Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is a serious piece of kit, designed for professionals who demand the highest level of security and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with duty-grade holsters, this specific model is built for left-handed users and features the renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III retention rating. This holster promises a secure carry and a rapid, intuitive draw when every second counts, making it a staple for law enforcement, military personnel, and private security.
I needed a holster that offered rock-solid retention without sacrificing speed. My previous holster, a simple friction-fit model, lacked the security necessary for high-risk environments.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III arrived in a no-frills package, but the holster itself exuded quality. The plain black finish is professional and understated, and the molded polymer felt incredibly robust. The weight, while substantial, felt appropriate for a duty holster, signaling a serious piece of equipment.
Compared to a similar Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Galco leather holster, the Safariland stood out in several key areas. The Blackhawk felt flimsy in comparison, and the Galco, while comfortable, lacked the active retention I required. The Safariland’s ALS system seemed far more intuitive and reliable than the Serpa’s button release.
My first impression was one of relief and confidence. This wasn’t just another holster; it was a tool designed for serious work. I was eager to see how it performed under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The range simulated various scenarios, including drawing under stress and engaging targets while moving.
Even when wet from rain, the grip remained secure and the ALS system functioned flawlessly. It took a little practice to reliably deactivate the ALS during the draw stroke, but after an hour, it became second nature. There were no jams or failures to lock, which gave me immense confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of near-daily use in various scenarios, including security details and training exercises, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven its worth. There is minimal wear on the finish, even after repeated contact with abrasive surfaces.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland excels in both retention and speed. It provides a tangible increase in security and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is designed for specific firearm models; in my case, it’s molded for a Sig Sauer P220R/P226R W/ ITI M3 Light W/ Accessory Rails TLR-1, SureFire X200. This ensures a snug and secure fit.
The holster utilizes the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions upon holstering. This provides Level I retention.
The Level III retention is achieved through the ALS in combination with a rotating hood. The hood prevents unauthorized access to the firearm.
The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster at a mid-ride height. This allows for a comfortable draw and improved clearance with body armor.
It’s constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This provides exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture.
The plain black finish offers a professional, low-profile appearance. This makes it ideal for uniformed and plainclothes duty.
This particular model is designed for left-handed users, ensuring optimal accessibility and draw stroke.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The firearm-specific molding ensures a secure fit and prevents accidental dislodging. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk environments, and the UBL enhances comfort and accessibility. The durable construction ensures that the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing immediate retention.
The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, requiring only a thumb release of the ALS and a simultaneous rotation of the hood. While there’s a learning curve, the motion becomes second nature with practice. The only minor weakness is that the initial draw can feel slightly stiff until the holster is broken in.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III more than meets expectations. It provides superior retention and faster draw speeds compared to other Level II and Level III holsters I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built with durability and functionality in mind. The SafariSeven nylon blend is both rugged and lightweight.
The holster rides comfortably against the body, and the mid-ride UBL allows for a natural draw stroke. The ALS release is intuitively placed for easy access. There is a slight learning curve associated with deactivating the retention mechanisms, but the design is ultimately user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and leg shrouds. The Hood Guard can also be replaced with an optional Sentry for an additional layer of security.
The holster is also compatible with most standard weapon-mounted lights. This makes it a versatile platform for customizing your carry setup.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides exceptional security against unauthorized access.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Offers intuitive and reliable weapon retention.
- Durable Construction: Built from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend for maximum longevity.
- Mid-Ride UBL: Enhances comfort and allows for a smooth, natural draw stroke.
- Weapon-Specific Molding: Ensures a secure and precise fit for compatible firearms.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release and hood rotation.
- Price: More expensive than basic friction-fit holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, private security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It’s also well suited for competitive shooters who need a fast and reliable draw.
Those who should skip this product: Individuals looking for a simple, low-cost holster for occasional range use. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is overkill for basic recreational shooting.
Must-have accessories or modifications: A quality duty belt, a compatible weapon-mounted light, and potentially the optional Sentry for increased security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and accessibility. While it may require some initial practice to master the ALS system, the benefits far outweigh the learning curve.
The price is justified given the holster’s durable construction, advanced retention features, and overall performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any professional or serious shooter who demands the best. Invest in your safety and performance; you won’t regret it.