Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a duty-grade piece of kit from a manufacturer, Safariland, renowned for its commitment to quality and security. Designed for law enforcement, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens, this holster combines rapid accessibility with superior retention. It promises a balance of speed and safety in critical situations, making it a compelling option in the vast landscape of holsters.
As a left-handed shooter with over a decade in the tactical gear world, I’ve been on the hunt for a holster that marries secure weapon retention with a smooth, intuitive draw. Countless times, I’ve witnessed colleagues fumble with overly complicated retention systems, or worse, suffer accidental weapon discharges due to poorly designed holsters. My search demanded a holster that prioritized both officer safety and operational efficiency.
Unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III, I immediately noted its robust construction and clean, professional appearance. The plain black finish speaks to its intended purpose: serious duty, no frills. The weight felt substantial, not cumbersome, suggesting quality materials and solid engineering.
Compared to some of my previous holsters, like the Blackhawk Serpa (which I found offered inadequate retention in dynamic situations) and a generic leather holster (which lacked any real security features), the Safariland 6360 stood out. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and Level III retention promised a significantly higher level of security, a key factor in my decision. I also considered the Safariland 7378RDS, but opted for the 6360 due to its proven track record and simpler design, lacking the RDS compatibility I currently don’t need.
My initial reaction was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Could this holster truly deliver on its promise of a secure yet rapid draw? I was eager to put it to the test and see if it would live up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6360 was at a local shooting range, a controlled environment perfect for familiarizing myself with its operation. I specifically focused on practicing my draw stroke, repeatedly engaging and disengaging the ALS system. The weather was warm and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The holster performed admirably. The ALS system engaged automatically upon re-holstering, providing a reassuring click and a positive lock. Disengaging the system became intuitive after just a few repetitions, requiring only a thumb sweep during the draw. There were no malfunctions or surprises; the Safariland 6360 performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a tactical training course, the Safariland 6360 has proven its reliability. The STX finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite frequent use. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) has remained secure and stable, providing a consistent ride height.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each range session is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I’ve applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism periodically to ensure smooth operation. Compared to some of my previous holsters, which required more frequent cleaning and maintenance, the Safariland 6360 has been remarkably low-maintenance.
In comparison to my previous experiences with less robust holsters, the Safariland 6360 is a clear winner. It provides a level of security and reliability that far surpasses anything I’ve used before, offering both peace of mind and operational efficiency.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III, offering three distinct levels of security to prevent unauthorized weapon removal. This gives excellent peace of mind for duty carry.
- Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, enhancing safety. The weapon will not release until the user deliberately deactivates the system.
- Material: Constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing structural integrity and resistance to scratches, heat, and cold. This is crucial for maintaining functionality in various environments.
- Finish: Plain Black, offering a professional and non-reflective appearance for duty applications. This can be critical in low-light or covert situations.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand, specifically molded for left-handed shooters, ensuring proper fit and function. This eliminates any awkwardness or inefficiency during use.
- Mounting System: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), allowing the holster to ride in a mid-ride position for comfortable carry and easy access. This optimizes comfort and draw speed for the user.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit the Sig Sauer P225. This provides a secure, form-fitted carry.
- Hood Guard: Standard, providing an additional layer of security and preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. This makes it extremely difficult for anyone other than the wearer to unholster the weapon.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the ALS system ensures a smooth and rapid draw. The robust materials and construction guarantee that the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III excels at its primary job: securely carrying a handgun while providing rapid access when needed. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock that gives confidence without sacrificing speed. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, becoming intuitive with practice.
The holster’s strengths lie in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention offers a high degree of protection against weapon takeaways, while the ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw. A potential weakness is that the Level III retention might require more training to master than simpler holsters.
The Safariland 6360 meets and even exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of secure carry and rapid access, providing a level of performance and reliability that I’ve come to expect from Safariland products.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360 is exceptional. The materials feel robust and durable, and the overall construction is solid and well-engineered. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, considering its level of security and protection, and is comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The holster is generally user-friendly, but the Level III retention system does require some initial training to master. Once the draw stroke becomes ingrained, the holster is intuitive and easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last. The durable SafariSeven™ construction is resistant to scratches, heat, and cold, ensuring that the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 can be augmented with optional accessories, such as the Safariland Sentry, to further enhance weapon security. This allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, as well as many aftermarket belt mounts and attachments. This allows for extensive customization and adaptation to different carry styles and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62
Pros
- Exceptional Security: Level III retention provides a high level of protection against weapon takeaways.
- Rapid Access: The ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust SafariSeven™ material for long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL positions the holster for optimal comfort and access.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish is suitable for duty and tactical applications.
Cons
- Level III retention system requires dedicated training to master.
- Initial cost may be higher than simpler holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize weapon security and rapid access. It’s ideal for those who work in high-risk environments or require a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
This holster may not be suitable for casual range shooters or those who are new to carrying a firearm. The Level III retention system requires dedicated training and practice to master.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a high-quality duty belt that can properly support the weight of the weapon and holster. The Safariland brand belts are highly recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure carry and rapid access. Its Level III retention system and robust construction provide peace of mind, while its ALS system ensures a smooth and efficient draw. Although it requires some initial training to master, the benefits of this holster far outweigh its drawbacks.
The price is justified by the quality, durability, and security that this holster provides. It’s an investment in your safety and professional readiness.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster. If you value your safety and demand the best, this is the holster for you. Invest in your peace of mind and operational efficiency – get the Safariland 6360 today.