Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261 Review

One Week with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261

My search for a reliable, high-retention duty holster led me to the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261. After years of relying on less sophisticated retention systems that sometimes felt like they were offering more of a suggestion than a true lock, I needed something that offered absolute peace of mind, especially in dynamic environments. The promise of Level III retention and the renowned ALS Automatic Locking System from Safariland were the primary draws.

This particular holster caught my eye as a replacement for a worn-out, older model that, while functional, lacked the modern security features I now deem essential. I considered a few other brands, but Safariland’s reputation for law enforcement and military-grade equipment, combined with the specific ALS system, made it the clear frontrunner. The Nylon-Look finish also appealed to me as a balance between ruggedness and a professional aesthetic.

Upon arrival, the holster exuded a sense of robust engineering. The construction felt solid, with no obvious weak points or cheap-feeling components. My initial impression was one of confidence, a feeling that this holster was built to withstand the rigors of daily duty and then some.

First Use Experience

The initial test run for this Safariland holster took place during extended range sessions and a few days of simulated tactical movement exercises. My primary goal was to assess the ease of drawing the weapon and re-holstering, crucial elements for any duty holster. I specifically focused on how the ALS system and the Hood Guard interacted during these rapid sequences.

During these sessions, the holster performed admirably in varied conditions. The ALS Automatic Locking System engaged positively with an audible click each time the firearm was holstered, providing immediate confirmation of secure retention. Releasing the firearm required a deliberate, multi-step process that, while initially requiring practice, quickly became second nature.

The holster’s “slim, compact design” is a noteworthy aspect, allowing the firearm to ride closer to the body than many other ALS holsters. This reduces printing and increases comfort during prolonged wear. The “Mid Ride belt loop” provided a good balance between accessibility and stability, preventing excessive weapon bounce during movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent daily wear and numerous training evolutions, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The holster’s construction, featuring durable STX TACTICAL material, shows no signs of significant wear or degradation. There are no cracks, stiffness, or performance issues despite being subjected to dust, occasional light moisture from range days, and varying temperatures.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional light lubrication on the ALS mechanism. The design makes it straightforward to clean, and there’s nothing complex to worry about. Compared to some budget holsters I’ve used in the past, which quickly developed a sloppy feel or outright failed, this Safariland unit feels built to last.

The Level III retention has consistently provided peace of mind, ensuring the firearm remains secure whether I’m navigating dense urban environments or participating in demanding drills. The optional Sentry can further enhance this, though the standard Hood Guard has proven more than adequate for my needs. This holster offers a level of confidence that far surpasses less secure options.

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its robust performance. It offers Level III Retention, a critical security feature for duty use. This level can be further upgraded to Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed, providing an even higher degree of security.

The core of its retention is the ALS Automatic Locking System, which securely locks the weapon once holstered. This system is designed for a simple, straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated. The holster includes a standard Hood Guard, an integral part of its retention strategy.

For the specific model reviewed, it is designed to fit the Beretta PX4 Storm DASA or DAO (not available for .45 caliber variants). The holster is a Right Hand model, ensuring proper fit for right-handed shooters. The finish is described as Nylon-Look, offering a tactical aesthetic that is also durable and resistant to scuffs.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261 is to securely hold a firearm while allowing for a quick, controlled draw. In this regard, it excels. The ALS system is intuitive after a brief learning period, and the draw stroke becomes fluid with practice.

The holster’s main strength lies in its Level III retention. It provides an exceptional level of security without being overly cumbersome. The draw is smooth and deliberate, requiring the user to disengage the thumb break and the ALS lever sequentially.

A minor point to consider is the slight learning curve associated with the ALS mechanism for new users. However, this is a small price to pay for the enhanced security it provides. Once mastered, the draw becomes rapid and reliable.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is a blend of tactical functionality and user-friendly ergonomics. The Nylon-Look finish not only looks professional but also offers a degree of abrasion resistance. The build quality is immediately apparent; the polymer feels robust and well-molded.

The Mid Ride belt loop is a significant ergonomic advantage. It positions the firearm at a comfortable height on the hip, facilitating a natural draw stroke while still allowing for comfortable seating and movement. The holster’s overall profile is relatively slim, minimizing its footprint and reducing the chance of snagging on gear or doorways.

The ALS release lever is positioned for easy thumb access during the draw, and the Hood Guard, while adding to retention, is designed not to impede the primary draw stroke once disengaged. These design elements work in concert to provide a secure yet accessible carrying solution.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261 is built for the long haul. The heavy-duty polymer construction is highly resistant to impacts and abrasions. Even after weeks of rigorous use, there are no signs of stress, cracks, or material fatigue.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A periodic cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by a thorough drying, is usually all that’s needed. A light application of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism and any pivot points can ensure continued smooth operation.

While specific failure points are rare with Safariland products, users should be mindful of ensuring the ALS lever and Hood Guard are clear of debris. Proper care will undoubtedly extend the lifespan of this holster well beyond that of lesser-quality alternatives.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261 comes with its primary components integrated: the ALS system and the Hood Guard. The product details mention the availability of an optional Sentry accessory, which can be added to the holster to achieve Level IV Retention.

This model is specifically designed to fit the Beretta PX4 Storm DASA or DAO. While this holster is tailored for a specific firearm, Safariland offers a vast array of holsters designed for virtually every popular duty weapon. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system also allows for potential adaptability with different belt attachments, though this specific model is configured with a mid-ride option.

The primary customization available is the addition of the Sentry for enhanced security, which is a testament to Safariland’s modular design approach. This allows users to tailor the holster’s retention level to their specific operational needs.

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261?

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible civilians who prioritize top-tier weapon retention and a secure carry solution. Its Level III retention and reliable ALS system make it ideal for high-activity environments where accidental firearm dislodging is a critical concern. It’s particularly well-suited for those carrying a Beretta PX4 Storm DASA or DAO who demand a professional-grade holster.

Individuals who require a very minimalist or concealed carry solution might find it slightly bulkier than expected due to its retention features. Those unfamiliar with ALS systems may need a short period to adapt their draw stroke. The specific fit for the Beretta PX4 Storm means it’s not for users of other firearm platforms.

For optimal performance, ensuring a proper gun belt is used with the UBL is recommended. This provides a stable platform that complements the holster’s retention and draw characteristics.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6360-180-261 stands out as a highly effective and reliable duty holster. Its robust construction, coupled with its advanced ALS Automatic Locking System and Level III retention, offers a level of security and peace of mind that is difficult to match. The thoughtful design, including the Mid Ride belt loop and slim profile, enhances both comfort and accessibility during daily wear.

Considering its performance, durability, and the reputation of the Safariland brand, the $195.00 price point is justified for the security and quality it delivers. For any professional or serious civilian user carrying a compatible Beretta PX4 Storm, this holster is a highly recommended investment. It’s a testament to Safariland’s commitment to producing dependable gear for demanding situations.