Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 is more than just a holster; it’s a statement of preparedness and professionalism. It represents a commitment to security and rapid deployment, crucial for law enforcement, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens. This particular model, manufactured by Safariland, combines the renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) with Level III retention, offering a high degree of weapon security.
My need for a reliable and secure duty holster led me to this specific model. I required a holster that wouldn’t compromise on speed or accessibility in high-stress situations, a common problem with lesser retention systems. The Hi-Gloss Black finish also appealed to my professional needs.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality and robust construction. The Hi-Gloss Black finish is impeccable, suggesting durability. The weight feels substantial without being cumbersome, lending an immediate sense of confidence in the Safariland’s construction.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its smoother ALS mechanism and the included Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) that allows for comfortable mid-ride carry. The others felt clunky in comparison.
My first impression was excitement tempered with anticipation. Would it live up to the hype and my expectations for a duty-grade holster? I was eager to put it to the test and discover if the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 could truly deliver on its promise of security and speed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test occurred at a controlled shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. The Safariland holster was subjected to rapid draw drills and simulated combat scenarios. I was specifically evaluating its ability to retain the weapon during movement and its speed of deployment under pressure.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 performed flawlessly, even in the light rain that began during the afternoon session. The ALS system held the weapon securely, and the release was intuitive. The straight-up draw was fast and consistent once I internalized the release motion.
The initial practice draws were slightly slower than my previous Level II holster, requiring conscious effort to depress the ALS lever and release the hood. However, after a few hours of repetition, the motion became second nature. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. It has endured daily wear and tear during patrols, training exercises, and various weather conditions without any significant issues. The finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear.
The holster has shown only minor scuff marks from regular contact with gear and clothing. Periodic cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism have kept it functioning smoothly. The holster’s rugged construction and high-quality materials give me confidence in its longevity.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, speed, and comfort. My previous experiences involved holsters that were either too slow to draw from or lacked sufficient retention. The Safariland strikes the perfect balance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 is designed for right-handed users and features several key specifications. It is a Level III retention holster, upgradeable to Level IV with the optional Sentry. The holster is finished in a Hi-Gloss Black and is specifically molded to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Safety.
The inclusion of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) is paramount, automatically securing the weapon once holstered. The Hood Guard is a standard feature on the 6360 holsters, further enhancing weapon security. The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable mid-ride carry, placing the weapon at an optimal height for a smooth draw.
These specifications are crucial for duty holsters, as they directly impact officer safety and effectiveness. Level III retention provides a high degree of security against unauthorized weapon removal. The ALS mechanism enables a fast, intuitive draw stroke.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 excels in its primary function: securely holding and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system engages automatically, providing positive retention. The release mechanism is easily accessible and intuitive with practice.
The holster’s greatest strength lies in its balance of retention and speed. It provides a high level of security without sacrificing the ability to quickly draw the weapon. The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the ALS release.
The holster exceeds expectations by providing a level of security and speed typically found in higher-priced models. It is clear that Safariland prioritized both security and usability in this design. The peace of mind it provides during duty is invaluable.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 is exceptional, utilizing durable materials that withstand the rigors of duty use. The Hi-Gloss Black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and resistant to abrasions. The weight is well-balanced, contributing to comfortable carry.
The holster is designed to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The Ride UBL positions the weapon at an optimal height for a natural draw stroke. While there is a slight learning curve, the holster is generally user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 is built to last, using robust materials and a durable construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Cleaning involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a small amount of lubricant to the ALS mechanism. Repair is typically limited to replacing worn screws or hardware. Safariland also offers replacement parts for the ALS system.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 comes standard with the Hood Guard and Ride UBL. The optional Sentry provides Level IV retention. Users can customize the holster with various belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical accessories.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and MOLLE attachments. Many third-party accessories designed for Safariland holsters are also compatible. The option to add the Sentry for Level IV retention is a significant bonus.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91
Pros
- Exceptional retention: The ALS system provides a high level of weapon security, preventing unauthorized removal.
- Fast draw speed: With practice, the ALS release allows for a rapid and intuitive draw stroke.
- Durable construction: The holster is made from high-quality materials that can withstand demanding environments.
- Comfortable carry: The Ride UBL positions the weapon at an optimal height for all-day comfort.
- Professional appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- Initial learning curve: Mastering the ALS release requires some practice.
- Hi-Gloss Finish scratches: The Hi-Gloss finish is more susceptible to scratches and scuffs compared to matte finishes.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who require a high level of weapon retention and rapid deployment. It is ideally suited for those who prioritize security and professionalism in their gear. This holster is a must-have for anyone working in a high-risk environment.
This holster may not be ideal for individuals who prioritize concealability over retention, or who prefer a simpler, less secure holster. Those new to firearms or who are uncomfortable with complex retention systems may also want to consider simpler options. It might not be suitable for plain clothes work because of the hi-gloss finish.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV retention. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended for optimal performance. Consider a quality gun belt for stable and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. Its ALS system provides unparalleled weapon retention, while its ergonomic design ensures comfortable carry and a rapid draw. The investment is justified by the peace of mind and enhanced safety it provides.
At $207.80, the price is competitive, especially considering the features and build quality. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on a firearm for their personal or professional safety. The value is undeniable.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-920-91 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the confidence that comes with knowing your weapon is secure and readily accessible when you need it most. Don’t compromise on safety; invest in a Safariland.