Everything You Need to Know About the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92
For anyone who carries a firearm for duty or professional reasons, reliable and secure retention is paramount. After years of relying on various holsters, I found myself needing an upgrade for a specific Smith & Wesson M&P 45C. The constant need for both rapid access and absolute security in dynamic environments led me to the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92. Safariland, a name synonymous with trusted duty gear, offered a solution that promised a high level of retention without compromising on draw speed. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of robust construction; the hi-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, hinted at the rigorous testing this piece of equipment is designed to withstand. I had considered a few other ALS-style holsters, but Safariland’s reputation and the specific Level III retention system sealed the deal. There was an immediate sense of confidence that this holster would provide the security and accessibility I required.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place during extensive training days and range sessions. The holster was mounted on a duty belt and subjected to a variety of scenarios, including rapid drawing from various positions and simulated physical engagements. I specifically tested its performance in dusty outdoor environments and during a light drizzle, as these are common conditions encountered in real-world duty. The ALS system, once I became familiar with its operation, proved surprisingly intuitive, requiring a deliberate but swift motion to disengage the retention devices. There were no immediate issues or surprises; the fit for the S&W M&P 45C was precise, and the weapon seated with a satisfying click.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent, daily use, this Safariland holster has held up exceptionally well. The hi-gloss finish, while prone to minor scuffs if not carefully handled, has maintained its aesthetic appeal with minimal degradation. There are no signs of cracks or structural weaknesses, even after being subjected to significant stress and repeated draws. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a mild lubricant to the retention mechanisms keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to some older, less robust holsters I’ve used, this model offers superior durability and a more consistent draw feel, even after hundreds of cycles.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 is engineered for a specific firearm fit: the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without the manual safety. Its primary function is to provide Level III Retention, a critical feature for law enforcement and security professionals, ensuring the firearm remains secure against attempts at removal by an assailant. This level of security is achieved through a combination of an ALS (Automatic Locking System) that secures the weapon once holstered, and a Hood Guard that acts as a passive retention device. The holster boasts a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm comfortably on the duty belt for a balanced draw. Notably, the retention can be upgraded to Level IV Retention with the optional installation of a Sentry device, offering an even higher degree of security. The compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during prolonged wear.
The ALS Automatic Locking System is the core of this holster’s security. Once the firearm is holstered, the ALS automatically engages, preventing it from being drawn without the operator deactivating specific release mechanisms. The Hood Guard comes standard on the 6360 model, providing an additional layer of protection and helping to prevent accidental deactivation of the ALS. The draw stroke itself is designed to be a simple, straight-up motion once all retention points are released, a crucial aspect for speed and efficiency under stress. The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a professional appearance, though it does require more attention to maintain its pristine look compared to matte finishes. The included UBL (Universal Belt Loop) is designed for easy attachment to various duty belt widths, making it a versatile option for departmental standardization.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this holster is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a swift and efficient draw. In this regard, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 excels. The ALS system is remarkably secure, and I have yet to experience any accidental disengagement. The draw stroke, once practiced, is fluid and fast, with the primary thumb release being easily accessible without compromising grip. The weapon seats firmly, with no unwanted movement or rattle.
A significant strength of this model is its Level III Retention capability, which offers peace of mind in high-risk environments. The Hood Guard adds a substantial layer of security, especially against weapon grabs from the front. However, the hi-gloss finish, while striking, is more susceptible to showing scuffs and scratches than a matte or tactical finish, which might be a minor drawback for those prioritizing a perpetually pristine appearance in rugged field conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this holster prioritizes functionality and security. The slim, compact design is a standout feature, allowing the firearm to sit close to the body, which significantly reduces the likelihood of snagging on doorways or other obstacles. The mid-ride belt loop strikes a good balance between accessibility and comfort, avoiding the excessive drop of some holsters while still facilitating a natural draw. The materials feel robust and durable, suggesting a long service life.
Ergonomically, the holster is well-designed for its intended purpose. The thumb sweep for the ALS release is natural and positioned for immediate access once the firing grip is established. The Hood Guard might introduce a slight learning curve for some users to find the perfect hand placement during the draw, but with practice, it becomes second nature. The overall feel is one of sturdy, reliable construction designed for professional use.
Durability & Maintenance
From a durability standpoint, this Safariland holster is built to last. The high-quality polymer construction feels substantial and shows no signs of fatigue even after rigorous use. The internal mechanisms have remained consistently reliable, with no degradation in their ability to engage or disengage smoothly. The hi-gloss finish, while aesthetically appealing, is the most delicate part; it can show wear from abrasive contact, though this is purely cosmetic and does not affect the holster’s performance.
Maintenance is minimal. A basic cleaning with soap and water, followed by a quick dry, is usually sufficient. For optimal performance of the ALS mechanism, a light application of silicone lubricant to the moving parts occasionally can prevent stiffness. There are no significant failure points to report; the design is proven and robust.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 comes with the essential Hood Guard as a standard feature, enhancing its retention capabilities. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for attachment to belts up to 2.25 inches wide, a common standard for duty belts. The primary customization option for this holster is the optional Sentry, which, when installed, elevates the retention to a Level IV, adding a further securing mechanism. While this specific model is designed for a particular firearm, Safariland offers a vast array of holsters in the ALS system for different firearms and in various finishes (Plain Black, Basket Weave, STX TACTICAL), providing a high degree of customization across their product line.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system, combined with the Hood Guard, provides superior security against weapon grabs.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Despite the high retention, the draw stroke is efficient and quick once the release mechanisms are mastered.
- Slim and Compact Design: Allows the firearm to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing comfort.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality polymer designed for rigorous professional use.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Offers a comfortable and accessible firearm position on the duty belt.
- Upgradeability to Level IV Retention: With the optional Sentry, security can be further enhanced.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish: While aesthetically pleasing, it is more prone to visible scuffs and scratches than matte or tactical finishes.
- Specific Firearm Fit: This model is designed for the S&W M&P 45C w/o Safety, limiting its versatility if you carry different firearms.
- Learning Curve for ALS: While intuitive with practice, there is a slight learning curve to master the ALS release under pressure.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92?
This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires top-tier firearm retention in a duty or professional capacity. It is particularly well-suited for those carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without a manual safety. The Level III Retention and the option to upgrade to Level IV make it ideal for high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.
Individuals who prioritize a sleek, professional appearance and are willing to maintain the hi-gloss finish will also find this model appealing. Those who prefer a more minimalist holster or require a “quick and dirty” solution for casual carry might find the multi-stage retention system to be overkill. For optimal use, ensuring you have a sturdy, duty-rated belt is essential, as this holster is designed to be worn on such a setup.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-919-92 is a testament to Safariland’s reputation for producing highly secure and functional duty gear. Its robust Level III Retention system, combined with a comfortable mid-ride position and slim profile, makes it an outstanding choice for professionals who cannot compromise on firearm security. While the hi-gloss finish demands a certain level of care to maintain its appearance, it does not detract from the holster’s exceptional performance and durability. The ability to upgrade to Level IV Retention with the Sentry offers an added layer of security for those who require it.
Considering its price point of $212.60, the value proposition is strong for the level of security and quality offered. For a law enforcement officer or security professional carrying the specified S&W M&P 45C, this holster is a solid investment that delivers reliable performance and peace of mind. I would readily recommend this model to anyone in need of uncompromising firearm retention and a dependable draw.