Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a statement. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster is designed for law enforcement and security professionals demanding a high level of weapon retention and a professional appearance. Its key features include the ALS (Automatic Locking System), Level III retention, and a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry.
My agency recently mandated a switch to Level III retention holsters for all uniformed officers. The high-gloss black finish was also a requirement for maintaining a consistent and professional look across the department. I needed a holster that was both secure and allowed for a smooth, efficient draw in high-pressure situations.
The holster arrived in a standard Safariland box, well-protected with foam padding. My initial impression was that the build quality was exceptional, typical of Safariland products. The high-gloss finish was immaculate, and the overall weight felt substantial but not overly bulky, indicating a robust construction.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900. The Blackhawk, while popular, had some reported durability issues with its locking mechanism, and I wanted something more robust. The Bianchi was a good option, but the Safariland‘s ALS system and reputation for reliability ultimately swayed my decision.
I was immediately excited by the potential of this holster. A secure, fast draw is paramount in my line of work, and the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 promised to deliver just that. My hope was that it would live up to the hype and provide a reliable and comfortable carry solution for my duty weapon, a Sig Sauer P229R.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at the police department’s shooting range during our monthly firearms qualification. The weather was typical for early spring, a mix of sunshine and light rain. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills.
The ALS system took some getting used to at first. It required me to slightly alter my grip during the draw, but after a few dozen repetitions, it became second nature. In wet conditions, the grip remained secure, and the locking mechanism functioned flawlessly, giving me confidence in its reliability.
The initial learning curve with the ALS was the biggest hurdle. After about an hour of dedicated practice, I felt comfortable and proficient with the draw stroke. There were no unexpected issues; the holster performed exactly as advertised, providing secure retention and a smooth release.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The high-gloss finish has held up well, showing only minor scuffs from regular wear. The holster shows no real signs of wear and tear.
The holster has maintained its shape and retention capabilities throughout daily duty use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism have kept it in optimal working condition. This is a testament to its high-quality construction.
Compared to my previous holster (a Level II retention model from a different manufacturer), the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 provides a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The confidence in the weapon’s retention, combined with the speed of the draw, makes this holster a superior choice.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 is specifically designed for left-handed users and is compatible with the Sig Sauer P229R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer and P229R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer. The holster features Level III Retention, providing three independent levels of security. The finish is a Hi-Gloss Black, offering a professional and easily cleanable exterior.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon once holstered, preventing unauthorized removal. The included Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for a mid-ride carry position, enhancing comfort and accessibility. The Hood Guard offers additional security against weapon takeaways.
These specifications are crucial for duty carry. Level III retention is mandatory for many law enforcement agencies, providing a high degree of confidence in weapon security. The UBL allows for a comfortable and natural draw stroke, essential for quick and accurate responses in critical situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS mechanism engages automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw the weapon. The holster has proven to be durable and reliable.
The holster’s Level III retention provides a strong defense against attempted weapon takeaways, offering peace of mind in potentially hostile situations. The draw stroke, once mastered, is smooth and consistent, allowing for quick target acquisition. The Hi-Gloss finish is easy to clean and maintain.
The ALS mechanism may require some initial practice to master the draw stroke efficiently. The Level III retention adds a slight layer of complexity compared to Level II holsters. Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 is outstanding. The materials used are durable and resistant to wear and tear, and the overall construction feels solid and reliable. The weight is substantial, but the mid-ride UBL distributes it evenly, enhancing comfort.
The holster is designed to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during extended wear. The initial learning curve with the ALS mechanism is manageable, and once mastered, the draw stroke is intuitive. The holster is relatively user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use and should last for years with proper care. The durable materials and robust construction ensure its longevity. The holster is highly durable.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts, such as the ALS lever or Hood Guard, are readily available from Safariland. The holster is easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. This includes various belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic mounts. The optional Sentry can be installed to further enhance weapon retention.
The holster is also compatible with many aftermarket accessories, such as Streamlight TLR series weapon lights, when used with appropriate holster modifications. The ability to customize the holster allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences. The holster can be modified, and is compatible with other products.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Once mastered, the ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use and provides lasting service.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Carry: The UBL ensures a comfortable and stable carry position.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish offers a clean and polished look.
Cons
- ALS Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the draw stroke.
- Price: It is more expensive than some Level II options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and a professional appearance. It’s especially well-suited for those who carry a Sig Sauer P229R and prioritize security and speed.
Individuals who are new to firearms or prefer a simpler, less secure holster might want to skip this product. Agencies mandating Level III retention will find the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 a good option. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92
In summary, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-744-92 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. The price is justified by the exceptional build quality, high level of security, and reliable performance. The value is there.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any left-handed professional who needs a secure and efficient carry solution for their Sig Sauer P229R. If you value weapon retention, draw speed, and professional appearance, this holster is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!