Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62 Review

What Makes the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62 Click?

For years, I’ve sought a duty holster that balances robust retention with a swift, intuitive draw. My search led me to the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62, a holster designed for serious professionals. The need for this particular model arose after a frustrating experience with a less secure, albeit lighter, retention system during a high-stress training scenario. I required something that would definitively keep my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C secured, no matter the situation.

First impressions of this Safariland holster were of its sheer solidity. The Plain Black finish is understated yet professional, and the ALS Automatic Locking System mechanism felt precise and well-engineered right out of the box. It immediately conveyed a sense of reliability that my previous holster lacked. While I considered other ALS models from Safariland and a few from competitors, the specific inclusion of the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) and the “mid-ride” position offered the exact ergonomic profile I was looking for. My initial feeling was one of relief and anticipation, a confidence that I’d finally found a piece of equipment built to handle the demands of my profession.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began at the range, focusing on draw speed and re-holstering under simulated stress. I then integrated it into my daily duty belt, which involves a lot of movement, bending, and occasional vehicle ingress/egress. The Plain Black finish held up well against incidental contact with doorways and equipment.

Conditions were varied, from arid, dusty outdoor ranges to more controlled indoor environments. The holster’s design seemed impervious to dust buildup affecting the ALS mechanism. I also tested it in light rain, and moisture had no discernible impact on the retention or draw.

Ease of use was surprisingly high. While the three-stage retention (thumb break, ALS, and Hood Guard) requires a deliberate sequence, it became second nature quickly. The straight-up draw, once the ALS lever is deactivated by the thumb and the hood is pushed forward, felt natural and efficient.

My only initial quirk was the slight adjustment needed to find the most comfortable grip to disengage all retention levels simultaneously. It required a minor shift in my grip angle to achieve a perfectly smooth draw from the get-go.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent daily use, this Safariland holster continues to perform exceptionally. It’s become an integral part of my duty gear, and I hardly think about its function – it just works.

The durability is outstanding. Despite frequent use and numerous insertions and draws, there are no signs of cracking, excessive stiffness, or loosening of the ALS mechanism. The Hood Guard has taken a few light scrapes, but it remains perfectly functional, protecting the firearm’s sights.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS lever contact points keep it functioning flawlessly. It’s crucial to avoid over-lubricating, as that can attract dirt.

Compared to previous, less robust holsters, this Safariland model is in a different league. Budget options often sacrifice retention for comfort or price; this holster offers both, albeit at a higher initial investment. It significantly outperforms generic plastic holsters and even some higher-end Kydex options when it comes to secure, multi-stage retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62 is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate™ material, a proprietary blend designed for longevity and resistance to the elements. It offers Level III Retention, meaning it securely holds the firearm through three distinct locking points. The holster also boasts the capability of Level IV Retention with optional Sentry installed, providing an additional layer of security for high-threat environments.

The ALS system acts as an internal locking device that automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, securing it firmly. This system is designed for a simple straight up draw once all releases are deactivated. The included Mid Ride belt loop positions the firearm at a comfortable height for accessible draw stroke without impeding movement. The Hood Guard is standard on 6360 holsters, offering protection for the rear sight of the firearm.

This specific model is configured for a Left hand draw and features a Plain Black finish, common in professional duty settings for its low profile and resistance to glare. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system allows for attachment to belts ranging from 1.5 to 2.25 inches wide, offering versatility. The slim, compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during prolonged wear. The price of $207.00 places it in the premium duty gear category, reflecting its advanced features and construction.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, securing a firearm, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62 excels. The Level III Retention system is exceptionally reliable, providing peace of mind during dynamic movement or physical altercations. The ALS mechanism engages with a satisfying click, and the Hood Guard adds an extra layer of protection against accidental disengagement or snagging.

Its standout strength is the balance between high security and a relatively quick draw once mastered. The automatic locking nature of the ALS means less chance of forgetting to engage a secondary retention device. The primary weakness, if one can call it that, is the slight learning curve associated with efficiently deactivating all three retention points. It is not as simple as a Level I holster, but that is the trade-off for superior security. It definitively meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is clearly focused on function and durability. The Safari-Laminate™ material feels robust and rigid, yet it has enough give to conform slightly to the firearm without becoming loose. The Plain Black finish is matte and resists fingerprints and scuffs admirably, maintaining a professional appearance.

Ergonomically, the Mid Ride belt loop is a key feature that significantly enhances comfort and accessibility. It positions the firearm at a height that feels natural to draw from, without being too high or too low. The curve of the holster is sculpted to follow the contours of the body, keeping the weapon close and reducing the likelihood of it snagging on external objects. The activation of the ALS lever by the thumb feels natural during the draw stroke, becoming an intuitive part of the motion.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials and construction, this Safariland holster is built for the long haul. Under normal duty use, I anticipate it will last for many years without significant degradation. The robust Safari-Laminate™ is resistant to abrasion and the elements.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a mild soap and water solution, followed by air drying, is sufficient for most situations. For the ALS mechanism, a very small amount of silicone lubricant applied to the moving parts of the lever can ensure smooth operation, but it’s important to avoid overdoing it. No specific failure points have presented themselves in my extensive testing.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model comes as a complete unit, including the UBL and the integrated Hood Guard. While no additional accessories are typically bundled with this specific holster configuration, its compatibility is a significant advantage. The UBL itself is designed to attach to various duty belt systems.

The primary customization option related to retention is the optional Sentry, which can be installed to upgrade the holster to Level IV Retention. This adds an extra thumb break that must also be released, providing an additional barrier against weapon grabs. While this specific model is designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety, Safariland offers similar ALS Level III holsters for a vast array of firearms, allowing for model-specific customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62?

This holster is ideal for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and any individual who requires the highest level of weapon retention for their duty firearm. It is perfectly suited for environments where weapon retention is paramount, such as high-risk patrol, training scenarios, or situations involving close physical contact. Those carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with a thumb safety will find this model a superb fit.

Individuals who prioritize a simple, minimalist holster for concealed carry or who are not in a profession requiring such stringent retention measures may find this holster to be overkill. It’s also not the best choice for those who are on a very tight budget and need a basic, functional holster for occasional use. For those who need the absolute maximum security and a proven system, I’d recommend investing in this Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62. A good quality duty belt is a must-have accessory for proper support.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-9202-62 is, without question, a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security and functionality. Its robust construction, advanced retention systems, and thoughtful ergonomic design make it an invaluable piece of equipment for professionals who demand the best. While the initial price might seem steep, the peace of mind and reliable performance it offers justify the investment for those who stake their lives on their gear. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone in need of uncompromising weapon retention and a dependable draw stroke.