, accessible carry position. My previous holster, a simple Level II retention model, lacked the confidence-inspiring security I needed when dealing with combative individuals. I wanted a holster I could trust to keep my firearm secure, even during intense physical altercations.
The Safariland 6360 arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected in plastic wrapping. My initial impression was one of solid construction and quality materials. The STX Plain Black finish looks professional and durable. The holster felt substantial in my hand, not overly heavy, but definitely built to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Before settling on the Safariland 6360, I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster and the Galco SLS Paddle Holster. The Blackhawk! SERPA, while popular, received mixed reviews regarding its release mechanism under stress. The Galco SLS offered good retention, but lacked the adjustable ride height I desired. The Safariland 6360 stood out due to its proven ALS system, Level III retention, and the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) which allows for personalized carry height adjustment.
Upon first handling the Safariland 6360, I was immediately impressed with the smoothness of the ALS release and the positive engagement of the locking mechanism. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation for reliability and security. I knew I needed a holster I could trust my life to, and initial impressions suggested this could be the one.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first live-fire test with the Safariland 6360 took place at my department’s training range. I ran various drills, including drawing from concealment under pressure, rapid target acquisition, and weapon retention scenarios. The weather was moderately humid, typical for our region.
The Safariland 6360 performed admirably in all conditions. The ALS release was intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid target engagement. The Ride UBL kept the holster secure on my belt, even during vigorous movement. I appreciate that even in the cold, the holster performed as it should.
Initially, the draw stroke felt slightly different than my previous holster due to the Level III retention system. It required a deliberate thumb release and a slightly modified grip. However, after a few hours of practice, the draw became second nature. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the initial testing phase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous duty use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be an exceptionally reliable and durable holster. I have worn it in various environments, including patrol duty, training exercises, and even during a week-long SWAT school. The holster has been exposed to rain, mud, dust, and extreme temperatures without any noticeable degradation in performance.
The STX Plain Black finish has held up remarkably well to daily wear and tear, with only minor scuff marks visible. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably, even after countless draws and re-holstering. The holster requires minimal maintenance – a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6360 offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The Level III retention system provides an added layer of protection against weapon grabs, especially in close-quarters situations. The Safariland 6360 has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412
Specifications
- Category: ALS Holsters. This denotes its primary retention mechanism.
- Finish/Color: STX Plain Black. Offers a professional, low-profile appearance and enhanced durability.
- Fits: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 without thumb safety. Ensures a precise and secure fit for the specified firearm model.
- Type: Left Hand. Specifically designed for left-handed shooters.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, functionality, and suitability for specific users and firearms. The ALS system ensures a secure hold, the STX finish provides durability, the firearm fit ensures proper retention, and the left-hand design caters to the ergonomic needs of left-handed individuals. The Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 without thumb safety is securely held.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system automatically locks the weapon in place upon holstering, requiring only a simple thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw. The Level III retention further enhances security, providing multiple layers of protection against unauthorized weapon removal.
The holster’s strengths lie in its reliability, security, and ease of use. The ALS system is intuitive and consistently performs as expected. The Ride UBL allows for comfortable carry and adjustable ride height. A potential weakness is the slightly longer learning curve compared to simpler holsters due to the Level III retention. However, this is a minor trade-off for the added security.
The Safariland 6360 far exceeds my expectations. It offers a perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. It meets the needs of law enforcement and tactical professionals who require a duty-grade holster they can rely on in high-stress situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 is constructed from durable Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material provides excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and temperature tolerance. The holster is lightweight yet robust, offering a comfortable carry experience without compromising durability.
The holster’s design is user-friendly, although the Level III retention system requires some initial practice. The ALS release is intuitive and easily accessible with the thumb. The Ride UBL allows for adjustable cant and ride height, ensuring a comfortable and personalized fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster has shown no signs of cracking, splitting, or deformation, even after months of rigorous use.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication to maintain smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These include various belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical mounts. The holster can be further customized with an optional Safariland Sentry, which adds another layer of security by preventing the ALS release from being activated without authorization.
The Safariland 6360 is also compatible with many popular aftermarket accessories, such as Streamlight weapon-mounted lights. This ensures that users can tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412
Pros
- Superior Level III Retention: Provides an exceptional level of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Reliable ALS System: Ensures a smooth, consistent draw stroke with intuitive thumb release.
- Durable SafariSeven Construction: Offers excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and temperature tolerance.
- Adjustable Ride UBL: Allows for personalized carry height and cant adjustment for enhanced comfort.
- Professional STX Plain Black Finish: Provides a low-profile, professional appearance and added durability.
Cons
- The Level III retention system requires a slight learning curve compared to simpler holsters.
- Higher price point compared to entry-level holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412?
The Safariland 6360 is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical operators who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable, comfortable carry platform. It’s also well-suited for concealed carry permit holders who prioritize security.
This product might not be ideal for: casual shooters or individuals who are new to firearms and prefer a simpler, less expensive holster.
Must-have accessories or modifications: A Safariland Sentry for added security, and a weapon-mounted light for enhanced target identification in low-light conditions.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-419-412 is an outstanding duty-grade holster that offers an unparalleled level of security, reliability, and comfort. Its robust construction, intuitive ALS system, and adjustable Ride UBL make it an excellent choice for professionals who depend on their firearms for personal safety and the safety of others.
While the price point may be higher than some entry-level holsters, the added security and durability justify the investment. This is especially true for those working in high-risk environments.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster. It’s a product that inspires confidence and provides the peace of mind knowing that your firearm is secure and readily accessible when you need it most. Invest in your safety and choose the Safariland 6360.