Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 Review

Reviewing the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92: Beyond Marketing

As someone who has spent over a decade integrating gear into the demanding realities of outdoor expeditions, workshop tinkering, precise lab work, and rugged field deployments, I’ve learned to distinguish between marketing hype and genuine utility. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 is a piece of duty gear that demands a critical eye, promising a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. My need for a robust and reliable holster arose from a scenario where a standard duty holster proved insufficient during an unexpected, high-stress training exercise; a situation where weapon retention was paramount, and any compromise was unacceptable. Upon initial inspection, this Safariland holster presented a striking, almost intimidating, polished exterior. The material felt substantial, hinting at durability, though I reserved judgment until it was put through its paces. While I briefly considered a competitor’s Level II retention system and a more basic passive retention option, the promise of superior security in the ALS Level III design ultimately swayed me. My immediate first impression was one of guarded optimism—a sense that this could be the robust solution I was seeking.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this Safariland holster took place primarily at a controlled indoor range facility and during extensive dry-fire drills in my workshop. These environments allowed me to focus on the mechanics of weapon insertion, retention release, and draw without the immediate pressure of a live scenario. I meticulously cycled my Smith & Wesson M&P 45 Compact with Safety into and out of the holster over hundreds of repetitions. The conditions were consistently temperature-controlled and free from dust or moisture, which, while not simulating extreme environments, allowed for a pure evaluation of the holster’s core functionality. The ease of use was surprisingly intuitive; the ALS system, once understood, felt natural, requiring a deliberate thumb press combined with a forward push of the hood.

There were a few initial quirks, mainly centered around the precise angle and pressure needed to disengage the ALS thumb lever smoothly. It wasn’t a snagging issue, but rather a learning curve to find that perfect ergonomic point. Once I familiarized myself with the distinct tactile and auditory feedback of the lock disengaging, it became second nature. The high-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, did show minor scuffs from the repeated weapon insertion and removal during these initial dry-fire sessions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, primarily during tactical training courses and extensive range days, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 has proven its mettle. It remains a steadfast component of my duty-ready loadout, holding my S&W M&P 45C securely through various drills, including dynamic movement and prone positions. The durability is commendable; despite countless draws and re-holsters, the structural integrity of the holster remains uncompromised. There are no signs of cracking or significant material fatigue.

The retention is as solid as day one, with no loosening of the ALS mechanism or the Hood Guard. The Hi-Gloss finish, while showing faint scuffs from repeated contact, has maintained its overall sheen. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a polymer-safe lubricant to the ALS mechanism keeps it operating smoothly. Compared to previous, less sophisticated passive retention holsters I’ve used, this Safariland unit offers a significant upgrade in security without unduly hindering my draw speed. It’s a reliable piece of equipment that has earned its place.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 is engineered with a focus on security and accessibility for law enforcement and security professionals. Its core feature is the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which automatically secures the weapon once holstered, providing a robust defense against weapon grabs. This system offers Level III Retention, meaning it requires two distinct actions to release the firearm. Notably, this can be upgraded to Level IV Retention with the optional addition of the Sentry device, further enhancing security.

The holster includes a Hood Guard as standard, which protects the rear sight and provides an additional layer of retention. Its design emphasizes a slim, compact profile, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, which is crucial for comfort and concealability under certain circumstances. The draw stroke is designed to be a simple, straight-up motion once all retention devices are deactivated. This particular model is specified for a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Safety and is configured for a Left-hand draw. The finish is a striking Hi-Gloss Black, contributing to its professional appearance. The included UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster at a Mid Ride height, offering a balanced compromise between accessibility and stability on the belt.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any duty holster is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a rapid and unhindered draw. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 excels in both these areas. The ALS system is remarkably effective; it positively locks the firearm into place, providing confidence that the weapon will not dislodge under duress or during strenuous physical activity. The Hood Guard adds another crucial layer of security, particularly against attempts to strip the weapon from the holster.

The draw stroke, once mastered, is fluid and efficient. The unique action required to disengage the ALS and the Hood Guard becomes instinctive with practice, allowing for a surprisingly fast deployment. Its main job is to hold the weapon securely, and in this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The only minor drawback is the slight learning curve associated with the dual retention mechanisms, but this is a small price to pay for the enhanced security offered. It comfortably meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is a blend of tactical functionality and professional aesthetics. The Hi-Gloss Black finish gives it a premium look that stands out, though it does demand a bit more care to maintain its pristine appearance. The materials used—likely a durable injection-molded polymer—feel robust and capable of withstanding significant abuse. The holster’s slim profile is a significant ergonomic advantage, preventing excessive printing when worn with tactical vests or looser outer garments.

The ALS mechanism is well-integrated into the holster’s body, providing a clean look and intuitive operation once the user understands the required motion. The Mid Ride UBL offers a comfortable and accessible height for drawing the firearm. It doesn’t interfere with movement or require excessive contortions to access the weapon. The Hood Guard is shaped to protect the rear sight without impeding the draw. Overall, the ergonomics are well-considered, prioritizing both security and user comfort during prolonged wear.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a cornerstone of Safariland’s reputation, and this holster is no exception. Constructed from high-impact polymer, it’s built to endure the rigors of daily duty. After months of use, the holster shows minimal wear, with no signs of structural compromise. The retention mechanisms remain tight and functional, with no rattling or looseness developing.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dust and grime, and a light application of a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS lever and Hood Guard pivot points keeps the action smooth. The Hi-Gloss Black finish is the most susceptible to cosmetic wear, picking up light scuffs from the firearm’s slide and sights. However, these are purely cosmetic and do not impact the holster’s performance or security. For a duty-grade holster, its longevity appears to be excellent, designed for years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 comes equipped with the essential components for its intended function. The included UBL (Universal Belt Loop) is designed to fit a variety of belt widths, offering versatility. It also comes with the Hood Guard, a critical part of its Level III retention.

The key customization option for this holster is the optional Sentry, which can be added to upgrade the retention from Level III to Level IV. This elevates the holster’s security profile for those requiring the highest level of weapon retention. While no other specific accessories are bundled, the UBL system itself is compatible with Safariland’s QLS (Quick Locking System) and other similar modular belt attachment systems, allowing for easy transfer between different mounting platforms if desired. The Hi-Gloss finish itself isn’t a customizable option in terms of material, but it dictates the visual aesthetic.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92?

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible civilian firearm owners who prioritize uncompromising weapon retention and require a Level III security system. It’s ideal for individuals carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 45 Compact with a safety and who frequently engage in dynamic training or operate in environments where weapon security is paramount. Those who appreciate a professional and polished appearance for their duty gear will also find the Hi-Gloss Black finish appealing.

However, individuals seeking a universal holster for multiple firearms, or those who are unwilling to invest time in mastering the dual-action draw stroke, might want to consider other options. Those who prioritize absolute scratch resistance over aesthetics in their holster finish should also look at Safariland’s STX Tactical or Plain Black finishes. For maximizing the utility of this holster, consider pairing it with a sturdy duty belt and potentially the optional Sentry for enhanced Level IV retention if your operational requirements demand it.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Left 6360-920-92 is a testament to effective duty holster design, delivering on its promise of superior weapon retention and accessibility. The ALS system, coupled with the Hood Guard, provides a level of security that instills confidence in high-risk environments. Despite a minor learning curve for the dual-action draw and the cosmetic susceptibility of its Hi-Gloss Black finish, its performance and build quality are undeniable. For its intended user—the owner of a S&W M&P 45C with a safety requiring a robust, secure duty holster—this model represents a significant investment in safety and reliability. The price point, while not insignificant, is justified by the quality, features, and peace of mind it offers. I would readily recommend this holster to anyone prioritizing top-tier retention for their duty firearm.