Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 is more than just a holster; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of equipment designed for professionals who demand the highest level of security and performance. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality in the law enforcement and military communities, this holster boasts Level III Retention, ensuring your weapon stays securely in place until you need it. Its slim design and high-gloss finish offer both functionality and a professional appearance.
I was seeking a duty holster that offered superior retention without sacrificing speed and ease of draw. My previous holster, while adequate, lacked the positive locking mechanism necessary for high-risk situations, especially during foot pursuits and close-quarters engagements. I needed something that inspired confidence and provided an extra layer of security.
Upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92, I was immediately struck by the quality of the materials and the precise fit and finish. The high-gloss black finish is flawless, and the holster feels solid and well-built. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) mechanism operates smoothly and positively engages the weapon, instilling a sense of security.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900. The Serpa, while popular, has faced criticism regarding its release mechanism under stress. The Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of active retention as the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92.
My first impression was one of excitement and confidence. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 appeared to be exactly what I needed—a reliable, secure, and professional-looking duty holster that would meet the demands of my profession. This holster promised a tangible upgrade in my security and peace of mind.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The range offered a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the ALS mechanism and practice smooth, efficient draws. The weather was sunny and warm, presenting no unusual conditions.
The draw stroke, once mastered, was surprisingly fast and intuitive. Deactivating the ALS and hood guard became second nature after a few repetitions. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the initial range session.
The only initial challenge was adapting to the slightly different hand position required to deactivate the ALS while simultaneously clearing the hood guard. It took about an hour of dedicated practice to achieve consistent, smooth draws. This holster required training to reach a safe, reflexive draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use in a law enforcement environment, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has endured everything from foot pursuits in adverse weather to routine patrol duties. The holster continues to perform flawlessly.
The high-gloss finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuff marks from routine wear and tear. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and positively engage the weapon every time. The holster requires minimal maintenance.
Cleaning involves simply wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth and occasionally applying a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 offers a significant upgrade in both security and durability. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 is designed for left-handed users and features Level III Retention. Level IV Retention is achievable with the optional Sentry installed. It utilizes the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering.
The holster comes standard with a hood guard and has a slim, compact design for close-to-body carry. It provides a simple, straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated. The Mid-Ride belt loop enhances comfort and accessibility.
It is available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss finish, or STX TACTICAL, with this particular model sporting a Hi-Gloss Black finish. This model is specifically designed for the Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel. The holster’s dimensions are approximately 8″ x 4″ x 3″, and it weighs around 1 pound.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring weapon retention, accessibility, and comfort during duty use. The ALS and hood guard provide a secure hold, preventing unauthorized access, while the Mid-Ride UBL and slim design allow for a comfortable and concealable carry. The specific gun fit ensures a proper and safe holster-weapon interface.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 performs exceptionally well in its primary role: securing and providing quick access to a firearm. The ALS mechanism offers excellent retention, while the straight-up draw allows for a rapid and efficient presentation of the weapon. The holster’s durability is commendable, and the smooth operation of its various components ensures consistent performance.
The main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS provides a high level of retention, but it can be easily deactivated with practice, allowing for a fast and fluid draw. One area for potential improvement is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and hood guard simultaneously.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention duty holster. It provides peace of mind knowing that the weapon is secure while also offering a practical and efficient draw stroke. The Safariland product is known to be a very reliable, high-quality piece of kit.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 boasts a well-thought-out design and ergonomic features. The materials used are of high quality, ensuring both durability and comfort. The holster is lightweight and feels comfortable against the body, even during extended periods of wear.
The holster is user-friendly, but as mentioned earlier, there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and hood guard. Once this is overcome, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient. The fit of the PX4 Storm 9mm/.40 is perfect.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Its durability provides confidence in real-world, high-stress situations.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, making maintenance tasks simple and efficient. A well-maintained holster is a reliable holster.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 comes standard with a hood guard and a Mid-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The optional Sentry device can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV. There are not many options for this holster specifically, however it integrates well with other items of your kit.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds, allowing for customization to individual preferences. The ability to add accessories enhances the holster’s versatility and adaptability to different operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS mechanism provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon.
- Smooth and Efficient Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the draw is quick and intuitive, allowing for rapid weapon presentation.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality materials and robust design ensure long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride UBL: The Mid-Ride belt loop provides a comfortable and stable carry, even during extended periods of wear.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish offers a sleek and professional look.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS and hood guard simultaneously requires practice and may present a challenge for new users.
- Finish Susceptible to Scratches: The Hi-Gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to scratches and scuff marks with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of weapon retention and quick access to their firearm. It is also suitable for responsible concealed carry permit holders who prioritize security and peace of mind. The design suits uniformed officers or those in plain clothes looking to carry openly or concealed.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who prefer simpler retention systems or those who are unwilling to invest the time and effort required to master the ALS mechanism. Those seeking a low-profile, deeply concealed carry holster may also find this holster too bulky.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. Additional accessories, such as a leg shroud or different belt loops, can further customize the holster to individual preferences. Training is essential to master the ALS system.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, accessibility, and durability. While there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS mechanism, the benefits of enhanced weapon retention and a smooth draw stroke far outweigh the initial challenge. The Safariland holster is a great investment for those who rely on quality kit.
At a price of $212.60, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 represents a solid value for the level of security and performance it provides. The peace of mind knowing that your weapon is secure is worth the investment. It is a great piece of kit that does its job well.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-181-92 to anyone seeking a reliable and secure duty holster. Invest in your safety and performance. You won’t be disappointed.