Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 is more than just a holster; it’s a complete system designed for duty use, combining rapid access with robust retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, this holster promises a secure and reliable carry for professionals. The combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention makes this holster a compelling choice for anyone needing a high level of security without sacrificing speed.
My journey to finding the perfect duty holster has been a long one, marked by the search for the ideal balance of retention and accessibility. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty, offering uncompromising security while still allowing for a swift, clean draw when seconds mattered. The Safariland name kept surfacing in discussions with colleagues, and the ALS system was constantly praised for its intuitive design and effectiveness.
Opening the box, the first thing that struck me was the holster’s robust construction and the distinctive basket weave finish. The Basket Black texture provides not only a professional look but also offers a surprisingly tactile grip. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) felt solid, promising a stable platform for the holster. Initial handling confirmed the reputation Safariland has built over decades – this was a serious piece of kit.
Compared to my previous holsters, a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 and a generic nylon duty holster, the Safariland ALS Level III felt like a significant upgrade in both security and build quality. The Serpa, while offering decent retention, always felt somewhat fragile, and the button release was never as intuitive as I would have liked. The nylon holster, on the other hand, lacked any real retention features, relying solely on friction, which was simply unacceptable for duty use.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Safariland ALS Level III exuded confidence and professionalism. I felt a surge of anticipation, eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype. It was clear from the start that this holster was designed with serious users in mind.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 was the shooting range, followed by simulated duty scenarios. I focused on practicing various draw techniques under different levels of stress. The ALS system proved remarkably intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the lock and allowing for a straight, natural draw.
I also subjected the holster to various environmental conditions, including simulated rain and dusty environments. The ALS mechanism continued to function smoothly despite the adverse conditions. The drop UBL kept the weapon clear of my vest and allowed for a comfortable draw even when wearing bulky outerwear. There was a slight learning curve in mastering the thumb release while maintaining a secure grip on the weapon, but it quickly became second nature with practice.
One initial surprise was how secure the retention actually was; the Level III designation is not just marketing hype. Even after intentionally attempting to dislodge the weapon without using the release mechanism, it remained firmly secured. This gave me confidence that it would withstand the demands of real-world duty.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite consistent use and exposure to various weather conditions. The basket weave finish has held up well, resisting scratches and scuffs.
Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland requires far less maintenance and has shown superior durability.
The Safariland ALS Level III has exceeded my expectations, providing a secure and reliable carry platform that instills confidence in high-pressure situations. It’s a far cry from the flimsy nylon holsters I’ve used in the past and offers a significant improvement over the more basic retention systems. Its performance gives me peace of mind knowing that my sidearm will be there when I need it.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Thumb Safety IT M3, offering a precise fit and reliable retention. It features Level III Retention, enhanced to Level IV with the optional Sentry installed, providing an exceptional level of security. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, offering a rapid and intuitive draw.
This model features a Basket Black finish, providing a professional and tactile surface. It is designed for right-handed users. The holster incorporates a Hood Guard as standard, enhancing security and protecting the weapon’s controls. The 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL allows the holster to ride lower on the belt, improving accessibility and comfort, especially when wearing body armor.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s functionality and usability. The precise fit ensures reliable retention and a smooth draw. The ALS system provides rapid access, while the Level III retention minimizes the risk of unauthorized weapon removal. The drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, making it ideal for duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 performs exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable carry platform with rapid access to the weapon. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress. The holster allows for a simple, straight-up draw once all releases are deactivated, making it fast and efficient to deploy the weapon.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its combination of security and speed. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the ALS system allows for a rapid draw. One potential weakness is the slight learning curve required to master the thumb release, but this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations, providing a superior carry experience compared to other retention systems.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for improved concealment and comfort. The Basket Black finish provides a professional and tactile surface, offering a secure grip. The drop UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for accessibility, even when wearing body armor.
The holster’s design is inherently user-friendly, with the ALS mechanism positioned for easy access with the thumb. There is a minimal learning curve, and the holster quickly becomes an extension of the user’s body. The build quality is exceptional, using durable materials and robust construction techniques to ensure long-lasting performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, utilizing high-quality materials and robust construction. The Basket Black finish is resistant to scratches and scuffs, maintaining a professional appearance. With proper care, this holster should last for many years, providing reliable performance throughout its lifespan.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, allowing for thorough cleaning and maintenance. Its ease of maintenance and robust construction make it a practical choice for professionals who rely on their gear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 includes a Hood Guard as standard, providing additional security and protection. It also accommodates the optional Sentry, which further enhances the retention level to Level IV. While the holster is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Thumb Safety IT M3, the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system allows for compatibility with a wide range of belt widths and attachment options.
While not explicitly designed for extensive customization, the Safariland platform is known for its modularity and compatibility with other Safariland accessories. Users can potentially modify the ride height and cant of the holster by swapping out the UBL for different models. The availability of the optional Sentry provides an additional layer of security for those who require it.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81
Pros
- Superior Retention: The ALS and Level III retention provide exceptional security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
- Rapid Draw: The ALS system allows for a fast and intuitive draw, even under stress.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials and robust construction techniques, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for accessibility and comfort, even when wearing body armor.
- Professional Appearance: The Basket Black finish provides a sleek and professional look.
Cons
- Learning Curve: There is a slight learning curve required to master the thumb release mechanism.
- Specific Fit: The holster is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Thumb Safety IT M3, limiting its versatility.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and rapid access. It’s ideal for individuals who prioritize security and reliability in their duty gear. Those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Thumb Safety IT M3 will find this holster to be a perfect fit.
Individuals who prefer a more universal holster or those who don’t require Level III retention might want to skip this product. The specific fit limits its compatibility with other firearms. Those new to duty holsters might want to practice extensively with the ALS system before relying on it in high-stress situations.
A must-have accessory is the optional Sentry, which further enhances the retention level to Level IV, providing an even greater level of security. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also recommended to ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Basket Black, Right 6365-9192-81 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and rapid access. The combination of the ALS system, Level III retention, and durable construction makes it a top choice for professionals who rely on their gear in demanding situations. While there is a slight learning curve, the benefits far outweigh the minor inconvenience.
The price of $207.00 is justified, considering the holster’s quality, features, and performance. It’s an investment in safety and reliability that will pay dividends in the long run. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable carry platform for their Smith & Wesson M&P 45C w/o Thumb Safety IT M3.
If you’re looking for a duty holster that offers uncompromising security and rapid access, the Safariland ALS Level III is the clear choice. Don’t settle for anything less – your safety and peace of mind are worth the investment. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference!