Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a critical piece of safety equipment designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone who demands top-tier firearm retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the tactical gear industry, this holster boasts the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III retention rating, offering peace of mind and rapid access when it matters most. The Universal Belt Loop (UBL) allows for a comfortable mid-ride carry, enhancing mobility and reducing printing.
My path to the Safariland ALS Level III was paved with a need for enhanced security and reliability. In my previous role as a tactical training instructor, I witnessed firsthand the importance of a holster that could withstand rigorous use and prevent unauthorized access to a firearm. I needed a holster system that offered both speed and rock-solid retention, especially when working in close proximity to others during training scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland ALS Level III immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean, professional appearance. The plain black finish exudes a no-nonsense aesthetic, and the overall feel is one of durability and quality craftsmanship. The holster felt solid in my hand, and the ALS mechanism clicked into place with a reassuringly positive engagement.
I considered several other Level III holsters before settling on the Safariland ALS. Blade-Tech and Blackhawk both offer similar products, but I chose Safariland due to its long-standing reputation in the law enforcement community and the proven track record of the ALS system. The active retention combined with the intuitive straight-up draw sold me on the Safariland option.
My first impression was one of confidence. The Safariland ALS Level III felt like a serious piece of equipment designed for serious professionals. I was excited to test its performance in real-world scenarios and see if it lived up to its reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland ALS Level III was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. I subjected the holster to numerous draws and re-holstering exercises, simulating high-stress scenarios in a dynamic environment. The Safariland holster was tested with a training USP 9 to mimic carrying my duty weapon.
The holster performed admirably even when exposed to simulated rain and dirt. The ALS mechanism remained reliable even when slightly soiled, and the draw remained smooth and consistent. I initially found the release sequence to be slightly awkward, but quickly adapted with practice.
The ease of use was surprisingly good. The ALS system requires a specific thumb movement to release the firearm, preventing accidental disengagements while remaining intuitive to operate under pressure. After a few practice drills, the draw stroke became second nature.
The only minor issue I encountered during the first use was a slight snag during re-holstering, which I later attributed to improper technique. Ensuring a proper grip on the firearm and a smooth, deliberate motion eliminated this issue entirely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in various training scenarios, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. It’s been exposed to heat, cold, rain, and dust, and has consistently performed without fail. The Safariland holster has endured over 2000 draws from the holster during training.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight scuff marks on the plain black finish. The ALS mechanism remains as crisp and responsive as the day I received it. The plain black finish does make it easier to scuff up, however.
Maintaining the Safariland ALS Level III is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant is all that’s required. This prevents any unwanted debris build-up.
Compared to my previous holster (a Level II retention model from a different manufacturer), the Safariland ALS Level III offers a significant improvement in both security and peace of mind. The added layer of retention provides a higher level of protection against unauthorized firearm access.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users and compatible with the Heckler & Koch USP 9 and .40 with a 4.25″ barrel. The Safariland holster is plain black in color. It features a Level III retention rating, achieved through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a hood guard.
- Level III Retention: This feature provides three distinct levels of security, making it extremely difficult for anyone other than the user to draw the firearm. This is critical for law enforcement and military personnel working in high-risk environments.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, providing an immediate and reliable level of retention. The thumb-operated release mechanism is intuitive and allows for a quick and efficient draw.
- Hood Guard: The hood guard provides additional protection for the ALS mechanism, preventing accidental disengagement and further enhancing security. The hood makes it slightly harder to draw the weapon.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The UBL allows the holster to ride in a comfortable mid-ride position, optimizing comfort and accessibility. The UBL allows for a good range of motion.
- Plain Black Finish: The plain black finish offers a professional and low-profile appearance, suitable for a variety of duty and tactical applications. This ensures that the firearm and holster do not attract unwanted attention.
- Gun Fit: Designed specifically for Heckler&Koch USP 9 and .40 models with a 4.25″ barrel, ensuring a secure and precise fit. The firearm must be configured as indicated by Safariland to ensure compatibility.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring the holster’s performance and reliability. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security. The ALS and hood guard work in tandem to prevent unauthorized access.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while providing rapid and reliable access when needed. The ALS mechanism engages automatically upon holstering, providing an audible and tactile confirmation of secure retention. The straight-up draw is intuitive and efficient, allowing for a smooth and consistent presentation of the firearm.
One of the holster’s strengths is its robust construction and reliable ALS mechanism. The system is easy to use and provides a high level of security. The primary weakness is that the hood makes it a little more difficult to practice drawing the weapon.
Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster. Its reliability, ease of use, and robust construction make it a top choice for professionals who demand the best.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III is constructed from durable, high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster feels solid and well-built, and the plain black finish provides a professional appearance. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for freedom of movement and reducing printing.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release mechanism. With practice, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient. The holster will likely require a small break-in period.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of heavy use. The holster is also easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The holster is designed for easy maintenance and is field repairable with basic tools and replacement parts. This makes it a practical choice for professionals who rely on their gear in demanding environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III includes a hood guard for added security. Safariland offers a range of accessories for the ALS series holsters, including the Sentry, which adds a Level IV retention capability.
The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. The mounting platforms are compatible with various other brands.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized firearm access.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Offers reliable and intuitive weapon retention with a quick and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Mid-Ride UBL: Positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for freedom of movement.
- Proven Track Record: Safariland is a trusted brand with a long history of providing quality gear to law enforcement and military professionals.
Cons
- Hood makes it slightly more difficult to draw the weapon.
- Plain black finish shows scuffs and wear more readily than other finishes.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62?
The Safariland ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of firearm security and retention. It is particularly well-suited for those working in high-risk environments where unauthorized access to a firearm could have serious consequences. Anyone who carries the Heckler & Koch USP 9 or .40 with a 4.25″ barrel will find this a very desirable holster.
Individuals who prioritize comfort over absolute security, or who are new to firearms and prefer a simpler holster design, might find the Safariland ALS Level III to be overkill. Those who carry a different handgun model will need to find a Safariland holster model designed for their weapon.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for the Safariland ALS Level III, as it provides the necessary support and stability for comfortable and secure carry. The optional Safariland Sentry upgrade provides an even greater level of security.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. Its robust construction, intuitive ALS mechanism, and comfortable mid-ride carry make it an excellent choice for professionals who demand the best. The Safariland holster provides security and peace of mind.
The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and the level of security it provides. For those who rely on their firearm for personal safety or professional duty, the Safariland ALS Level III is a worthwhile investment. The Safariland holster is a very strong value proposition.
I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who needs a secure and reliable holster for their Heckler & Koch USP 9 or .40. It is a proven performer that will provide years of dependable service. If you are serious about firearm safety and security, look no further than the Safariland ALS Level III.