Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention system for enhanced security. The Hi-Gloss Black finish offers a professional appearance, making it ideal for uniformed personnel.

For years, I’ve been searching for a duty holster that offered both a secure hold and rapid access to my sidearm. Most holsters prioritize one over the other, but the Safariland system promised a balance I couldn’t ignore. I was particularly drawn to the ALS system, having heard it praised for its intuitive operation under pressure.

My first impression upon unboxing the holster was its solid construction and polished finish. The Hi-Gloss Black was undeniably striking, and the materials felt durable and well-made. The holster had a noticeable weight to it, suggesting a robust design built to withstand the rigors of daily duty.

Compared to some of the older Level II holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland ALS Level III offered a significant upgrade in retention without sacrificing draw speed. I also considered a similar holster from Blackhawk, but the Safariland’s reputation for reliability and the proven ALS system ultimately swayed my decision. I was definitely excited to try it out.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to familiarize myself with the ALS mechanism and ensure a consistent, repeatable draw stroke. The holster was mounted on my duty belt using the included Ride UBL, which positioned the firearm at a comfortable mid-ride height.

The weather during my initial range session was slightly humid, which could have made the grip slippery; however, the holster’s design ensured a solid purchase on my firearm every time. The ALS system required a deliberate thumb release, which felt secure but also intuitive. After a few practice draws, I was able to release the weapon smoothly and efficiently.

After some time adjusting the position, the Safariland ALS Level III worked fine; I did not have any significant issues after the initial range time. However, the thumb release felt a bit stiff at first and took some getting used to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. I have used it during various training exercises, including force-on-force scenarios and tactical simulations. It has also become my everyday carry holster on duty.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to various weather conditions and physical stressors. The Hi-Gloss Black finish has held up well, with only minor scuffs visible. I clean the holster regularly with a damp cloth and lubricate the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous duty holster, the Safariland ALS Level III offers a significant improvement in both security and draw speed. The Level III retention system provides peace of mind in potentially volatile situations, while the ALS allows for a rapid and efficient draw when needed. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92

Specifications

• Level III Retention: This holster provides three levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This is achieved through the ALS, the Hood Guard, and optional Sentry.
• Level IV Retention with optional Sentry installed: Adding the optional Sentry increases the retention level to IV, providing even greater security. This extra measure can be crucial in high-risk environments.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: The Safariland ALS system automatically secures the weapon once it is holstered. This feature provides an audible “click” to confirm that the firearm is locked in place.
• Hood Guard: A standard feature on the 6360 holsters, the hood guard protects the thumb release from accidental activation. This prevents unintended unlocking of the firearm.
• Slim, compact design: The Safariland ALS Level III has a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealment.
• Simple straight up draw: The draw is simple and intuitive once all releases are deactivated. This allows for a fast and efficient presentation of the firearm.
• Includes Hood Guard, optional Sentry available: The included Hood Guard adds an extra layer of security, while the optional Sentry can be purchased for Level IV retention. This flexibility allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs.
• Mid Ride belt loop: The mid-ride belt loop (Ride UBL) positions the holster at a comfortable height for most users. This enhances both comfort and accessibility.
• Available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss finish or STX TACTICAL: The holster is available in multiple finishes to suit different preferences and uniform requirements. The Hi-Gloss Black finish is a popular choice for law enforcement.
• Gun Fit: Specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Safety. The proper fit ensures secure retention and smooth draw.
• Hand: Left-handed configuration. Important for left-handed shooters, ensuring proper access and draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a secure hold on the weapon without hindering the draw stroke. The Level III retention system offers an added layer of security, making it suitable for high-risk environments.

The primary strength of this holster is its balance between security and accessibility. While the Level III retention system provides a high level of security, the ALS allows for a smooth and efficient draw once the releases are deactivated. However, the thumb release can be stiff initially and requires some practice to master.

The Safariland ALS Level III definitely meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a secure and reliable platform for my firearm, while also allowing for a rapid and efficient draw when needed.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III features a well-designed and ergonomic design. The holster is made from durable materials and has a comfortable weight. The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a professional appearance.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the ALS system requires some initial practice. The mid-ride belt loop (Ride UBL) positions the firearm at a comfortable height for most users.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last. The holster is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty. The Hi-Gloss Black finish is durable and resistant to scratches and scuffs.

The holster is easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep it in good working order. Replacement parts are also readily available from Safariland.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III comes with a hood guard and the Ride UBL belt loop. The optional Sentry can be purchased to increase the retention level to IV. The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as tactical lights and magazine carriers.

The holster is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Safety, so compatibility with other firearms may be limited. However, the ALS system can be adjusted to accommodate different firearm models.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw. It’s especially suitable for those who prioritize a professional appearance and appreciate the security of a Level III retention system. This holster is also ideal for left-handed shooters who need a duty holster specifically designed for their dominant hand.

Individuals who prefer a more streamlined holster with minimal retention features, or those who frequently switch between different firearms, might want to skip this product. The specific gun fit limits its versatility, and the Level III retention system might be overkill for some users.

A must-have accessory for this holster is the optional Sentry, which increases the retention level to IV. A quality gun belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster is also essential for comfortable and secure carry. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is recommended to maintain smooth operation.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92

Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 is an excellent duty holster that provides a high level of security and a smooth, efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the Level III retention system offers added peace of mind in potentially volatile situations. The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a professional appearance, making it ideal for uniformed personnel.

At $212.60, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, the level of security, and the overall performance of the holster. While the thumb release can be stiff initially, and the specific gun fit limits its versatility, these are minor drawbacks compared to the overall benefits.

I would definitely recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 to anyone looking for a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster. If you prioritize weapon retention and a smooth draw, this holster is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and security – purchase the Safariland ALS Level III today!