Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone needing secure and reliable weapon retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and an optional Sentry for Level IV retention, ensuring your firearm stays put until you need it. Its slim profile and 1.5″ belt drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offer comfortable carry and easy access.

After a particularly harrowing incident where a suspect attempted to disarm me during a foot pursuit, I knew I needed a holster with superior retention capabilities. I was looking for a system that provided multiple levels of security, yet allowed for a smooth and rapid draw when necessary. I wanted something that would stand up to the rigors of daily duty and provide the peace of mind that my sidearm was secure.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 was its robust construction and professional appearance. The plain black finish gives it a classic, no-nonsense look, and the materials felt incredibly durable. The holster felt substantial in hand, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.

I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but the Safariland’s ALS system and reputation for reliability ultimately won me over. The Blackhawk! relies on a finger-actuated release that some criticize, while the Bianchi, though comfortable, lacked the aggressive retention I sought. The Safariland felt like the perfect balance of security, speed, and durability.

I was immediately excited. It felt like a serious piece of kit designed for serious situations. The positive lockup of the ALS system and the smooth draw stroke gave me confidence that this holster would meet my needs and exceed my expectations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 at my local shooting range and during several training exercises that simulated real-world scenarios. I ran drills in both dry and wet conditions to evaluate how the holster performed under stress. The temperature ranged from a cool 50 degrees Fahrenheit to a humid 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Safariland ALS Level III performed admirably in both environments. The ALS system remained reliable even when my hands were wet or sweaty. The draw was smooth and consistent after a brief adjustment period to learn the release mechanism.

Initially, I needed to practice the thumb release to ensure a consistent and fluid draw stroke. However, after about an hour of practice, the motion became second nature, and I was able to draw quickly and efficiently. The 1.5″ drop offered a comfortable and natural grip on my Springfield XDM.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of daily use, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are some minor scuff marks on the plain black finish from rubbing against my duty belt, but the holster’s structural integrity remains unaffected. The ALS system still functions flawlessly, providing a secure lockup and a smooth release.

The Safariland requires minimal maintenance. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth every week to remove any dirt or debris. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holster (a standard Level II retention holster), the Safariland provides a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The added level of retention has proven invaluable in crowded environments and during physical altercations. It has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and security.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 is specifically designed for the Springfield Armory XDM 9mm and .40 with a 4.5″ barrel. It features a Level III retention rating (Level IV with optional Sentry), ensuring a high degree of security. The holster is designed for left-handed users and comes in a plain black finish.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) automatically secures the weapon once holstered, providing immediate retention without requiring any manual action. The optional Sentry, sold separately, adds a secondary locking mechanism for Level IV retention, offering an even higher level of security. The included hood guard protects the thumb release from accidental activation.

The slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, enhancing comfort and concealment. The 1.5″ belt drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster lower on the hip, providing a more natural and ergonomic draw stroke. The holster is constructed from Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, which is highly durable and resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, security, and comfort. The Level III retention (or IV with Sentry) provides peace of mind knowing the weapon is secure. The slim profile and drop UBL enhance comfort and accessibility, and the durable construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a duty holster. The ALS system provides a secure and reliable lockup, while the drop UBL allows for a smooth and efficient draw. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, even during strenuous activity.

Its greatest strength is its retention system, which inspires confidence in the wearer. The release mechanism is intuitive and easy to master with practice. The slim profile minimizes printing and enhances concealment.

A minor weakness is that the initial draw requires a deliberate and precise thumb placement to deactivate the ALS. However, with consistent practice, this becomes second nature. The optional Sentry provides an even higher level of security, but it does add an extra step to the draw stroke.

The Safariland ALS Level III definitely meets my expectations. It delivers the perfect balance of security, speed, and durability. It is well-suited for law enforcement, security professionals, and anyone who requires a reliable and secure duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both security and comfort. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials that are both durable and lightweight. The plain black finish provides a professional and understated appearance.

The holster is surprisingly comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The drop UBL positions the weapon at a natural and ergonomic angle, reducing strain on the wrist and shoulder. The slim profile minimizes printing and allows for comfortable concealed carry, if needed.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release mechanism. However, the design is intuitive, and most users will become proficient with practice. The holster is designed for left-handed shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 is built to last. Its durable construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to heat, cold, abrasions, and solvents.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep the holster functioning smoothly. The holster is designed to be easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance.

With proper care, the Safariland ALS Level III should provide years of reliable service. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs a durable and dependable duty holster.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 comes standard with the hood guard and the 1.5″ drop UBL. The optional Sentry provides Level IV retention.

Safariland offers a variety of accessories that are compatible with the ALS Level III holster, including different belt loops, thigh rigs, and mounting platforms. The holster is also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as weapon lights and lasers.

The ability to customize the holster with different accessories and mounting options allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences. This versatility is a major advantage of the Safariland ALS Level III system.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and security. It is also well-suited for concealed carriers who prioritize security and peace of mind. Left-handed shooters looking for a dependable duty holster will find this model ideal.

This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters who prioritize speed over security. It also might not be suitable for those who prefer a more minimalist or low-profile holster.

A must-have accessory is the optional Sentry for Level IV retention. Consider a quality weapon light that is compatible with the Safariland holster.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 is an outstanding duty holster that provides exceptional security, durability, and comfort. While the initial learning curve may be a slight hurdle, the benefits of the ALS system and the holster’s overall quality far outweigh any minor drawbacks.

The price is justified by the holster’s superior construction, reliable performance, and enhanced security features. It offers a level of protection and peace of mind that is well worth the investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who needs a dependable and secure duty holster. It’s a vital piece of equipment that will provide years of reliable service. If you’re serious about weapon retention and security, then don’t hesitate – invest in the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-146-62 today! You won’t regret it.