Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a secure, comfortable carry. Safariland is a well-known and respected name in the industry, synonymous with quality and innovation in holster design. Its key features include the Automatic Locking System (ALS), Level III retention, and a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), making it a popular choice for those who need reliable access to their firearm while maintaining a high level of security.
I needed a holster for duty use that offered both speed and a robust level of security. Having been in situations where weapon retention was paramount, I sought a holster that wouldn’t compromise on safety, even during strenuous activity. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to strike that balance perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the high-gloss black finish, a stark contrast to the matte tactical finishes I’m used to. It’s a sharp, professional look, although potentially more prone to showing scratches. The build quality felt solid and durable, and the holster had a reassuring weight to it, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.
Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III stood out due to its more intuitive locking mechanism and better overall construction. While the Serpa offered similar retention levels, its release mechanism always felt less natural. The Bianchi, although comfortable, lacked the robust security features I desired.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster looked and felt substantial, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios and how comfortable it would be during long shifts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III at the shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention under simulated stress. This included practicing drawing and re-holstering while moving, as well as attempting to dislodge the weapon while it was secured in the holster. The ALS system proved to be incredibly reliable, providing a smooth, consistent draw stroke while maintaining a secure hold on the firearm.
The holster performed well in both dry and slightly damp conditions, with no noticeable impact on the ALS mechanism’s function. The draw remained consistent even after getting the holster slightly wet. It did take some time to become fully accustomed to the ALS release, but after a few hours of practice, it became second nature.
The only initial issue was the stiffness of the hood guard release. It required a deliberate, firm push to deactivate, which, while enhancing security, also slightly slowed down the draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use in a patrol environment, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches on the high-gloss finish, but the holster’s structural integrity remains intact. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably, even after repeated use in various weather conditions.
The holster shows very little wear and tear, even in high-friction areas. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism have been sufficient to maintain its performance. Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland‘s durability and consistent performance are exceptional.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III – This is achieved through a combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood, providing three distinct levels of security.
- Material: Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend – This material is non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish and extremely durable.
- Finish: Hi-Gloss Black – Provides a professional, easily cleanable appearance.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand – Designed specifically for left-handed shooters.
- Mount: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) – Allows for a mid-ride carry position, optimizing draw speed and comfort.
- Compatibility: Sig Sauer P228, P229 – Ensures a snug, secure fit for these specific firearm models.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s functionality and user experience. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations, while the SafariSeven material ensures longevity and protects the firearm. The mid-ride UBL enhances comfort and facilitates a faster, more natural draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, and the rotating hood adds an additional layer of security. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid target acquisition.
The holster’s strength lies in its robust retention and intuitive draw. A potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS release and hood guard deactivation. It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster in terms of security and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster features a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The materials used are durable yet lightweight, ensuring that the holster doesn’t add unnecessary bulk. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is designed with the user in mind.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although mastering the ALS and hood guard requires practice. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height for a smooth, natural draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, the holster is built to last. The material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-term durability. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III will withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts, such as the ALS spring and hood guard, are readily available from Safariland, making repairs relatively simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III comes with the Ride UBL, which can be adjusted to fit different belt sizes. While it doesn’t come with any additional accessories, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and other mounting options.
The holster can be customized with optional accessories like the Safariland Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security to the hood guard. It is also compatible with various optic-ready adapters, allowing for the use of red dot sights on compatible firearms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides exceptional security against unauthorized weapon removal, crucial for duty use.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Offers a smooth, intuitive draw stroke while maintaining a secure hold.
- Durable SafariSeven Construction: Ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Mid-Ride UBL: Enhances comfort and facilitates a faster, more natural draw.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Allows for customization and adaptation to individual needs.
Cons
- High-Gloss Finish: More prone to showing scratches and wear.
- Initial Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release and hood guard deactivation.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92 is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-security, reliable duty holster for open carry. It is specifically designed for left-handed shooters using a Sig Sauer P228 or P229.
Who should skip this product? Right-handed shooters or those who prefer concealed carry or use firearms other than the Sig Sauer P228 or P229 will need to look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which adds an extra layer of security to the hood guard. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to maintain smooth operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6360-74-92 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. While the high-gloss finish may be prone to scratches and there is an initial learning curve, the benefits of Level III retention, a smooth ALS draw, and durable construction far outweigh these drawbacks.
The price is justified given the level of security and quality offered. Yes, I would personally recommend it to any left-handed law enforcement officer or security professional who carries a Sig Sauer P228 or P229 and requires a dependable duty holster. Invest in your safety and efficiency; get the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III today!