Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models Review

First Impressions of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models is a holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals, offering a balance of retention and accessibility. As someone who has spent over a decade in the tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the perfect blend of security and speed. My initial assessment of this Safariland offering focuses on whether it truly delivers on those critical promises, and if the $205.60 price tag is justified.

For years, I struggled with finding a duty holster that provided adequate weapon retention without sacrificing draw speed. Many Level II holsters felt insufficient for high-risk environments, while some Level III options were overly cumbersome. The promise of the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), combined with the added security of Level III retention and the comfortable Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), piqued my interest.

Upon receiving the holster, I immediately noticed its robust construction. The sturdy polymer felt capable of withstanding daily abuse, while the ALS mechanism clicked into place with reassuring authority. Compared to some other Level III holsters I’ve used, the Safariland felt noticeably less bulky and restrictive. It seemed to offer a good balance of security and ergonomics, unlike some competitors that sacrifice one for the other. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, eager to see if the holster would perform as well in real-world scenarios as it did in my hands.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models was at an outdoor shooting range, simulating a law enforcement training environment. I ran several drills focused on drawing, firing, and re-holstering under time pressure.

The holster performed admirably, even in the gusty wind and occasional drizzle. The ALS system provided a secure hold on the firearm, while the Ride UBL allowed for a comfortable and natural draw stroke. The release mechanism was intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. There were no issues with the holster’s function during my initial use, which was a pleasant surprise given the often-finicky nature of Level III retention systems.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use in various training scenarios, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. The polymer construction shows no signs of wear or cracking, even after repeated exposure to sunlight and moisture.

The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and consistently. Regular cleaning with a silicone-based lubricant ensures optimal performance. This holster outperforms some previous models I have used that exhibited retention failures or premature wear on locking mechanisms.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models is designed for specific firearm models, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The holster features Safariland’s ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering and releases with a simple thumb activation.

The Level III retention adds another layer of security with a rotating hood that further protects the firearm. The Ride UBL positions the holster slightly lower on the belt for increased comfort and a more natural draw. These specifications are critical for law enforcement and security personnel who require a high level of weapon security and accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models excels in both retention and draw speed. The ALS system provides a positive lock on the firearm, preventing accidental dislodgement.

The draw stroke is smooth and efficient, allowing for rapid deployment of the weapon when needed. While Level III holsters can sometimes feel cumbersome, the Safariland design strikes a good balance between security and usability. It meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s design is both functional and comfortable. The high-strength polymer construction is lightweight yet durable, providing a comfortable carry throughout a shift.

The Ride UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for a natural draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but after a few practice sessions, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The polymer material is resistant to scratches, impacts, and extreme temperatures.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. This holster is designed for longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, it is compatible with a range of Safariland mounting platforms and accessories. This allows users to customize the holster’s ride height, cant, and attachment method to suit their individual preferences.

Many users opt to add a leg strap for increased stability during dynamic movements. The holster is also compatible with various optic-ready firearm models, making it a versatile option for modern law enforcement and security professionals.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private military contractors who require a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It’s also ideal for individuals who prioritize safety and security in potentially dangerous environments.

Those who should skip this product are casual shooters or individuals who primarily engage in open carry, as the Level III retention may be overkill for their needs. A must-have accessory would be a leg strap for added stability during dynamic movements.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models is a well-designed and highly functional duty holster that delivers on its promises of security and speed. The $205.60 price is justified given the holster’s robust construction, reliable performance, and customizable features.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who requires a Level III retention system and values a smooth, efficient draw stroke. It’s a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on their gear in critical situations. If you’re looking for a duty holster that provides a perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL, Right Hand, – 1 out of 4 models is an excellent choice.