Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82 is a serious piece of duty gear designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand the utmost in weapon retention and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating and a mid-ride Universal Belt Loop (UBL) for comfortable, secure carry. The basket weave finish adds a touch of professional aesthetics to the already robust design.
Years on the force taught me that a holster isn’t just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of life-saving equipment. I needed a holster that offered rock-solid retention without sacrificing speed and ease of draw, especially as I transitioned to a role requiring higher levels of security. The search led me to the Safariland ALS Level III, known for its reputation of being a dependable choice.
The holster arrived in a no-frills package, but the moment I held it, I could feel the quality. The basket weave finish was clean and consistent, the polymer felt sturdy and well-molded, and the ALS mechanism clicked with reassuring authority. It felt like a tool ready to perform.
I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but both fell short. The Serpa’s finger-activated release felt less intuitive and potentially risky under stress, while the Bianchi’s retention system seemed less robust than the Safariland’s ALS. The Safariland ALS Level III offered the best balance of security, speed, and intuitive operation.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try out the ALS system and see if it lived up to the hype. However, I also knew that Level III retention holsters can sometimes be bulky and cumbersome, so I was prepared for a potential trade-off between security and comfort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the Safariland ALS Level III was at the range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to get a feel for the ALS system under pressure and see how quickly I could achieve a smooth, consistent draw. I also wanted to assess the holster’s comfort and stability during movement.
The Safariland ALS Level III performed admirably, even in the sweltering Texas heat. The ALS system proved to be incredibly intuitive; with practice, I was able to deactivate it smoothly and draw my S&W M&P 45C w/o Safety in a single, fluid motion. The mid-ride UBL kept the holster secure against my body, preventing excessive movement and aiding in a consistent draw.
Initially, I experienced a slight learning curve with the thumb release for the ALS, but after a few hours of practice, it became second nature. The only surprise was how effectively the ALS Automatic Locking System truly secured the weapon once holstered. It truly required deliberate action to draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and field training exercises, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the usual bumps and scrapes of tactical environments.
The holster’s durability is impressive; the polymer construction is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a light application of lubricant to the ALS mechanism. It has exceeded my expectations regarding long-term reliability and performance.
Previously, I used a Safariland SLS (Self Locking System) holster, which offered excellent retention but felt slower to draw from in high-stress scenarios. The ALS system of the Level III is a significant improvement in terms of speed and efficiency, while still providing a high level of security. This holster outperforms my previous experiences hands down.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82 is a purpose-built holster designed for demanding environments. It offers a range of features that contribute to its performance and reliability.
- Retention Level: Level III (Level IV with optional Sentry installed). This indicates the holster has multiple retention devices to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- Material: Durable Safariland proprietary nylon blend. Offers excellent impact and abrasion resistance.
- Finish: Basket Black. Provides a professional, textured appearance.
- Hand: Left. Designed for left-handed shooters.
- Gun Fit: Smith & Wesson S&W M&P 45C w/o Safety. Ensures a secure and precise fit for the specified firearm.
- Mount: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). Allows the holster to ride in a mid-position on the belt for enhanced comfort and accessibility.
- Locking System: ALS (Automatic Locking System). Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering.
- Hood Guard: Standard. Protects the release mechanism.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability in real-world scenarios. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk situations, while the ALS system ensures a fast, intuitive draw. The Ride UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, and the basket weave finish adds a professional touch.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, automatically locking the weapon into place upon holstering. The thumb-activated release is intuitive and easy to operate with practice.
The holster’s main strength is its balance of security and speed. The Level III retention provides a high degree of protection against unauthorized access, while the ALS system allows for a draw that is almost as fast as a Level I holster. The potential weakness is the learning curve, and without consistent practice the ALS release can be slow to engage during the draw.
It meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promises of security, speed, and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III boasts a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The basket weave finish provides a secure grip and enhances the holster’s professional appearance. The mid-ride UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for most users, allowing for a natural and comfortable draw stroke.
The build quality is exceptional. The holster feels solid and well-made, with no play or looseness in the components. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but with practice it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation and the quality of materials used, the Safariland ALS Level III is expected to last for many years with proper care. The polymer construction is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability, and the holster is easy to clean and maintain.
Maintenance primarily involves keeping the holster clean and free of debris and periodically lubricating the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant. Repair, if needed, would likely involve replacing the ALS mechanism or the UBL, both of which are relatively straightforward procedures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard to protect the release mechanism. An optional Sentry can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV, providing an additional layer of security.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers. Many users have found it compatible with other brands offering similar mounting options, allowing for a high degree of customization. One key customization to consider is the addition of the optional Sentry for Level IV retention.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82
Pros
- Exceptional Level III retention for maximum security in high-risk environments.
- Intuitive ALS (Automatic Locking System) allows for a fast and efficient draw with practice.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
- Comfortable mid-ride UBL provides a stable and accessible carry position.
- Professional basket weave finish projects a polished and authoritative image.
Cons
- Learning curve associated with the ALS release mechanism; requires consistent practice.
- Level III retention can feel slightly slower than lower retention level holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It is ideal for those working in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. It’s also good for those who prefer a mid-ride carry position.
This product is not ideal for casual shooters or concealed carry permit holders who prioritize comfort and concealability over maximum retention. Someone new to firearms or unwilling to invest time in training with the ALS system should choose a simpler holster.
A must-have modification is the optional Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV retention for even greater security. Training with the ALS system is critical.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-919-82 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and reliability. The ALS system is intuitive and effective, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
The price of $195.00 is justified by the quality of materials, the level of retention, and the overall performance of the holster. It’s an investment in personal safety and professional readiness.
I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who requires a high-quality, Level III retention holster. The Safariland ALS Level III provides peace of mind knowing your firearm is secure, while still allowing for a smooth and efficient draw when needed. It is a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on their gear. Train hard, stay safe, and equip yourself with the best!