Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a reliable, consistent draw. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention configuration, offering both security and speed. Its sleek design and durable construction promise to stand up to the rigors of daily carry while providing quick access to your sidearm when it matters most.

My journey to finding the perfect duty holster wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. Years ago, during a particularly aggressive training exercise, my existing holster failed, resulting in an uncontrolled weapon drop. After that incident, I vowed to find a holster that was both secure and practical for everyday carry. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL quickly rose to the top of my list.

Upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The plain black finish offered a professional, no-nonsense look. The holster felt solid and well-made, and the ALS mechanism clicked smoothly into place when my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C was holstered.

I considered several other options, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland because of its reputation for quality, the proven ALS system, and the added Level III security without sacrificing a smooth, natural draw. The Blackhawk’s push-button release always felt a bit unnatural to me, and the Bianchi lacked the positive retention I was looking for.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a holster that addressed my specific needs for security and accessibility, but I also knew that real-world performance is what truly matters. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL came during a week-long firearms training course. The range provided a controlled environment, allowing me to practice drawing and re-holstering repeatedly, while also simulating various scenarios. I also needed to perform duties in torrential rain.

The holster performed flawlessly in both dry and wet conditions. The ALS system engaged consistently, and the draw stroke became intuitive after just a few repetitions. I was particularly impressed by how securely the pistol remained in the holster during dynamic movements, such as running and taking cover.

After the first day, I noticed a slight hot spot where the holster rubbed against my thigh during movement. A minor adjustment of the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) resolved the issue, and I experienced no further discomfort. Overall, the first use was overwhelmingly positive, and I felt confident in the holster’s reliability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL continues to impress me. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond the expected minor scuff marks. The ALS mechanism still functions smoothly, and the holster provides the same level of secure retention as day one.

Maintenance is minimal. I wipe down the holster with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and grime, and I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This simple routine keeps the holster in top condition.

In comparison to my previous holsters, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL far exceeds my expectations. The level of security and the ease of draw are unmatched. This holster instilled in me a sense of confidence that I lacked with previous systems.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61

Specifications

• Level III Retention: This holster utilizes multiple levels of retention to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. The Level III Retention system includes the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a hood guard.
• Level IV Retention (with optional Sentry): With the addition of the optional Sentry device, the holster can be upgraded to Level IV Retention, providing an even higher degree of security. This is a great feature for those needing increased protection.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in the holster once it’s holstered. It is automatically activated. To release the weapon, the user simply deactivates the ALS with their thumb while establishing a firing grip.
• Hood Guard: The Hood Guard is a standard feature on the 6365 holster. It provides additional security against attempted weapon takeaways.
• Slim, Compact Design: This holster is designed to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The Slim, Compact Design is ideal for concealed carry or duty use.
• Simple Straight Up Draw: Once all retention devices are deactivated, the weapon can be drawn straight up with minimal resistance. This Simple Straight Up Draw ensures a fast and efficient presentation.
• Includes Hood Guard, Optional Sentry Available: The holster comes standard with a hood guard. The Optional Sentry upgrade adds another layer of retention.
• 1.5″ Belt Drop Version: The 1.5″ Belt Drop positions the holster slightly lower on the belt line, improving access and comfort, particularly when wearing body armor. This is achieved via Safariland’s UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system.
• Available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss finish or STX TACTICAL: The holster is available in several finishes to match your duty gear or personal preference. The Plain Black finish offers a professional and understated look.
• Gun Fit: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P 45C w/o Safety: Specifically designed to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without a manual safety. This ensures a secure and proper fit.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, accessibility, and overall usability. The Level III retention provides peace of mind knowing that your weapon is secure, while the ALS system ensures a smooth and efficient draw. The drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing bulky gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL excels in both performance and functionality. The ALS system provides positive retention without hindering the draw stroke. The holster rides comfortably and securely on the belt, even during strenuous activity.

The only potential weakness is the slight learning curve associated with deactivating the ALS while establishing a proper grip. However, with practice, the motion becomes second nature. Overall, the holster exceeds expectations in terms of security, accessibility, and comfort.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland holster features a durable and well-thought-out design. The materials are high-quality, and the construction is robust. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The design is user-friendly, although the ALS mechanism does require some familiarization. The drop UBL enhances ergonomics by positioning the holster at an optimal height.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that is needed to keep the holster in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with the hood guard and the 1.5″ drop UBL. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and the optional Sentry device.
It’s also compatible with most MOLLE attachment systems. This allows for customization and adaptation to individual preferences and operational needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable, consistent draw. It is also a great choice for those who prioritize safety and security above all else.

This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals who primarily engage in recreational shooting activities. It is also not recommended for those who prefer minimalist holsters or concealed carry options with a lower profile.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry upgrade for enhanced Level IV retention. Additionally, a quality duty belt is essential for proper holster support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-919-61 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and performance. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is well worth it for those who demand the best. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who prioritizes weapon retention and a smooth, consistent draw. The peace of mind and confidence that this holster provides are invaluable.

If you are looking for a duty-grade holster that will stand up to the test and provide you with the security and accessibility you need, look no further than the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL. Invest in your safety and performance.