Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand the highest level of weapon retention and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention hood and a convenient drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for optimal carry and draw. The basket weave finish adds a touch of classic professionalism, making it a reliable and aesthetically pleasing choice for anyone serious about their gear.

I’d been searching for a duty holster that balanced speed of draw with robust security after an incident where a suspect attempted to disarm me. I needed something that would give me peace of mind on the job, without sacrificing the ability to quickly deploy my weapon when necessary. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL seemed like the perfect solution.

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected with packing materials. My first impression was that this holster felt incredibly solid and well-made; the basket weave finish looked professional and the materials seemed durable enough to withstand daily use. The weight felt substantial, indicative of its robust construction, but not excessively heavy.

I considered a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Galco SLS before settling on the Safariland. The Serpa’s release mechanism made me uneasy given some documented safety concerns, and the Galco lacked the speed I was looking for. The Safariland’s ALS system and reputation for reliability were the deciding factors.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of intimidation; it looked and felt like serious equipment. I was eager to get it on my belt and put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL at my department’s training range during our annual firearms qualification. I ran several drills, focusing on drawing and re-holstering under pressure. The holster performed flawlessly, providing smooth, consistent draws and secure retention.

The weather was hot and humid, and the holster felt comfortable even with extended wear against my duty uniform. I practiced drawing in multiple positions, including seated in a vehicle, and the holster remained stable and accessible. No issues arose after the initial first use.

Drawing from the holster required a deliberate action to deactivate the ALS, but became intuitive after a few repetitions. The 1.5″ belt drop provided a comfortable grip and draw angle, making it easy to acquire a secure grip on my HK P2000.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are only minor signs of wear, mostly scuff marks on the basket weave finish. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, and the retention remains secure.

The holster is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, and I periodically apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to keep it operating smoothly. I’ve used a few other duty holsters in the past, but the Safariland outperforms them all in terms of retention, accessibility, and durability. It’s become an essential part of my duty gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81

Specifications

• Level III Retention: This holster employs three levels of retention to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This is critical for duty use in potentially combative situations.
• Level IV Retention (with optional Sentry): The ability to upgrade to Level IV retention with the addition of a Safariland Sentry device adds another layer of security. This is useful in particularly high-risk environments.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: The Safariland ALS automatically engages upon holstering the weapon, providing instant security. It allows for a fast, natural draw.
• Hood Guard: A standard hood guard protects the ALS release lever from accidental deactivation. This adds another layer of safety.
• Slim, Compact Design: The holster’s slim profile keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing bulk and improving concealment under a jacket if needed. This feature enhances comfort and prevents snagging.
• Simple Straight Up Draw: Once all releases are deactivated, the weapon can be drawn straight up, providing a natural and efficient draw stroke. This allows for a rapid and accurate presentation.
• 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL: The drop UBL positions the holster slightly lower on the hip, improving accessibility and allowing for more comfortable carry with body armor. This is a significant advantage for officers who wear vests.
• Basket Black Finish: The basket weave finish provides a professional and classic appearance. This is a nice touch for officers concerned with maintaining a sharp uniform appearance.
• Gun Fit: Designed specifically for the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1 with a 3.50″ barrel. This ensures a snug and secure fit.
• Hand: Right-hand draw. This is important to confirm before purchase.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL excels in its primary function: secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the Level III hood provides an added layer of security without hindering draw speed significantly. The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

The holster’s main strength lies in its balanced approach to retention and accessibility. While the ALS and hood require conscious effort to disengage, the draw remains quick and fluid with practice. The main weakness is the limited compatibility; it’s specifically molded for the H&K P2000 and weapon lights mentioned, limiting its usability with other firearms.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend, which is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and temperature extremes. The weight is substantial but not excessive, and the holster sits comfortably on the hip thanks to the drop UBL. The design is clearly focused on functionality and durability, with a clean and professional appearance.

The holster is user-friendly, but requires practice to master the draw stroke. The ALS and hood release mechanisms are easily accessible with the thumb and middle finger, respectively.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is built to last. I expect it to withstand years of daily use with proper care. The holster is easy to maintain with regular cleaning and lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL comes with the hood guard pre-installed. The Sentry is an optional purchase that enhances retention to Level IV. The UBL can be swapped for different heights or mounting options.

The holster is designed to accommodate specific weapon lights (ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200/X300, LAS-TAC2, SSL-1), providing a secure fit. It’s also compatible with a variety of Safariland belt loops and accessories.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It’s ideal for those who carry a Heckler & Koch P2000 with a compatible weapon light and prioritize security above all else.

This holster is not suitable for individuals who carry a different firearm or weapon light, or those who prefer a simpler, less secure holster design. Someone looking for a universal holster should skip this product.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry for Level IV retention (if needed), and potentially a different UBL height depending on personal preference. Regular cleaning and lubrication are also essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-1972-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon retention, accessibility, and durability. While its limited firearm compatibility may be a drawback for some, its performance with the H&K P2000 is outstanding. The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction.

I would highly recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who carries the specified firearm and prioritizes weapon security. The peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment. Upgrade your duty rig today and experience the difference a Safariland holster can make.