Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91

In the world of duty gear, Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability, and the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91 is no exception. This holster is designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand the highest level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I was looking for a holster that offered a secure Level III retention system without sacrificing speed and accessibility; the positive reputation surrounding Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) piqued my interest. My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III was one of solid construction and attention to detail, it’s Hi-Gloss Black finish providing an authoritative and professional aesthetic.

I considered options from Blackhawk and Bianchi, both reputable holster manufacturers, but the Safariland’s ALS system and proven track record ultimately swayed my decision. The Safariland seemed to offer a better balance of retention, speed, and comfort compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used in the past.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the level of security was immediately apparent, but I was eager to see how it translated into practical use during range drills and field scenarios. I was excited to put this holster through its paces and determine if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland ALS Level III primarily at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The initial setup took a few minutes to adjust the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) to my preferred ride height on my duty belt.

I subjected the holster to a range of conditions, including simulated rain (using a garden hose) and deliberate dust exposure. The ALS system continued to function flawlessly, even with moisture and debris present.

The draw felt unnatural at first, requiring a deliberate thumb sweep to disengage the ALS; however, after a few hours of practice, it became fluid and intuitive. I did initially experience some difficulty re-holstering under pressure, occasionally fumbling with the hood guard but this diminished quickly with dedicated training.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during training exercises and simulated patrols, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be a reliable and robust piece of gear. The hi-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, does show minor scratches and scuffs from everyday wear.

The holster has exhibited no signs of mechanical failure or degradation; the ALS system continues to lock and release smoothly, and the hood guard remains securely in place. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism has kept the holster in top condition.

Compared to my previous holster, a Level II retention model from a different manufacturer, the Safariland offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The added level of retention offers more confidence in high-risk situations, but also demanded more dedicated training to maintain draw speed and efficiency.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91

Specifications

• The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91 is a Level III retention holster, meaning it utilizes multiple security features to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. It also can achieve Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed.

• The holster features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering and is deactivated with a simple thumb swipe. The hood guard adds an additional layer of security, preventing the ALS release from being accessed easily by someone other than the user.

• The slim and compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing comfort. It includes a 1.5″ Belt Drop version UBL (Universal Belt Loop).

• The holster is available in various finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX Tactical; this specific model comes in a professional-looking Hi-Gloss Black finish. The Hi-Gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may be more prone to showing scratches and scuffs compared to other finishes.

• The holster is designed for a right-handed shooter and specifically fitted for Heckler & Koch USP 9/40 models with a 4.25″ barrel (manufacture date of 2308 and after) and USP 9/40 models with a 4.25″ barrel. It is important to verify the specific firearm compatibility before purchasing to ensure proper fit and function.

These specifications are crucial for professionals in law enforcement and security, where weapon retention and rapid deployment are paramount. The level of retention offered by the Safariland ALS Level III, combined with its comfortable design and specific firearm compatibility, makes it a top choice for those who prioritize security and accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

• The Safariland ALS Level III performs exceptionally well in securing the firearm and preventing unauthorized removal. The ALS system provides an audible and tactile confirmation when the weapon is properly holstered.

• The primary weakness lies in the learning curve associated with mastering the draw stroke while deactivating both the ALS and the hood guard under stress.

• The holster definitely meets expectations; it delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and relatively fast draw speed, once mastered. The smooth operation of the ALS mechanism gives the user a great sense of confidence.

Design & Ergonomics

• The Safariland ALS Level III holster is constructed from durable Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The holster’s weight is well-balanced and doesn’t feel overly bulky when worn on a duty belt.
• While the ALS system requires some initial training, the overall design is user-friendly and allows for a natural grip during the draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

• The Safariland ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven material is resistant to scratches, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
• Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is sufficient to keep the holster in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

• The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with a hood guard and the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) attachment, allowing for a lower ride height. The optional Sentry device can be installed to achieve Level IV retention.
• Safariland offers a wide range of accessories compatible with the ALS Level III holster, including different belt attachments, leg shrouds, and optic protectors. The holster is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories designed for Safariland holsters, providing ample customization options to suit individual preferences and operational needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91?

• Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention for duty use. Also, anyone that uses a Heckler & Koch USP 9/40 models with a 4.25″ barrel (manufacture date of 2308 and after) and USP 9/40 models with a 4.25″ barrel.
• Who should skip this product? Those who prioritize a minimalist holster design or those unwilling to invest the time and effort to master the Level III retention system.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A Safariland leg shroud for tactical operations, and regular practice to maintain proficiency with the ALS draw stroke.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-91-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and reliable performance. The price of $207.80 is justified by the high-quality materials, robust construction, and the added security provided by the Level III ALS system.

I would personally recommend this holster to any law enforcement or security professional who prioritizes weapon retention and is willing to invest the time to master the draw stroke. The peace of mind and confidence that comes with knowing your firearm is secure is well worth the investment. Don’t wait – upgrade your duty gear with the Safariland ALS Level III and experience the difference for yourself.