The Most Honest Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82 Review Online
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and reliable performance. This holster combines the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, providing a secure and accessible platform for your sidearm. The “Ride UBL” (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable carry on a duty belt, while the basket weave finish offers a professional appearance.
My journey to finding the ideal duty holster involved years of trial and error, countless hours on the range, and real-world application in high-pressure situations. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily carry, provide rapid access to my weapon, and, above all, offer unwavering retention. After researching numerous options, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster seemed like the perfect fit.
The initial unboxing revealed a robust, well-constructed holster. The basket weave finish was clean and consistent, and the overall construction felt solid and durable. The weight was substantial without being cumbersome, a testament to the quality of materials used.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906, but the Safariland’s ALS system and reputation for reliability ultimately swayed my decision. The Serpa’s trigger finger release concerned me, while the Bianchi lacked the active retention of the ALS. I was excited to finally find a holster that could potentially meet all my needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Safariland 6360 was eye-opening. I tested the holster during various drills, including drawing under stress and rapid re-holstering exercises. The ALS system engaged smoothly and securely, providing a satisfying “click” to confirm weapon retention.
The holster performed admirably in both dry and humid conditions. Even with sweaty hands, the grip remained secure, and the release mechanism functioned flawlessly. Acquiring a proper grip and disengaging the ALS system took a bit of practice, but after a few hours, it became second nature. There were no significant issues or surprises; the holster performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are some minor scuffs on the basket weave finish, but the holster’s structural integrity remains intact. The ALS mechanism still functions smoothly, and the retention level remains consistent.
Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous holster, a leather Galco, the Safariland 6360 requires significantly less maintenance. This holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82 features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered. It also has Level III Retention, which means it incorporates multiple retention devices to prevent unauthorized removal. The holster is designed for the Beretta PX4 Storm, is a left-hand configuration, and comes in a basket black finish.
The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster in a mid-ride position for comfortable carry. The hood guard helps prevent accidental release of the ALS. These features are crucial for law enforcement personnel who need a secure and accessible duty holster.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in providing a secure and reliable platform for your sidearm. The ALS system offers excellent retention, preventing the weapon from being drawn without proper activation of the release lever. Drawing the weapon is relatively fast and intuitive once the user becomes familiar with the ALS.
The main strength of this holster is its robust retention system and durable construction. One area for potential improvement could be the smoothness of the ALS release, which can occasionally feel slightly gritty. Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 is constructed from a durable synthetic material, providing a balance of rigidity and comfort. The basket weave finish gives the holster a professional appearance and helps to conceal minor scratches. The weight is noticeable but manageable, especially when worn on a sturdy duty belt.
The UBL design places the holster in a comfortable mid-ride position, allowing for a natural draw stroke. There’s a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes intuitive. This is a well-designed and ergonomic duty holster.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The synthetic material is resistant to scratches, moisture, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple: wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and lubricate the ALS mechanism periodically. This is a low-maintenance holster designed for long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes with a hood guard installed. It also accepts an optional Sentry, further enhancing the security level. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as magazine pouches and light mounts.
The UBL can be replaced with other Safariland belt attachments, allowing for different carry heights and angles. While the holster is designed specifically for the Beretta PX4 Storm, the Safariland product line offers similar holsters for a wide range of firearms. The modular design allows for some customization to fit specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82
Pros
- High level of weapon retention with the Safariland ALS and Level III security.
- Durable construction and weather-resistant materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable mid-ride carry position with the Ride UBL.
- Professional basket weave finish adds a polished look.
- Relatively easy to maintain.
Cons
- The ALS release can require some practice to master.
- Limited compatibility as it is specifically molded for the Beretta PX4 Storm.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a secure and reliable duty holster for their Beretta PX4 Storm. It is ideal for those working in demanding environments where weapon retention is paramount. Those who prioritize ease of draw over ultimate retention speed or who prefer a minimalist holster design might want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is stiff enough to support the weight of the holster and firearm. The optional Safariland Sentry adds an extra layer of security for those who need it.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-180-82 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and performance. At $195.00, the price is justified given the level of protection and reliability it offers. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable platform for their Beretta PX4 Storm.
If you’re seeking a holster that will stand up to the rigors of duty and provide peace of mind knowing your weapon is secure, look no further. Invest in the Safariland 6360 and experience the difference.