Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 Review

What Makes the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 Stand Out?

For over a decade, I’ve relied on robust equipment across diverse operational environments, from the sterile confines of a lab bench to the unforgiving terrain of the field. My experience dictates that when it comes to retaining a critical tool, especially a firearm, compromise is not an option. This is precisely why the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 captured my attention. Safariland is a name synonymous with dependable duty gear, and this holster promised a level of security and accessibility that is paramount for professionals.

The need for a reliable, high-retention holster became starkly apparent during a particularly demanding training exercise. My previous setup, while adequate for general use, proved insufficient when subjected to aggressive movement and unexpected jolts, leading to a near-mishap that underscored the importance of absolute weapon retention. I needed something that offered more than just a basic friction fit; I needed a system that actively secured the firearm while still allowing for a swift, intuitive draw under pressure.

Upon receiving the Safariland ALS holster, the initial impression was one of solid construction. The Plain Black STX Tactical finish offered a non-reflective, professional look, and the material felt durable and well-molded. It exuded a sense of confidence right out of the box, a critical first step for any piece of gear I intend to stake my safety on. I briefly considered some competitor brands known for their modularity, but ultimately, Safariland’s established reputation for security tipped the scales.

The immediate feeling was one of assurance. This wasn’t just another piece of plastic; it was a carefully engineered piece of equipment designed for a critical purpose, and it felt like it.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing for the Safariland ALS holster took place primarily on the range and during strenuous tactical movement drills. This involved rapid drawing and re-holstering under stress, simulating dynamic scenarios where weapon retention is paramount. The holster was mounted to a standard duty belt, allowing for a realistic assessment of its stability and compatibility.

During these sessions, I intentionally exposed the holster to a range of conditions. This included prolonged periods of movement where sweat and friction are common, as well as brief, light rain showers during outdoor exercises. The ALS Automatic Locking System performed flawlessly, maintaining a secure grip on my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without any perceivable loosening or degradation.

The ease of use was surprisingly high. While the three-point retention system (ALS, Hood Guard, and the optional Sentry) initially seemed complex, the manual and a quick familiarization session made the disengagement process intuitive. A simple thumb press releases the ALS, followed by a push of the Hood Guard. The straight-up draw motion, once all releases were deactivated, felt natural and efficient, requiring minimal conscious thought.

My only minor surprise was the slight stiffness of the Hood Guard on the very first few draws. However, this quickly became smoother with use, a common characteristic of well-built polymer gear that needs a brief break-in period.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, spanning numerous range days, training courses, and even some casual wear during fieldwork where I wanted that extra layer of security, this Safariland ALS holster continues to impress. It has become my go-to for any situation demanding absolute confidence in my sidearm’s retention.

The durability has been exceptional. Despite countless draws and re-holsters, and even an accidental drop of the entire pistol-holster unit onto a concrete floor during a particularly clumsy moment, there are no visible cracks, structural weaknesses, or significant scuffs on the holster itself. The Plain Black finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor polishing where the pistol slides, a testament to the robust material.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of occasional dusting and a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. The holster’s design sheds debris relatively well, and there are no complex mechanisms that require specialized cleaning. Compared to other holsters I’ve used, budget options often show wear quickly, developing loose fits or cracked retention tabs, while premium alternatives can be overly complex or require constant adjustment. This Safariland model strikes an excellent balance, offering superior retention without excessive fuss.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 is engineered with specific features for professional use. It boasts Level III Retention, a critical security standard in many tactical environments. This level of retention is achieved through a combination of the ALS Automatic Locking System and the Hood Guard, which together prevent unwanted firearm removal. For even greater security, the holster is designed to accommodate an optional Sentry device, thereby upgrading its retention capabilities to Level IV.

The holster features a Mid Ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height on the duty belt for quick access without being excessively high. Its construction utilizes a durable, injection-molded polymer that is both lightweight and incredibly strong, designed to withstand rigorous use. The Plain Black STX Tactical finish is non-reflective, crucial for minimizing visibility in operational settings. This model is specifically molded for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Safety, ensuring a precise and secure fit for that particular firearm.

These specifications translate directly into practical performance. The Level III Retention means I can move, run, or even grapple without worrying about my firearm dislodging. The Mid Ride UBL offers a good balance between accessibility and stability on the belt, preventing the holster from riding too high or low. The specialized molding for the S&W M&P 45C ensures a snug fit, which is fundamental for reliable retention and a consistent draw.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any duty holster is to securely retain the firearm while allowing for a swift and predictable draw. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 excels in this regard. The ALS Automatic Locking System is the cornerstone of its performance; once the firearm is holstered, it is firmly locked in place by a thumb-activated lever. This system is designed to be disengaged with a natural thumb sweep during the draw stroke, making the process fluid and fast.

The Hood Guard adds an additional layer of security, protecting the firearm’s rear sight and further preventing any potential grabs or snags that could compromise retention. Together, the ALS and Hood Guard provide a robust defense against weapon retention threats. The straight-up draw once all retention devices are deactivated is a well-thought-out ergonomic design that minimizes fumbling under stress.

Its main strength lies in its unwavering security without significantly impeding the draw speed. This is a delicate balance that Safariland has masterfully achieved. The only minor critique I might offer is that for someone completely new to three-point retention systems, there might be a slight initial learning curve to ensure all releases are disengaged smoothly in one motion. However, this is quickly overcome with practice. Considering its price point and the level of security it offers, it not only meets but exceeds expectations for duty-grade equipment.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland ALS holster prioritizes functionality and user-friendliness in high-stress environments. The injection-molded polymer construction provides a rigid and durable shell that is precisely contoured to the firearm it is designed for. This precise molding ensures a snug fit, which is crucial for the holster’s retention capabilities. The Plain Black STX Tactical finish offers a matte, non-reflective surface that reduces glare and blends well with tactical gear.

Ergonomically, the holster is designed for efficient operation. The placement of the ALS release lever is intuitive, falling naturally under the thumb during a standard draw stroke. The Hood Guard is designed to be pushed forward with the thumb as well, initiating the draw sequence. This two-step disengagement process (ALS release, then Hood Guard push) is a hallmark of Safariland’s design philosophy for high-security holsters.

The Mid Ride UBL is a well-established and comfortable mounting solution for duty belts, keeping the firearm accessible without interfering with a plate carrier or other tactical equipment. It allows for a natural grip on the pistol. While the holster is designed for a specific firearm, its overall form factor is relatively slim for a Level III retention device, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, which aids in concealment under a jacket or coat if needed.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a key selling point for any Safariland product, and this ALS holster is no exception. The hard polymer construction is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty or intense training. I have personally seen these holsters take significant abuse – scrapes, impacts, and exposure to the elements – and continue to function perfectly. The retention mechanisms, particularly the ALS and the Hood Guard, are designed for longevity and maintain their tension and functionality over time.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning involves wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The interior channels where the firearm slides can be cleaned with a soft brush or compressed air. Importantly, the ALS system doesn’t typically require lubrication, though a light application of silicone lubricant to the Hood Guard pivot point can ensure smooth operation, especially after extensive use or exposure to moisture.

There are no obvious failure points in this design; it’s built for resilience. The main concern for any holster user is the potential for wear on the firearm’s finish due to repeated drawing and re-holstering. However, the smooth, precise molding of this Safariland holster minimizes excessive friction, and the Plain Black STX Tactical finish on the holster itself is very resistant to wear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 comes equipped with the Mid Ride UBL, which is a highly functional and widely adopted belt loop system. This UBL allows for secure attachment to belts ranging from 1.5 to 2.25 inches wide, making it incredibly versatile. The holster is also designed to accommodate an optional Sentry device. This small, yet significant, addition provides an extra layer of security by covering the ALS thumb release lever, effectively upgrading the holster’s retention from Level III to Level IV.

While the holster itself is molded for a specific firearm model (Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Safety), the UBL mounting point often allows for compatibility with other Safariland belt loop and attachment systems. This modularity means users can adapt the holster to different carrying platforms, such as drop-leg thigh rigs or chest rigs, by purchasing alternative attachment accessories from Safariland. However, for this specific configuration, the included Mid Ride UBL is optimized for belt carry.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62?

This Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 is unequivocally suited for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who require maximum weapon retention in their daily operations or training. If your role involves dynamic movement, potential close-quarters threats, or simply demands the utmost confidence that your firearm will remain secured, this holster is an excellent choice. It is ideal for those who prioritize security and reliability above all else.

Individuals who are looking for a basic, no-frills holster for concealed carry with minimal retention needs, or those on an extremely tight budget, might find this model to be over-engineered and potentially more expensive than necessary. Furthermore, if you carry a firearm other than the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Safety, this specific holster will not be compatible.

For those who opt for this holster, investing in the optional Sentry device is highly recommended if your operational environment warrants Level IV retention. Additionally, ensuring you have a sturdy duty-grade belt that can properly support the weight of the firearm and holster is crucial for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL – Plain Black, Left 6360-919-62 is a testament to Safariland’s reputation for producing top-tier duty equipment. It masterfully balances exceptional weapon security with a functional, rapid draw, all within a durable and practical design. The build quality is evident, and the Level III Retention system provides a significant advantage in operational scenarios where weapon security is paramount.

Considering its robust construction, reliable performance, and the critical security it offers, the $195.00 price point is justified for anyone who relies on their sidearm for professional duty or self-defense. It represents a wise investment in safety and readiness.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any professional or responsible firearm owner who carries a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Safety and requires a Level III retention solution. If your needs demand absolute confidence in your gear, this Safariland holster delivers without compromise.