Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design. Its purpose is to provide secure weapon retention while still allowing for a smooth and rapid draw when needed.
As a left-handed shooter with over a decade in tactical roles, I’ve always sought a holster that balances security with accessibility. My primary concern has been finding a holster that reliably prevents unauthorized access to my firearm, yet allows for a swift, intuitive draw in high-stress situations.
My initial unboxing experience revealed a holster built with rugged durability in mind. The STX plain black finish offered a professional, low-profile appearance, and the overall construction felt solid and well-engineered. The weight felt appropriate for a duty holster, suggesting robust materials without being overly cumbersome.
Compared to my previous holsters, such as the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, the Safariland 6360 ALS stood out due to its multi-layered retention system and comfortable ride height. I chose this holster for its proven reputation among law enforcement and the promise of a more secure and ergonomic carry. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – excited about the potential for improved security and comfort, but aware that proper training and familiarization would be essential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. This allowed me to simulate real-world scenarios where weapon retention and rapid deployment were crucial. The conditions were dry and mild, ideal for getting accustomed to the holster without environmental interference.
The first few draws felt slightly awkward due to the ALS release and the hood guard. However, after a few practice runs, I quickly adapted to the necessary thumb movements and found the draw stroke to be smooth and consistent. The retention was noticeably secure, giving me confidence that my weapon would remain in place during dynamic movements.
Initially, I experienced some fumbling with the hood guard release under pressure. Practicing the motion repeatedly ironed this out, highlighting the importance of dedicated training with any new piece of gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in tactical training courses, the Safariland 6360 ALS has proven its durability and reliability. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the STX finish, demonstrating its resistance to scratches and abrasion. The holster has consistently maintained its secure retention, even during rigorous physical activity.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous leather holster, the Safariland model requires significantly less maintenance. It definitely outperforms my previous holsters in terms of security and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412 is specifically designed for left-handed users. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention upon holstering.
The holster is constructed from a durable STX Plain Black molded material, offering resistance to scratches and the elements. It is compatible with Sig Sauer P220R and P226R DASA/DAK models equipped with accessory rails, accommodating various lights such as M3/M3X, ITI Tactical Illuminator Light, TLR-1, Surefire X200/X300/SSL-1, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon. Importantly, the holster will retain the weapon even without a light attached.
The inclusion of a Hood Guard further enhances security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for a comfortable mid-ride carry position, enhancing ergonomics and accessibility. This holster achieves Level III Retention, meaning it requires three distinct actions to release the firearm, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized removal.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s ability to securely retain the weapon while enabling a swift and reliable draw when needed. The compatibility with weapon lights is also essential for tactical applications, ensuring versatility in different operational environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention and a smooth draw. The ALS system automatically engages upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate. The addition of the hood guard creates a deliberate sequence of actions to ensure the weapon is only drawn when intended.
The holster offers a good balance between security and speed. The straight-up draw, once all releases are deactivated, allows for a natural and efficient shooting stance.
The STX finish offers good scratch resistance, but the finish can become a bit slippery with wet hands. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade Level III retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The Ride UBL positions the firearm at a comfortable mid-ride height, improving ergonomics and reducing strain during extended wear.
The build quality is exceptional, using high-quality materials that inspire confidence in its durability. The user-friendliness is good, although new users may require some time to master the ALS release and hood guard manipulation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS is built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The STX finish resists scratches and abrasions, preserving the holster’s professional appearance.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The durable construction and easy maintenance contribute to the holster’s longevity and reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS includes an installed Hood Guard. The description mentions an optional Sentry that can be installed to further enhance security.
While the holster is primarily designed for use with specific Sig Sauer models and weapon lights, the UBL allows for compatibility with various belt widths. The ability to add the Sentry provides a customizable level of retention based on individual needs and preferences. This makes the holster adaptable to different operational requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Offers superior security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Smooth and Rapid Draw: The ALS system allows for a fast and efficient draw once mastered.
- Durable Construction: The STX finish and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL provides a comfortable mid-ride position for extended wear.
- Weapon Light Compatibility: Accommodates various popular weapon lights for enhanced tactical capabilities.
Cons
- ALS and Hood Guard require dedicated training and familiarization.
- STX finish can become slippery in wet conditions.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412?
The Safariland 6360 ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention. It is also suitable for those who prioritize a comfortable and ergonomic carry.
This product might not be ideal for users who prefer a minimalist holster design or those who do not require Level III retention. Individuals new to duty holsters may find the learning curve associated with the ALS and Hood Guard challenging.
A must-have accessory for this holster is dedicated training time to master the ALS release and hood guard manipulation. Additionally, ensuring compatibility with your specific weapon light model is essential for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-412 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and comfort. While the ALS and Hood Guard require dedicated training, the benefits of enhanced weapon retention and a smooth draw make it a worthwhile investment.
At $167.99, the price is justified given the holster’s robust construction, Level III retention capabilities, and comfortable carry design. I would confidently recommend this holster to any left-handed professional seeking a reliable and secure duty holster. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with the Safariland 6360 ALS.