Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81 is more than just a holster; it’s a critical piece of equipment for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who prioritizes weapon security and quick access. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, offering a high degree of security without sacrificing a smooth, intuitive draw. Its basket-weave black finish provides a professional appearance, while the Universal Belt Loop (UBL) ensures a comfortable and stable carry.
As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, but the need for a reliable, secure, and readily accessible duty holster remains constant. My old holster, a Level II retention model, felt inadequate given the increasing threats and dynamic environments I was operating in, prompting me to seek a Level III solution. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL seemed like the ideal upgrade.
Upon unboxing, the holster immediately impressed me with its robust construction and attention to detail. The basket-weave finish added a touch of class, while the heft of the material conveyed a sense of durability. It felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily use.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but Safariland’s reputation for quality and the proven track record of the ALS system swayed my decision. The Safariland felt like a purpose-built tool rather than a generic holster attempting to be something it wasn’t. My initial impression was one of excitement, knowing that I was holding a holster designed for serious duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL was during a week-long tactical training exercise focused on close-quarters combat and active shooter response. The training took place in a simulated urban environment, exposing the holster to various conditions, including rain, dust, and physical stress. I needed a holster that could perform flawlessly under pressure.
The holster’s performance in varying conditions was remarkable. The ALS system functioned smoothly even when wet or coated in dust, ensuring a consistent draw every time. The Ride UBL kept the weapon secure and close to my body, preventing any unwanted movement during dynamic maneuvers.
The draw stroke took some getting used to, primarily due to the Level III retention system requiring a deliberate thumb activation of the ALS. After a few hours of practice, the motion became second nature, allowing for a fast and efficient draw without compromising security. My only initial concern was the audible “click” of the ALS disengaging, which I worried might telegraph my intentions in a stealth situation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL has proven its reliability and durability. There are only minor signs of wear on the basket-weave finish, primarily where it makes contact with my duty belt. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, with no degradation in performance.
Maintenance involves a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, per Safariland’s recommendations. Compared to my previous holster, which required frequent adjustments and repairs, the Safariland is a testament to quality craftsmanship.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland provides a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The Level III retention system requires a deliberate action to release the weapon, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. The comfort and stability offered by the Ride UBL are also a major improvement, allowing for extended wear without discomfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81 is specifically designed for the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1 weapon lights and a 3.50″ barrel. It is a right-hand configuration holster with a basket-weave black finish. The holster boasts a Level III Retention rating, upgradeable to Level IV with the optional Sentry.
The ALS Automatic Locking System is a critical component, securing the weapon once holstered. The Hood Guard comes standard, offering added protection to the weapon. The slim, compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body, enhancing comfort and concealment.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and suitability for specific firearms and applications. The ALS provides secure retention, while the Ride UBL allows for comfortable carry on a duty belt. The specific gun fit ensures a snug and secure fit, preventing any unwanted movement or rattling.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention and a smooth, reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, requiring a deliberate thumb release to disengage. This prevents unauthorized access to the weapon while allowing for a rapid draw when needed.
One strength is the intuitive nature of the ALS release once practiced. The primary weakness, however, is that the specific model only fits a limited subset of Heckler & Koch P2000 variants. It absolutely meets expectations, delivering on its promise of secure retention and a smooth, fast draw.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s build quality is exceptional, featuring durable materials and precise molding. The basket-weave finish provides a professional appearance while also adding a layer of texture for improved grip. The weight is substantial, reflecting the robust construction, but the Ride UBL distributes the weight evenly, minimizing discomfort.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some initial practice is required to master the ALS release. The draw stroke is simple and straight-up once all releases are deactivated, minimizing any unnecessary movements.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the heavy-duty construction and quality materials, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL is expected to last for many years with proper care. The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The durable finish resists scratches and abrasions, maintaining a professional appearance even after extended use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL comes standard with a Hood Guard for added weapon protection. An optional Sentry can be installed to upgrade the retention level to Level IV. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Ensures the weapon is securely locked in place once holstered, enhancing safety and preventing accidental dislodging.
- Ride UBL: Offers a comfortable and stable carry, distributing weight evenly and preventing unwanted movement.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Smooth, Fast Draw: Once mastered, the ALS release allows for a rapid and efficient draw without compromising security.
Cons
- Specific Gun Fit: Designed specifically for the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with certain weapon lights, limiting its compatibility.
- Audible ALS Release: The “click” of the ALS disengaging could potentially telegraph intentions in stealth situations.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It is also suitable for competition shooters who prioritize security and a consistent draw stroke. This holster is ideal for anyone who carries a Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with a compatible weapon light and needs a duty-grade holster.
This product is not recommended for those who require a universal holster that can accommodate various firearms or those who prioritize concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention system. It may also not be suitable for individuals who prefer a completely silent draw. A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry upgrade for Level IV Retention, further enhancing weapon security.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Right 6360-1972-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention, comfortable carry, and a reliable draw. The price is justified given the quality of construction, innovative ALS system, and enhanced security features.
I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone who carries a compatible Heckler & Koch P2000 and requires a duty-grade holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use. If you’re looking for a holster that provides peace of mind and allows you to perform your duties with confidence, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance; upgrade to the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL today.