Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61
For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of tactical gear, constantly seeking equipment that blends security, functionality, and reliability. My search often leads me to Safariland, a name synonymous with duty-grade holsters. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 is no exception, promising a robust retention system and comfortable carry for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.
My old holster wasn’t cutting it anymore; retention felt weak, and the draw was anything but smooth. I needed something that offered a higher level of security without sacrificing speed and efficiency, and the Safariland ALS system seemed like the perfect solution. Upon unboxing, the holster exudes quality. The plain black finish is understated yet professional, and the molded construction feels incredibly durable.
I considered options from Blackhawk and Galco, both reputable names, but Safariland’s ALS system consistently received high praise for its balance of security and draw speed. The initial feel is very promising, though the real test will be putting it through its paces on the range and in training scenarios. I’m excited to see if it lives up to the hype, providing the secure and reliable carry I’ve been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 was at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was fairly mild, but a light rain threatened, providing a good initial test of its grip and retention in less-than-ideal conditions. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) engaged smoothly upon holstering, and I immediately appreciated the audible “click” confirming the weapon was secure.
Drawing from the holster required a deliberate thumb release, which felt natural and intuitive after a few practice runs. Even with slightly wet hands, the grip remained secure, and the draw was surprisingly fast. There were no immediate issues; the holster felt comfortable and secure, and the draw stroke was consistently smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 continues to impress. It has been exposed to rain, mud, and dust, and it has performed flawlessly in each condition. The plain black finish shows some minor scuff marks, but the holster itself remains structurally sound, showing no signs of cracking or deformation.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous holsters, this Safariland model offers a superior level of security and a noticeably faster draw stroke, significantly improving my confidence and efficiency. 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 – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 is a Level III Retention holster designed for right-handed users. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention, along with a hood guard for added security. It’s finished in plain black and fitted for the Springfield Armory XDM 9mm & .40 with a 4.5″ barrel.
- Level III Retention: This indicates the holster employs three distinct retention methods to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This added security is crucial for duty carry and open carry situations where weapon security is paramount.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This provides a fast and intuitive draw while maintaining a high level of security.
- Hood Guard: The hood guard protects the thumb release from accidental activation, adding another layer of security. This helps prevent unintentional unlocking of the holster.
- Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop): This allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position, offering a comfortable balance between concealment and accessibility. The mid-ride height improves draw speed and reduces interference with body armor or other gear.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and ease of use. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 delivers on its promises, providing a secure and reliable carry system for law enforcement and serious firearms enthusiasts.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides reliable retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw when needed. It excels in high-stress situations where weapon security and rapid deployment are crucial.
The main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Safariland ALS allows for a smooth, straight-up draw once the releases are deactivated. One minor weakness is that some users might find the Level III retention system requires some practice to master for consistently smooth and fast draws. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 features a slim, compact design. This allows the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The plain black finish provides a professional, low-profile appearance.
The build quality is excellent, utilizing durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster is designed to be user-friendly, although some initial practice is required to become proficient with the ALS release mechanism. The holster is lightweight but sturdy and comfortably houses a Springfield Armory XDM 9mm & .40 with a 4.5″ barrel.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials designed to withstand daily wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving cleaning and lubricating the ALS mechanism.
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent dirt and debris from interfering with the holster’s functionality. The durable construction and simple maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. The quality of the build suggests the holster is meant to last many years of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 comes standard with a hood guard for added security. Safariland also offers an optional Sentry device for Level IV retention. The Ride UBL allows for belt size adjustments.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. The Safariland ecosystem of accessories allows for a great degree of customization. This ensures it can be tailored to individual preferences and operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides superior weapon security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized removal.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: The ALS system allows for a rapid and efficient draw once the release is mastered.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Carry: The Ride UBL positions the holster for a comfortable balance between concealment and accessibility.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish offers a low-profile and professional look.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The Level III retention system requires some practice to master for consistently smooth draws.
- Potential Bulk: The added retention features can make the holster slightly bulkier than simpler models.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon security. It’s also well-suited for open carry situations where retention is paramount. This holster is also a great fit for tactical shooters who want a secure holster.
Those prioritizing maximum concealment or who prefer simpler, less bulky holsters might want to consider other options. The optional Safariland Sentry is a great must-have accessory for an additional layer of security. It is also a good idea to invest in training to get accustomed to the ALS system.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and performance. While the $195.00 price tag may seem steep, the investment is justified by the holster’s exceptional build quality, robust retention system, and comfortable carry. This holster delivers confidence and is a great value.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and reliable carry system for their Springfield Armory XDM 9mm & .40 with a 4.5″ barrel. If you value weapon security and a fast, efficient draw, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-146-61 is an excellent choice. Invest in your peace of mind; upgrade your carry today!