Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel who require a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines their Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention system, providing excellent security against unauthorized removal while still allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. The basketweave finish adds a touch of classic professionalism, and the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures a comfortable and stable carry.

My search for this holster stemmed from a need for enhanced weapon retention during high-risk operations. Existing Level II holsters felt insufficient, lacking the confidence needed when dealing with unpredictable environments. The promise of the Safariland ALS system combined with Level III retention was the solution I was looking for, providing peace of mind without sacrificing draw speed.

Unboxing the holster revealed a robust piece of kit. The basketweave leather was meticulously crafted, showcasing excellent attention to detail and the rigid polymer body assured me of its durability and ruggedness. The holster felt substantial, but not overly heavy, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its reputation for reliability and the intuitive nature of the ALS system. The Safariland offered a more natural draw stroke compared to the Serpa’s finger-activated release, and the Bianchi’s material didn’t seem as durable for long-term use. It seemed like the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 was the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and durability.

My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a touch of intimidation. The Level III retention system seemed complex, but the promise of enhanced security was alluring. Eager to put it to the test, I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype and provided the enhanced weapon retention I was looking for.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 at the shooting range during a training exercise focused on close-quarters combat. The simulated scenarios demanded quick draws and re-holstering under pressure, providing an excellent environment to assess the holster’s performance. The holster felt secure on my duty belt and didn’t shift or wobble during movement.

Performance was impressive, even when exposed to moderate rain and humidity. The ALS system remained smooth and reliable, even with slightly wet hands, and the release mechanism functioned flawlessly. Drawing my 1911 required a deliberate and practiced motion, but once mastered, it was surprisingly fast and intuitive.

The initial learning curve was minimal. The ALS system, after a few dry runs, became second nature. The hood guard was a little stiff at first, but loosened up with repeated use. There were no major issues, only minor adjustments to my draw stroke required to ensure smooth and consistent operation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use during daily patrol and tactical training, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The basketweave finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuffs and scratches despite constant rubbing against clothing and gear. The retention system remains secure and consistent, and the holster shows no signs of loosening or wear.

The holster has proven to be exceptionally durable. The polymer body has withstood impacts and abrasions without cracking or breaking. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism have kept it functioning flawlessly.

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 significantly outperforms my previous Level II holster in terms of weapon security and peace of mind. The added layer of retention provides a noticeable increase in confidence, knowing that my sidearm is secure in any situation. It is a marked improvement over older open-top designs and passive retention systems.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 is designed for right-handed users and features a basketweave brown finish. The holster is designed to fit Colt Government 1911 (5.00″ barrel), Smith & Wesson 1911 (5.00″ barrel), Springfield Armory Model 1911-A1 (5.00″ barrel), and STI/SVI 1911 without rails (5.00″ barrel). It utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) and includes a Hood Guard.

These specifications are crucial because they define the holster’s compatibility and security level. The ALS ensures that the weapon is automatically secured upon holstering, and the Level III retention system (upgradable to Level IV with the optional Sentry) provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized removal. The right-hand configuration makes it suitable for the majority of users.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 excels at securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a relatively quick and efficient draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to disengage. The hood guard adds another layer of retention, requiring it to be rotated forward before the weapon can be drawn.

Its primary strengths lie in its security and reliability. The Level III retention provides exceptional peace of mind, and the ALS system is intuitive and easy to use with practice. Some users may find the draw stroke slightly slower compared to Level II holsters, but the added security is well worth the trade-off. The optional sentry upgrade makes it Level IV Retention, for the ultimate piece of mind.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. It provides a high level of security and reliability, and the draw stroke, while requiring practice, is efficient and consistent. It instills confidence that the sidearm is secure and accessible when needed.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 is constructed from a durable polymer body and features a basketweave leather finish. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the Ride UBL. The holster rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort.

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 is relatively user-friendly, but requires some practice to master the draw stroke. The ALS release and hood guard require deliberate and coordinated movements. However, after a short period of training, the draw becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 is built to last, with a durable polymer body and high-quality basketweave leather. With proper care and maintenance, the holster should provide years of reliable service. It will survive many high-stress events.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required. Replacement parts, such as the ALS release and hood guard, are readily available from Safariland, ensuring the holster can be easily repaired if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 comes standard with a hood guard and the Ride UBL. An optional Sentry is available for purchase, increasing the retention level to IV. The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and quick-release systems.

The holster is designed to be compatible with standard 1911 pistols, including those with aftermarket sights and triggers. However, it may not be compatible with 1911s that have accessory rails or other modifications. It will still do the primary job, which is retention.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable way to carry their 1911. It is an excellent choice for those working in high-risk environments where weapon retention is paramount. Anyone needing an enhanced level of weapon security will benefit greatly.

Individuals who prioritize speed over security or those who are unwilling to dedicate time to practice the draw stroke should skip this product. This is also not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and retention level. Those looking for a very streamlined, low-profile holster should seek other options.

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. It should be noted that a quality duty belt is also a necessity.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 is a top-tier duty holster that offers exceptional weapon retention, reliable performance, and durable construction. While the draw stroke requires practice, the added security and peace of mind are well worth the effort. Its a tool for serious professionals.

The price is justified considering the high level of security, reliability, and durability that this holster provides. It is an investment in personal safety and professional performance. A life-saving device is often priceless.

I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basketweave Brown, Right 6360-53-71 to anyone who needs a secure and reliable duty holster for their 1911. Invest in your safety and choose the Safariland – you won’t regret it. Secure your sidearm, secure your peace of mind!