Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 Review

First Impressions of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned to appreciate function over form, especially when reliability is paramount. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 immediately presents itself as a serious piece of duty equipment. Its Hi-Gloss Black finish, while aesthetically pleasing, suggests a commitment to a clean, professional appearance that many departments require. This holster promises a high level of security for a duty weapon, a critical factor for anyone in a professional role where retention is not just a convenience but a necessity.

My search for a reliable holster like this was prompted by a need for enhanced weapon retention after a previous, less secure setup proved inadequate during a training exercise. The focus was on finding a system that offered multiple points of security without significantly hindering a smooth, efficient draw when needed. I had considered other Level III options from different manufacturers, but Safariland’s established reputation in the law enforcement and tactical gear market consistently drew my attention back. My first reaction upon handling this specific model was one of confident expectation; it felt substantial and thoughtfully engineered, ready for rigorous application.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing involved a series of dry draws and re-holstering at my personal workshop and during range sessions. The environments ranged from a controlled bench environment, simulating administrative tasks, to dynamic scenarios on the shooting range. I specifically focused on how the holster performed during movement, including simulated foot chases and weapon retention drills.

The holster handled these conditions admirably. It remained secure on my duty belt, and the ALS Automatic Locking System engaged with a satisfying click every time. The Hood Guard provided an extra layer of protection, ensuring the weapon stayed firmly in place even during vigorous activity.

Ease of use was surprisingly high. While a Level III retention holster naturally involves a learning curve with its multiple release mechanisms, the ALS system proved intuitive. The thumb-activated release for the ALS lock and the secondary release for the hood became second nature within a few practice sessions. I experienced no significant issues, though the initial rigidity of the Hi-Gloss Black finish required a few more deliberate movements during the very first few draws.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including departmental training days and personal range practice, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 has proven its worth. It has been exposed to typical outdoor elements, including light dust and occasional dampness from humid conditions, without any adverse effects on its functionality. The Hi-Gloss Black finish has maintained its sheen, though minor scuffs are now visible in high-contact areas, which is expected for a duty-grade item.

Durability has been excellent. There are no signs of cracking or warping in the polymer, and the retention mechanisms remain stiff and secure, showing no signs of loosening. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism keeps it performing optimally.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, including some Level II options, this Level III system offers a far superior sense of security. Budget-friendly alternatives often compromise on retention or draw speed, but this Safariland model strikes a commendable balance between the two. It’s a significant upgrade for anyone prioritizing weapon security.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91

Specifications

This Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 holster is designed for specific firearm fits, in this case, the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version equipped with certain weapon lights like the ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1. The barrel length specified is 3.50 inches. The holster provides Level III Retention, meaning it employs three distinct security features to prevent unauthorized weapon removal. Crucially, it can be upgraded to Level IV Retention with an optional Sentry installed, adding a fourth layer of security.

The ALS Automatic Locking System is a key feature, securing the weapon the moment it’s holstered without any active locking steps required by the user. The Hood Guard is standard on this model, offering protection for the firearm’s sights and an additional retention point. The holster’s design promotes a slim, compact profile, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for better concealment and reduced printing. Operationally, it facilitates a simple, straight-up draw once all retention devices are deactivated.

The holster includes the Hood Guard as standard, with the optional Sentry available for enhanced security. It features a Mid Ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height for duty use. The finish is Hi-Gloss Black, though other finishes like Plain Black, Basket Weave, and STX TACTICAL are available. The handedness is Right. These specifications collectively ensure a secure, accessible, and duty-ready holster for the intended firearm and user.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 is to secure a duty firearm while allowing for rapid, unimpeded access when necessary. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The ALS Automatic Locking System is robust and reliable; the weapon seats positively and remains held securely, even during strenuous physical activity. The Hood Guard adds a significant physical barrier, preventing snagging or accidental disengagement.

The draw stroke is remarkably smooth once all retention devices are disengaged. The straight-up draw motion is natural and efficient, a critical factor in high-stress situations. The Mid Ride belt loop positions the firearm at a practical height, allowing for a good grip without being too high or too low. The only minor drawback in performance is the slight initial resistance of the Hi-Gloss Black finish, which requires a fraction more effort during the very first draws compared to a matte finish, but this quickly smooths out with use.

Overall, this holster meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose. It offers a high degree of security without making the draw overly complex or slow. It confidently surpasses the performance of simpler retention holsters by providing multiple, independent security measures.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 showcases a design focused on both function and durability. The Kydex construction, a hallmark of high-quality tactical holsters, provides a rigid yet relatively lightweight shell. The Hi-Gloss Black finish, while prone to showing minor abrasions, presents a professional appearance that is often preferred for duty wear.

Ergonomically, the holster is well-designed. The Mid Ride belt loop ensures comfortable carry and a consistent draw stroke height. The curvature of the holster is shaped to allow the firearm to sit close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing comfort during extended wear. The activation points for the ALS and hood releases are strategically placed for natural finger and thumb access, requiring deliberate, conscious effort to disengage.

Practical design details include the integrated Hood Guard, which also serves to protect the firearm’s sights from impact or snagging. The smooth interior of the holster minimizes potential scratching of the firearm’s finish. The overall feel in hand, when drawing, is secure and controlled, facilitating a confident grip on the weapon.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 is built for the rigors of professional use. The Kydex material is known for its resilience, resisting cracks and deformation even under significant stress. After several months of consistent use, the holster shows only minor cosmetic wear, with no signs of structural compromise. The Hi-Gloss Black finish, while susceptible to superficial scratches, does not affect the holster’s functionality.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a significant advantage for a duty item. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth usually suffices for daily cleaning. For optimal performance of the ALS mechanism, a light application of silicone lubricant to the internal locking components every few months is recommended. Over-application should be avoided to prevent attracting excessive dust or debris.

The potential failure points are minimal due to the robust design. The internal locking mechanism of the ALS is well-engineered. The primary concern for longevity would be the retention straps and any spring-loaded components within the hood release, though these have shown no signs of wear in my testing.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 comes equipped with the Hood Guard as a standard feature, which is a critical component of its Level III retention system. The key customization option highlighted in the product description is the availability of an optional Sentry, which can be added to upgrade the holster to Level IV Retention. This adds an additional layer of security, typically a thumb-snap over the rear of the slide, which is invaluable for certain high-risk environments.

The holster is designed for specific firearm models and light combinations, meaning direct customization of the holster’s fit for a different firearm is not possible without ordering a different model. However, the Mid Ride belt loop is often part of a modular system, allowing users to potentially swap it for other Safariland mounting options like a low-ride UBL or a tactical leg shroud, depending on their operational needs and departmental regulations. The choice of finishes—Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX TACTICAL—also offers a degree of aesthetic customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91?

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and any individual who carries a firearm in a capacity where maximum weapon retention is paramount. It’s specifically suited for those who carry the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with compatible weapon-mounted lights, such as the Surefire X300 or TLR-1. If your duty requirements mandate a Level III Retention holster, or if you simply desire the highest level of security for your sidearm, this model warrants serious consideration.

Individuals who need a holster for a different firearm model or who prioritize a lighter, more minimalist carry setup might need to look at other options. Those operating in environments where weapon retention is less critical could find Level II or even Level I holsters sufficient and potentially faster to draw from. For optimal use, consider a quality duty belt that can securely support the holster and firearm combination.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-1972-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of exceptional security and reliable performance. Its ALS Automatic Locking System and integrated Hood Guard provide a formidable barrier against unauthorized weapon access, while the Mid Ride design ensures a comfortable and efficient draw. The build quality is evident, suggesting a long service life even under rigorous duty conditions.

While the $224.60 price point places it in the premium category, the value proposition is strong for anyone in a profession where weapon security is non-negotiable. The ability to upgrade to Level IV Retention further enhances its versatility for high-threat environments. I would confidently recommend this holster to any professional carrying the specified Heckler & Koch P2000 with a compatible light, provided they prioritize maximum retention and understand the commitment required for its operation. It’s a solid investment in personal and public safety.