Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132 isn’t just another holster; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of kit designed for professionals who demand both security and rapid accessibility. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical equipment, this holster offers Level III retention with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) in a slim, body-hugging design. It’s specifically designed for left-handed users and provides a secure carry with a simple, straight-up draw once the releases are deactivated.

My journey to this holster started with a growing need for a more secure and reliable carry system during high-risk training scenarios. I was seeking a holster that not only retained the weapon under duress but also allowed for a swift and natural draw in critical situations. The Safariland name and reputation for quality construction and effective retention made this holster a natural contender.

Unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III, I was immediately struck by the robust feel and clean lines of the STX Tactical Black finish. The material felt durable and ready for harsh environments, and the design appeared streamlined and well-thought-out. The weight felt substantial, assuring me of its ruggedness without being overly bulky or cumbersome.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Cop 3 Slot holster before settling on the Safariland ALS. I chose the Safariland due to its proven track record within law enforcement, the positive user reviews regarding its ALS system, and the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) mounting system, which promised greater stability and comfort. The others felt less secure or offered a less intuitive draw stroke.

Initial impressions were positive and I was genuinely excited to put the Safariland ALS Level III to the test. It seemed to be the perfect blend of security, accessibility, and durability that I had been searching for.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first live-fire drill with the Safariland ALS Level III took place on a demanding urban terrain training course, simulating high-stress scenarios. I needed to move quickly, engage targets accurately, and retain my weapon throughout simulated physical altercations. The holster immediately proved its worth.

The ALS system worked flawlessly, providing a secure hold during sprints and crawls, while the straight-up draw became intuitive after only a few practice repetitions. Even in simulated grappling situations, the weapon remained secure, offering peace of mind.

I experienced no malfunctions or issues during the initial testing. The draw stroke remained consistent even with sweaty hands or while wearing tactical gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be a consistently reliable piece of gear. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the STX Tactical Black finish, even after enduring multiple training sessions and exposure to rough conditions. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and securely.

Cleaning is a straightforward process, typically involving a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster requires minimal maintenance, a huge benefit for professionals working in the field.

Having previously used a thumb-break holster with a less secure retention system, the Safariland ALS Level III far surpasses expectations in terms of both security and draw speed. The secure retention offered by the ALS system provides more confidence in dynamic situations, while the ease of draw facilitates faster target acquisition.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132

Specifications

• The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132 is a Level III retention holster, offering enhanced security compared to Level I or II options. The Level III retention involves multiple independent security features to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• It features Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) that secures the weapon upon holstering. The ALS automatically engages when the weapon is fully seated, requiring only a simple thumb release to draw.
• The holster is constructed from a durable STX Tactical material, which provides a rugged, non-reflective finish and resists scratches and abrasions. This ensures long-term durability and professional appearance.
• Designed specifically for the Walther P99 2008 with a 4.00″ barrel, this ensures a snug and secure fit. The precise molding caters specifically to this model, maximizing retention and minimizing movement.
• The holster is configured for left-handed users, with all release mechanisms positioned for easy manipulation with the left thumb. This ergonomic design ensures a smooth and natural draw stroke for left-handed operators.
• It includes a Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop), which allows the holster to ride in a mid-ride position on the belt, providing a comfortable and accessible carry. The mid-ride position offers a balance between concealment and ease of draw, making it ideal for duty or tactical use.
• An optional Sentry can be installed for Level IV Retention, adding an additional layer of security. This makes the holster adaptable to various operational needs and threat levels.

These specifications combine to create a holster that is both highly secure and readily accessible. The ALS system and durable construction ensure the weapon stays securely in place, while the UBL and left-handed configuration provide a comfortable and efficient carry experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive once the release is mastered, allowing for rapid target acquisition.

The primary strength lies in the balance between security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides a high level of security, while the ALS system allows for a draw that is almost as fast as a Level I holster. A weakness could be that the ALS requires some training to become proficient, but once mastered it becomes second nature.

The Safariland ALS Level III exceeds expectations in terms of retention and security, meeting the demands of high-risk environments. It instills confidence in the user, knowing the weapon is secure yet readily available.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional and non-reflective appearance. The holster’s weight feels substantial, reflecting its robust construction, without being overly burdensome.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the ALS release mechanism. The straight-up draw is natural and efficient, minimizing any unnecessary movements.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from high-quality materials and featuring a robust design, the Safariland ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The STX Tactical finish resists scratches and abrasions, ensuring the holster maintains a professional appearance over time.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. This ensures the holster continues to function smoothly and reliably for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with a Hood Guard, providing additional protection for the weapon’s hammer or slide. An optional Sentry can be installed to upgrade the holster to Level IV Retention, offering an even higher level of security.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and security. This holster is ideal for those who carry a Walther P99 2008 with a 4.00″ barrel in high-risk environments.

Individuals who prefer simpler, less secure holster designs, or those who frequently switch between different firearms, might want to consider other options. Those who don’t want to invest the time in training to properly utilize the ALS system should also avoid this product.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV Retention for even greater security. Additionally, consider purchasing a quality belt designed to support the weight of the holster and firearm comfortably.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6360-384-132 is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional security, rapid accessibility, and rugged durability. The price of $157.99 is justified considering the level of security and quality construction it offers.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who demands the best in weapon retention and reliability. It’s an investment in peace of mind and operational effectiveness.

If you’re a left-handed professional carrying a Walther P99 2008 with a 4.00″ barrel and need a holster that won’t let you down, the Safariland ALS Level III is the one to buy. Equip yourself with confidence, knowing your weapon is secure and readily available when you need it most.