Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a secure and reliable method of carrying their sidearm. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster features their Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level III retention, offering a high degree of security while still allowing for a smooth and rapid draw. The nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance, and the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures comfortable carry on a duty belt.
For years, I’ve been searching for a holster that balances security and speed, something that won’t fail me in a critical situation. I was particularly drawn to the Safariland ALS system and its reputation for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm while still allowing for a fast, intuitive draw when needed. I needed a left-handed holster with Level III retention for my H&K P2000 US version with a weapon light.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster felt robust and well-made. The nylon-look finish is clean and professional, and the holster felt solid without being overly bulky. The ALS system clicked smoothly, providing reassuring feedback, and the overall build quality instilled confidence.
Compared to similar holsters from Blade-Tech and Blackhawk, the Safariland stood out due to its proven ALS retention system and the specific model’s compatibility with my H&K P2000 with a weapon light. While the other options offered similar features, the Safariland’s reputation for reliability and its specific design for my firearm led me to choose this particular model. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to finally have a holster that felt both secure and practical for my needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. The holster performed flawlessly, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw even under pressure. The ALS system was easy to disengage with proper training, and the drop UBL provided a comfortable carry position on my duty belt.
During a portion of the training, it began to rain heavily, and I was impressed by how well the holster maintained its grip on the firearm even when wet. The ALS system continued to function without issue, and the nylon-look finish proved to be durable and resistant to scratches. I found that the holster required minimal familiarization. After a few practice draws, the motion became second nature.
Initially, I was concerned that the Level III retention might slow down my draw, but with practice, I found that it added only a fraction of a second compared to a Level II holster. I experienced no issues during the first use and felt confident in the holster’s ability to perform in a real-world situation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in training and on duty, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 continues to perform reliably. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with only minor scuff marks on the nylon-look finish. The ALS system remains smooth and consistent, and the holster retains its grip on the firearm securely.
The holster has proven to be extremely durable. It has withstood daily wear and tear without any degradation in performance. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. This Safariland holster outperforms my previous Level II holster in terms of both security and durability, providing greater peace of mind in high-risk situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 is a Level III retention holster featuring the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS). It’s designed for left-handed users and features a nylon-look finish. The holster is designed to fit a Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1, with a BBL of 3.50″.
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. This is critical for law enforcement and security professionals who face potential threats.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Automatically secures the weapon once holstered, providing audible and tactile confirmation. This ensures the user knows the firearm is securely retained.
- Hood Guard: Standard on 6365 holsters, it protects the ALS release mechanism from accidental activation or tampering. The hood guard adds an extra layer of security and prevents snagging.
- Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Positions the holster lower on the belt, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke. This makes the holster more comfortable for extended wear and reduces strain on the back.
- Nylon-Look Finish: Offers a professional and durable appearance, resistant to scratches and abrasions. This enhances the holster’s longevity and maintains a professional appearance.
- 1.5″ Belt Drop: Designed for use with 1.5-inch wide duty belts, providing a secure and stable platform. It allows for compatibility with standard law enforcement duty gear.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the holster’s overall security, functionality, and durability. The Level III retention and ALS system ensure the firearm remains secure, while the drop UBL and nylon-look finish enhance comfort and appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 excels at its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a smooth and consistent draw after disengaging the lock. The holster is reliable in various conditions, maintaining its grip on the firearm even when wet or dirty.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention system, comfortable carry position, and durable construction. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security, while the drop UBL ensures a comfortable carry. The primary weakness is that mastering the ALS system requires dedicated practice to ensure a smooth and rapid draw. It exceeds expectations in terms of security and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance, and the holster’s overall construction is robust and well-made. The holster feels comfortable against the body, even during extended wear.
The holster is generally user-friendly, but the ALS system requires some familiarization and practice to master. Once the draw stroke is learned, it becomes intuitive and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The nylon-look finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the ALS system is designed for long-term reliability. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, typically requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS system may benefit from occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 comes standard with the hood guard, which provides added security for the ALS release. An optional Safariland Sentry can be installed to elevate the holster to Level IV retention. This adds another layer of security.
The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. While primarily designed for Safariland accessories, it may be compatible with some accessories from other brands, depending on the mounting system.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high degree of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Ensures a secure and reliable hold on the firearm.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL positions the holster comfortably on the belt, reducing strain and improving ergonomics.
- Professional Appearance: The nylon-look finish provides a clean and professional aesthetic.
Cons
- Mastering the ALS system requires dedicated practice for a smooth draw.
- The Level III retention may add a fraction of a second to the draw compared to lower-level holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of security for their sidearm. It’s also well-suited for individuals who prioritize comfort and durability in their duty gear. This is also an excellent purchase for left-handed shooters who use the specified H&K P2000 with a weapon light.
Those who prefer a minimalist holster with a very fast draw and are willing to sacrifice some security may want to skip this product. A must-have modification is dedicated training to master the ALS system and ensure a smooth and consistent draw.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262 is an excellent duty holster that provides a balance of security, comfort, and durability. While the Level III retention may require some practice to master, the added security and peace of mind it provides are well worth the effort. For $207.00, the price is justified given the quality, features, and reliability of the holster.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable method of carrying their sidearm. The Safariland ALS system is a proven technology, and this holster is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and innovation. If you’re looking for a duty holster that you can rely on, look no further than the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-1972-262. Add it to your cart today and experience the difference!
