The Story Behind the 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 isn’t just a holster; it’s a piece of equipment designed to protect and serve. Safariland, a name synonymous with duty gear, has built its reputation on providing reliable and secure holsters for law enforcement and military professionals. The 6360, with its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, is a direct response to the critical need for secure weapon retention in high-stress environments.
My journey to finding this holster started with a persistent concern about weapon security during tactical training exercises. I needed a holster that offered not only reliable retention but also a quick and intuitive draw. I had heard stories of officers struggling with complex holster systems under pressure, and I wanted something that would minimize the risk of weapon loss or unintentional discharge.
My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 was its robust construction. The plain black finish was understated yet professional, and the materials felt durable and ready for demanding use. The holster felt solid, and the ALS mechanism operated smoothly, giving me confidence in its ability to secure my firearm.
I considered a few other Level III retention holsters from Blackhawk and Bianchi, but the ALS system of the Safariland stood out as more intuitive and less prone to accidental release under stress. Some holsters require multiple motions or complex button presses, but the ALS seemed simpler and faster. This potential for faster and more reliable weapon access is why I chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62.
I was immediately excited about the potential for enhanced security and faster draw times. However, I also harbored some apprehension about the learning curve associated with a new retention system. The initial excitement outweighed the worry, and I was eager to put it through its paces.
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 test of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 was at a law enforcement training range during a simulated active shooter scenario. We were running drills in varied conditions, including moving through confined spaces and engaging targets from unconventional positions. The holster needed to perform flawlessly under these high-pressure conditions.
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 performed admirably in both wet and dusty conditions. The ALS mechanism remained functional even when exposed to rain and fine particulate matter, and I experienced no malfunctions related to environmental factors. The “Ride” UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also kept the firearm secure and close to my body during dynamic movements.
The draw stroke felt natural almost immediately, although it did take some deliberate practice to consistently deactivate the ALS during the draw. I spent about an hour practicing dry draws to build muscle memory, and after that, the draw became intuitive. The simple straight-up draw provides very quick access once the releases are de-activated.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight snag on the hood guard during one draw in an awkward position. I quickly adjusted my technique, and the problem disappeared. This initial experience reinforced the importance of consistent practice and proper holster fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios and range sessions, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 continues to impress. The holster exhibits minimal wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to the elements and rigorous handling. The durable construction inspires confidence in its longevity.
The holster shows no significant signs of degradation, with only minor scuff marks on the exterior finish. The ALS mechanism still operates smoothly, and the UBL remains securely attached to my duty belt. Safariland’s reputation for quality is definitely upheld in this product.
Maintenance involves only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant as needed. The simple design makes it very easy to maintain. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 has surpassed my previous experiences with other duty holsters in terms of both security and draw speed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users and configured for the Sig Sauer P225. This level of specificity ensures a secure and precise fit. The holster incorporates Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System), providing Level III retention for enhanced security.
The holster features a plain black finish that is both professional and discreet. The “Ride” UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position, promoting a comfortable and natural draw stroke. The ALS automatically secures the weapon once holstered, preventing unauthorized removal.
The 6360 also includes a hood guard as a standard feature, adding another layer of security against attempted weapon grabs. The slim and compact design of the holster keeps the weapon close to the body, reducing printing and improving maneuverability. The Level III retention provides a significant advantage in environments where weapon security is paramount.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 performs exceptionally well in its intended role, offering a secure and reliable platform for carrying a sidearm. The ALS provides positive retention without sacrificing draw speed, a critical balance for law enforcement and military personnel. The intuitive design ensures ease of use, even under duress.
The primary strength of the 6360 lies in its robust retention system and rapid draw capability. The hood guard adds an additional layer of security but can slightly impede the draw stroke if not properly trained. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a Level III duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is constructed from a durable synthetic material that is both lightweight and resistant to wear and tear. The holster’s design minimizes bulk and allows for comfortable all-day carry. The mid-ride position afforded by the UBL enhances comfort and accessibility.
The holster is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring minimal training to master the draw stroke. The ALS release is intuitively located and easily activated with the thumb during the draw. The streamlined design and comfortable carry position make the 6360 a pleasure to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The robust construction and durable materials ensure that it will last for years with proper care. Routine cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep it in optimal condition.
With proper maintenance, the 6360 should provide reliable service for many years. The simple design makes it easy to inspect and maintain. The holster’s rugged construction ensures longevity and reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic mounts. The optional Sentry device can be installed to further enhance weapon security, preventing unauthorized removal.
The holster also readily accepts aftermarket accessories such as weapon lights and lasers, provided they are compatible with the Sig Sauer P225. The compatibility with a wide range of accessories allows for customization to meet individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62
Pros
- Unmatched weapon security thanks to the ALS Level III retention system.
- Rapid and intuitive draw stroke once the ALS is deactivated.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Comfortable mid-ride carry position with the included UBL.
- Compatible with a wide range of Safariland and aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- The hood guard can slightly impede the draw stroke if not properly trained.
- Specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P225, limiting its versatility for other firearms.
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 w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high level of weapon security and a reliable draw stroke. It is also well-suited for private citizens who prioritize security and want a dependable holster for open carry. Specifically, it is an outstanding choice for Sig Sauer P225 owners who prioritize security.
Those who frequently switch between different firearms or prefer a minimalist holster design might want to consider other options. Individuals who do not require Level III retention may find the ALS system to be unnecessary. A must-have modification is consistent practice to build muscle memory and optimize the draw stroke.
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 exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The ALS Level III retention system provides peace of mind without sacrificing draw speed, and the durable construction ensures years of dependable service. The price is justified by the quality and performance of this product, especially for professionals who rely on their gear in high-stress situations.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster for the Sig Sauer P225. Invest in your safety and security – order your Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-79-62 today!