Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492 isn’t just another holster; it’s a statement of professional readiness and dedication to duty. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement gear, this holster boasts Level III retention, a mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), and a sleek Hi-Gloss Black STX finish. This holster promises security, accessibility, and a professional appearance, a critical combination for anyone in a tactical environment.
As a gear specialist, I needed a reliable holster for my S&W M&P .45 that offered both retention and a comfortable carry position. The Safariland ALS system has a strong reputation, and the Level III designation provided the peace of mind I was looking for. The combination of security and quick access is what truly piqued my interest, as my previous holsters often prioritized one over the other.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster immediately impressed me with its robust construction and polished appearance. The Hi-Gloss Black STX finish is undeniably striking, reflecting a level of professionalism that is often overlooked in tactical gear. The molded polymer felt incredibly durable, and the ALS (Automatic Locking System) mechanism operated smoothly and confidently.
I considered a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Galco retention holster. The Blackhawk felt too bulky, and I had concerns about the Serpa’s index finger release under stress. The Galco offered excellent craftsmanship, but lacked the active retention I desired for duty carry.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; while the holster looked and felt fantastic, the true test would be in its performance under real-world conditions. Would the retention system be reliable? Would the mid-ride UBL provide a comfortable and stable platform? These were the questions I aimed to answer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland ALS Level III holster was at a local law enforcement training range, focusing on draw speed and retention drills. I specifically wanted to evaluate the holster’s performance during rapid draw sequences and simulated grappling scenarios. The Safariland holster was subjected to these intense drills, from practicing draws in a static position to incorporating movement and simulated stress.
The holster performed admirably, even in the Texas heat and humidity. The ALS system engaged positively every time, securing my S&W M&P .45 with an audible “click,” and the release lever was intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with sweaty hands. The high-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, did not affect grip or functionality in any way.
There was a slight learning curve associated with deactivating all the retention components simultaneously while drawing the weapon. It took a bit of practice to coordinate the thumb release of the ALS with the rotation of the hood, but after a few dozen repetitions, the draw stroke became smooth and efficient. The mid-ride UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for a natural draw, minimizing wrist strain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training and field scenarios, the Safariland ALS Level III holster has proven to be a reliable and indispensable piece of my gear. I’ve put it through its paces, from routine range sessions to demanding tactical exercises, and it hasn’t faltered once. It’s been exposed to rain, dust, and rough handling without any signs of degradation.
The holster’s polymer construction has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuff marks despite regular contact with other equipment and rough surfaces. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous Safariland Level II holster, the Level III offers a significant increase in security without sacrificing draw speed. The addition of the hood guard provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access, giving me added confidence in high-risk situations. The Safariland ALS Level III has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492 is designed for duty carry and combines multiple levels of retention with a user-friendly design. It features Level III Retention, meaning it has at least three independent security measures preventing unauthorized removal. The holster fits the Smith & Wesson S&W M&P .45 without manual safeties with ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon lights, BBL 4.50″.
It also has Level IV Retention with optional Sentry installed, the additional sentry adding another layer of security. The ALS Automatic Locking System secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, providing immediate retention. The holster is finished in a STX Hi-Gloss Black for a professional and durable exterior.
A Hood Guard is standard on the 6360 holster, preventing others from manipulating the thumb release. The slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The Simple straight up draw can be executed quickly and efficiently once all releases are deactivated. The Mid Ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for accessing the weapon. It’s designed for a Left-handed shooter.
These features contribute directly to the holster’s ability to provide secure weapon retention while maintaining a reasonable draw speed. The Level III designation provides peace of mind in potentially hostile environments, while the ALS and hood guard mechanisms ensure that the weapon remains secure even during strenuous activity. The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish not only enhances the holster’s appearance but also provides a durable and weather-resistant layer of protection.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a swift and efficient draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing an audible and tactile confirmation that the weapon is secured. The draw stroke, once mastered, is remarkably smooth and intuitive, thanks to the ergonomic placement of the release lever and hood guard.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its robust retention system, which effectively prevents unauthorized access without hindering the user’s ability to quickly deploy their weapon. The only area for potential improvement would be refining the hood guard design to further streamline the draw stroke. Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III boasts a robust yet ergonomic design that prioritizes both security and user comfort. The holster’s polymer construction is exceptionally durable, providing excellent resistance to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors. Its slim profile minimizes bulk and allows the weapon to ride close to the body, enhancing concealment and preventing snagging.
The ALS release lever is intuitively positioned for easy access, and the hood guard provides an additional layer of security without impeding the draw stroke. While there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the retention system, the holster’s user-friendly design makes it relatively easy to adapt to.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty carry and is expected to last for many years with proper care. The holster’s polymer construction is highly resistant to cracking, fading, and deformation, even under extreme temperature fluctuations.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a mild detergent to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism may benefit from periodic lubrication with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth and consistent operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with the Hood Guard. The holster is also compatible with the Safariland Sentry, an additional device that adds another layer of security.
The holster accepts various belt widths depending on the UBL model selected. The mounting pattern also supports a wide array of accessories such as drop leg platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled security against unauthorized firearm removal.
- Reliable ALS System: Offers consistent and positive weapon retention.
- Durable Construction: Withstands the rigors of daily duty carry.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: Enables rapid and efficient weapon deployment once mastered.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish enhances the holster’s aesthetic appeal.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the simultaneous release of all retention components.
- Finish Susceptible to Scratches: The Hi-Gloss finish can show scratches with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492?
The Safariland ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-retention holster for duty or tactical use. This holster excels in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. It’s also suitable for competition shooters who require a Level III holster due to range regulations.
This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention, which can make drawing slightly slower than with simpler holsters. Additionally, individuals who are new to firearms or unfamiliar with active retention systems may find the learning curve challenging.
A weapon-mounted light compatible with the Safariland fit is a must-have accessory to maximize the holster’s functionality. Using a quality gun belt is also essential for optimal comfort and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Left 6360-4192-492 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. While the initial learning curve may be a bit steep, the benefits of Level III retention and a smooth draw stroke far outweigh the challenges. The Safariland holster’s robust construction and professional appearance make it an investment that will last for years to come.
The price is justified considering the level of security and durability offered, as well as the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is securely retained. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who prioritizes weapon retention and requires a reliable and professional-grade duty holster. If you’re looking for a holster that will stand up to the rigors of daily duty carry and provide unwavering security, look no further than the Safariland ALS Level III.