Discovering the **Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82**: My Take
As a seasoned gear and equipment specialist with over a decade navigating diverse environments, I’ve come to rely on products that blend robust functionality with dependable performance. My search for a reliable duty holster for my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety led me to the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82. This holster promises a high level of security and accessibility, crucial elements for professionals who depend on their sidearms.
The need for this specific holster arose from a desire to upgrade from a less secure retention system that I felt was becoming a liability in dynamic situations. I needed something that offered superior weapon retention without significantly compromising draw speed. While I considered other major tactical gear manufacturers, Safariland’s reputation for innovation in retention systems stood out.
My initial impression upon unboxing this Safariland ALS holster was one of solid craftsmanship. The Basket Black finish has a professional, understated look, and the polymer construction feels substantial and well-molded. It exuded a sense of readiness, a feeling I’ve come to associate with high-quality gear that’s built for demanding use.
It’s a relief to finally have a holster that addresses my security concerns without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity. This initial feeling of confidence sets a positive tone for the in-depth testing that followed.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82** to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing regimen for this Safariland ALS holster focused on practical, on-the-job scenarios. I utilized it during extended range sessions, cross-training exercises, and during my typical workday, which often involves a mix of administrative duties and field movement. These environments provided a solid test of its retention, draw speed, and overall comfort.
I specifically evaluated its performance under conditions that mimic real-world stress, including drawing the weapon while moving and re-holstering quickly under pressure. The holster maintained a secure grip on my S&W M&P 45C throughout these drills, even when subjected to vigorous jostling and sudden movements. The ALS Automatic Locking System proved itself reliably in these tests.
The transition from my previous holster to this Safariland ALS unit was surprisingly smooth. The ALS mechanism, while featuring multiple release points, felt intuitive after a brief familiarization period. It didn’t require a convoluted sequence of movements, allowing for a natural draw stroke once the system was understood.
One notable aspect of the first few uses was the slight stiffness of the retention hood. This is common with new, high-retention holsters and is expected to loosen up with use. It was a minor point, but worth noting as a brief point of friction before full integration.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82 has become an indispensable part of my duty setup. It has held up remarkably well against the daily wear and tear of my profession. The Basket Weave finish, while aesthetically pleasing, has also proven resilient to abrasions and minor impacts.
Durability has been excellent; I’ve observed no signs of cracking, warping, or loosening of the retention mechanisms. The ALS and the thumb release remain crisp and responsive, and the hood guard shows minimal wear. The holster continues to provide a secure fit for my firearm, with no noticeable degradation in its grip.
Maintenance for this Safariland ALS holster has been minimal, a testament to its robust design. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a polymer-safe lubricant to the moving parts of the ALS system are all that’s needed. It’s designed to be relatively low-maintenance, which is a huge advantage for active users.
Compared to some of the more budget-friendly holsters I’ve used in the past, this Safariland model offers a significant leap in build quality and, more importantly, security. While more expensive upfront, its longevity and the peace of mind it provides make it a superior investment over cheaper alternatives that may compromise safety.
Breaking Down the Features of **Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82**
Specifications
This Safariland ALS holster is engineered for Level III Retention, meaning it offers three distinct points of security to prevent unauthorized weapon removal. It also has the capability for Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed, providing an even higher degree of security when needed. The core of its retention lies in the ALS Automatic Locking System, which positively secures the weapon once it’s holstered.
The holster features a standard Hood Guard, adding another layer of protection against accidental disengagement or weapon manipulation. Its slim, compact design is a critical aspect, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, which aids in concealment and comfort during extended wear. The draw stroke is designed to be a simple straight-up motion once all releases are deactivated, promoting speed and efficiency.
This specific model, the 6360-920-82, is configured for a Left hand draw and is fitted for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Safety. It includes a Mid Ride belt loop as part of the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system, offering a balanced ride height for optimal accessibility. The Basket Black finish provides a professional look, and Safariland offers this holster in various other finishes, including Plain Black, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL.
The Mid Ride UBL is a significant feature, positioning the holster at a height that balances comfort for concealed carry with quick access for duty use. It’s designed to accommodate belts up to 2.25 inches wide, providing a stable platform. The ALS system is the heart of the security, and its design ensures that accidental bumps or grabs are unlikely to compromise your firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82 is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a fast and reliable draw. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The ALS system locks the pistol firmly, and the manual thumb release is positioned for an intuitive and natural drawing motion.
Its strength lies in the redundancy of its retention methods. The combination of the ALS lock, the hood guard, and the passive retention of the molded holster body creates a very secure package. This makes it ideal for environments where weapon retention is paramount.
However, the Level III retention, while excellent for security, does introduce a slightly longer draw stroke compared to Level I or Level II holsters. The user must consciously deactivate the ALS thumb lever, which requires a deliberate action during the draw. This is a trade-off for enhanced security, and for many duty applications, it’s a worthwhile compromise.
The holster meets and often exceeds expectations for security and build quality. The functionality is precise, designed for professionals who understand the mechanics of drawing from a retention holster. It doesn’t just hold the gun; it actively works to keep it secure until you consciously decide to draw.
Design & Ergonomics
The Basket Black finish on this Safariland ALS holster provides a textured, professional appearance that also offers a good grip, preventing unwanted slippage. The overall construction feels robust, with thick polymer that inspires confidence in its ability to withstand daily abuse. The molding is precise, ensuring a snug fit for the specified firearm.
Ergonomically, the holster is designed for effective use. The Mid Ride UBL positions the firearm at a comfortable height for drawing, allowing for a good grip without excessive reach. The thumb release for the ALS is well-placed and accessible, though it does require a specific thumb movement that becomes second nature with practice.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the precise thumb and finger placement for a fluid draw from a Level III system. However, this is standard for this level of retention. Once the muscle memory is developed, the draw becomes quick and deliberate.
The Hood Guard is a subtle but important design element that adds to the overall user experience by providing a barrier against potential interference. The holster’s overall profile is surprisingly slim given the level of retention it offers, which aids in comfort and reduces printing under clothing.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and the quality of materials Safariland uses, this holster is built for long-term durability. Under normal professional use, it should last for many years without significant degradation. The polymer is resistant to impacts, and the internal mechanisms are designed for repeated operation.
Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Keeping the exterior clean is as simple as wiping it down. For the ALS mechanism, occasional lubrication with a suitable polymer-safe product can ensure smooth operation over time.
A potential concern, though minor, could be wear on the interior molding if the firearm is frequently inserted and drawn improperly or if the firearm itself has sharp edges. However, with a properly fitted firearm and a clean draw stroke, this is unlikely to be an issue. The system is designed to be tough.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82 comes with the integrated Mid Ride UBL as its primary mounting solution. This UBL is compatible with a variety of Safariland belt attachment systems, allowing for further customization of how the holster mounts to your duty belt. The holster is also designed to accept the optional Sentry, which upgrades the retention to Level IV.
While this holster is specifically molded for the S&W M&P 45C, Safariland produces a vast range of ALS holsters for numerous firearms. This means that if you transition to a different pistol, you can likely find a compatible ALS model. The Basket Weave finish is purely aesthetic, but Safariland offers different finishes like Plain Black, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL, allowing users to match their gear.
The most significant customization option, beyond belt attachments, is the addition of the Sentry for enhanced retention. This upgrade is valuable for those operating in extremely high-risk environments where maximum weapon security is non-negotiable.
Pros and Cons of **Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82**
Pros
- Rock-solid Level III Retention: The ALS Automatic Locking System combined with the hood guard provides exceptional security against weapon grabs.
- Reliable Straight-Up Draw: Once all releases are deactivated, the draw is surprisingly fast and intuitive.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust polymer that withstands rigorous daily use and environmental exposure.
- Comfortable Ride Height: The Mid Ride UBL offers a good balance between accessibility and comfort for extended wear.
- Professional Aesthetics: The Basket Black finish is understated and professional, suitable for duty applications.
- Optional Level IV Upgrade: The ability to add a Sentry for enhanced retention is a valuable feature.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: As a premium duty holster, it comes with a higher cost than basic retention holsters.
- Learning Curve for Draw: Mastering the specific thumb release action requires practice, typical for Level III systems.
- Limited Firearm Specificity: This model is fitted for a specific firearm (S&W M&P 45C with Safety), requiring specific purchases for different weapons.
Who Should Buy **Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82**?
This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and any professional who carries a firearm for duty and requires a high level of weapon retention. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who operate in environments with a risk of weapon retention issues or who simply prioritize the utmost security for their sidearm. The Mid Ride UBL also makes it suitable for those who prefer a slightly lower carry profile for comfort during long shifts.
Those who are new to duty carry or retention holsters might find the initial learning curve for the ALS system a bit challenging. However, with consistent practice, it becomes second nature. Anyone seeking a basic, low-profile concealed carry holster might find this over-featured for their needs.
For optimal use, I strongly recommend pairing this holster with a quality, rigid duty belt that can properly support the weight and ensure stability. A good firearm training regimen that focuses on drawing from retention holsters is also essential to maximize its benefits safely and effectively.
Conclusion on **Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82**
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Basket Black, Left 6360-920-82 is a premier duty holster that delivers on its promise of exceptional weapon security and reliable accessibility. Its robust construction, intuitive ALS retention system, and comfortable ride height make it a standout option for professionals. The ability to upgrade to Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry further enhances its versatility.
Considering its performance, durability, and the peace of mind it provides, the $195.00 price tag is justified for those who rely on their firearm daily. It’s an investment in safety and efficiency that I wholeheartedly recommend to any officer or security professional carrying a compatible firearm. If you prioritize top-tier retention without compromising your ability to access your weapon, this Safariland ALS holster is an excellent choice.