Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92
For over four decades, Safariland has been a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 represents their commitment to security and functionality. This holster is designed for left-handed officers who require a high level of retention and a professional, high-gloss appearance.
As a tactical gear specialist, I’ve always prioritized gear that offers both security and ease of use. I needed a duty holster that could confidently secure a sidearm while allowing for a rapid draw in high-stress situations. My primary concerns are always weapon retention, durability, and a design that facilitates a smooth, natural draw.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92, my initial impression was of robust construction and attention to detail. The high-gloss finish, while perhaps not ideal for covert operations, screams professionalism and immediately made me think of traditional police duty. The holster felt solid in hand, giving a strong sense of durability, and I was eager to test out the Automatic Locking System (ALS).
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900. However, I chose the Safariland for its proven reputation within law enforcement and the specific ALS retention system, which I found to be more intuitive and secure than the other options. The Safariland also had a superior mounting system with the UBL, promising a more stable and comfortable carry.
My first impression was one of guarded optimism. I was impressed by the build quality but needed to confirm that the holster lived up to the hype in real-world scenarios. Would the ALS system truly be as intuitive and reliable as advertised?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 at a local shooting range and during scenario-based training exercises. These exercises simulated real-world encounters, including drawing under pressure, weapon retention attempts, and movement drills. The weather varied from dry and sunny to light rain.
The holster performed admirably in all conditions. The ALS system engaged smoothly and reliably every time I holstered my Sig Sauer P2022. Drawing was surprisingly intuitive; after a few practice runs, I was able to deactivate the retention devices quickly and efficiently, even with gloved hands.
Initially, I found the multiple retention mechanisms a bit overwhelming, but I quickly adapted. The most significant surprise was how comfortable the holster was, even during extended periods of wear. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) kept the holster stable and close to my body, preventing excessive movement and discomfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of cracking or deformation in the holster body. The high-gloss finish has maintained its sheen, with only minor scuffs from regular duty use.
Maintenance has been minimal. I periodically wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. The holster is easy to disassemble for cleaning, and all components appear to be of high quality.
Compared to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III stands out in terms of retention and draw speed. It offers a higher level of security without sacrificing accessibility. I feel confident in its ability to protect my sidearm in a variety of situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III (with optional Sentry installed) offering a high degree of security. This means that it has multiple layers of retention to prevent unauthorized removal of the weapon.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. The ALS is an internal locking device that engages the ejection port when the weapon is holstered.
- Material: Proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions. This durable material contributes to the holster’s long lifespan.
- Finish: Hi-Gloss, ideal for a professional duty appearance. While aesthetically pleasing, it’s important to consider the reflective nature of the finish in certain tactical environments.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand, specifically molded for left-handed users. This ensures a proper and secure fit for the firearm.
- Mount: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for a mid-ride carry position. The UBL offers stability and positions the holster at an optimal height for a smooth draw.
- Weapon Fit: Sig Sauer P2022. The holster is precisely molded to fit this specific handgun model.
- Hood Guard: Standard, offering additional security against weapon removal. This guard makes it more difficult for someone to directly access and disengage the ALS.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 excels at its primary function: securely retaining a sidearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The mid-ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height, facilitating a natural and efficient draw stroke.
One minor weakness is the potential for the high-gloss finish to reflect light, which could be a concern in tactical situations requiring stealth. However, this is primarily a cosmetic issue. The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for retention, draw speed, and overall security.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster features a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body. This minimizes printing and makes the holster more comfortable to wear for extended periods. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise molding.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS system, but it is easily overcome with practice. The holster is generally very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to the elements. Regular maintenance involves simple cleaning and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism.
With proper care, this holster should provide many years of reliable service. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with the Ride UBL and a hood guard. Safariland offers a variety of accessories and customization options for the 6360 series, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, allowing users to tailor the setup to their specific needs.
While the holster is specifically molded for the Sig Sauer P2022, it can be modified to fit other similar-sized handguns with some adjustments. The modular design of the Safariland system allows for easy customization and adaptation.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high degree of security, preventing unauthorized weapon removal. This gives the user confidence that their firearm is secure.
- Intuitive ALS System: Allows for a rapid and efficient draw with minimal training. The ALS is easy to learn and use, even under stress.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL keeps the holster stable and close to the body, minimizing discomfort. This makes it suitable for extended periods of wear.
- Professional Appearance: The high-gloss finish provides a polished and professional look. This can be important for maintaining a professional image.
Cons
- High-Gloss Finish: The high-gloss finish can reflect light, potentially compromising stealth in tactical environments. This is especially true in low-light conditions.
- Specific Weapon Fit: Molded specifically for the Sig Sauer P2022, limiting its compatibility with other firearms. This can be a drawback for users who carry multiple weapon platforms.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and a professional appearance. This holster provides the security and functionality necessary for high-stress situations. It is also great for range training where realistic draws are required.
This holster might not be ideal for undercover officers or those requiring a low-profile, concealed carry setup. The high-gloss finish is not conducive to stealth, and the Level III retention system adds some bulk.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Model 6001 Sentry. This adds an extra layer of security to the ALS. Another great accessory is a good quality gun belt designed to support the weight of the firearm.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, durability, and functionality. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the high-quality construction ensures long-lasting performance. While the high-gloss finish may not be for everyone, it provides a professional appearance that is well-suited for traditional law enforcement roles.
At $212.60, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the advanced retention system, and the overall reliability of the holster. This holster is an investment in personal safety and professional performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Hi Gloss, Left Hand 6360-278-92 to any left-handed officer or security professional seeking a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster for their Sig Sauer P2022. Upgrade your duty rig today and experience the peace of mind that comes with Safariland‘s superior retention technology.