Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 Review

One Tool, Many Questions: The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132

For over a decade, my life has revolved around outdoor and tactical gear. As a left-handed shooter, finding reliable and secure holsters has often been a frustrating endeavor. That’s where the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 enters the picture, promising a high level of retention and compatibility with my duty belt.

My primary need was a holster that offered both secure weapon retention and a comfortable carry for extended periods. My previous experience with Level II holsters left me wanting more security, especially during dynamic training scenarios. The Safariland holster’s Level III designation immediately caught my attention.

Out of the box, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The STX TAC Black finish provided a professional, low-profile appearance. Its weight was noticeable, but not excessive, hinting at the robust construction.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but opted for the Safariland due to its proven reputation for durability and the ALS (Automatic Locking System). I was particularly drawn to the mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) which promised a comfortable and accessible draw. My initial excitement stemmed from the Safariland name, a brand synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and military communities.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 was at a local shooting range. I subjected the holster to a series of draw and re-holstering drills, focusing on speed and efficiency. The weather was warm and sunny, typical for a summer day at the range.

The ALS system took a little getting used to initially, requiring a deliberate thumb sweep to deactivate. Once mastered, the draw stroke was surprisingly smooth and natural. I experienced no issues with the holster in the dry conditions of the range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 has proven its worth. I’ve used it during firearms training courses, tactical simulations, and even some light hiking. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear.

The STX TAC Black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and abrasions. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland offers superior retention and comfort for extended wear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132

Specifications

• The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is a Level III Retention holster. This means it incorporates three distinct security features to prevent unauthorized weapon removal.
• It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. This system requires a deliberate thumb release to draw the weapon.
• The holster includes a Hood Guard as a standard feature. This guard provides an additional layer of protection and prevents accidental activation of the ALS.
• The finish is STX TAC Black. This finish offers a low-profile, non-reflective appearance and enhanced durability.
• It utilizes the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The UBL positions the holster for a comfortable mid-ride carry and allows for easy attachment to duty belts.
• The holster is specifically designed for left-handed users and compatible with Heckler & Koch P2000. This dedicated design ensures proper fit and function.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, accessibility, and overall usability. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the UBL ensures a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 performs admirably in its intended role. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent once the release mechanism is mastered.

A key strength is the Level III retention, offering a substantial upgrade in security compared to Level II holsters. One area for potential improvement is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS; practice is essential. It meets and generally exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The STX TAC Black material is durable and provides a professional appearance. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offers a comfortable mid-ride height.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but the design is otherwise user-friendly. The holster’s construction and materials exude quality, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132 is built to last. The STX TAC Black material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors. Maintenance is simple; a wipe-down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient.

With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster includes a Hood Guard for added security. An optional Sentry can be installed to further enhance the Level III retention. While specific customization options are limited, the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) is compatible with various belt widths.

The holster is primarily designed for use with the Heckler & Koch P2000. However, the Safariland ecosystem offers a wide range of compatible accessories and attachments.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-97-132