Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel. It’s built by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry. Its key feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing Level III retention for secure weapon carry, combined with a mid-ride Universal Belt Loop (UBL) for comfortable wear.

I needed a holster that offered a high level of security without sacrificing speed and accessibility, particularly when dealing with potentially combative suspects. My previous holster lacked the positive retention I desired, making weapon security a constant concern. The Safariland ALS Level III promised both, so I had to try it.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the high-gloss black finish. It’s undeniably professional and commands a certain presence. The holster felt robust and well-made, indicative of Safariland’s commitment to quality.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 before settling on the Safariland. The Serpa’s release mechanism felt less intuitive, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the positive, multi-level retention of the Safariland ALS. I prioritized retention in this application.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The high-gloss finish is striking, but I questioned its durability in the field. I was eager to test the ALS system under stress to see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland ALS Level III was at the shooting range, running drills focused on drawing and re-holstering under pressure. I simulated scenarios involving close-quarters engagements and the need to quickly secure my weapon. The UBL positioned the holster perfectly for a smooth, natural draw.

The holster performed exceptionally well in dry conditions. The ALS system engaged automatically upon holstering, providing immediate retention. Releasing the weapon became second nature after a few practice draws.

There were no major issues during my first range session. The draw stroke felt consistent, and the ALS release was intuitive. I initially fumbled the release a couple of times, but quickly adapted to the motion.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. The high-gloss finish shows minor scratches from daily wear but remains largely intact. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly.

The holster has endured exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures without any degradation in performance. The nylon construction is easy to clean and has maintained its shape and rigidity. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep it looking professional.

Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland ALS Level III offers a significant improvement in both security and accessibility. The positive retention provides peace of mind, while the UBL ensures a comfortable and ergonomic draw. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91

Specifications

• Level III Retention: The holster utilizes the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) in conjunction with a hood guard, creating a three-point retention system. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
• Level IV Retention (Optional): An optional Sentry device can be installed to increase the retention to Level IV. This provides an additional layer of security in high-risk environments.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: The ALS automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, securing it in place. The release is de-activated by the thumb during a natural drawing motion.
• Hood Guard: The standard hood guard helps prevent unauthorized access to the weapon. It also shields the release mechanism from accidental activation.
• Slim, Compact Design: The holster is designed to ride close to the body, minimizing bulk and maximizing concealability under a jacket. This slim profile also enhances maneuverability in tight spaces.
• Simple Straight-Up Draw: Once all retention devices are deactivated, the weapon can be drawn straight up without any complicated maneuvers. This allows for a fast and efficient draw stroke.
• Mid Ride Belt Loop (UBL): The Universal Belt Loop (UBL) positions the holster at a mid-ride height, offering a comfortable and ergonomic draw. It also allows the holster to be mounted on various belt widths.
• Hi-Gloss Black Finish: The holster features a professional hi-gloss black finish. This provides a sleek and durable appearance.
• Gun Fit: Heckler & Koch USP 9/40: Specifically designed to fit the Heckler & Koch USP 9 and 40 with a rubber spurred hammer (holster manufacture date of 2308 and after), and a 4.25″ barrel. It’s crucial to ensure the holster is compatible with your specific firearm.
• Hand: Right: Designed for right-handed shooters.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and ease of use. The Level III retention provides a high level of protection against unauthorized weapon removal. The mid-ride UBL ensures a comfortable and ergonomic draw. The specific gun fit guarantees a secure and reliable fit for your firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to your weapon. The ALS system is highly effective, providing positive retention without hindering the draw stroke. The holster’s design promotes a smooth and consistent draw every time.

The main strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the ALS system allows for a rapid draw when needed. A potential weakness could be the learning curve for the ALS release, although practice quickly mitigates this.

The holster meets and even exceeds my expectations. It provides the security and reliability I need in a duty holster. The design is well-thought-out and functional, making it a valuable asset in any tactical environment.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III is constructed from durable nylon, providing a rigid and robust platform for your weapon. The holster’s weight is reasonable, and the mid-ride UBL distributes the weight comfortably on the hip. The holster doesn’t dig or pinch when seated, and the cant is adjustable.

The ALS release is intuitively positioned for the thumb, and the draw stroke feels natural and efficient. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the release, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The nylon construction of the Safariland ALS Level III is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. It will last for years with proper care.

The holster is easy to clean and maintain. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant is recommended to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with the hood guard and mid-ride UBL. The optional Sentry device provides an upgrade to Level IV retention. The UBL allows for easy attachment to various belt widths and styles.

The holster is also compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including leg shrouds and quick-release systems. Many users also customize their holsters with aftermarket sights and lights, although compatibility depends on the specific firearm.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon security and accessibility. Those working in high-risk environments, or who prioritize weapon retention, will benefit most from the Safariland ALS Level III. It’s ideal for uniformed duty.

Those who prioritize concealability over security might find the holster too bulky. Those who prefer simpler retention systems might also want to consider alternative options.

A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is compatible with the UBL. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to ensure smooth operation. Some users may also want to consider adding a thigh rig for additional carry options.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and accessibility. The ALS system provides exceptional weapon retention without hindering the draw stroke. The durable construction and comfortable UBL make it a valuable asset for anyone who carries a firearm for duty purposes.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and the level of security it provides. It’s an investment in your safety and peace of mind.

I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who requires a professional-grade duty holster. The balance of security and speed is unmatched, making it a valuable asset in any tactical environment. If you’re serious about weapon retention and accessibility, this is the holster for you.