Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry position. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster market. This particular model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Level III retention, ensuring your firearm stays secure until you need it.
For years, I’ve searched for a holster that strikes the perfect balance between security, accessibility, and comfort for left-handed shooters. My biggest frustration has always been holsters that are either too bulky, too slow, or simply don’t offer enough retention for demanding environments. The Safariland ALS Level III seemed to address all of those concerns on paper, so I decided to give it a try.
Upon unboxing the holster, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the clean, professional appearance. The plain black finish is understated and functional, perfect for blending in with a duty uniform. The material felt durable and well-molded, promising a long service life.
Compared to a standard Level II holster or even some Level I options I’ve used, the Safariland offered a noticeably higher degree of security without sacrificing a smooth, intuitive draw. I also considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the Safariland’s ALS system felt more reliable and less prone to accidental release. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; I felt like I had found the holster I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland ALS Level III was at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The environment was demanding, with lots of movement, simulated combat scenarios, and the potential for physical contact. It was immediately evident that the holster provided excellent retention.
Even during strenuous activity and close-quarters drills, I had complete confidence that my firearm was secure. The ALS system worked flawlessly, providing a positive and audible “click” when the weapon was holstered. Releasing the mechanism for the draw was intuitive and quickly became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Safariland ALS Level III during both training and real-world duty scenarios, I can attest to its exceptional durability and reliability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite daily use and exposure to various weather conditions. Cleaning the holster is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime.
Compared to some of the cheaper holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland is a clear winner in terms of both security and longevity. My previous holster required constant adjustments and showed signs of wear after just a few weeks. The Safariland ALS Level III has consistently outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62 is specifically designed for left-handed shooters and compatible with the Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel. It features Level III retention, upgradeable to Level IV with an optional Sentry. The holster uses the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System) for weapon security, automatically engaging when the firearm is holstered.
A Hood Guard comes standard, providing additional protection against unauthorized access. The slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment. It includes a 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for a lower, more accessible carry position.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system is highly effective and gives the user confidence that the weapon will remain secure in a variety of situations. While the Level III retention takes some getting used to, it quickly becomes intuitive with practice.
The only potential weakness is that the Level III system requires a specific sequence of movements to release the firearm, which may be slightly slower than a Level I or II holster initially. However, with proper training, the draw speed can be significantly improved. Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III is exceptional. The materials used are durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, considering its robust construction and multiple retention levels.
The drop UBL design is very comfortable, positioning the firearm at an optimal height for drawing. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but the holster is designed with user-friendliness in mind, and most users will quickly adapt.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last. The holster is made from a high-strength polymer that can withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may benefit from periodic lubrication to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III comes standard with the Hood Guard and the 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the UBL can be swapped out for different models to adjust the ride height and cant. Safariland also offers an optional Sentry device that adds an additional layer of retention, upgrading the holster to Level IV.
The Safariland holster is compatible with a wide range of duty belts and accessories, making it easy to integrate into an existing gear setup. Users can also purchase different colored shrouds or finishes to customize the appearance of the holster.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62
Pros
- Superior Level III retention provides excellent weapon security.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System) is intuitive and reliable.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Drop UBL provides a comfortable and accessible carry position.
- Specifically designed for left-handed shooters.
Cons
- Level III retention may require practice to master the draw.
- The plain black finish may not appeal to users seeking a more tactical look.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62?
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry position. It’s an ideal choice for individuals who work in demanding environments where firearm security is paramount.
Those who prioritize speed over security, or who prefer a more streamlined holster design, might want to consider a Level I or Level II option instead. A must-have accessory is proper training to effectively utilize the Level III retention system.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62
Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-181-62 is an outstanding duty holster that offers a superior level of security, durability, and comfort. The price of $195.00 is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and effective Level III retention system.
If you’re a left-handed shooter looking for a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily duty, the Safariland ALS Level III is an excellent choice. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in a holster that you can trust.