Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132 is not just another holster; it’s a statement of intent. It screams readiness, reliability, and refined tactical functionality, brought to you by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear. This particular model, designed for left-handed shooters wielding a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with a safety, offers Level III retention with the option to upgrade to Level IV, ensuring your firearm stays exactly where you need it until you decide otherwise.

I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of tactical training while providing quick, intuitive access to my firearm. My old rig, a simple Level II retention holster, felt inadequate for the increasingly demanding courses I was taking, especially when simulating close-quarters combat scenarios. The Safariland ALS Level III promised the enhanced security I craved without sacrificing speed.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid, no-nonsense construction. The STX Tactical Black finish provided a low-profile, non-reflective surface that felt both durable and professional. The weight felt substantial, reassuringly hinting at the rugged materials used, but not cumbersome enough to be a burden on the belt.

I’ve used similar holsters from Blade-Tech and Blackhawk in the past, but the Safariland ALS stood out with its intuitive ALS (Automatic Locking System) mechanism. While other holsters relied on complicated straps or buttons, the ALS offered a simple, straight-up draw once the releases were deactivated, a critical factor for maintaining speed and efficiency. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – this holster had the potential to be a game-changer, but only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland ALS Level III was at a high-intensity shooting range specializing in dynamic drills and close-quarters combat simulations. The range featured a variety of simulated environments, from dimly lit hallways to outdoor barricades, providing ample opportunity to assess the holster’s performance under pressure. Conditions were slightly dusty, adding another layer of challenge.

The holster performed flawlessly from the start. The ALS system, once mastered, became second nature, allowing for a rapid and consistent draw stroke even under simulated stress. The 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the firearm perfectly for my natural grip, facilitating a smooth and efficient presentation every time.

There was a brief period of familiarization required to fully integrate the ALS deactivation into my draw stroke. However, after a few hours of dedicated practice, the motion became instinctive. The only initial issue I noticed was a slight tightness in the initial draw, which eased up after about 50 repetitions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and two multi-day tactical training courses, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It consistently maintained its level of retention even during strenuous physical activity, providing peace of mind that my weapon was secure. The STX Tactical Black finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated contact with rough surfaces and abrasive gear.

Maintenance is remarkably simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is typically sufficient to remove any dust or debris. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holster, which required frequent adjustments and cleaning to maintain proper retention, the Safariland is a model of low-maintenance dependability.

The Safariland ALS Level III significantly outperforms my previous Level II holster in terms of security and reliability. The added layer of retention provides a greater sense of confidence in high-risk environments, while the intuitive ALS system ensures that access to my firearm remains rapid and efficient. It is a noticeable upgrade in performance and peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132 boasts a robust set of specifications tailored for tactical use:

• Level III Retention: The core feature, providing three independent levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• Level IV Retention (with optional Sentry installed): An upgrade path offering an even greater level of security for extreme situations.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, offering a passive layer of retention.
• Hood Guard: Standard on the 6365 holsters, providing additional security against attempts to disengage the ALS mechanism.
• Slim, compact design: Allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing concealment.
• Simple straight up draw: Ensures a fast and efficient draw stroke once all releases are deactivated.
• Includes Hood Guard: Providing extra security.
• Optional Sentry available: Offers increased retention when installed.
• 1.5″ Belt Drop version: Optimizes the firearm’s position for a natural grip and draw stroke.
• Available in STX Tactical Black: A low-profile, non-reflective finish.
• Category: Duty Gear, signifying its intended use in law enforcement and military applications.
• Group: ALS Holsters, highlighting its integration of the automatic locking system.
• Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black, providing a durable and professional appearance.
• Gun Fit: Smith & Wesson S&W M&P 45C with Safety, ensuring a precise and secure fit.
• Hand: Left, specifically designed for left-handed shooters.

These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance and user experience. The Level III retention ensures that the firearm remains secure during strenuous activity or potential confrontations, while the ALS system allows for a rapid and intuitive draw stroke. The 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL optimizes the firearm’s position for a natural grip and minimizes printing, enhancing both comfort and concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to a firearm. The ALS system functions flawlessly, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is securely locked in place. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for a quick and efficient presentation of the firearm.

The primary strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk environments, while the ALS system allows for a rapid and intuitive draw stroke. The only area for potential improvement is the initial draw tightness, which can be alleviated with a break-in period and proper lubrication. Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III features a slim and compact design that minimizes printing and enhances concealment. The holster is constructed from high-quality polymer, which is both durable and lightweight. The 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL positions the firearm perfectly for my natural grip, facilitating a smooth and efficient draw stroke.

The Safariland ALS Level III is remarkably user-friendly. The ALS system is intuitive to learn and operate, requiring minimal training to master. The holster provides a secure and comfortable fit, even during prolonged periods of wear.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of tactical use. The high-quality polymer construction and rugged design ensure that it will last for years with proper care. The STX Tactical Black finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, maintaining its professional appearance even after extensive use.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep the holster functioning optimally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including various belt loops, thigh rigs, and light attachments. The optional Sentry provides an additional level of retention for extreme situations. It is also compatible with many popular accessories from other brands, allowing for a high degree of customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a high level of security and rapid access to their firearm. It is also ideal for individuals who prioritize durability, reliability, and ease of use.

This product may not be suitable for casual shooters or individuals who prioritize concealment over security. Those who prefer simpler holster designs may also find the ALS system unnecessary.

Must-have accessories include a high-quality tactical belt and appropriate cleaning supplies. The optional Sentry provides an additional level of retention for extreme situations.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-920-132 is an exceptional duty-grade holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and rapid access. The ALS system is intuitive to learn and operate, providing a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The high-quality construction and rugged design ensure that it will last for years with proper care.

The price of $149.99 is justified by the superior quality, performance, and durability of this holster. It is an investment in your safety and readiness.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who requires a high-performance duty holster. If you need a holster that will reliably secure your firearm while providing rapid access when needed, the Safariland ALS Level III is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry setup today, and experience the confidence that comes with carrying a Safariland.