Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of duty gear designed for professionals who demand the highest levels of security and accessibility. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement equipment, this holster offers Level III retention, a mid-ride carry position, and a striking Hi-Gloss Black finish, all tailored for left-handed users carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without a manual safety. It’s a serious piece of kit for serious situations.

Having spent over a decade working with tactical gear, I’ve always prioritized security and speed. In my line of work, a dropped weapon isn’t just an embarrassment; it could be life-threatening. I needed a holster that would keep my firearm secure during dynamic movements, yet allow for a smooth and rapid draw when the moment demanded it.

Unboxing the Safariland holster was a no-nonsense affair. The Hi-Gloss Black STX finish immediately caught my eye – it’s professional and offers a distinctive look. The build quality felt rock-solid; the polymer was dense, and the ALS (Automatic Locking System) mechanism clicked with reassuring precision.

I’ve used other Level III holsters before, like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900. While those options offer similar levels of retention, the Safariland stood out with its slimmer profile and the intuitive ALS system. My first impression was one of confidence. This holster seemed built to perform, and I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a local shooting range that hosts law enforcement training days. I ran drills involving sprinting, kneeling, and simulated grappling to assess the holster’s retention capabilities. The Safariland ALS Level III performed flawlessly. The weapon remained securely in place throughout all movements, even during vigorous shaking and simulated physical altercations.

I also tested the holster in varying weather conditions, including a light rain and a dusty environment. The ALS system continued to function smoothly, and the draw remained consistent. The release mechanisms were easily accessible even with gloved hands, requiring minimal adjustment time. I did have to consciously train to deactivate all retention levels smoothly, but it quickly became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Level III continues to impress. There are no signs of wear and tear on the holster body, and the finish remains intact despite daily abrasion against clothing and gear. I occasionally clean the holster with a damp cloth and lubricate the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland stands out in both security and comfort. It provides a confident level of weapon retention, while the mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for a comfortable carry position that doesn’t dig into my hip. It has genuinely outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492

Specifications

• Level III Retention: This means the holster employs three distinct retention devices to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This includes the ALS system, a rotating hood, and an optional Sentry device for Level IV.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The Safariland‘s ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering. This provides an immediate and audible confirmation that the firearm is locked in place.
• Hood Guard: A standard feature, the hood guard protects the thumb lever of the ALS from accidental activation or obstruction. It provides an added layer of security and prevents the weapon from being accessed by someone other than the user.
• Slim, Compact Design: The holster’s design minimizes bulk and keeps the weapon close to the body. This aids in concealment and prevents the holster from snagging on clothing or other equipment.
• Simple Straight Up Draw: Once all retention devices are deactivated, the weapon can be drawn straight up. This encourages a consistent and efficient draw stroke.
• Mid-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The UBL positions the holster lower on the belt, providing a comfortable and ergonomic draw. It also allows for greater flexibility and range of motion.
• STX Hi-Gloss Black Finish: This finish offers a professional appearance and provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface. The hi-gloss finish can be easily cleaned and maintained.
• Gun Fit: Specifically molded for a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without a manual safety. This ensures a snug and secure fit, maximizing retention and draw speed.
• Left-Handed Configuration: Tailored for left-handed shooters. It allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke with the support hand.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The Level III retention, for example, provides peace of mind in high-risk situations, while the ALS system offers a rapid and intuitive draw. The mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility, and the durable materials ensure the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely holding a firearm while allowing for a quick and reliable draw. The ALS system is incredibly intuitive, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke with minimal practice.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, comfortable carry position, and durable construction. The only potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the multiple retention devices, but this is easily overcome with practice. It definitively meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. The holster is constructed from a high-strength polymer that is both lightweight and incredibly durable. The mid-ride UBL provides a comfortable carry position, and the holster’s slim profile prevents it from feeling bulky or obtrusive. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS system, but the design is otherwise user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland ALS Level III is built to last. Minimal maintenance is required, typically consisting of occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster includes a hood guard as a standard accessory and is compatible with an optional Sentry device to upgrade to Level IV retention. While there are limited customization options specific to this model, the UBL can be swapped out for different belt attachments to adjust the ride height and cant. Safariland also offers various mounting options and accessories for attaching the holster to different platforms, such as MOLLE vests or drop-leg platforms.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private citizens who prioritize security and accessibility. It is especially well-suited for those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without a manual safety. Those who prefer a higher degree of customization or a simpler retention system may want to consider other options.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality duty belt to ensure the holster is securely attached and stable. Regular practice with the ALS system is also essential to develop a consistent and efficient draw stroke.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-492 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort. While the $164.80 price tag might seem steep, the holster’s robust construction, intuitive ALS system, and Level III retention capabilities justify the investment. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a high-quality and dependable solution for carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C. Invest in your safety and peace of mind—get the Safariland ALS Level III.