Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines their Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, offering a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm. The addition of the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for a comfortable mid-ride carry, keeping the firearm close to the body.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a duty holster that balances security, accessibility, and comfort during long shifts. Many holsters prioritize one aspect at the expense of others, leaving me with a compromise that affects my performance and confidence. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing a smooth and intuitive draw when seconds mattered.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III, my initial impression was one of robust quality and thoughtful design. The STX Plain Black finish is professional and durable, and the holster feels solid and well-constructed. The ALS mechanism is smooth and positive, and the Ride UBL appears to be a significant improvement over traditional belt loops in terms of comfort and stability.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, such as the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a generic leather thumb-break holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to offer a superior blend of features. The Blackhawk, while secure, felt bulky and the draw was not as intuitive. The leather holster, though comfortable, lacked the necessary level of retention for modern law enforcement. This Safariland holster felt like the perfect solution to finally address my needs.
My first impression was definitely excitement. This holster seemed to address all my concerns. The promise of a secure, comfortable, and accessible carry platform was something I had been searching for, and the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III appeared to deliver on that promise right out of the box.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III at the shooting range during a departmental training day. I ran various drills, including drawing from the holster under pressure and performing reloads. The holster performed admirably in dry conditions and allowed for consistent, smooth draws.
The ALS system proved to be intuitive and reliable, even when my hands were sweaty from exertion. The STX finish provided a secure grip on the holster during manipulation. There were no malfunctions or issues with the retention mechanism.
It took a few practice draws to fully integrate the ALS release into my muscle memory. However, the intuitive design made the learning curve short. There were no issues or surprises encountered.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use during patrol duty, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. It has held up well to the rigors of daily wear and tear. This includes exposure to varying weather conditions and frequent ingress/egress from patrol vehicles.
The STX finish shows minimal signs of wear, and the ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly without any degradation. The Ride UBL has maintained its integrity and provides consistent comfort throughout long shifts. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting primarily of wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally lubricating the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has far exceeded my expectations. It is more secure, more comfortable, and more durable than any other holster I’ve used. It offers peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411
Specifications
- Category: ALS Holsters. This indicates the holster uses Safariland’s Automatic Locking System for weapon retention.
- Finish/Color: STX Plain Black. The STX finish provides a durable and professional appearance.
- Fits: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 without thumb safety. It’s crucial to verify the holster’s compatibility with your specific firearm model.
- Type: Right Hand. The holster is designed for right-handed shooters.
- Level III Retention: Offers three levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This includes the ALS, a hood guard, and the tension device.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Allows the holster to be worn in a mid-ride position. This enhances comfort and accessibility.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. It requires only a thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw.
- Hood Guard: Protects the release mechanisms from accidental activation. It also adds another layer of security.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and ease of use. The Level III retention provides a high level of security for law enforcement professionals. The Ride UBL and ALS system ensure a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It provides a secure and accessible platform for carrying a firearm during duty operations. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a fast and efficient draw stroke.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, high level of retention, and comfortable carry position. A potential weakness could be the need for practice to master the ALS release, but this is quickly overcome with training. It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III boasts a slim and compact design. It allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The use of high-quality materials ensures durability and longevity.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, but requires some initial familiarization with the ALS release mechanism. The Ride UBL provides a comfortable and stable carry platform. It minimizes discomfort during extended wear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. It can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The STX finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is simple, consisting primarily of cleaning with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism as needed. The holster is easily repairable with readily available replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes standard with a Hood Guard. This provides additional security. Optional accessories include the Safariland Sentry, which further enhances the retention level.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows for customization to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. The holster accepts the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) which allows for quick changes between different carry platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Offers a smooth and intuitive draw stroke.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Enhances comfort and stability during extended wear.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- STX Plain Black Finish: Provides a professional and low-profile appearance.
Cons
- Potential Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS release mechanism.
- Price: More expensive than some other duty holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry platform. It is ideal for those who prioritize security, accessibility, and durability in their duty gear.
This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prefer a simpler, less secure holster. Those individuals may find the Level III retention unnecessary. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland QLS system for quick holster changes.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-419-411 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, comfort, and accessibility. Its robust construction, intuitive ALS system, and comfortable Ride UBL make it a top choice for law enforcement and security professionals. The price is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and performance.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm during duty operations. If you are looking for a duty holster that offers a superior blend of security, comfort, and accessibility, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance. Choose Safariland.