Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating for enhanced weapon security. Its sleek Hi-Gloss Black finish and mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) make it a professional and practical choice for those who demand both security and accessibility.
I was searching for a duty holster that offered a high level of retention without sacrificing speed and ease of draw. My previous holster, while secure, felt bulky and slowed down my response time in training scenarios. I needed something that would hold up to the rigors of daily use, provide quick access to my firearm, and offer multiple layers of security against unauthorized removal.
The Safariland ALS Level III holster arrived well-packaged and immediately impressed me with its robust construction and polished finish. The Hi-Gloss Black was flawlessly applied, and the overall feel was solid and durable. The ALS system engaged smoothly, and the hood guard felt secure without hindering a natural draw stroke.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Blade-Tech WRS Level II, the Safariland stood out due to its intuitive ALS system and comfortable mid-ride UBL. While the Blackhawk felt bulky and the Blade-Tech lacked the same level of active retention, the Safariland offered a perfect balance of security, comfort, and speed. I ultimately chose the Safariland because of its reputation for reliability, its proven track record in law enforcement, and its streamlined design.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to try it out on the range and see if it lived up to the hype. The build quality and retention mechanism gave me confidence that this holster would be a significant upgrade over my previous setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III holster at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was hot and humid, creating sweaty conditions that can affect grip and draw speed. I ran drills that simulated various scenarios, including drawing under stress, engaging targets from different positions, and weapon retention techniques.
The holster performed admirably in all conditions. Even with sweaty hands, the ALS system released smoothly and consistently, allowing for a clean and efficient draw. The mid-ride UBL kept the firearm close to my body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during movement. There were no unexpected issues or malfunctions during the initial testing.
The only adjustment I needed to make was getting used to the thumb release motion required to deactivate the ALS. After a few repetitions, it became second nature, and my draw speed improved noticeably. The straight-up draw motion was intuitive and allowed for a natural and controlled presentation of the firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in training, on duty, and during personal defense courses, the Safariland ALS Level III holster has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly. The Hi-Gloss Black finish has held up well to scratches and scuffs, maintaining its professional appearance.
Maintaining the holster is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This is a huge improvement over some of the leather holsters I’ve used in the past that require frequent conditioning and care.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland ALS Level III is a clear winner. It offers a superior level of retention, a more comfortable carry, and a faster, more consistent draw. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is a Level III retention holster, offering a high degree of security against unauthorized weapon removal. It’s specifically designed for the Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel. The holster is designed for right-handed users.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate. The Hood Guard provides an additional layer of security, protecting the release mechanism from accidental activation or tampering. The mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster at an optimal height for comfortable carry and a smooth draw. It is available in a Hi-Gloss Black finish for a professional appearance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and ease of use. The Level III retention provides peace of mind knowing the weapon is secure. The ALS and Hood Guard enhance security while still allowing for a rapid draw. The mid-ride UBL improves comfort and accessibility, making it ideal for all-day wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable platform for carrying a duty weapon. Its primary strength is its multi-layered retention system, which offers excellent protection against unauthorized weapon removal. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for a fast and consistent draw.
One potential weakness is that the Level III retention system may require some practice to master, especially for users accustomed to simpler holsters. However, with proper training, the draw stroke becomes second nature. The holster has definitely exceeded my expectations, providing a level of security and peace of mind that I haven’t experienced with other holsters.
The holster is accurate in what it sets out to do. It performs well, is reliable, and is comfortable to use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing concealment. The materials used are high-quality and durable, ensuring the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use. The weight is well-balanced, and the holster feels comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The ALS system is user-friendly, although it may require some initial training to master. The straight-up draw motion is natural and intuitive, allowing for a smooth and efficient presentation of the weapon.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last, constructed from rugged materials that can withstand the rigors of law enforcement and security work. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, making it easy to inspect and maintain the internal components.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III holster comes standard with a Hood Guard, providing an additional layer of security for the ALS release mechanism. An optional Sentry can be installed to provide Level IV retention, further enhancing security.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and weapon lights. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system, combined with the hood guard, provides a high level of security against unauthorized weapon removal, offering peace of mind in high-risk situations.
- Fast and Consistent Draw: Once mastered, the ALS system allows for a rapid and consistent draw stroke, enabling quick target acquisition and engagement.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, the holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh environments, ensuring years of reliable service.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for comfortable carry, minimizing printing and maximizing freedom of movement.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a sleek and professional look, suitable for law enforcement and security personnel.
Cons
- The Level III retention system may require some practice to master, especially for users new to active retention holsters.
- The Hi-Gloss Black finish may be prone to scratches and scuffs, requiring occasional polishing to maintain its appearance.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91 is perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and security. It is also ideal for individuals who carry a Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel and demand a comfortable and reliable holster.
This product is not recommended for: Individuals who prefer simple, passive retention holsters, or those who are unwilling to invest the time and effort to master the ALS system. Also, those who carry other firearms besides the Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel, as this holster is specifically molded for that firearm.
Must-have accessories or modifications: A Safariland leg shroud for tactical operations, or an optional Sentry for Level IV retention. Practicing your draw stroke is also a must.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91
In summary, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-181-91 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort. Its multi-layered retention system provides peace of mind, while its ergonomic design ensures a smooth and efficient draw.
The price is justified given the holster’s high-quality construction, proven track record, and enhanced security features. It offers excellent value for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who prioritizes weapon retention.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone looking for a top-tier duty holster. Its combination of security, comfort, and performance makes it an invaluable tool for those who carry a firearm as part of their profession or for personal defense. Invest in your safety and security – choose the Safariland ALS Level III.