Breaking Down My First Experience with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a leader in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), and a durable STX finish. It’s built for speed, security, and comfort – a tall order, but one that Safariland aims to fill.
My department recently mandated Level III retention holsters, forcing me to reassess my existing setup. I was looking for a holster that would securely retain my weapon during foot pursuits and physical altercations, while still allowing for a quick and natural draw. I had used Safariland products in the past and trusted their reputation, making the 6360 ALS Level III a natural choice.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III felt substantial. The plain black STX finish looked professional and rugged, and the overall construction exuded quality. The ALS mechanism clicked reassuringly, and the hood guard felt solid.
I considered several other holsters, including models from Blackhawk and Bianchi. However, I opted for the Safariland due to its reputation for reliability and the proven track record of the ALS system. Furthermore, the mid-ride UBL seemed like a good compromise between a low-ride setup and a higher-riding traditional holster.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The holster felt well-made and secure, and I was excited to put it to the test in real-world scenarios. I was hoping it would live up to its promises of speed, security, and comfort, and become a trusted part of my duty gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III at my department’s training range. I ran several drills involving drawing from the holster, firing, and re-holstering under simulated stress. The range offered a controlled environment to practice manipulating the ALS and hood guard, and to get accustomed to the draw stroke.
The holster performed admirably in dry conditions. The draw was relatively smooth after some practice, and the ALS disengaged easily with a thumb sweep. Re-holstering was equally straightforward, with the ALS automatically engaging upon weapon insertion.
The only initial issue I encountered was the placement of the hood guard release. It took some getting used to, and initially I found myself fumbling with it under pressure. However, with repeated practice, I was able to overcome this issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has endured daily wear and tear, including exposure to rain, sweat, and the occasional scuff. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the holster body or the ALS mechanism.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. I clean it periodically with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. This keeps the system running smoothly and prevents any potential binding.
Compared to my previous holster, a Level II retention model, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III offers a significantly higher level of security. While the Level II holster was adequate, the addition of the hood guard on the 6360 provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized weapon removal. It has exceeded my expectations for both security and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III. This means it has three independent retention devices: the ALS, the hood guard, and the internal friction of the holster body.
- Material: Durable STX finish. This finish provides a non-reflective, textured surface that is resistant to scratches and abrasions.
- Mounting System: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The UBL allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position, providing a comfortable and accessible draw.
- Draw Hand: Right Hand. This model is specifically designed for right-handed shooters.
- Finish/Color: Plain Black. This provides a professional and low-profile appearance.
- Fits: Beretta PX4 Storm. This holster is molded specifically for the Beretta PX4 Storm pistol.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. The ALS is intuitive and easy to disengage with a thumb sweep.
- Hood Guard: Protects the ALS release and provides an additional layer of retention. The hood guard requires a deliberate motion to disengage, preventing accidental release.
- Slim, Compact Design: Allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and ease of use. The Level III retention ensures that the weapon remains secure in a variety of situations, while the UBL and slim design enhance comfort and concealability. The STX finish provides durability and a professional appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock that gives the user confidence. The hood guard adds an extra layer of security, requiring a deliberate motion to disengage.
The holster’s strengths lie in its security, durability, and relatively smooth draw. However, the initial learning curve associated with the hood guard can be a weakness for some users. With practice, this issue can be overcome.
Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. It provides a high level of security without sacrificing speed or comfort. It is a valuable tool for law enforcement and security professionals.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is designed with both security and comfort in mind. The STX finish is durable and provides a good grip. The mid-ride UBL allows the holster to sit comfortably on the hip, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the hood guard does require some practice to master. Once the user becomes familiar with the draw stroke, the holster is quick and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. The STX finish is highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting options. Safariland also offers an optional Sentry device that adds another layer of security to the hood guard.
While the holster is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it can also be modified to accept some aftermarket attachments. However, it’s important to ensure compatibility before making any modifications.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The combination of ALS and hood guard provides superior weapon security, deterring unauthorized removal. This is crucial in high-risk environments.
- Durable Construction: The STX finish and robust design ensure long-lasting performance, even under heavy use. It’s built to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
- Mid-Ride UBL: The UBL offers a comfortable and accessible draw stroke, balancing security and ergonomics. This allows for a natural and efficient presentation of the firearm.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): The ALS provides intuitive and reliable weapon retention, automatically securing the firearm upon holstering. This ensures that the weapon is always secure.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish provides a low-profile and professional look. It avoids drawing unnecessary attention and maintains a clean aesthetic.
Cons
- Hood Guard Learning Curve: The hood guard can take some time to master, potentially slowing down the initial draw stroke. Consistent practice is required.
- Limited Compatibility: The holster is specifically molded for the Beretta PX4 Storm, limiting its use with other firearms. It is a dedicated solution for a specific pistol.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61?
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Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable duty holster for their Beretta PX4 Storm. It is also suitable for open carry situations where weapon security is paramount.
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Who should skip this product? Individuals who own firearms other than the Beretta PX4 Storm, or those who prefer a minimalist holster design without Level III retention. Those seeking a concealed carry solution might find this holster too bulky.
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Must-have accessories or modifications? A Safariland holster belt is highly recommended for optimal stability and weight distribution. Consider adding the Safariland Sentry for enhanced hood guard security, particularly in high-risk environments.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-180-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and functionality. It is a well-designed and robust holster that is built to withstand the demands of daily duty.
The price of $199.99 is justified by the holster’s quality, features, and reputation. It is an investment in your safety and the security of your weapon.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III to any law enforcement or security professional who carries a Beretta PX4 Storm and requires a Level III retention holster. If you need a reliable and secure duty holster, look no further. Upgrade your security today.