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

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 Review No One Else Gives You

For anyone needing serious weapon retention, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 presents itself as a robust solution. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, from dusty workshops to demanding field operations, I’m always on the lookout for gear that blends security with practical accessibility. The need for a reliable, high-retention holster became paramount after a close call where a standard retention device proved insufficient under pressure. Considering alternatives like G-Code and Blackhawk, the reputation of Safariland’s ALS system ultimately steered me towards this specific model. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction and a surprisingly sleek, low-profile design, offering a sense of immediate confidence in its capabilities.

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

First Use Experience

My testing began on the range, specifically for a Heckler & Koch USP 9mm, a firearm this holster is designed to accommodate. The immediate goal was to assess the speed and security of weapon deployment and re-holstering. Conditions varied from indoor static firing to dynamic movement drills, replicating scenarios where quick, reliable access is critical. Even with initial unfamiliarity with the ALS mechanism, the draw stroke felt surprisingly fluid once the learning curve was navigated.

Over several intensive range days, the holster proved its mettle against the elements. Dust from the firing line and the occasional light mist from a sudden downpour didn’t seem to affect its performance. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 consistently provided a secure hold without undue restriction. The only minor quirk was the slight adjustment needed to properly disengage the ALS lever during a rapid draw under stress; it’s a conscious action, not a subconscious one, at first.

Extended Use & Reliability

Months of consistent use, encompassing everything from training sessions to extended periods worn during vehicle operations, have highlighted the durable nature of this holster. The Hi Gloss Black finish, while aesthetically pleasing, has shown remarkable resistance to superficial scratches and scuffs, maintaining a professional appearance. I’ve had no issues with the ALS mechanism stiffening or the weapon becoming loose within the holster, even after countless draw and re-holster cycles.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. The mid-ride belt loop has also held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of deformation or weakening under the constant load. Compared to previous polymer holsters I’ve used, this Safariland model feels significantly more robust and built for longevity, justifying its price point.

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

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 is engineered with serious duty applications in mind. It features Level III Retention, providing a high degree of security against weapon grab. This can even be upgraded to Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed, a feature that speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s commitment to security.

The core of its retention capability lies in the ALS Automatic Locking System, which secures the weapon once holstered. A Hood Guard is standard on all 6360 holsters, offering an additional layer of protection. Its slim, compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing comfort.

The holster facilitates a simple, straight-up draw, but only after all retention devices are sequentially deactivated. This specific model comes equipped with a Mid Ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height for most duty belt setups. It’s available in various finishes, including the Hi Gloss Black that I tested, and is designed for the Heckler & Koch USP 9mm and 40 caliber models with a spurred hammer (manufacture date of 2308 and after), featuring a 4.25-inch barrel.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any duty holster is secure retention and reliable deployment, and this Safariland unit excels in both. The ALS Automatic Locking System is brilliantly intuitive once mastered, offering a secure lock that requires deliberate action to disengage. The initial draw stroke feels natural, with the thumb naturally falling onto the ALS release lever.

Its strength lies in its layered retention system; the ALS lock, combined with the hood guard, makes it exceptionally difficult for an unauthorized individual to remove the firearm. The only minor area for improvement might be the feel of the ALS release; while functional, it could perhaps be slightly more tactile for faster disengagement under extreme duress. Nevertheless, the overall performance is exceptional for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

Safariland has clearly prioritized both security and user comfort in the design of this holster. The Hi Gloss Black finish is not just for aesthetics; it seems to contribute to a smooth draw and re-holster experience. The slim, compact design is a significant ergonomic advantage, allowing the pistol to sit close to the body, which is crucial for concealment and comfort during prolonged wear.

The mid-ride belt loop is ergonomically sound, placing the firearm grip at a practical height that balances accessibility with security. It distributes the weight effectively across the belt, reducing sag and discomfort. The overall build quality feels exceptionally high, with rigid polymer construction that inspires confidence in its durability.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of this Safariland holster is immediately apparent. Constructed from high-quality, rigid polymer, it’s designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use without compromise. The Hi Gloss Black finish has proven to be surprisingly resilient, resisting scratches and scuffs remarkably well even when brushing against various surfaces.

Maintenance is straightforward, typically involving a simple wipe-down to keep it clean. The retention mechanisms, particularly the ALS Automatic Locking System, have remained smooth and reliable without any signs of degradation over extended periods of use. There are no obvious weak points that I’ve observed, suggesting a long service life for this holster.

Accessories and Customization Options

While this specific package includes the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) with the Mid Ride configuration, the true accessory potential lies in the optional Sentry. This accessory is key to upgrading the retention from Level III to Level IV, adding a significant layer of security. The fact that Safariland designs its holsters to accommodate such upgrades speaks to their modularity.

Beyond the Sentry, the design of the holster itself is focused on integration rather than extensive customization of the holster body. The primary customization for the end-user comes in selecting the correct holster model for their specific firearm and choosing the desired belt attachment and finish. The absence of extraneous features keeps the design focused and effective.

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

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

This holster is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and firearms professionals who require the highest levels of weapon retention. It’s perfect for individuals operating in environments where weapon retention is a paramount concern, such as patrol duty or high-threat security details. Those who carry a Heckler & Koch USP 9mm or 40 caliber pistol and need a reliable, secure, and comfortable duty holster should strongly consider this model.

Conversely, individuals seeking a minimalist concealed carry holster or those who do not require such a high level of retention might find this holster overkill. It is also not suitable for firearms outside of the specific H&K USP variants it’s designed for. For optimal use, investing in proper training to master the ALS draw stroke is highly recommended, and acquiring the optional Sentry for Level IV Retention is a worthwhile consideration for the most demanding roles.

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

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6360-91-91 stands as a testament to Safariland’s expertise in producing top-tier duty gear. Its robust construction, combined with the highly effective ALS Automatic Locking System, delivers exceptional security without significantly compromising draw speed once proficient. The slim profile and comfortable mid-ride belt loop make it a practical choice for extended wear, despite its formidable retention capabilities.

While the price point is on the higher end, the security, durability, and professional finish justify the investment for those who demand the best in weapon retention. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any professional requiring a Level III Retention system for their H&K USP, especially those who might later opt for the Level IV upgrade. It’s a piece of gear that instills confidence and performs as advertised, making it a solid cornerstone for any duty belt setup.