Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 isn’t just a holster; it’s a statement of preparedness and professionalism. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with duty gear excellence, this holster is designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone serious about weapon retention. The ALS (Automatic Locking System), combined with the Level III retention, offers peace of mind knowing your firearm is secure yet readily accessible.
For years, I struggled to find a holster that balanced secure retention with a smooth, intuitive draw. Many holsters felt bulky, cumbersome, or simply didn’t provide the level of security I needed in potentially volatile situations. After hearing rave reviews from colleagues and doing my own research, the Safariland ALS Level III seemed like the perfect solution.
The Safariland holster arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected and ready for action. My initial impression was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. The Hi-Gloss Black finish gave it a professional, clean look, and the weight felt substantial without being overly heavy.
Compared to a standard Level II holster I previously used and a competitor’s paddle holster, the Safariland offered significantly more retention without sacrificing draw speed. The ALS mechanism felt much more secure than a simple friction fit. The ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also seemed to position the firearm perfectly for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke, unlike the competitor’s paddle which felt unstable.
I was immediately impressed by the level of security the Safariland ALS Level III provided. The initial “click” of the ALS engaging upon holstering was reassuring. I was excited to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland ALS Level III was at the shooting range during a training session focused on dynamic movement and weapon transitions. The holster was attached to my duty belt, and I practiced drawing and reholstering my S&W M&P 45C with Safety repeatedly. The ALS system required a slight adjustment to my draw stroke, but I quickly adapted.
The holster performed admirably in the dry, sunny conditions of the range. The ALS released smoothly and consistently with practice, and the draw stroke felt natural. Reholstering was equally straightforward, with the weapon clicking securely into place.
After the range session, I noticed a small amount of wear on the Hi-Gloss finish from repeated draws, but it was purely cosmetic. Overall, the first use was positive and instilled confidence in the holster’s ability to perform.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Safariland ALS Level III during weekly range sessions, scenario-based training, and even a few outdoor exercises in varying weather, I can confidently say it’s a reliable piece of gear. The retention mechanism continues to function flawlessly, even after being exposed to rain and dust. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, apart from a few minor scuffs on the finish.
Cleaning the Safariland ALS Level III is a breeze. 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 other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed (once mastered), and overall durability. It gives me a sense of security knowing my firearm is safe and readily accessible when needed. The ride UBL also adds to comfort for prolonged wear, which I greatly appreciate.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 boasts several key specifications. This holster offers Level III Retention, providing a high degree of security. It can even be upgraded to Level IV Retention with the addition of an optional Sentry.
The core of the system is the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which automatically secures the weapon upon holstering. The standard Hood Guard further protects against unauthorized access. The holster’s slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, enhancing concealment and comfort.
The design facilitates a simple straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated, streamlining weapon deployment. The package includes the Hood Guard, with the option to add a Sentry for enhanced security. A Mid-Ride belt loop ensures a comfortable and accessible carry position.
This particular model features a Hi-Gloss Black finish, providing a professional and easily cleaned appearance. This holster is specifically designed to fit a Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P 45C with Safety. It is a Left-hand draw holster, catering to left-handed shooters.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance and the user’s overall experience. The Level III retention ensures the firearm remains secure in demanding situations, while the ALS and straightforward draw contribute to quick and efficient weapon deployment. The slim design and mid-ride belt loop enhance comfort and concealability, making it suitable for duty or concealed carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS mechanism works flawlessly, providing a positive and audible “click” upon holstering, assuring the user that the weapon is locked in place. The draw stroke, once mastered, is quick and intuitive, allowing for rapid weapon deployment in high-pressure situations.
One of the strengths of this holster is its ability to balance security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security without hindering the draw. However, mastering the draw stroke requires practice.
The Safariland ALS Level III definitely meets expectations. It’s a reliable and well-designed holster that provides peace of mind and confidence in weapon security.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III is constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The weight feels substantial, but not overly heavy, striking a good balance between durability and comfort. The holster rides close to the body, enhancing concealability and preventing snagging on clothing or equipment.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS mechanism. With practice, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand years of use. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the retention mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintaining the holster is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with a Hood Guard, which provides additional protection against unauthorized access to the firearm. The option to add a Sentry provides an even higher level of security, upgrading the holster to Level IV retention.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. It is also compatible with many popular weapon lights and lasers, allowing for a customized setup. The ride UBL is a very popular addition that adds extra comfort.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: Level III retention provides a high degree of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Rapid Draw: Once mastered, the ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Built from rugged materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Comfortable Carry: The slim design and mid-ride belt loop enhance concealability and comfort.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS system requires practice to master the draw stroke.
- Finish Wear: The Hi-Gloss finish can be prone to scratching with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92?
The Safariland ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high degree of weapon retention and a reliable draw stroke. It’s also a great choice for individuals who carry a firearm for self-defense and want the added security of a Level III holster. This left-handed model is designed specifically for left-handed shooters.
Individuals who may not need this particular product are those who require deep concealment. The mid-ride design of the UBL might not be ideal for certain concealment scenarios.
A must-have modification, though not required, might be the addition of a Safariland weapon light or laser. Also a quality gun belt is essential for optimal comfort and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional retention, a rapid draw, and durable construction. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The high-quality build and security it provides is well worth the price.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who requires a reliable and secure way to carry a firearm. The peace of mind and confidence it provides are invaluable.
If you’re serious about weapon retention and want a holster that you can depend on, the Safariland ALS Level III is an excellent choice. Upgrade your gear today and experience the Safariland difference!