Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals demanding a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III retention. Its mid-ride Universal Belt Loop (UBL) positions the firearm for a smooth, efficient draw.

After a suspect ran off with my firearm during a foot pursuit several years ago (thankfully, I recovered it quickly), I knew I needed to upgrade my retention system. My search led me to the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 because it provided the Level III retention I required, alongside a comfortable carry position. Out of the box, the holster impressed me with its robust construction, the smooth action of the ALS, and the reassuring click as my weapon locked into place.

I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the Safariland stood out for its intuitive ALS design and the mid-ride UBL, which offered a more natural draw stroke for me. I was particularly drawn to the Safariland’s reputation for durability and reliability in demanding environments. My initial excitement was high, knowing I’d invested in a holster that could potentially save my life.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 during several range sessions and a week-long tactical training course. The holster performed admirably in various weather conditions, including rain and dusty environments. The draw stroke felt natural and fluid, and the ALS disengaged smoothly with minimal practice.

The weapon secured perfectly with audible and tactile confirmation upon re-holstering. I didn’t experience any malfunctions or unexpected releases during dynamic drills. Initially, the position of the release levers felt slightly awkward, but after a few hours of focused practice, muscle memory took over, and the draw became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 continues to perform flawlessly. The SafariLaminate construction shows no signs of wear or cracking, even after being exposed to harsh conditions. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth keeps the holster in optimal working order.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland offers a superior balance of retention, draw speed, and comfort. The mid-ride UBL distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, reducing fatigue during extended periods of wear. This holster definitely outperforms others in terms of reliability and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62

Specifications

  • Gun Fit: Specifically designed for the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1, BBL 3.50″. This precise fit ensures optimal retention and draw performance.
  • Hand: Left-handed configuration. This accommodates left-handed shooters seeking a secure and comfortable draw.
  • Retention Level: Level III, incorporating both the ALS and SLS systems. This provides a high degree of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
  • Material: Durable SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction. This offers excellent protection for the firearm and resists wear and tear.
  • Belt Loop: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for mid-ride carry. This positions the firearm for a comfortable and efficient draw.
  • Finish: Plain Black. A professional and discreet appearance suitable for duty use.

These specifications are vital for a duty holster because they directly impact its security, reliability, and user-friendliness. The precise gun fit, combined with Level III retention, minimizes the risk of accidental or intentional disarming. The SafariLaminate construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use, while the mid-ride UBL enhances comfort and promotes a smooth draw stroke.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 excels in its primary function: securely holding and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system automatically locks the weapon in place upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The SLS rotating hood adds an additional layer of security, further preventing unauthorized access.

The main strength lies in the intuitive operation of the ALS and SLS systems, which allow for a fast and efficient draw with minimal training. A minor area for improvement might be refining the thumb release lever for even smoother operation, especially under stress. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s design prioritizes both security and user comfort. The SafariLaminate construction is robust yet relatively lightweight. The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 is exceptionally user-friendly after a short familiarization period. The ALS and SLS releases are easily accessible and require minimal effort to disengage.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust SafariLaminate construction suggests that this holster will provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s needed to keep the holster in top condition. The Safariland is designed for longevity and durability, even in demanding environments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 comes standard with the Ride UBL. It also offers options for adding an optional Sentry, which further enhances retention.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers. Due to the Safariland brand’s popularity and widespread adoption by law enforcement, it seamlessly integrates with many other brands’ accessory systems.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62

Pros

  • Exceptional Level III Retention: Offers a high level of security with both ALS and SLS systems.
  • Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material withstands harsh conditions and resists wear and tear.
  • Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride UBL positions the firearm for a comfortable and natural draw.
  • Intuitive Operation: The ALS and SLS releases are easy to learn and operate, allowing for a fast and efficient draw.
  • Professional Appearance: Plain black finish provides a discreet and professional look.

Cons

  • Requires practice: The ALS/SLS system needs dedicated practice to master the draw stroke.
  • Specific Firearm Fit: Only compatible with the specified Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with listed accessories.


Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security contractors who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. It is also well-suited for individuals who prioritize firearm security and want a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use.

This holster may not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who primarily carry concealed. Individuals who prefer minimalist holsters or those who require compatibility with a wider range of firearms should consider other options. A must-have modification would be proper training with the holster’s draw stroke to maximize its effectiveness in a real-world scenario.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and comfort. Its Level III retention system provides peace of mind, while its intuitive design allows for a fast and efficient draw. The holster’s robust construction ensures years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on their firearms.

At $209.99, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, features, and performance. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-1972-62 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster. Invest in your safety and security – you won’t regret it.

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