Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster features their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III Retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure until intentionally drawn. Its ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for a mid-ride carry, balancing accessibility and comfort.
For years, I struggled finding a duty holster that balanced security, accessibility, and comfort. Many holsters I tested were either too bulky, too slow to draw from, or didn’t offer adequate retention. I needed a holster that could stand up to the rigors of daily duty while still allowing for a smooth and efficient draw in high-stress situations.
My first impression of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 was positive. The basket weave finish gives it a professional look, and the overall construction felt solid and durable. I chose it over similar offerings from Blackhawk and Bianchi because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specific ALS system that seemed intuitively designed for quick, reliable weapon deployment. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 at the shooting range during a tactical pistol training course. The weather was moderately humid, typical of a summer day, and I was performing various drills involving drawing and re-holstering my Sig Sauer P229R. Drawing from the holster was surprisingly smooth and intuitive after just a few practice runs, while the Level III Retention gave me peace of mind knowing my firearm was secure during dynamic movements.
The holster performed admirably even when my hands were sweaty. The ALS system operated flawlessly, and the mid-ride UBL provided a comfortable and stable platform. One initial surprise was the slight learning curve in deactivating all retention mechanisms under pressure, but consistent practice quickly addressed this.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use during weekly range sessions and daily carry, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the basket weave finish, despite regular contact with clothing and equipment. Cleaning the holster is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, this Safariland model stands out for its superior balance of security, comfort, and draw speed. It definitely outperforms similar holsters in terms of retention level and ease of use under stress.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81
Specifications
Category: ALS Holsters. This indicates the holster utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System for secure weapon retention.
Finish/Color: Basket Black. The basket weave finish provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing look while also offering some degree of scratch resistance.
Fits: Sig Sauer – P229R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer, P229R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer. The holster is specifically molded to fit these particular Sig Sauer models, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
Type: Right Hand. Designed specifically for right-handed users.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, aesthetics, and security level. The precise fit for specific firearm models is essential for both retention and a smooth, reliable draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a duty holster. The ALS system provides a reliable and intuitive means of securing the weapon, while the Level III Retention adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized removal. Draw speed is excellent with proper training and practice, allowing for rapid weapon deployment when needed.
The holster’s main strength is its balance of security and accessibility. While the Level III Retention does require multiple steps to deactivate, the smooth ALS release allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke. A potential weakness could be the initial learning curve for mastering all retention mechanisms under pressure, but this is easily overcome with practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing a robust and reliable platform. The mid-ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height on the belt, allowing for a natural draw stroke without impeding movement.
The holster is generally user-friendly, but mastering the Level III Retention system requires some dedicated practice. The ALS release is intuitive, but deactivating the other retention mechanisms might take some getting used to.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation for quality, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 is built to last. The robust construction and durable materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily duty and demanding environments. Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism can also help maintain smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 comes standard with a hood guard, providing additional protection for the weapon’s hammer or slide. An optional Sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security. The UBL is also compatible with other Safariland accessories, such as leg straps and drop platforms, allowing for customization to individual preferences.
The holster is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P229R DAK/DASA, so modifications to accommodate other firearms would be required. Aftermarket accessories such as different UBL variations or leg shrouds are readily available to tailor the holster to specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides excellent security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Allows for a smooth and efficient draw stroke once retention mechanisms are deactivated.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride UBL positions the weapon at a comfortable and accessible height.
- Basket Weave Finish: Offers a professional appearance and scratch resistance.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the Level III Retention system requires dedicated practice.
- Specific Fit: Only compatible with Sig Sauer P229R DAK/DASA models.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high-level retention duty holster for their Sig Sauer P229R DAK/DASA. It is also suitable for individuals who prioritize weapon security and a smooth, reliable draw.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize maximum concealment over retention. Someone who needs a holster for multiple firearm types or requires a very low-profile carry might also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a dedicated training regimen to master the Level III Retention system. Additionally, consider purchasing a Safariland leg strap or drop platform for enhanced stability and comfort during extended wear.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and functionality. While there is a slight learning curve, the benefits of the Level III Retention and smooth ALS draw far outweigh the initial challenges. At $199.99, the price is justified considering the quality of construction and the peace of mind it provides.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure duty holster for their Sig Sauer P229R DAK/DASA. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – purchase the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6360-744-81 today!