Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 Review

The Real Deal Behind the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62

For over a decade, my life has revolved around the tactical world. I’ve seen holsters come and go, each promising the ultimate in security and accessibility. But few have lived up to the hype like Safariland holsters.

I was recently tasked with outfitting a new team of left-handed officers who needed Level III retention. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 stood out as a leading contender. My quest was simple: find a duty holster that offered unparalleled security, a smooth draw, and all-day comfort for left-handed users.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction and clean lines of the holster. The plain black finish speaks of professionalism, and the heft of the holster hints at its durable build. This Safariland holster exudes quality.

Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used from Blackhawk and Bianchi, the Safariland felt more refined. Its ALS (Automatic Locking System) seemed more intuitive than the thumb breaks and levers on competing models. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive – this felt like a holster designed by people who truly understood the needs of law enforcement.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a local shooting range, simulating a duty environment. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills for several hours. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 performed flawlessly, providing a secure hold and a consistently smooth draw.

I specifically tested the holster in light rain to evaluate grip and retention under adverse conditions. Even with wet hands, the ALS system remained reliable, and I experienced no slippage or fumbling during the draw. The holster required no break-in period and felt comfortable from the start.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use during training exercises and simulated field operations, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 continues to impress. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even with constant rubbing against gear and clothing. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Compared to a previous Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 holster that I used, the Safariland far surpasses it in both durability and security. The Serpa’s locking mechanism became unreliable over time, whereas the Safariland ALS feels as secure as day one. It has instilled confidence in its ability to protect and serve.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is a duty-grade holster designed for left-handed users. It features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System) for Level III Retention. This model is finished in a professional plain black color.

The holster is designed to fit Sig Sauer P220R/P226R pistols equipped with ITI M3, TLR-1, or SureFire X200 weapon lights. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable mid-ride carry. Its slim, compact design keeps the weapon close to the body.

The Level III Retention system provides three points of security: the ALS, a rotating hood, and an optional Sentry. The ALS automatically secures the weapon once holstered. The hood guard is standard and offers additional protection against disarming attempts.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 excels in its primary function: weapon retention. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to disengage with proper training. The draw stroke is clean and efficient, allowing for a swift response in critical situations.

The holster’s design prioritizes security without sacrificing speed or accessibility. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a stable and comfortable carry platform. The weapon sits securely against the body, minimizing printing and maximizing concealment.

The only area for potential improvement lies in the optional Sentry accessory, which adds another layer of security. While effective, it can slightly increase the draw time, requiring more practice to master. However, the added security it provides is well worth it.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is outstanding. The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions. The plain black finish offers a professional and low-profile appearance.

The holster’s slim profile and mid-ride UBL ensure a comfortable and ergonomic carry. The weapon sits securely without digging into the hip or thigh. The ALS thumb lever is easily accessible and intuitively positioned for a natural draw.

The holster’s design demonstrates a clear understanding of the human factors involved in weapon carry and deployment. The combination of security and comfort makes it ideal for extended duty use. Its ease of use minimizes the learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty. Its durable construction and high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance. The SafariSeven nylon blend is resistant to scratches, impacts, and extreme temperatures.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The ALS mechanism benefits from periodic lubrication with a silicone-based spray. The holster’s simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean thoroughly.

This holster is clearly designed to last, offering years of reliable service with proper care. This holster should be a worthwhile investment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories. The most notable is the optional Sentry, which adds another layer of security. Different UBL models can change the ride height.

The holster is designed to accommodate Sig Sauer P220R/P226R pistols with ITI M3, TLR-1, or SureFire X200 weapon lights. The ability to use common weapon lights enhances the holster’s versatility and practicality.

While the holster is not infinitely customizable like some modular systems, its compatibility with standard accessories ensures it can be tailored to individual needs and preferences. The flexibility to add or remove features is important.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is perfect for left-handed law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private citizens who prioritize weapon retention and a smooth draw. This holster is ideal for those who carry a Sig Sauer P220R/P226R with a compatible weapon light.

This product may not be suitable for individuals who prefer a more minimalist holster design or those who require compatibility with a wider range of firearms. Someone who doesn’t carry a weapon light might prefer a different model.

A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to ensure smooth operation. Familiarization with the draw stroke is also a must.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, durability, and performance. The $209.99 price tag is justified by the holster’s exceptional build quality and reliable ALS system.

I would highly recommend this holster to any left-handed professional who carries a Sig Sauer P220R/P226R with a weapon light. The peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment.

If you’re serious about weapon retention and demand the best, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6360-7742-62 is the holster for you. Invest in your safety and choose Safariland.