Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 Review

What’s Special About the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62?

For anyone needing a robust, secure, and accessible holster for their firearm, especially in demanding professional settings, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 stands out. This particular model offers a critical blend of security and rapid deployment, a balance I’ve come to value highly in my decade of gear testing across diverse environments. My initial need for this type of holster arose from a situation where my existing duty gear lacked sufficient retention during a high-stress training exercise, leading to an uncomfortable moment and a reevaluation of my equipment priorities.

My first impression upon unboxing this Safariland holster was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The Plain Black finish is utilitarian and blends well, and the material felt substantial without being overly bulky. It exuded a sense of preparedness, a quiet confidence in its ability to perform. I had briefly considered a competitor’s offering known for a slightly lighter weight, but the tiered retention system on this Safariland model ultimately tipped the scales. This holster immediately offered a sense of security, a welcome relief after my previous equipment concerns.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing for this Safariland holster took place primarily at an indoor range and during simulated tactical drills. The scenarios involved drawing under simulated pressure and re-holstering repeatedly, as well as movement that would test the holster’s security. I specifically focused on the ease of the draw stroke and the process of disengaging the retention mechanisms, which are central to its functionality.

Throughout these drills, the holster performed admirably, even under conditions of moderate dust and sweat. The ALS Automatic Locking System immediately secured the firearm upon holstering, providing peace of mind. The draw stroke, once all releases were deactivated, was surprisingly smooth and intuitive, feeling natural even on the first few attempts. My only minor surprise was the slight learning curve in deactivating the hood guard and thumb release simultaneously during a rapid draw, a nuance that quickly became second nature with practice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including various outdoor training days and prolonged periods on the range, this Safariland holster continues to perform exceptionally well. It has endured dust, light rain, and temperature fluctuations without any noticeable degradation in performance. The Level III Retention has remained steadfast, preventing any accidental dislodges.

The durability is evident; there are no cracks, excessive scuffs, or stiffness developing in the material. Maintenance is straightforward – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional light lubrication of the locking mechanism is all that’s required. Compared to simpler, one or two-stage retention holsters I’ve used in the past, this model’s multi-point security offers a significant advantage in terms of reliability and confidence, especially when budget holsters might show wear and tear much sooner.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is engineered with specific features for duty use. Its primary specification is Level III Retention, meaning it offers three distinct points of security to prevent unauthorized firearm removal. This is achieved through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) that secures the weapon once holstered, an additional thumb break, and the hooded guard.

It also boasts Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed, offering an even higher degree of security. The ALS Automatic Locking System ensures the weapon is locked firmly in place until intentionally released. The holster includes a standard Hood Guard, which is crucial for protecting the firearm’s sights and adding another layer of security.

The design prioritizes a slim, compact profile, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, which is a significant ergonomic benefit for concealed or duty carry. This design minimizes snagging and offers a more comfortable fit under clothing or gear. The draw itself is designed to be a simple straight up draw once all releases are deactivated, ensuring a fluid and efficient motion under stress.

This model features a Mid Ride belt loop, placing the firearm at a comfortable height for access without being too high or too low. The Plain Black finish is practical, durable, and resists glare, making it suitable for professional environments. For firearm fit, this specific holster is designed for the Heckler & Koch USP 9, 40 with Rubber Spurred Hammer (holster manufacture date of 2308 and after), BBL 4.25″, USP 9, 40, BBL 4.25″, ensuring a precise fit for these models. It is also available in a Left hand configuration.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for rapid, controlled access. In this regard, it excels. The multi-stage retention system provides unparalleled security, ensuring the weapon stays put during dynamic movements or potential struggles.

The ALS Automatic Locking System is the star here; it engages automatically upon holstering and provides a robust lock. Disengaging all the retention devices—the ALS, the thumb break, and the hood guard—requires a specific, practiced motion. Once this motion is mastered, the draw is remarkably smooth, a testament to Safariland’s ergonomic design. The key strength is its unwavering reliability in retention, while a potential weakness, albeit minor, is the slight training required to achieve maximum speed in deactivation. It certainly meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is a prime example of form following function. The Plain Black finish is understated yet professional, avoiding unnecessary distractions. The materials feel robust and are molded precisely to the specified firearm, the Heckler & Koch USP 9, 40, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

Ergonomically, the Mid Ride belt loop is a well-chosen feature, balancing accessibility with a lower profile. This positioning reduces the likelihood of the holster printing when worn off-duty and keeps the firearm within easy reach during tactical operations. The slim, compact design is a significant plus, preventing the holster from feeling like a cumbersome appendage. The tactile feel of the retention levers and the hood guard is positive, providing clear feedback when engaged or disengaged.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, Safariland holsters are built for the long haul, and this Level III retention model is no exception. The STX Tactical material used in its construction is highly resistant to abrasion and environmental factors. I anticipate this holster will easily last for many years of rigorous use without significant wear.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is sufficient for the exterior. For the internal locking mechanisms, a light application of silicone lubricant will keep things running smoothly. There are no obvious weak points in its construction; it’s designed to withstand the rigors of professional use, from dusty ranges to adverse weather conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is a complete system, it does offer some avenues for enhancement. The product description explicitly mentions the optional Sentry which can be added to upgrade the retention to Level IV. This Sentry device provides an additional thumb-activated locking mechanism, further securing the firearm.

The holster itself is designed to integrate with Safariland’s various mounting systems, though the Mid Ride belt loop is a standard and highly functional option. For those who use different gear configurations, the compatibility with other Safariland UBL (Universal Belt Loop) accessories offers flexibility. The availability of different finishes such as Basket Weave and Hi-Gloss also allows for some aesthetic customization, although the Plain Black is often preferred for its practical, non-reflective properties.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62?

This Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and any responsible firearm owner who prioritizes maximum firearm retention and security in a duty-oriented context. It’s ideal for those who need to ensure their firearm remains secure during physically demanding activities or in environments where unauthorized access is a concern. If you carry a compatible Heckler & Koch USP 9, 40 and require the confidence of Level III or IV retention, this holster is a top-tier option.

Individuals who might want to skip this product are those looking for a simple, lightweight concealment holster for everyday carry where Level III retention is overkill or cumbersome. Also, anyone carrying a firearm other than the specified Heckler & Koch USP 9, 40 would need to look for a different model. A must-have accessory would be a quality duty belt to properly support the holster and firearm without sag, and perhaps a dedicated cleaning kit to maintain the retention mechanisms.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-91-62 is a superb piece of tactical equipment that delivers on its promise of robust security and efficient access. Its Level III retention, coupled with the ALS Automatic Locking System and Hood Guard, creates an almost impenetrable barrier against accidental or unauthorized firearm removal. The thoughtful design, including the slim profile and Mid Ride UBL, ensures comfortable wear and an intuitive draw stroke, even if some initial practice is required to maximize speed.

Considering its premium price point of $195.00, the value proposition is clear for professionals who demand the best in firearm security. The durability and reliability of this Safariland model justify the investment for those who cannot afford to compromise. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone carrying a compatible Heckler & Koch USP 9, 40 and requiring the utmost confidence in their gear’s retention capabilities. It’s a true professional-grade tool.