Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 Review

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 in Action: First Look

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 isn’t just another holster; it’s a commitment to security, accessibility, and professional-grade performance. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, this holster is designed for those who demand the highest level of retention without sacrificing a smooth, intuitive draw. With its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, combined with the comfortable Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), this holster promises a secure and ergonomic carry.

My search for a holster that balances retention with speed led me to this particular model. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of daily duty, providing both peace of mind and the ability to quickly deploy my sidearm when necessary. The Safariland reputation for quality and the specific features of the 6360 made it a frontrunner.

Upon receiving the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The SafariLaminate material feels incredibly durable, and the plain black finish provides a professional, low-profile appearance. The holster’s weight is reassuring, not cumbersome, suggesting a solid build without being excessively heavy.

Compared to my previous holsters, a Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 and a generic nylon holster, the Safariland 6360 feels significantly more secure and purpose-built. The Serpa, while quick to draw from, lacked the added security of a Level III retention system, while the nylon holster offered minimal retention and was prone to shifting. The Safariland seemed to bridge the gap perfectly, providing both security and a reasonably fast draw.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. This holster appeared to be a serious piece of equipment, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. I knew from experience that appearances can be deceiving, so I was keen to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 was the shooting range. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, practicing smooth and efficient weapon deployment. The weather was fairly typical: a little humid and slightly overcast, nothing too extreme.

The holster performed admirably, even when my hands were sweaty from the humidity. The ALS system engaged positively every time, and the release was intuitive with practice. There was a slight learning curve in mastering the thumb release while maintaining a secure grip, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.

The only minor issue I encountered was adjusting to the mid-ride height of the UBL. It positioned the weapon slightly lower than I was accustomed to, requiring a minor adjustment to my draw stroke. However, this was quickly overcome with a few practice sessions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I wore it during training exercises that involved running, climbing, and grappling. The holster retained my weapon securely throughout all activities.

Despite the rough handling, the SafariLaminate construction shows minimal signs of wear. There are a few minor scuffs, but nothing that compromises the structural integrity or appearance of the holster. The suede lining has protected the finish of my Sig Sauer P226R, preventing any unwanted scratches or abrasions.

Maintaining the Safariland 6360 is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6360 stands head and shoulders above the competition. It provides a level of security and reliability that I haven’t experienced with other holsters. The comfort of the UBL and the intuitive ALS release make it a joy to use on a daily basis.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 is packed with features designed for security, speed, and comfort. It’s a left-handed holster designed for specific Sig Sauer models.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This system automatically secures the weapon upon holstering. It requires only a thumb release to draw, offering excellent retention without sacrificing speed.
• Self Locking System (SLS): The rotating hood further enhances weapon security. It requires a deliberate motion to disengage, adding another layer of protection against unauthorized access.
• Level III Retention: The combination of ALS and SLS provides Level III retention. This is a crucial feature for duty use, providing a high degree of security in dynamic situations.
• Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): This belt loop design allows the holster to ride closer to the body. This enhances concealment and improves comfort, especially during prolonged wear.
• SafariLaminate Construction: Safariland’s proprietary SafariLaminate material provides exceptional durability. It is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Suede Lining: The interior of the holster is lined with soft suede. This protects the firearm’s finish, preventing scratches and wear marks.
• Plain Black Finish: The plain black finish provides a professional, low-profile appearance. This is ideal for duty use and concealed carry.
• Fits Sig Sauer: Specifically designed to fit the Sig Sauer P220R DAK with Bobbed Hammer, P220R DASA with Full Size Hammer, P226R DAK with Bobbed Hammer, and P226R DASA with Full Size Hammer. This ensures a snug and secure fit for these specific models.

These specifications are crucial for performance and user experience. The retention systems provide peace of mind, while the UBL and suede lining enhance comfort and firearm protection. The durable construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The retention systems are reliable and the draw stroke is smooth and efficient with practice. The holster excels in balancing security and accessibility.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction, intuitive retention system, and comfortable carry. The ALS and SLS work seamlessly together to provide a high level of security, while the UBL ensures a comfortable and stable platform. The only minor weakness is the slight learning curve associated with mastering the thumb release.

The Safariland 6360 exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It provides the security and reliability I need, while remaining comfortable and easy to use. It is a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 boasts a thoughtful and ergonomic design. The SafariLaminate material feels robust and the holster is lightweight enough to be comfortable for extended wear. The mid-ride height of the UBL positions the weapon perfectly for a smooth and natural draw.

The holster is incredibly user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release. With a few practice sessions, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient. The placement of the release button is well-thought-out, allowing for a natural and secure grip.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariLaminate construction of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 ensures that it will last for years. The holster is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. The robust construction can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.

Maintaining the Safariland 6360 is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Periodically applying a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 comes standard with the Ride UBL. This can be swapped for different belt loop options to adjust ride height and cant.

Safariland offers a variety of accessories that are compatible with the 6360, including leg shrouds and other mounting platforms. The holster is also compatible with various weapon lights and red dot sights, provided the correct model is selected.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention. It is also well-suited for those who carry a Sig Sauer P220R or P226R and demand a reliable and comfortable holster.

This holster may not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize speed over security. Individuals who prefer a minimalist holster or those who carry a different firearm model should consider alternative options.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a quality duty belt that can support the weight of the firearm and holster. A weapon light compatible with the 6360 can also enhance its functionality.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-774-62 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and comfort. Its robust construction, intuitive retention system, and ergonomic design make it a top contender in its class.

The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and the peace of mind it provides. This is an investment in your safety and professional performance.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6360 to anyone who requires a Level III retention holster for their Sig Sauer P220R or P226R. It is a reliable and well-designed piece of equipment that will serve you well in any situation. If you need a holster that you can trust your life to, look no further than the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster.