Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. Crafted by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design. Its nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance, while the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures comfortable carry and quick draw.

As a left-handed shooter with a decade of experience in tactical gear, I was looking for a holster that offered both rock-solid security and a smooth, intuitive draw for my S&W M&P 45C with Safety. I was tired of the flimsy, low-retention holsters that were common on the market. I needed something that would stand up to the rigors of daily carry and provide peace of mind in high-stress situations.

My initial impression of the Safariland holster was positive. The nylon-look finish gave it a professional, yet understated aesthetic, and the overall construction felt incredibly robust. Compared to other Level II and Level III holsters I’ve used, the Safariland felt significantly more secure, without sacrificing draw speed. I was definitely excited to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The ALS system was intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the lock and allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. I also practiced moving and shooting, ensuring the holster kept my S&W M&P 45C secure throughout the drills.

During one range session, a sudden downpour provided an unexpected test of the holster’s wet-weather performance. Despite the wet conditions, the ALS system remained functional, and the nylon-look finish offered a surprisingly good grip. There was a slight learning curve with deactivating both the ALS and hood, but after several repetitions, it became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The nylon-look finish has resisted scratches and scuffs remarkably well.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to other duty holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland requires less maintenance and has held up far better over time. It undoubtedly outperforms other retention holsters I’ve used in terms of both security and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and user experience. It features Level III Retention, and Level IV retention can be achieved with an optional Sentry installed. The holster is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson S&W M&P 45C with Safety.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) automatically secures the weapon upon holstering. A hood guard is standard on the 6365 holsters. The slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, and it uses a simple straight-up draw once all releases are de-activated. It is a 1.5″ belt drop version, and it is available in the Nylon-Look finish.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 excels at its primary function: securing and providing quick access to your firearm. The ALS system offers exceptional retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon. The drop UBL allows for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.

The holster’s Level III retention, combined with the optional Sentry for Level IV, provides an unmatched level of security. However, the need to deactivate multiple retention mechanisms (ALS and hood) can slightly increase draw time compared to Level I or Level II holsters. It absolutely meets my expectations for a duty-grade holster designed for high-risk environments.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 is outstanding. The materials are durable and well-constructed, and the holster feels solid and secure. The drop UBL positions the weapon at an optimal height for comfortable carry and a smooth draw.

The holster is surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear, even with a full-size firearm. While there is a learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release and hood deactivation, the system becomes intuitive with practice. The holster is designed for left-handed users only, as specified in the product details.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure a long service life. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Based on my experience and the holster’s construction, I expect it to last for many years with proper care. The durable nylon-look finish and sturdy hardware contribute to its overall longevity. With simple and regular maintenance, the holster is expected to last for the long haul.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 comes standard with the hood guard, which is integral to the Level III retention system. An optional Sentry can be installed to upgrade the holster to Level IV retention. The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms, allowing for customization to individual preferences.

While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the compatibility with other Safariland accessories provides flexibility in terms of ride height and carry style. The ability to add the Sentry for increased security is a valuable feature. Ensure the chosen accessories are compatible with the holster model and firearm.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and reliability. It’s especially well-suited for those who work in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. Left-handed shooters using the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Safety will find this holster to be an excellent fit.

Individuals who prioritize absolute speed of draw over weapon security may want to consider a Level I or Level II holster instead. Those who prefer a traditional leather or Kydex finish may also want to explore other options. A quality gun belt designed for duty use is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster stability and weight distribution.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon security, reliable performance, and durable construction. While the Level III retention system requires practice to master, the added security is well worth the effort for those who need it. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the proven design, and the peace of mind it provides.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any left-handed professional or responsible citizen who carries a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Safety and demands the highest level of weapon retention. If you’re looking for a duty holster that will stand up to the test, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Nylon-Look, Left 6365-920-262 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and security – you won’t regret it.