Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is more than just a holster; it’s a statement. It’s a commitment to security, accessibility, and professional presentation. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement and tactical communities, this holster boasts Level III retention, ensuring your firearm stays exactly where you need it until you need it. This model combines the renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) with a convenient ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) in a high-gloss black finish, making it both functional and aesthetically sharp.
Having spent over a decade working with tactical gear, I’ve always prioritized a secure and easily accessible sidearm. My existing Level II holster was proving insufficient for high-risk situations where weapon retention was paramount. I needed a holster that provided maximum security without sacrificing a smooth, intuitive draw.
Upon receiving the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The high-gloss finish, while perhaps not ideal for covert operations, presents a crisp, professional look suitable for uniformed duty. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the ALS mechanism engaged with a reassuring click.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but the Safariland‘s reputation for reliable retention and the intuitive ALS system swayed my decision. The Safariland felt like a purpose-built tool, not just an accessory. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, where I ran a series of draw-and-fire drills to familiarize myself with the holster. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 performed flawlessly. The ALS release was intuitive and quickly became second nature.
I also exposed the holster to simulated wet conditions by dousing it with water. The retention mechanism remained functional, and the draw stroke didn’t noticeably degrade. The high-gloss finish, while attractive, did become slightly slippery when wet, requiring a firmer grip during the draw.
The draw felt natural after a short familiarization period. Reholstering was secure and positive, thanks to the ALS system. My only initial concern was the high-gloss finish’s potential for reflection in bright sunlight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including training exercises and simulated duty scenarios, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 continued to impress. There were no signs of significant wear and tear on the holster body or the retention mechanism. The ALS remained consistently reliable.
Cleaning was simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth kept the holster looking presentable. The internal components required occasional lubrication with a silicone-based product to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holster, which required constant adjustment and occasional repairs, the Safariland was a significant upgrade.
It noticeably outperformed my previous Level II holster in terms of retention security and durability. The improved draw speed and consistent reholstering were also significant advantages.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is specifically designed for the left-handed shooter carrying a Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1 with a 3.50″ barrel. It offers Level III Retention, with the possibility of Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed. The holster utilizes the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering.
The Hood Guard comes standard, providing an additional layer of security against attempted weapon grabs. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) is a mid-ride configuration, allowing the weapon to ride closer to the body for improved concealment and comfort. The finish is Hi Gloss Black, offering a professional, albeit reflective, appearance. The holster’s slim and compact design minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort during extended wear.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s primary function: secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations, while the ALS ensures a smooth, intuitive draw. The UBL’s mid-ride height offers a balance of accessibility and concealment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 excels in its primary function: securing and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient once the ALS release is mastered.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and intuitive draw system. The high-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be a weakness in situations requiring maximum stealth. The design could benefit from incorporating a system to mitigate the reflective properties of the finish.
It exceeds expectations in terms of retention security and draw speed. The holster provides a level of confidence that my previous holsters lacked.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is constructed from durable, high-quality materials. The weight is substantial, but not overly burdensome, and the holster feels comfortable against the body. The UBL’s mid-ride height positions the weapon for optimal draw accessibility.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, but mastering the ALS release requires practice. A small amount of dry-fire training is recommended to develop muscle memory.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The high-quality materials and robust construction suggest a long service life.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required to keep the holster in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 comes standard with the Hood Guard for added security. The optional Sentry further enhances retention, upgrading the holster to Level IV.
While the holster itself offers limited customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories may be limited due to the Safariland‘s proprietary design.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system provides unparalleled weapon security, preventing unauthorized removal.
- Intuitive Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the ALS release allows for a smooth, rapid draw.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride UBL: The UBL positions the weapon for optimal accessibility and comfort.
- Professional Appearance: The high-gloss black finish presents a clean, professional look suitable for duty carry.
Cons
- Reflective Finish: The high-gloss black can be highly reflective, potentially compromising stealth in certain situations.
- Limited Customization: Customization options are primarily limited to Safariland-branded accessories.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who prioritizes secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. It’s ideal for those who require a professional-looking holster with a high level of security.
Those who require maximum stealth or prefer a low-profile holster might want to consider alternative options with a matte finish. Individuals who are not comfortable with a Level III retention system or prefer simpler holster designs may also want to explore other alternatives.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV retention. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based product is also recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. While the high-gloss finish may not be ideal for every situation, the holster’s overall performance, durability, and reliability make it an excellent choice for those who demand the best.
The price is justified by the holster’s exceptional quality and features. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 is an investment in personal safety and professional readiness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster. Don’t compromise on safety; invest in the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-1972-92 and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible when you need it most.