Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals demanding a high level of weapon retention and a secure, comfortable carry. Safariland is a well-known brand in the industry for their quality and innovation in holster design, and this model is no exception, offering Level III retention with the option to upgrade to Level IV with an additional Sentry. This holster features their renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System), a slim profile, and the popular Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable all-day carry, which made me want to try it.
After years of using various holsters that sacrificed security for comfort, or vice versa, I was on the hunt for a solution that offered both without compromise. I needed a duty holster that I could trust to keep my firearm secure in any situation while still allowing for a quick and efficient draw when necessary. I was particularly drawn to the promise of Level III retention combined with the renowned Safariland ALS system, hoping it would provide the peace of mind I was seeking.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH arrived in a simple, no-frills package, which I appreciate. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the sleek, hi-gloss black finish and the robust construction of the holster. The STX material felt durable and well-molded, and the ALS mechanism operated smoothly with a positive click. The Ride UBL seemed sturdy and promised a comfortable fit on my duty belt.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 series, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its proven ALS system and the reputation of Safariland for quality and durability. The Serpa, while popular, has had some concerns raised about its draw technique under stress, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t seem to offer the same level of retention as the Safariland. I felt the ALS mechanism offered a more intuitive and safer draw under pressure.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH looked and felt like a well-made piece of kit, but I knew the true test would be in its performance under real-world conditions. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH at my local shooting range, focusing on practicing my draw stroke and re-holstering under controlled conditions. The holster performed admirably, with the ALS system engaging smoothly and securely every time. The mid-ride UBL positioned the firearm comfortably, allowing for a natural and efficient draw.
I also subjected the holster to various weather conditions during my range sessions, including a particularly rainy afternoon. The STX Hi-Gloss finish proved to be water-resistant and easy to wipe down, while the ALS mechanism continued to function flawlessly despite the moisture. I noticed that even with wet hands, the release lever was easy to manipulate.
The learning curve was minimal, thanks to the intuitive design of the ALS system. After a few practice draws, I felt confident in my ability to quickly and safely access my firearm from the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH under pressure. My initial reaction was very positive; the holster felt secure, comfortable, and easy to use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and daily duty carry, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the STX Hi-Gloss finish, and the ALS mechanism continues to operate smoothly and consistently. The holster’s construction shows no signs of weakening or degradation.
Maintenance has been straightforward; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally lubricate the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant. This minimal maintenance routine has kept the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH in top working order. This is far easier to maintain than some leather holsters I’ve used in the past.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH has significantly outperformed them in terms of security, comfort, and ease of use. I have complete confidence in its ability to retain my firearm in any situation, and the comfortable mid-ride UBL allows for all-day carry without discomfort. It has exceeded my expectations and has become my go-to duty holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is designed for left-handed users and fits the Sig Sauer P228 and P229 with a 3.90″ barrel. It provides Level III retention, with the option to upgrade to Level IV with the addition of a Sentry device. The holster is constructed from durable STX Hi-Gloss Black material and features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System).
The slim, compact design of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH allows the weapon to ride close to the body, improving concealment and comfort. The mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a comfortable and stable platform for the holster on the duty belt. The inclusion of a hood guard as standard is a welcome addition, further enhancing weapon security.
These specifications are crucial for law enforcement and security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and comfortable duty holster. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations, while the slim profile and mid-ride UBL ensure all-day comfort. The compatibility with the Sig Sauer P228/P229 is essential for users who carry those firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS mechanism engages automatically upon holstering, providing a positive and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, requiring only a simple thumb release to deactivate the ALS.
The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides a high level of protection against unauthorized weapon removal, while the ALS system allows for a quick and natural draw under stress. The only potential weakness is that the ALS mechanism may require some practice to master, but with repetition, it becomes second nature.
Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a secure, reliable, and comfortable platform for carrying a duty weapon, allowing law enforcement and security professionals to focus on the task at hand.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is built from durable STX Hi-Gloss Black material, which is both impact-resistant and weather-resistant. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The mid-ride UBL positions the weapon at an optimal height for drawing, reducing strain on the shoulder and back.
The holster is designed to be user-friendly, with an intuitive ALS mechanism that requires minimal training to master. The smooth draw stroke and positive re-holstering action make it easy to use even under stress. The ergonomic design of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH contributes to its overall comfort and usability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of daily duty carry. The STX Hi-Gloss Black material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring that the holster will maintain its appearance and functionality for years to come. With reasonable use, this should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The ALS mechanism can be easily lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation. The durability and easy maintenance of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH make it a reliable and cost-effective choice for law enforcement and security professionals.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH comes standard with a hood guard for added weapon security. An optional Sentry device can be installed to upgrade the holster to Level IV retention. The holster is also compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and other mounting platforms.
While the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is primarily designed for use with the Safariland UBL system, it may also be compatible with some aftermarket belt loops and mounting platforms, depending on the specific design. Users should verify compatibility before attempting to use non-Safariland accessories. The ability to customize the holster with various accessories enhances its versatility and adaptability to different user needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH
Pros
- Level III retention provides excellent weapon security.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System) allows for a quick and efficient draw.
- Durable STX Hi-Gloss Black construction.
- Comfortable mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for all-day carry.
- Minimal learning curve with intuitive ALS mechanism.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss finish might be too reflective for certain tactical situations.
- Specifically designed for Sig Sauer P228/P229 (limited weapon compatibility).
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a secure, comfortable carry. This holster is especially well-suited for those who carry a Sig Sauer P228 or P229 and prefer a mid-ride carry position. It is a great choice for those in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.
Those who prefer a low-profile, concealed carry holster or require a holster for a different firearm model should skip this product. Individuals working in environments where a highly reflective finish is undesirable may also want to consider a different holster with a matte finish. Finally, right-handed shooters will need to seek a right-handed version of the holster.
A must-have accessory for the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is the Safariland Sentry upgrade, which increases the retention level to Level IV. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also recommended to maintain optimal performance. Depending on personal preference, users may also consider adding a leg shroud for added stability and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH
Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and comfort. The ALS mechanism provides excellent weapon retention while allowing for a smooth and efficient draw. The durable STX Hi-Gloss Black construction ensures long-lasting performance.
The price is justified given the holster’s quality, features, and reputation. The peace of mind provided by the Level III retention and the comfortable mid-ride UBL make it a worthwhile investment for law enforcement and security professionals.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-74-492-NH to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster for their Sig Sauer P228 or P229. If you value weapon security, ease of use, and all-day comfort, this holster is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!