Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 Review

Grit & Gear: Testing the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component for law enforcement and security professionals who require a secure and readily accessible sidearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this holster promises Level III retention with the added convenience of a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). This holster seemed to offer the perfect balance between security, accessibility, and comfort.

I was searching for a holster that would provide maximum security for my sidearm without sacrificing a smooth and efficient draw. My previous holster, while comfortable, lacked the retention level I needed for certain high-risk environments. The promise of Safariland’s ALS (Automatic Locking System) combined with the Level III hood immediately caught my attention.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction and the tactile feel of the basket weave finish. The molded polymer felt durable and well-made, while the basket weave provided a professional and understated look. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a solid build, but not overly burdensome.

I had been considering a Blade-Tech WRS Level II holster and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its reputation for superior retention mechanisms and the proven track record of the ALS system. The Blade-Tech seemed a little too minimalistic for my needs, and I had concerns about the Serpa’s draw stroke under stress. My initial impression was positive, and I was eager to test its performance in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds was a local shooting range, where I focused on familiarizing myself with the draw stroke and retention features. I practiced drawing from various positions, including seated and awkward stances. The weather was moderately humid, providing a realistic scenario for potential use in less-than-ideal conditions.

The draw stroke was surprisingly smooth once I got used to deactivating the ALS and hood simultaneously. Initially, I fumbled a bit, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. The holster retained the weapon securely during simulated sprints and grappling drills, giving me confidence in its retention capabilities.

I did notice that the basket weave finish could become a little slick when wet, requiring a slightly firmer grip to ensure a secure release. However, overall, my first experience with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 was highly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including duty shifts and training exercises, the Safariland holster has proven to be incredibly reliable. The holster has held up admirably, with only minor scuff marks on the polymer surface. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention.

The holster requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. This simple routine keeps the holster in optimal working condition. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 significantly outperforms it in terms of security, durability, and overall reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 is designed for left-handed users and features a basket weave finish for a professional appearance. It is specifically molded to fit the Sig Sauer P225. The holster utilizes Safariland’s proven ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention.

The Level III retention incorporates the ALS, a top hood, and an optional Sentry device for added security. The mid-ride UBL allows the holster to ride lower on the hip, providing a more comfortable and natural draw stroke. The slim and compact design keeps the weapon close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The ALS ensures that the weapon remains securely holstered until intentionally released, while the Level III retention provides an added layer of protection against unauthorized access. The UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, making it easier to draw the weapon quickly and efficiently.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a sidearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing immediate retention. The hood is easily deactivated with the thumb during the draw stroke, allowing for a smooth and efficient presentation.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention capabilities, comfortable ride height, and durable construction. One area for potential improvement would be the texture of the basket weave finish, which could benefit from a slightly more aggressive pattern for enhanced grip in wet conditions. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s design is sleek and functional, with a focus on providing a secure and comfortable carry. The molded polymer construction is both durable and lightweight, and the basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism. The holster’s ergonomics are well thought out, with the ALS release lever positioned for easy access and intuitive operation.

The holster does have a slight learning curve associated with mastering the simultaneous deactivation of the ALS and hood. However, with practice, the draw stroke becomes fluid and natural.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The molded polymer construction is highly resistant to impact, abrasion, and extreme temperatures. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster’s simple design and durable materials make it easy to keep in optimal working condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with a hood guard. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry device, which adds an additional layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the ALS release lever. Safariland also offers a range of UBL attachments and leg straps that can be used to customize the holster’s ride height and stability.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and readily accessible sidearm. It is also suitable for competition shooters who participate in events that require Level III retention.

This holster may not be ideal for users who prioritize minimalist design or those who prefer a simpler retention system. A high-quality gun belt designed for holster use is a must-have accessory. The optional Safariland Sentry is also recommended for users who require an extra layer of security.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6360-79-82 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s robust construction, advanced retention features, and overall quality. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a Level III duty holster. If you’re looking for a duty holster that offers the best protection for your firearm, buy this product.