Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 Review

Why the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 Might Be Right for You

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments—from dusty workshops to demanding field operations—I’ve learned to appreciate reliability and robust design above all else. My search for a dependable duty holster for my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety led me to the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61. The need for a holster that offered more than just basic retention, especially in professional settings, was paramount. I needed something that would secure my firearm effectively while still allowing for a quick and intuitive draw when seconds count.

My previous experiences with less secure holsters, particularly during strenuous activities or unexpected situations, highlighted the critical need for a Level III retention system. I recalled a particularly unnerving moment where a colleague’s firearm shifted precariously during a rapid movement, emphasizing the importance of a holster that truly locks the weapon in place. When evaluating options, I briefly considered some Kydex-based ALS-compatible holsters from other manufacturers, but Safariland’s established reputation for duty-grade equipment, especially their ALS system, ultimately swayed my decision. The initial impression upon unboxing this Safariland holster was one of solid construction; it felt substantial and precisely molded, promising security and durability.

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this Safariland holster took place during simulated duty drills and at the range, focusing on the immediate draw and re-holstering motions. I deliberately moved through various stances and actions, including quick draws from a seated position, drawing while maneuvering through simulated obstacles, and practicing retention during dynamic movement. The holster performed admirably, offering a secure grip on the firearm without unnecessary friction.

The conditions I tested it under ranged from a dry, dusty range environment to a moderately humid indoor training facility. I found that the ALS Automatic Locking System engaged smoothly and consistently with each re-holstering, providing an audible and tactile confirmation that the weapon was secure. There was a slight learning curve to perfectly coordinate the thumb release with the draw stroke, but this was minimal, and I found the operation became second nature within a few repetitions. No immediate issues or significant quirks presented themselves; the holster felt like a natural extension of my duty belt from the outset.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 has proven itself to be a cornerstone of my duty gear. It has endured regular drawing and re-holstering, frequent belt adjustments, and exposure to a variety of weather, including light rain and significant temperature fluctuations. Despite this consistent use, there are no apparent signs of significant wear and tear; the plain black finish remains intact, and the retention mechanisms are as firm as they were on day one.

Maintenance has been refreshingly straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris is usually sufficient, and occasionally, a light application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism ensures continued smooth operation. Compared to older, less advanced holsters I’ve used, this Safariland unit demonstrates superior durability and consistent performance. The molded construction has held its shape perfectly, unlike some softer synthetics that can warp or deform over time with constant stress.

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 is engineered with security and practical application in mind. Its defining feature is the Level III Retention, meaning it employs three distinct points of security to prevent firearm loss or unauthorized removal. This is achieved through the ALS Automatic Locking System, which secures the firearm once holstered, and the integrated Hood Guard, which acts as a physical barrier against external manipulation.

For those requiring even greater security, the holster is designed to accommodate an optional Sentry device, thereby upgrading retention to Level IV. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) attachment is designed for a mid-ride height, positioning the firearm comfortably and accessibly on the belt without interfering with other gear. The holster’s construction prioritizes a slim, compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, which is crucial for comfort and minimizing snagging. The draw stroke, once all releases are deactivated, is designed for a simple, straight-up motion, facilitating rapid deployment.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role of securing and presenting a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety, this Safariland holster performs exceptionally well. The ALS Automatic Locking System provides a reassuring click when the firearm is holstered, and the secondary thumb release is intuitively placed for a natural draw. Re-holstering is equally smooth, with the ALS mechanism engaging automatically as the firearm slides into place.

The primary strength of this holster is its rock-solid retention without compromising a reasonably quick draw. The Hood Guard is a particularly effective feature, offering peace of mind against accidental disengagement or attempts to manipulate the firearm. A minor point for consideration, though not a weakness, is the deliberate nature of the draw; it requires conscious activation of both the thumb release and the hood mechanism, which is the trade-off for superior retention but might feel slightly slower initially compared to a Level I or II holster. It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster, especially considering its price point relative to other Level III options.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 is evident from the moment you handle it. Constructed from a durable, injection-molded polymer, it feels robust and purpose-built for demanding use. The plain black finish is understated and professional, resisting scratches and scuffs better than some higher-gloss alternatives I’ve encountered.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride UBL positions the firearm at a very accessible height, allowing for a comfortable grip without excessive reaching. The profile of the holster is commendably slim for a Level III retention device, keeping the firearm tucked close to the body and reducing printing under cover garments. The design of the ALS release and the Hood Guard is logical; while requiring distinct actions, they fall naturally under the fingers and thumb during a trained draw stroke. There’s virtually no learning curve for the basic function, though mastering the simultaneous release for speed takes practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the reputation of Safariland duty gear, this holster is built for longevity. I anticipate it will easily last many years under typical law enforcement or security professional use. The polymer is resistant to cracking and deformation, and the internal locking mechanisms are designed for repeated engagement without wear.

Maintenance is as simple as keeping it clean. Occasional dusting and wiping with a damp cloth are sufficient for daily use. For optimal function of the ALS mechanism, a very light application of a silicone-based lubricant on the moving parts every few months can help maintain a smooth action, but this is not strictly necessary for basic function. The only potential area to monitor over extended, extreme use might be the tension screws if the UBL is frequently adjusted, but these are standard hardware that can be tightened or replaced.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 comes standard with the Hood Guard integrated into its design, providing the first two levels of retention. As mentioned, an optional Sentry device can be added to upgrade the retention to Level IV, offering an additional secure locking feature. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) is a significant part of the holster’s adaptability, designed to fit a wide range of belt widths commonly found in duty applications.

While the holster itself isn’t heavily customizable in terms of its core retention mechanism beyond the Sentry option, its compatibility with various belt loop attachments and accessories is a key strength. This allows users to tailor the ride height and cant to their specific needs and preferences, though this particular model is fixed at a mid-ride height. It is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety, so direct firearm customization isn’t applicable to the holster itself, but its secure fit ensures optimal performance with that specific weapon.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61?

This holster is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires maximum firearm retention in a duty or tactical environment. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with a manual safety and who prioritize a secure holster that prevents accidental disengagement or theft. Those who operate in high-risk environments or perform physically demanding tasks where firearm retention is critical will find this holster invaluable.

Individuals who prioritize simplicity and speed above all else and are comfortable with a Level I or II retention device might find the multi-step draw of this Level III holster to be slightly more involved than they prefer. However, for those who understand the need for enhanced security, the learning curve is minimal. For those considering this holster, ensuring you have a quality duty belt to pair it with is essential; a rigid, well-fitting belt will maximize the holster’s stability and performance.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Right 6360-920-61 is a testament to Safariland’s commitment to producing top-tier duty gear. It masterfully balances exceptional firearm security with a practical, accessible design that allows for a confident and efficient draw. The durable polymer construction and well-engineered ALS system ensure it will stand up to consistent, demanding use, making the $195.00 price point a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their equipment.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any individual carrying a compatible Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety who requires uncompromising retention and reliability. While it demands a deliberate draw, this is a small price to pay for the peace of mind it provides in critical situations. For duty-grade performance and security, this Safariland holster is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.