Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6360-519-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6360-519-131

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6360-519-131 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone who takes their personal safety and firearm security seriously. This holster combines the renowned Safariland durability with an advanced retention system, offering a balance of security and quick access that is paramount in high-pressure situations.

My journey to the Safariland 6360 began with a need for a duty holster that provided both Level III retention and comfortable carry. I was searching for something that would hold my S&W M&P .45 securely, even during strenuous activity, while still allowing for a smooth, rapid draw when necessary.

Upon unboxing the holster, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and the quality of the STX Tactical Black finish. The weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, and the molded design felt precisely fitted for the specified firearm. Compared to some other holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360 exuded confidence.

Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6360 over other Level III options because of Safariland’s reputation for reliability, the proven ALS (Automatic Locking System), and the added security of the hood guard. My first impression was excitement mixed with a sense of preparedness. It felt like a serious piece of equipment for serious situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6360-519-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6360 at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This involved dynamic movement, simulated combat scenarios, and rapid presentation of my firearm. The holster performed admirably, keeping my S&W M&P .45 secure during sprints and ground work.

During the testing, the weather was a mix of sun and light rain. The STX Tactical Black finish held up well, providing a secure grip even when wet. Learning the ALS release took some practice, but after a few repetitions, the draw became smooth and instinctive. One minor issue was adjusting the tension to achieve the perfect balance of retention and draw speed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various training environments, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the holster body or locking mechanisms. Maintenance is straightforward; wiping it down with a damp cloth after use keeps it clean and functioning smoothly.

Previously, I used a Level II retention holster from another brand, and the Safariland 6360 significantly outperforms it in terms of security and durability. The ALS system provides a much more confident level of retention, and the overall construction feels far more robust. This translates to greater peace of mind during operations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6360-519-131

Specifications

• Category: ALS Holsters – This places it within Safariland’s range of holsters featuring the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a key component for retention.
• Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black – The STX Tactical Black finish provides a durable, non-reflective surface ideal for tactical environments.
• Fits: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 with or without thumb safety – This specific model is designed to perfectly fit the S&W M&P .45, ensuring secure retention and a smooth draw.
• Type: Right Hand – Designated for right-handed users, optimizing draw angle and accessibility.
• Level III Retention: The Safariland 6360 offers Level III Retention. This means it has three independent retention devices to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This system secures the weapon once holstered. It requires only a thumb release to deactivate, allowing for a fast and intuitive draw.
• Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The holster features a Ride UBL. This allows the holster to ride lower on the belt for increased comfort and range of motion.
• Hood Guard: A hood guard is standard. It protects the thumb release and adds an extra layer of security.

These specifications contribute significantly to the holster’s overall performance and user experience. The precise fit ensures proper retention, while the ALS and Level III retention provide superior security. The Ride UBL enhances comfort, particularly during extended wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for rapid deployment. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a satisfying “click” when the weapon is fully seated. While learning the release took some practice, it quickly became second nature.

The primary strength is the combination of security and draw speed. The holster provides a high level of retention without significantly hindering the ability to draw the weapon quickly. One area for potential improvement would be a more customizable tension adjustment for the ALS system.

The Safariland 6360 exceeds my expectations for a duty holster in terms of both security and ease of use. It’s a significant upgrade from Level II options and provides a greater sense of confidence in high-risk situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with durable materials and precise molding. The holster feels substantial without being overly heavy, and the STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional, low-profile appearance. The Ride UBL positions the holster comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.

There’s a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but the design is user-friendly overall. Once mastered, the draw is smooth and consistent.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Safariland 6360 is built to last. The materials are highly resistant to wear and tear, and the locking mechanisms are robust. Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS system are sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with the Hood Guard and Ride UBL. While there are no included accessories beyond these, Safariland offers a range of compatible accessories, such as the optional Sentry for increased retention.

The Safariland 6360 is also compatible with a variety of belt attachments from other brands, allowing for customization of ride height and angle. This holster can be adapted to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6360-519-131