Was the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 Worth It?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 isn’t just a piece of molded plastic; it’s a critical component for anyone who carries a sidearm professionally or takes personal defense seriously. Safariland has built a reputation on providing law enforcement and military personnel with reliable, secure, and accessible holsters, and the 6360 is a prime example of their dedication. It combines the Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention, offering a balance of speed and security that’s essential in high-stress situations.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I was looking for a duty holster that offered both excellent retention and a smooth, fast draw. My primary concern was finding a holster that could stand up to the rigors of daily use while providing a secure platform for my sidearm, without sacrificing the ability to quickly deploy it when necessary.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 was a reassuring experience. The STX Tactical Black finish felt robust and provided a non-reflective surface, which is crucial in tactical environments. The molded polymer felt dense and well-constructed, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand abuse.
Compared to other holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Cop 3-Point Holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 stood out for its balance of security and draw speed. I chose it because the ALS system seemed more intuitive and less prone to accidental activation than the Serpa’s push-button release, and it offered a more streamlined profile compared to the bulkier Galco. My initial impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 at my local shooting range, simulating duty carry scenarios. I ran drills that involved drawing from various positions and under simulated stress, as well as practicing re-holstering with speed and efficiency. The holster performed admirably even in the humid conditions.
The ALS system proved intuitive. With a bit of practice, the draw became second nature. There were no significant issues, although I noticed that the hood guard required a deliberate motion to disengage quickly under pressure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and some force-on-force training exercises, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 has held up remarkably well. There are only minor scuff marks on the STX Tactical Black finish, and the retention mechanisms remain tight and reliable. I clean the holster monthly with a damp cloth and silicone-based lubricant to keep the ALS system running smoothly.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used that wore out or lost retention over time, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability. It feels like a piece of equipment I can trust my life to.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131
Specifications
- The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 is specifically designed to fit the Beretta PX4 Storm. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing movement and preventing accidental dislodging.
- It is a right-hand holster, catering specifically to right-handed shooters for optimal draw and re-holstering. The finish is STX Tactical Black, providing a non-reflective, durable surface.
- The holster features Level III Retention. This means it requires three distinct actions to release the firearm, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
- It utilizes the ALS (Automatic Locking System). The ALS secures the weapon immediately upon holstering and is released with a simple thumb swipe.
- The holster comes with the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The UBL allows the holster to ride slightly lower on the belt for increased comfort and a smoother draw.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Level III retention is essential for law enforcement and security personnel who face a higher risk of weapon takeaways.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a positive lock on the weapon, giving me confidence that it will remain secure even during strenuous activity.
The draw stroke is surprisingly smooth and fast once the release mechanisms are de-activated. However, the hood guard can take some getting used to, as it requires a specific downward motion to clear effectively.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 is built from a robust polymer that feels both durable and lightweight. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional and low-profile appearance.
The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height, allowing for a natural and efficient draw stroke. The learning curve is relatively minimal, with most users becoming proficient with the ALS system after a few practice sessions.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning is straightforward. A damp cloth and silicone lubricant are sufficient to keep the ALS system functioning smoothly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with the hood guard and the Ride UBL. An optional Sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic protectors.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131
Pros
- Excellent Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Once mastered, the ALS system allows for a surprisingly quick and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: The robust polymer and STX Tactical Black finish are built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Comfortable Ride: The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height for a natural draw stroke.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing for customization.
Cons
- The hood guard can be difficult to disengage quickly under pressure, requiring practice.
- Price: While offering excellent value, the initial cost can be higher than some other duty holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of firearm retention and a reliable draw. It’s also a good choice for competitive shooters who need a secure and fast holster system.
This product might not be ideal for casual gun owners or those who prioritize concealment over retention. A good starting purchase to enhance the functionality of the holster is a quality gun belt designed for duty carry, that provides the necessary stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and speed. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the effectiveness of the ALS system, and the overall durability of the product.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6360-180-131 to anyone who needs a dependable and secure holster for their Beretta PX4 Storm. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed.