Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design. It provides a secure and accessible carry solution in a professional-looking basket weave finish.
My pursuit of this particular holster arose from a need for enhanced firearm security without sacrificing a smooth, rapid draw. The Level II holsters I’d previously used felt insufficient in certain high-risk environments. I needed a holster that instilled confidence without hindering my ability to deploy my weapon quickly and efficiently.
Upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81, my initial impression was one of robust construction and attention to detail. The basket weave finish exuded a professional aesthetic, and the weight felt substantial, indicative of the durable materials used. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also looked incredibly promising for comfortable all-day wear.
I considered other Level III holsters from Blackhawk and Bianchi, but Safariland’s reputation for reliability and the proven track record of the ALS system ultimately swayed my decision. The ALS is intuitive and fast, unlike some other retention systems that can be cumbersome.
My first impression was definitely one of excitement; I was eager to see if the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 lived up to its reputation and provided the perfect balance of security and accessibility. It promised peace of mind and a professional appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The goal was to assess the speed and ease of the ALS system, as well as the overall comfort and stability of the holster. I wore it through several drills to familiarize myself with the draw.
During an outdoor training session in light rain, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 maintained its grip and functionality without issue. The basket weave finish, while aesthetically pleasing, didn’t become slippery when wet. The draw remained consistent even with slightly damp hands.
The ALS system proved intuitive and quick to master. After a few practice runs, the draw stroke became second nature. The 1.5″ drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for me, allowing for a natural and comfortable grip.
Initially, the hood guard felt a little stiff, requiring some adjustment to get used to deactivating it smoothly. However, after a short break-in period, it became much easier to manipulate, offering an additional layer of security without significantly hindering draw speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. It’s become my primary duty holster and has been subjected to rigorous daily wear. The build quality is incredibly impressive.
Despite being exposed to various weather conditions and the wear and tear of daily duty, the holster shows minimal signs of wear. The basket weave finish has held up well, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly. It looks great and retains its function.
Maintaining the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally lubricate the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based product to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The added retention and robust construction make it a superior choice for demanding environments. It is a welcome upgrade to my kit.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without a manual safety. Its Level III retention is achieved through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood guard. This provides exceptional security.
The holster features a basket black finish, providing a professional and discreet appearance. It is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. It’s built to last.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 includes a 1.5″ drop UBL, which positions the holster slightly lower on the belt for a more comfortable and accessible draw. It is designed for right-handed users. A Sentry can also be installed for level IV retention.
The ALS system automatically engages when the firearm is holstered, providing immediate retention without requiring any manual action. The rotating hood guard adds another layer of security, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon. These features are critical for maintaining control in high-risk situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 performs exceptionally well in securing the firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system is reliable and easy to use. It promotes confidence in its user.
The primary strength of this holster lies in its retention capabilities; the Level III system provides a high degree of security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access to the weapon. The only slight weakness is the initial stiffness of the hood guard, which requires a short break-in period.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster, providing a secure and accessible carry solution. It is intuitive and well-made. It performs exactly as intended.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is excellent, with durable materials and precise construction. The weight is substantial but manageable. This ensures a long service life.
The holster is designed with user comfort in mind. The drop UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height for drawing, reducing strain on the shoulder and back. The ALS system is intuitive, but the hood guard requires some practice to master.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty and should last for many years with proper care. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear. Its longevity is a major plus.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep the holster in optimal condition. It can handle tough use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 comes standard with a hood guard and the 1.5″ drop UBL. Safariland offers a variety of accessories and customization options. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and the Safariland Sentry for Level IV retention.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences. The options ensure it will work for diverse applications.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The Level III ALS system provides superior security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access to the firearm. It offers enhanced peace of mind.
- Durable Construction: Made from rugged SafariSeven nylon blend, this holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty and harsh environments. It will handle tough use.
- Comfortable Carry: The 1.5″ drop UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height for drawing, reducing strain on the shoulder and back. It’s all-day comfortable.
- Professional Appearance: The basket black finish provides a clean and professional look, suitable for law enforcement and security personnel. It looks great on duty.
- Intuitive ALS System: The ALS system is easy to learn and use, allowing for a fast and efficient draw under pressure. It minimizes training time.
Cons
- Hood Guard Stiffness: The hood guard may require a break-in period to ensure smooth operation. However, this improves with use.
- Price: At $195.00, this holster may be a significant investment for some users. However, the quality justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable carry solution. It’s an excellent choice for duty carry.
Those who prioritize concealability over retention might find this holster too bulky. Civilians carrying concealed might prefer a smaller, less conspicuous option. Consider your priorities.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland Sentry for upgrading to Level IV retention for even greater security. Regular maintenance with silicone lubricant will also help maintain smooth function. Don’t skip maintenance.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional retention, durability, and comfort. It offers a superior combination of features.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and the peace of mind that comes with a reliable Level III retention system. You get what you pay for.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-919-81 to anyone seeking a secure and dependable holster for duty or tactical use. Invest in your safety and order yours today! You won’t regret it.