Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61 isn’t just a holster; it’s a crucial piece of equipment for anyone who prioritizes weapon security and rapid deployment. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster offers Level III retention with the option to upgrade to Level IV, giving users considerable peace of mind. The automatic locking system and straightforward draw make this a compelling choice for professionals and responsible gun owners alike.
My journey to finding the perfect duty holster was driven by a need for enhanced security without sacrificing accessibility. I wanted a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily use, offer multiple levels of retention, and allow for a smooth, intuitive draw when seconds count. I looked at many holsters until I landed on the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster impressed me with its solid construction and attention to detail. The plain black finish is professional and understated, and the materials felt robust and durable. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL’s design felt inherently secure, and the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) seemed like it would provide a comfortable and stable carry.
I had been considering a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and a Galco SLS holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its reputation for reliability and the intuitive nature of the ALS (Automatic Locking System). Other holsters felt either too bulky or lacked the level of retention I desired. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL struck what I hoped would be the perfect balance.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to test the holster in a real-world scenario and see if it lived up to the hype. I hoped the retention system would be as smooth and reliable as promised, and that the drop UBL would provide a comfortable and stable carry throughout a full day of duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, where I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills repeatedly. I wanted to familiarize myself with the ALS system and ensure I could reliably access my weapon under pressure. The conditions were relatively mild, with a slight breeze and comfortable temperature, providing an ideal environment for getting acquainted with the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL performed admirably, allowing me to quickly and efficiently access my weapon. Re-holstering was just as easy and secure, the ALS locking the weapon in place with a reassuring click. I experienced no issues with the holster during that first range session, and was pleased with the smooth, intuitive draw and secure retention.
The learning curve was minimal; the ALS system is designed to be intuitive. After a few practice draws, I felt confident in my ability to quickly and safely deploy my firearm. I did not have issues with the draw even while wearing gloves.
There were no significant surprises or issues after the first use. I was mostly happy to find that the holster performed as advertised, with no malfunctions or unexpected quirks. The draw felt smooth, the retention was secure, and the overall design appeared well-suited to its intended purpose.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL during training exercises and range sessions, the holster has held up remarkably well. It has proven to be a durable and reliable piece of equipment. The holster has also been in my squad car in varying degrees of weather.
There are only minor signs of wear and tear, mostly cosmetic scuffs on the plain black finish. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, and the drop UBL remains securely attached to my duty belt. The holster does not appear to have warped at all due to heat or humidity.
Maintaining the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is straightforward. Periodically wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a small amount of lubricant to the ALS mechanism keeps it functioning smoothly. The holster’s simple design makes cleaning easy, and there are no intricate parts that require specialized maintenance.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL significantly outperforms them in terms of both security and accessibility. I’ve used other Level II and Level III holsters from other brands, but the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL design offers a superior balance of retention and a rapid, natural draw. I have found that other holsters wear down more easily, and even break after repeated use.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61 is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3, ensuring a snug and secure fit. This holster features Level III retention, with the option to upgrade to Level IV by installing an optional Sentry. It’s available in a plain black finish, suitable for duty use.
The holster is designed for right-handed users and incorporates the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention. It also includes a hood guard as standard, enhancing weapon security. The 1.5″ belt drop UBL is included to lower the weapon.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the holster’s overall security, accessibility, and user comfort. The Level III retention ensures the weapon remains securely holstered, while the ALS allows for a rapid and intuitive draw when needed. The custom fit for the S&W M&P 45C guarantees optimal weapon retention and prevents unwanted movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL excels at its primary job: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, automatically locking the weapon in place upon re-holstering. The draw is smooth and natural.
One of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL’s strengths is its Level III retention, which provides a high degree of security without sacrificing accessibility. Another strength is the drop UBL, which positions the weapon lower on the hip for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw. One weakness is that the plain black finish is prone to scuffing and scratching with regular use.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL meets and exceeds expectations. The holster delivers on its promises of secure weapon retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry. The intuitive ALS system and durable construction make it a reliable and trustworthy piece of equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL boasts a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the overall build quality is excellent. The plain black finish is professional and understated, blending seamlessly with most duty uniforms.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS system is intuitive. The drop UBL provides a comfortable and ergonomic carry, positioning the weapon at an optimal height for drawing.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is easy to maintain and repair. Wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism is all that’s typically required. Replacement parts, such as the ALS lever and hood guard, are readily available from Safariland and other retailers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL includes a hood guard for added weapon security. The holster is also compatible with the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of retention.
While the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is primarily designed to work with Safariland accessories, it’s also compatible with many other popular accessories from other brands, such as belt attachments and MOLLE adapters. This versatility allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, ensuring the weapon remains securely holstered.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Allows for a rapid and intuitive draw while maintaining secure weapon retention.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Drop UBL: Positions the weapon lower on the hip for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland and aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- Plain Black Finish: Prone to scuffing and scratching with regular use.
- Gun Specific: Only works with Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61?
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, ensuring the weapon remains securely holstered.
- ALS Automatic Locking System: Allows for a rapid and intuitive draw while maintaining secure weapon retention.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Drop UBL: Positions the weapon lower on the hip for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland and aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- Plain Black Finish: Prone to scuffing and scratching with regular use.
- Gun Specific: Only works with Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible gun owners who prioritize weapon security and accessibility. It is also ideal for those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3 as their primary weapon.
This product is NOT for individuals who require a universal holster that can accommodate multiple firearms, or who prefer a more minimalist design with less retention. It’s also not ideal for those who are on a tight budget, as the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL is a premium product with a higher price point.
A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of retention for maximum weapon security.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Right 6365-9202-61 is a high-quality, reliable, and secure duty holster that delivers on its promises. The Level III retention, ALS system, and durable construction make it a valuable asset for anyone who carries a firearm for duty or personal protection. While the plain black finish may be prone to scuffing, the holster’s overall performance and functionality far outweigh this minor drawback.
The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL‘s price is justified by its quality, durability, and superior performance. It’s an investment in your safety and security that will pay off in the long run.
I would personally recommend the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line duty holster. If you carry a Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3, this holster is a must-have. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL today.