Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel who require a high level of weapon retention and a professional appearance. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating. The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a sleek, professional look, while the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.

I needed a holster that provided both security and accessibility for my duty weapon, a S&W M&P 45C with thumb safety. The Safariland ALS system had always impressed me with its intuitive operation and robust retention. I was also seeking a Level III holster with a drop platform to improve my draw speed and comfort during extended patrol shifts.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland ALS Level III immediately impressed me with its sturdy construction and polished finish. The Hi-Gloss Black was impeccable, and the molded polymer felt extremely durable. The Drop UBL was pre-installed and appeared ready to attach to my duty belt, promising a comfortable and stable platform.

I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906 before settling on the Safariland. I chose the Safariland due to its superior ALS retention system and the proven reputation of Safariland holsters in law enforcement. The Blackhawk! system felt less intuitive to me, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of active retention.

My first impression was one of excitement and confidence. This wasn’t just another holster; it was a piece of professional gear that instilled a sense of readiness. I felt prepared to face the challenges of my job with a secure and accessible sidearm, thanks to the Safariland ALS Level III.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III at the range during a training session with my department. We ran drills that simulated various real-world scenarios, including drawing under stress and engaging targets from different positions. The holster performed admirably, providing a smooth and consistent draw stroke once the retention devices were disengaged.

The weather was mildly humid that day, but the grip of the holster remained solid, and the release mechanisms functioned without issue. The Drop UBL design made drawing from a seated position in my patrol vehicle significantly easier and faster than with my previous mid-ride holster. I found the draw to be intuitive, requiring only a slight adjustment from my previous holster.

The only issue I encountered was a slight stiffness in the hood guard release initially. After a few practice draws, however, it smoothed out and became much easier to operate. This initial stiffness was minor and quickly resolved with repeated use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be an exceptionally reliable piece of equipment. The holster has endured rain, dust, and the general wear and tear of law enforcement duty without showing any significant signs of degradation. The finish has held up well, with only minor scuffs in areas that experience high friction.

The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing secure retention and a smooth, consistent release every time. I regularly clean the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure optimal performance. This minimal maintenance keeps the holster working like new.

Compared to my previous duty holster, which was a Safariland Level II, the Level III provides a noticeable increase in security without sacrificing accessibility. The added hood guard offers an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access, giving me peace of mind in potentially volatile situations. This holster has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91 boasts several key specifications:

• Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the weapon. This is achieved through a combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This feature is intuitive and allows for a fast and natural draw stroke.
• Hood Guard: A rotating hood that covers the weapon’s hammer or rear slide, adding another layer of security. The hood guard requires a separate motion to disengage, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Positions the holster lower on the belt, allowing for a more comfortable draw, especially when wearing body armor or seated in a vehicle. The 1.5″ belt drop is ideal for duty belts.
• Hi-Gloss Black Finish: Offers a professional and sleek appearance, making it suitable for law enforcement and security personnel. The Hi-Gloss Black is easy to clean and maintain.
• Gun Fit: Specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson S&W M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3. This ensures a secure and snug fit, preventing movement or rattling of the firearm.
• Right Hand: Designed for right-handed users, optimizing draw speed and accessibility for right-handed shooters. The right-hand configuration provides a natural and efficient draw.
• Optional Sentry Installed: Upgrades to Level IV retention.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s ability to protect the weapon, provide a comfortable carry, and allow for a quick and efficient draw. The Level III retention is essential for preventing unauthorized access, while the Drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility. The specific gun fit ensures a secure and reliable holster-weapon interface.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a duty holster. The ALS mechanism provides a secure and reliable lock on the weapon, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for a fast and efficient presentation of the firearm.

The holster’s strengths lie in its intuitive operation, robust retention, and comfortable carry. The ALS release is easily activated with the thumb, and the Drop UBL positions the weapon for a natural and ergonomic draw. The only potential weakness is the initial stiffness of the hood guard, which can be easily overcome with practice.

Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. It provides a high level of security, a comfortable carry, and a fast and efficient draw, making it an excellent choice for law enforcement and security personnel. The system is highly reliable and inspires confidence in high-pressure situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III is outstanding, featuring durable molded polymer that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear, thanks to the Drop UBL design. The Hi-Gloss Black finish gives it a professional and polished appearance.

The holster is user-friendly, with an intuitive ALS release and a simple hood guard mechanism. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the hood guard release, but this is quickly overcome with practice. The Drop UBL positions the weapon at an optimal height for a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.

The design and ergonomics of the Safariland ALS Level III are well thought out, prioritizing security, comfort, and accessibility. The holster is a testament to Safariland’s commitment to producing high-quality, user-friendly duty gear. The design encourages confidence in the user, knowing that their weapon is secure and readily accessible.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last, with durable materials and robust construction that can withstand the demands of daily use. The holster is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring that it will maintain its integrity over time. With proper care, it will provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster can be easily disassembled for cleaning and inspection, allowing for thorough maintenance and care. The durable construction and easy maintenance contribute to the holster’s long-term value.

The Safariland ALS Level III is designed to provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance. Its robust construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a worthwhile investment for law enforcement and security personnel. This holster is an investment in the user’s safety and professional readiness.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with the Drop UBL. The optional Sentry enhances the retention to Level IV.

The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical accessories. These accessories allow users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. The ability to customize the holster further enhances its value and versatility.

The Safariland ALS Level III offers a range of customization options, allowing users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences. This flexibility, combined with the holster’s robust features and reliable performance, makes it an excellent choice for law enforcement and security personnel. The customization options ensure that the holster can adapt to changing needs and operational requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Hi Gloss Black, Right 6365-9202-91