Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and quick access. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design, providing excellent security without sacrificing a smooth, straight-up draw. The basket weave finish offers a professional appearance, and the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable carry and versatile mounting options.
My search for a new duty holster began after an incident where my previous holster’s retention failed during a foot pursuit. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily use, provide superior weapon security, and allow for a fast and efficient draw when needed. I wanted a Level III retention holster but was not happy with the bulkiness of some of the other products on the market.
Upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82, I was immediately impressed with the build quality. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, with a high level of attention to detail in the basket weave finish and overall design. The materials felt durable and ready for daily duty use.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906 holster before deciding on the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82. I found the ALS system to be more intuitive and reliable than the Serpa’s trigger finger release, and the Safariland holster offered a slimmer profile compared to the Bianchi Accumold. The Safariland promised a better balance of retention and speed.
My initial impression of the holster was one of excitement. The combination of a reputable brand, proven retention system, and aesthetically pleasing design made me eager to put it to the test. I looked forward to seeing how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 at the shooting range during a training session simulating various scenarios. The weather was sunny and dry, which provided ideal conditions for evaluating the holster’s draw speed and retention capabilities. I incorporated movement drills, shooting from cover, and simulated suspect apprehension scenarios into the training.
The holster performed exceptionally well under these conditions. The ALS system engaged smoothly upon holstering, providing a secure lock on the weapon, and the release mechanism was intuitive and easy to operate with my thumb. My draw stroke was natural and fluid.
There were no major issues encountered during the first-time use. Initially, the hood guard required a bit of familiarization, but after a few practice draws, it became second nature. The slim profile also was greatly appreciated as I moved through barricades and tightened my belt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during duty shifts and additional training sessions, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has seen use in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, snow, and high humidity, and it continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of rust or corrosion.
The holster has held up remarkably well to the daily wear and tear of law enforcement duty. The basket weave finish shows minor scuff marks, but the overall construction remains solid, and the retention system continues to function as intended. The Safariland has definitely met my expectation of durability.
Maintaining the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 is simple. I periodically wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris and occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. This keeps it operating smoothly.
Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland has exceeded my expectations in terms of both retention and draw speed. The Level III retention provides a much greater sense of security, and the ALS system allows for a faster and more consistent draw than my previous thumb-break holster. I feel safer and more confident on duty because of this Safariland holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 boasts several key specifications: It features Level III retention and optional Level IV retention with the Sentry add-on. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon upon holstering, while the hood guard is standard.
The holster is designed for a slim and compact profile, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. It facilitates a simple straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated. The package includes the hood guard, and a Sentry is optionally available for Level IV retention.
The Safariland is a 1.5″ belt drop version and comes in a Basket Black finish. It’s configured for a left-hand draw and specifically molded to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety and IT M3 light.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring a secure and efficient carry. The level of retention provides confidence in high-risk situations, while the slim design enhances comfort and concealability. The custom molding also guarantees a snug fit, preventing the weapon from shifting during movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 performs its job exceptionally well. It offers a secure and reliable method of carrying a firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw when needed. This is critical in duty situations.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention system, comfortable carry, and ease of use. However, one potential weakness is that the Level III retention system may require some practice to master for those unfamiliar with the ALS system. It is still worth the time to practice.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations in terms of security, draw speed, and overall quality. I have not had a failure of any kind during my extended time using the product. It gives peace of mind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 has a very sturdy build quality, using durable materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism. The holster also has a weight that makes it feel secure, without being too heavy.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although it may require some initial practice to become fully proficient with the ALS release mechanism and hood guard. The learning curve is relatively short, and after a few practice sessions, the draw stroke becomes natural and intuitive. The adjustability in the drop UBL is very helpful.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 is built to last and should provide years of reliable service with proper care. The durable materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This holster should be ready to go when you need it.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland if needed. No repairs have been needed thus far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 comes standard with a hood guard to prevent unauthorized access to the weapon. There is also an optional Sentry available, which adds an additional layer of security, upgrading the holster to Level IV retention. This provides additional peace of mind.
The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and light attachments. It can be customized to fit a variety of firearms with different light and laser configurations. This gives me a great deal of flexibility in how I carry my duty weapon.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The Level III ALS system provides excellent weapon security, preventing unauthorized access while still allowing for a fast and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: The holster is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The slim profile and drop UBL allow the weapon to ride close to the body, providing all-day comfort.
- Easy to Use: The ALS release mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate with minimal training.
- Professional Appearance: The basket weave finish provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing look.
Cons
- Some users may find the Level III retention system takes some getting used to.
- Price point is slightly higher than some competing holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and quick access. It’s especially well-suited for those who work in high-risk environments or need to carry a firearm openly. It is also very appropriate for range work and competition.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who prioritize concealability over retention or are new to firearms and prefer a simpler holster design. The level III retention may be overkill for non-duty applications. This product is specifically configured for a left hand draw, so right-handed shooters should choose another model.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which adds an extra layer of security, upgrading the holster to Level IV retention. Regularly cleaning and lubricating the ALS mechanism is recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82
In summary, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 is an outstanding duty holster that offers an exceptional balance of retention, draw speed, and comfort. Its durable construction, intuitive design, and professional appearance make it a top choice for law enforcement and security professionals. I have been very happy with its performance.
The price of the holster is justified by its superior quality and performance. While it may be slightly more expensive than some competing models, the added security and reliability are well worth the investment. The peace of mind is priceless.
I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Left 6365-9202-82 to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line duty holster. If you need a secure, reliable, and easy-to-use holster, look no further – this is the one for you. Upgrade your carry system today!