Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals, offering a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention, providing secure weapon retention while still allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. This left-handed model, finished in STX Plain Black, is specifically molded to fit Sig Sauer P229R pistols with light rails.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve always prioritized safety and accessibility, but after a near miss during a training exercise where my previous holster failed to retain my sidearm, I knew I needed a significant upgrade. I was searching for a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing a confident and secure carry. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to tick all the boxes in terms of retention, accessibility, and durability, making it a prime candidate for rigorous testing.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the holster’s robust construction and clean, professional appearance. The STX Plain Black finish offered a low-profile look, and the overall weight felt appropriate for a duty holster, suggesting high-quality materials were used. My first thought was that the design clearly reflected Safariland’s experience in crafting gear for demanding professionals.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 before settling on the Safariland 6360. The Serpa’s trigger-finger release, while popular, didn’t align with my preferred draw technique, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the active retention I needed for peace of mind. The Safariland 6360’s ALS system felt more intuitive and secure.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster felt solid and well-made, and the ALS system seemed incredibly secure, but I knew the true test would come in practical application. I was excited to see if it would live up to Safariland’s reputation for producing reliable and durable holsters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at the shooting range during a force-on-force training session. This provided a controlled but realistic environment to evaluate its performance under stress. I subjected it to various drills, including drawing under pressure, re-holstering quickly, and moving through different scenarios.
The holster performed admirably even when faced with sweat, dust, and simulated physical altercations. The ALS system engaged smoothly and consistently, retaining the weapon securely throughout the drills. Drawing was intuitive once I became accustomed to the release mechanism, and re-holstering was positive and secure.
After the initial session, I only noticed slight scuff marks from drawing and re-holstering, a testament to the durability of the STX finish. I was surprised at how quickly I adapted to the ALS system; after a few practice draws, it became second nature. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also kept the holster stable on my duty belt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use in varying conditions, including hot, humid days on the range and cold, rainy field exercises, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minor scratches on the STX finish, but no signs of structural weakness or failure. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.
I’ve found that routine cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS components is sufficient to keep the holster in optimal working condition. The maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. The holster’s rugged construction instills confidence and has outperformed every other holster I’ve previously used in terms of reliability and weapon retention.
Previously, I used a Level II retention holster from a competitor, but it showed significant wear and tear after a few months, and the retention mechanism became less reliable. The Safariland 6360 is in a different league altogether, exhibiting superior durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412 boasts a range of impressive specifications:
- Category: ALS Holsters, denoting the Automatic Locking System as its primary retention method.
- Finish/Color: STX Plain Black, offering a professional and low-profile appearance.
- Fits: Sig Sauer P229R DASA spurred hammer w/light rails; P229R DAK bobbed hammer w/light rails, ensuring a precise fit for these specific models.
- Type: Left Hand, specifically designed for left-handed users.
- Retention Level: Level III, providing three points of retention for enhanced security.
These specifications are critical because they directly influence the holster’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios. The precise fit ensures proper weapon retention, and the Level III retention system offers an additional layer of security. The left-handed design ensures that the holster is optimized for the user’s dominant hand, promoting a natural and efficient draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system engages automatically when the weapon is holstered, providing an immediate and secure hold. Releasing the weapon requires only a simple thumb activation, allowing for a straight-up draw without any awkward or time-consuming manipulations.
The strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS system provides peace of mind, knowing that the weapon is secure, while the smooth draw stroke ensures that it can be deployed quickly when needed. The weakness, if any, is that the ALS system requires a slight learning curve to master the draw stroke efficiently.
The holster absolutely meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. It offers a level of security and reliability that I haven’t experienced with other holsters. The build quality and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of the design.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort, especially during prolonged periods of wear. The STX Plain Black finish provides a low-profile appearance, suitable for professional environments.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the ALS system does require some practice to become proficient. Once mastered, the draw stroke is smooth and intuitive. The ergonomic design of the thumb release promotes a natural and efficient draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The STX finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the overall construction is robust and durable. I anticipate that this holster will last for many years with proper care.
Maintaining the Safariland 6360 is a breeze. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s needed to keep it in optimal working condition. The holster’s simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean, ensuring that it remains reliable and functional for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 comes standard with the Hood Guard installed, providing an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access to the weapon. An optional Sentry can be installed to elevate the retention to Level IV. The Ride UBL allows users to adjust the holster’s ride height to their preference.
The Safariland 6360 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for professionals who need a versatile and customizable holster. The holster is also compatible with various weapon-mounted lights, expanding its utility for different operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412
Pros
- Exceptional Weapon Retention: The Level III retention with ALS provides unparalleled security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Durable Construction: The STX Plain Black finish and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Smooth and Efficient Draw: Once mastered, the ALS system enables a quick and intuitive draw stroke.
- Comfortable Carry: The slim, compact design and Ride UBL provide a comfortable and stable carry, even during prolonged periods of wear.
- Compatibility: Compatible with Sig Sauer P229R pistols with light rails.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS system requires practice to master the draw stroke efficiently.
- Price: While the quality justifies the cost, it might be considered expensive for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable carry system. It’s especially well-suited for individuals who carry a Sig Sauer P229R with a light rail. Left-handed shooters will greatly benefit from its tailored design.
Those who prefer simpler, Level I or Level II retention systems, or those unwilling to invest time in mastering the ALS draw stroke, should skip this product. Individuals with handguns other than the specified Sig Sauer P229R models will also need to explore other options.
A weapon-mounted light compatible with the Sig Sauer P229R is a must-have accessory to fully leverage the holster’s capabilities. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Consider purchasing the optional Sentry for Level IV retention.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-744-412 is an exceptional duty-grade holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and reliable performance. Its robust construction, intuitive design, and comfortable carry make it an excellent choice for professionals who demand the best. While the ALS system requires some practice to master, the benefits in terms of security and accessibility are well worth the effort.
The price of $157.99 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and advanced features. It’s an investment in safety and peace of mind that I believe is well worth making. This holster stands as a testament to Safariland’s commitment to crafting top-tier gear for demanding professionals.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and comfortable duty holster. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference. You won’t regret it.