Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the perfect blend of security, accessibility, and comfort. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071 caught my attention for its reputation as a duty-grade holster designed for professionals who require a high level of retention and a classic aesthetic. It boasts Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III retention rating, combined with a Basketweave Brown finish for a traditional, professional look.
I needed a holster that provided exceptional weapon security without sacrificing a smooth, rapid draw. My primary concern was finding a duty holster that wouldn’t feel cumbersome during extended wear, offering a balance between retention and speed. Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster impressed me with its robust construction and the quality of its basketweave finish; it felt substantial and well-made.
Compared to my previous holsters—a Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 and a Galco leather holster—the Safariland stood out for its combination of active retention and a streamlined design. I was particularly drawn to the ALS system and the promise of a Level III retention, which the others lacked. Initially, I was excited to see if it could truly deliver on its promise of security and speed, hoping to find the ideal balance for duty carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071 at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The weather was typical for a spring afternoon—slightly damp and breezy. It took a few practice draws to get used to the ALS release, but once I mastered it, the draw was surprisingly smooth and intuitive.
The holster performed admirably in these conditions, providing a secure hold on my Sig Sauer P226 (pre-365426 serial number). I did notice a slight stickiness when re-holstering initially, but this seemed to dissipate as the holster broke in. Overall, I was impressed with the balance of retention and speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including training exercises and simulated duty scenarios, the Safariland holster has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, even with daily use and exposure to various environmental conditions. The basketweave finish has held up well, showing no scratches or fading.
Maintenance has been simple—a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The Safariland holster has exceeded my expectations, outperforming my previous holsters in both retention and ease of use. I feel much more confident carrying my sidearm knowing it’s securely holstered yet readily accessible.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071
Specifications
Level III Retention: This is the cornerstone of the holster’s security, requiring multiple steps to release the firearm, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to draw. This added layer of security offers peace of mind, especially in high-risk situations.
Level IV Retention (with optional Sentry installed): By adding the optional Sentry device, the holster achieves an even higher level of security. This provides maximum protection against weapon takeaway attempts.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, engaging the ejection port. This significantly reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement.
Hood Guard: The standard hood guard adds another layer of protection against unauthorized access, further enhancing security. This helps prevent others from easily manipulating the holster to remove your firearm.
Slim, Compact Design: The holster is designed to ride close to the body, minimizing bulk and improving concealability under a garment. This makes it comfortable for extended wear and reduces printing.
Simple Straight Up Draw: Once the retention devices are disengaged, the draw is a simple, straight-up motion, allowing for a fast and efficient response. This is critical in high-stress situations where seconds matter.
Mid-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The Mid-Ride UBL positions the holster slightly lower on the belt, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic draw. This ensures the firearm sits in an accessible position without hindering movement.
Basketweave Brown Finish: The Basketweave Brown finish offers a classic, professional look, often preferred for duty carry. This adds a touch of traditional aesthetics to modern functionality.
Gun Fit: Designed specifically for Sig Sauer P220 (before gun serial number G158180) and P226 (before serial gun number 365426) with a 4.41″ barrel, P226DAO, and P220DAO. Ensuring compatibility is vital for proper fit and function.
Right-Hand Configuration: Designed for right-handed users. Ensuring you select the correct hand orientation is critical for proper holster use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071 performs exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable platform for my Sig Sauer P226. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to operate once mastered, allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The Level III retention offers peace of mind without sacrificing accessibility.
One minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS release; however, this is easily overcome with practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, using high-quality materials that feel robust and durable. The slim design minimizes bulk, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The Mid-Ride UBL positions the holster at an optimal height, facilitating a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.
There is a slight learning curve to the ALS system, but once familiarized, the holster is exceptionally user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland holster is built to last, withstanding the rigors of daily use and exposure to various environmental conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with the hood guard and Mid-Ride UBL. The optional Sentry device can be added for Level IV retention.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting platforms. While designed specifically for the Sig Sauer P226, it may accommodate similar-sized firearms with minor adjustments.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071
Pros
- Unparalleled Security: Level III retention with ALS provides exceptional weapon retention.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Once mastered, the ALS allows for a rapid and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and robust design ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Wear: Slim design and Mid-Ride UBL provide comfortable carry for extended periods.
- Professional Appearance: Basketweave Brown finish offers a classic, duty-ready look.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release mechanism.
- Gun Fit Specificity: Designed for specific Sig Sauer models, limiting compatibility.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and security. It’s also well-suited for range use and training scenarios where a secure and reliable holster is essential.
Individuals who prefer a simpler, passive retention system or those with firearms not compatible with the Safariland’s specific gun fit should skip this product.
A must-have modification is the optional Sentry for increased security, bringing it to Level IV retention. A leg shroud is also helpful for tactical applications.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-77-071 is an excellent duty-grade holster that provides a superior balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. While the initial learning curve may be a minor hurdle, the benefits of the ALS system and Level III retention far outweigh any drawbacks.
The price is justified considering the level of security and durability this holster offers. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and professional duty carry solution. If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily duty and provide unparalleled weapon retention, look no further than the Safariland ALS Level III. It’s a worthwhile investment in your safety and professional preparedness.