Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 is more than just a holster; it’s a complete system designed for serious duty use. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, has a reputation for producing durable and highly functional holsters. This particular model combines the renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) with a Level III retention design and the popular Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for a secure and comfortable carry.
As a left-handed shooter who has worked extensively in high-risk environments, I needed a holster that offered both unparalleled security and quick, intuitive access to my firearm. My primary concern was finding a holster that would withstand the rigors of daily use, provide a secure platform, and allow for a smooth, consistent draw stroke under pressure. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 seemed to tick all the boxes.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of solid build quality and attention to detail. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional, non-reflective appearance, and the holster felt robust and well-constructed. Its weight felt appropriate, suggesting the use of quality materials without being overly bulky.
Compared to other Level III retention holsters I’ve used, such as those from Blackhawk! and Bianchi, the Safariland 6360 ALS seemed to offer a more streamlined design and a potentially faster draw. I chose it over other models primarily for its proven ALS system and the reputation of Safariland for producing incredibly durable products. I was genuinely excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was moderately humid, and the range was dusty due to recent construction. The holster performed exceptionally well, even with the added environmental factors.
The ALS system proved intuitive and reliable, allowing for a quick and consistent draw stroke every time. Despite the Level III retention, the draw was surprisingly smooth once I deactivated the locking mechanisms. There were no issues with the firearm sticking or snagging during the draw.
The Ride UBL positioned the holster perfectly for a comfortable and natural grip, reducing the need to adjust my stance or hand position. One initial minor issue was becoming accustomed to the placement of the thumb release for the ALS, but after a few practice draws, it became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in both training and real-world scenarios, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to the elements and rigorous handling. The STX Tactical Black finish has held up well, showing no significant scratches or fading.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Periodically, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to some of the leather holsters I’ve used in the past, this holster requires significantly less maintenance and is far more resistant to environmental factors. The Safariland 6360 ALS has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 is specifically designed for duty use and provides a high level of security and accessibility. It features Level III Retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure under duress. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) engages automatically when the firearm is holstered, providing an immediate and secure lock.
The Hood Guard is a standard feature, further enhancing security by preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The holster is constructed from durable materials and finished with STX Tactical Black for a professional and non-reflective appearance. It is designed for a Left Hand draw and includes the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable mid-ride carry.
Specifically, this model (6360-320-132) is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. This fit is critical; using the holster with an incompatible firearm could compromise retention and safety. The holster’s design allows for a simple, straight-up draw once the retention devices are deactivated.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 performs its primary function of securing and providing access to a firearm exceptionally well. The ALS system is incredibly reliable and provides a positive, audible click when the firearm is holstered, giving the user confidence that the weapon is secure. The Level III retention adds an extra layer of security, making it very difficult for anyone other than the user to remove the firearm.
The main strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and speed. While it offers a high level of retention, the draw stroke remains relatively quick and intuitive with practice. The only notable weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the multiple release mechanisms, but this is easily overcome with dedicated training. Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 is outstanding. The materials used are robust and durable, able to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, allowing for a natural draw stroke and minimizing interference with other gear.
The holster’s design is relatively user-friendly, although it does require some initial practice to master the release mechanisms. The ALS lever is well-positioned for easy access with the thumb, and the hood release is intuitive once learned.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 is built to last. The durable construction and quality materials ensure it will withstand years of use in demanding environments.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are typically all that is required. The STX Tactical Black finish is resistant to scratches and wear, further contributing to the holster’s longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 comes standard with the Hood Guard and the Ride UBL. Safariland offers a range of compatible accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optical sight protectors.
The holster is also compatible with the Safariland Sentry system, which adds an additional layer of security by preventing the ALS lever from being deactivated without the user’s knowledge. The Safariland mounting pattern allows it to work with a range of drop leg platforms and other carry configurations.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, making it ideal for duty use in high-risk environments.
- Reliable ALS System: The Automatic Locking System engages automatically and provides a positive lock, ensuring the firearm remains secure.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials, the holster is designed to withstand years of use and abuse.
- Comfortable Ride UBL: The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, allowing for a natural draw stroke.
- Professional Appearance: The STX Tactical Black finish provides a non-reflective and professional look.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Mastering the multiple release mechanisms requires practice and dedicated training.
- Specific Firearm Fit: Only compatible with the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails, limiting its versatility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a highly secure and reliable holster for their Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. Its Level III retention and durable construction make it well-suited for duty use in demanding environments.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or concealed carry users who prioritize comfort and ease of access over maximum security. It’s also crucial to ensure compatibility with the specified firearm; otherwise, it simply won’t work as intended.
A must-have accessory is dedicated training time to master the release mechanisms and ensure a smooth, consistent draw stroke. Also, consider investing in the Safariland Sentry system for an added layer of security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132
In summary, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6360-320-132 is an excellent choice for those who need a highly secure and durable duty holster for their Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the reliability of the ALS system, and the added security of Level III retention.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who meets the specified criteria and is willing to invest the time in mastering the release mechanisms. It’s a reliable and professional-grade piece of equipment that will serve you well in demanding situations. If you need a holster that offers both security and accessibility for your Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails, then the Safariland 6360 ALS is a solid choice.