Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 is more than just a holster; it’s a statement of readiness and professionalism. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, this holster offers a blend of secure weapon retention and rapid accessibility.

I needed a duty holster that could stand up to the rigors of both range training and potential real-world tactical situations, and the Safariland reputation for reliability drew me in. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the holster’s robust construction and the distinct basket weave pattern.

While I considered other holsters with similar retention levels, the Safariland‘s Automatic Locking System (ALS) and included Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) made it the clear winner over a Blackhawk! Serpa and a generic Level II retention holster. My first impression was one of confidence; this felt like a holster I could truly rely on.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 primarily at an outdoor shooting range and during several force-on-force training exercises. The weather conditions ranged from hot and sunny to light rain, providing a good test of its performance in different environments.

The ALS system proved intuitive and easy to use, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I got the hang of deactivating the release. Even with wet hands or wearing gloves, the release remained accessible and functional. There were no malfunctions or unexpected releases during my initial testing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 has held up exceptionally well. The basket weave finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated contact with gear and clothing.

Cleaning is straightforward, usually just requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust or debris. Comparing it to my previous holsters, the Safariland outperforms them significantly in terms of both retention and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 is designed for right-handed users and compatible with the Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel. It offers Level III Retention, with the potential to achieve Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed.

The ALS Automatic Locking System is a key feature, securing the weapon the moment it’s holstered, while the included Hood Guard enhances security. The Drop UBL allows for a 1.5″ belt drop, positioning the firearm for a faster and more comfortable draw. The holster boasts a basket weave finish in black.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, accessibility, and comfort. The Level III retention provides a high level of security against unauthorized removal.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to the firearm. The ALS system is both reliable and intuitive, allowing for a consistent draw under pressure.

The holster’s main strength is its secure retention combined with a smooth, straight-up draw once the releases are deactivated. The only area for potential improvement might be the addition of more aggressive texturing on the ALS release lever for enhanced grip in extreme conditions. It definitely meets my expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The build quality is excellent, using durable materials that inspire confidence.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but once learned, it becomes second nature. The Drop UBL is well-designed and positions the firearm in an optimal location for a natural and efficient draw.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81 is built to last for many years of regular use. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the overall construction is solid and robust.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and perhaps a touch of lubricant on the ALS mechanism. It’s a duty holster that’s easy to keep in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with the Hood Guard for added weapon security. Safariland also offers an optional Sentry device that can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV.

While the holster is primarily designed for use with the Beretta PX4 Storm, the UBL is compatible with other Safariland holster bodies, allowing for some flexibility in weapon platforms. There is also a wide variety of accessories like leg straps, and other mounting options that can be attached to the UBL.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-181-81