Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 is more than just a holster; it’s a comprehensive duty solution designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand both security and rapid access to their sidearm. This left-handed holster, featuring Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, ensures your Sig Sauer P228 or P229 remains secure while providing a smooth, intuitive draw. The STX TAC Black finish offers a low-profile, professional appearance and enhanced durability in demanding environments.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a holster that balances security with the speed required in dynamic situations. Many Level II holsters felt insufficient for high-risk scenarios, while Level III options often sacrificed draw speed and natural movement. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 seemed to bridge that gap, promising a secure and efficient platform for my Sig Sauer P229.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust quality. The STX TAC Black finish felt exceptionally durable, and the overall construction was solid, exuding confidence in its ability to withstand daily duty use. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) felt sturdy and well-designed, promising a stable and comfortable carry.
Compared to my previous Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 and a generic nylon Level III holster, the Safariland stood out for its refined design and focus on intuitive operation. The Serpa’s trigger finger release felt unnatural under stress, while the nylon holster lacked the rigidity and positive retention I desired. I chose the Safariland because of its established reputation for quality and its promise of a faster, more natural draw stroke, even with Level III retention.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The holster felt purpose-built, with every component designed to enhance security and efficiency. I was excited to test it under real-world conditions and see if it lived up to its reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at a local shooting range, simulating various duty scenarios. I practiced drawing from different positions, including seated in a vehicle and while moving. The goal was to assess the speed and efficiency of the ALS system and the comfort of the UBL platform.
The holster performed admirably in both wet and dusty conditions. The STX TAC finish provided a secure grip even with wet hands, and the ALS system functioned flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth release. I was initially concerned about dust accumulation affecting the mechanism, but the tight tolerances and self-cleaning design seemed to mitigate any issues.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 took a little getting used to. The ALS requires a specific thumb placement to disengage, and mastering this under pressure took several repetitions. However, once the muscle memory was established, the draw stroke became incredibly smooth and fast, rivaling some Level II holsters I’ve used.
The only initial issue was a slight abrasion on my support hand thumb during the draw stroke. This was easily remedied by adjusting the holster’s cant and modifying my grip slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the STX TAC finish has resisted scratches and abrasions effectively. The ALS system continues to function reliably, and the UBL remains stable and comfortable even during extended periods of wear.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. This simple routine keeps the holster functioning optimally and prevents any potential issues with retention or release.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 significantly outperforms them in terms of security, speed, and durability. The ALS system provides unparalleled peace of mind, knowing my weapon is secure while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw when needed. The comfort of the UBL platform also makes it a pleasure to wear for extended periods.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 is specifically designed for left-handed shooters carrying a Sig Sauer P228 or P229. It features a Level III Retention system, incorporating the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a Hood Guard for enhanced security. The holster is constructed from a durable synthetic material with an STX TAC Black finish, providing a low-profile and abrasion-resistant exterior.
The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position, offering a comfortable and accessible draw. The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, and the simple straight-up draw allows for speed once all releases are de-activated. The inclusion of the Hood Guard provides an extra layer of security and protection for the firearm.
These specifications translate to a holster that is highly secure, durable, and comfortable for daily duty use. The Level III Retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations, while the STX TAC Black finish ensures a professional appearance and long-lasting durability. The Ride UBL optimizes comfort and accessibility, making it an ideal choice for law enforcement and security professionals.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 excels in its core function: providing secure retention and a rapid, intuitive draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to disengage. The Hood Guard adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The Level III Retention provides a high level of protection against weapon takeaways, while the ALS allows for a surprisingly fast draw once mastered. A minor weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the ALS release, but this is quickly overcome with practice.
Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality. It provides a level of security and efficiency that is unmatched by many other duty holsters on the market.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 is thoughtfully designed with both security and user comfort in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing a solid and reliable platform for carrying a sidearm. The STX TAC Black finish offers a professional appearance and excellent abrasion resistance.
The holster’s ergonomic design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke. The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, allowing for easy access while minimizing interference with movement. The ALS release is intuitively located and easy to manipulate with the thumb.
The holster is user-friendly, although the ALS release requires some initial practice. Once mastered, the draw stroke becomes incredibly smooth and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 is built to last. The durable synthetic materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The STX TAC Black finish provides excellent abrasion resistance, minimizing wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep the holster functioning optimally. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 includes an installed Hood Guard for added security. An optional Sentry device can be installed to further enhance retention and prevent unauthorized access. The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds.
While the holster is designed specifically for the Sig Sauer P228 and P229, it may be compatible with similar-sized pistols with minor modifications. However, it is essential to ensure a proper fit and function before carrying any firearm in this holster.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132
Pros
- Exceptional Security: The Level III retention with ALS and Hood Guard provides unmatched protection against weapon takeaways.
- Rapid Draw: Once mastered, the ALS allows for a surprisingly fast and intuitive draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The STX TAC Black finish and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height.
- Professional Appearance: The low-profile design and STX TAC Black finish provide a professional look.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: The ALS release requires some practice to master.
- Firearm Specific: Designed specifically for Sig Sauer P228/P229, limiting compatibility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132?
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of security and a rapid draw. It is ideal for those who carry a Sig Sauer P228 or P229 and demand a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
This product may not be suitable for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention system. It is also not recommended for those who are unfamiliar with duty holsters or who prefer a simpler retention system.
A must-have modification is practice. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the ALS system to build muscle memory for fast, reliable operation under pressure.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6360-74-132 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, speed, and durability. While the initial learning curve may be a deterrent for some, the benefits of the ALS system and robust construction far outweigh this minor inconvenience. At $149.99, the price is justified by the quality, performance, and peace of mind it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who carries a Sig Sauer P228 or P229 and demands the best possible protection and performance. Invest in your safety and efficiency; you won’t be disappointed.