Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82 is more than just a holster; it’s a meticulously crafted piece of equipment designed for professionals who demand the utmost security and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a robust and reliable solution for duty carry. The basket weave finish provides a professional look, while the Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures comfortable and stable wear.

I’ve always prioritized secure weapon retention in my duty gear, especially after an incident where a suspect attempted to disarm me. I needed a holster that provided multiple layers of security without sacrificing a smooth, rapid draw. The Safariland ALS Level III seemed like the perfect answer.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the holster’s sturdy construction and clean basket weave finish. It felt substantial without being overly bulky, a crucial factor for all-day comfort. The materials felt high-quality, and the ALS mechanism operated smoothly right out of the box.

Compared to the older Safariland SLS (Self Locking System) holsters I’ve used, the ALS offered a more intuitive and faster draw once mastered. I also considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 holster, but I’ve always been more confident in Safariland’s retention systems. My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation; I was eager to put this holster through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland ALS Level III was at the police firing range during a training exercise. I ran several drills, focusing on drawing and re-holstering my Beretta PX4 Storm under various scenarios. The holster performed admirably, securely retaining the weapon during rapid movement and providing a consistent draw stroke.

I experienced no issues in varying weather conditions, from the sweltering heat of a summer afternoon to a light drizzle during an evening session. The ALS system never faltered, even with slightly damp hands. Getting used to the thumb release took a little practice, but soon became second nature.

Initially, I accidentally fumbled the draw a couple of times, forgetting to fully depress the ALS lever. However, a few dry-fire repetitions quickly corrected this. The holster proved its worth immediately.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, the Safariland ALS Level III has become an indispensable part of my duty rig. It continues to perform reliably, with no degradation in retention or draw speed. The basket weave finish shows minimal wear, maintaining its professional appearance.

Durability has been exceptional; the holster has withstood the rigors of daily duty, including scuffs and bumps without any cracking or deformation. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant. This ensures smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holster, a Bianchi Accumold Elite, the Safariland ALS Level III offers significantly improved retention and draw speed. I now feel much more confident in my ability to retain my weapon in a confrontation. It’s a substantial upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82 boasts several key specifications. It offers Level III Retention, providing a high degree of security. With the optional Sentry installed, it can even achieve Level IV Retention.

• The ALS (Automatic Locking System) automatically secures the weapon once holstered. This is a crucial feature for preventing unauthorized removal.
• It includes a Hood Guard as standard. This offers an additional layer of protection against attempted disarms.
• The holster is designed for a Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel. Ensure compatibility with your specific firearm model.
• It is configured for a left-hand draw. This is a crucial consideration for proper fit and function.
• The Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a mid-ride carry position. This enhances comfort and allows for easier access to the weapon.
• The finish is Basket Black. This provides a professional and durable appearance.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and draw speed. The ALS system, combined with the Hood Guard, provides multiple layers of retention, while the Ride UBL ensures a comfortable carry position. The basket weave finish adds durability and a professional look.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82 excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to the firearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, ensuring a secure hold. The straight-up draw, once the releases are deactivated, is smooth and efficient.

• The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, rapid draw, and comfortable carry. These qualities are essential for law enforcement and military personnel.
• One potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS release. However, this is easily overcome with practice.

The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. Its combination of security, accessibility, and comfort is unmatched.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III is thoughtfully designed with ergonomics in mind. The slim and compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing comfort. The Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height.

The build quality is exceptional, using high-quality materials that feel robust and durable. The weight is well-distributed, preventing discomfort during extended wear. The ALS release is intuitively placed for easy access, although it requires practice to master.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the basket weave finish helps to conceal scuffs and scratches. With proper care, this holster should last for many years.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The ALS mechanism should be lubricated with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation. This is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III includes a standard Hood Guard for added security. The optional Sentry enhances retention to Level IV.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. It also works with various weapon lights and optics. This allows for customization to meet individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a highly secure and reliable holster for their Beretta PX4 Storm.

Who should skip this product? Those who own a different firearm model, or those who prefer a simpler, lower-retention holster.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A weapon light compatible with the PX4 Storm, and the optional Sentry for Level IV retention.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-181-82 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, accessibility, and durability. The price is justified by its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable carry.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable holster for their Beretta PX4 Storm. It’s an investment in your safety and readiness. Don’t compromise on your gear; choose the Safariland ALS Level III.