Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412 isn’t just a holster; it’s a security system for your sidearm. Built by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster offers Level III retention with its Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing peace of mind in demanding situations.
I needed a duty-grade holster that could withstand the rigors of field training and provide a secure and reliable draw. My old holster, a simple Level II retention model, lacked the necessary security for increasingly dynamic training scenarios, where weapon retention was paramount.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6360 felt solid and robust. The STX Plain Black finish offered a professional, no-nonsense appearance, while the weight suggested a durable, well-constructed piece of equipment. The adjustable features and smooth ALS mechanism were immediately impressive.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but ultimately chose the Safariland 6360 for its proven ALS system and reputation for reliability. The Safariland also offered a better ride height with the UBL, which I found more comfortable and conducive to a faster draw.
My initial impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. I was excited to finally have a holster that offered Level III retention without sacrificing speed and accessibility, yet I also knew that familiarizing myself with the ALS draw stroke would take time and practice.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360 at a week-long tactical training course at a local law enforcement training facility. The course included simulated active shooter scenarios, vehicle extractions, and close-quarters combat drills, providing ample opportunity to assess the holster’s performance under pressure.
During the course, the holster performed flawlessly in varied conditions, including rain, mud, and dusty environments. The ALS system remained reliable, and the draw stroke became increasingly natural with practice.
It initially took some time to get used to the ALS release. However, after a few hours of dry-fire practice, it became intuitive and allowed for a smooth, efficient draw.
The only initial issue was minor rubbing against my thigh during prolonged movement, but this was easily resolved by adjusting the UBL ride height and wearing appropriate undergarments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use during training and field exercises, the Safariland 6360 has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The STX finish has held up well against abrasion and impacts, and the ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly without any degradation in performance. The internal suede lining protects the firearm’s finish.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures optimal performance.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6360 offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The ALS system provides confident retention without compromising speed or accessibility, making it a superior choice for duty use.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412 is designed specifically for left-handed users and is compatible with the Sig Sauer P229 and P228. It features Level III Retention, accomplished through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a Hood Guard.
The holster is finished in STX Plain Black, a durable and non-reflective coating. It’s constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, making it highly resistant to heat, cold, and moisture. The holster also comes with the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), allowing for comfortable mid-ride carry.
The choice of materials ensures that the holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and exposure to harsh environmental conditions. The Level III retention is crucial for officers and security personnel who require a high level of security to prevent unauthorized removal of their firearm. The mid-ride height of the UBL provides a comfortable and accessible carry position for most users.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 excels in its primary function: securing the firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, providing positive retention without requiring any manual action.
The Hood Guard adds an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. Drawing the weapon requires deactivating both the ALS and the Hood Guard, which can be accomplished with a smooth, practiced motion.
One of the key strengths of this holster is its balance between security and accessibility. The ALS system provides excellent retention, yet the draw stroke remains relatively intuitive and efficient once mastered. The only potential weakness is the learning curve associated with deactivating the ALS and Hood Guard, which requires dedicated practice.
Overall, the Safariland 6360 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a secure, reliable, and accessible platform for carrying a sidearm in demanding situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 boasts a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing bulk and maximizing comfort. It’s constructed from high-quality materials that are both durable and lightweight.
The holster is designed with ergonomics in mind, with a smooth interior that protects the firearm’s finish and a comfortable mid-ride height that allows for easy access. The ALS release is intuitively placed and can be easily accessed with the thumb.
There is a minimal learning curve associated with mastering the ALS draw stroke. However, the holster is generally user-friendly and provides a comfortable and secure carry experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 is built to last, constructed from rugged materials and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to abrasion, impacts, and environmental factors.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning, and replacement parts are readily available if needed.
With proper care, the Safariland 6360 should provide years of reliable service. The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the demands of duty use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412 comes with the Ride UBL, which allows the user to adjust the ride height of the holster. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the optional Sentry device, which adds another layer of security.
While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the UBL can be swapped out for other Safariland belt attachments, allowing users to tailor the carry position to their specific needs. The compatibility with the Sentry device allows for even greater security, particularly in situations where the weapon may be at risk of being snatched.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412
Pros
- Excellent Level III Retention: The ALS system and Hood Guard provide a high level of security against unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL allows for a comfortable and accessible mid-ride carry position.
- Intuitive Draw Stroke (Once Mastered): The ALS system and Hood Guard can be deactivated with a smooth, efficient motion after practice.
- Trusted Brand: Safariland is a reputable manufacturer with a long history of producing high-quality law enforcement and tactical gear.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS draw stroke requires dedicated practice.
- Price: It’s more expensive than Level II retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412?
The Safariland 6360 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private citizens who require a high level of security and weapon retention. It is ideal for those who carry a Sig Sauer P229 or P228 and need a reliable and durable holster for duty use.
This product may not be suitable for individuals who prioritize a minimalist design or those who are unwilling to invest the time and effort required to master the ALS draw stroke. Those new to firearms might find a simpler Level II holster more approachable initially.
A must-have modification is the Safariland Sentry for those needing maximum retention. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism is recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412
In summary, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-74-412 is a top-tier duty holster that provides exceptional security, durability, and reliability. While it may require some initial investment of time and money, the benefits of its Level III retention system and robust construction make it a worthwhile purchase for those who prioritize weapon retention and performance.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the added security provided by the ALS system. This is an investment in personal safety and professional readiness.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone who needs a dependable and secure holster for their Sig Sauer P229 or P228. Take your security to the next level – invest in a Safariland 6360 today!