Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491

As a seasoned professional who’s spent over a decade working with outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. But the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491? It’s a different beast altogether, offering a blend of security, accessibility, and durability that’s hard to ignore. This holster isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a critical component of your duty rig, designed to perform flawlessly when it matters most.

I needed a holster that could provide maximum weapon retention while still allowing for a quick, intuitive draw. My previous holster, a generic nylon model, lacked the positive retention needed for demanding operational environments, and I was constantly worried about weapon security during foot pursuits or physical altercations. This Safariland offering promised a solution with its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and Level III retention.

Upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Level III, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction. The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish looked professional and durable, and the overall weight felt substantial without being cumbersome. The holster exuded quality, a clear step up from cheaper, mass-produced options.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 holster and a Galco leather holster I’ve used previously, the Safariland offered a superior balance of retention and speed. While the Serpa’s finger-actuated release was fast, it felt less secure, and the Galco’s friction-based retention was simply inadequate for high-risk situations. I chose the Safariland because its ALS system provided a tangible level of security without sacrificing draw speed.

My initial reaction was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of professional skepticism. I was eager to put the holster through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype. Would the ALS system be truly reliable under stress? Would the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) be comfortable during extended wear? Only real-world testing would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III at a local shooting range, simulating a duty-carry scenario. I ran various drills, including drawing from concealment, firing on the move, and performing reloads. The weather was hot and humid, typical of a summer day in the south.

The holster performed admirably in these conditions. The ALS system engaged smoothly and consistently, securing the weapon with an audible click. Drawing the Beretta 92FS required a deliberate thumb release, but it quickly became second nature with practice.

Initially, the drop UBL felt slightly awkward compared to a traditional belt slide. After a few hours of practice, the lower ride height actually improved draw speed and accessibility. There were no major issues after the first use, only a slight adjustment period.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve worn it during patrol duty, training exercises, and even a multi-day wilderness survival course. Despite exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures, the holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear.

The STX Hi-Gloss Black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and abrasions. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable weapon retention. Cleaning the holster is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland has significantly outperformed them in terms of both security and durability. The level of confidence it provides in weapon retention is unmatched. This holster definitely exceeds my expectations for long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491

Specifications

• The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491 is designed for duty use, offering Level III Retention. This provides a high degree of security against unauthorized removal of the weapon.
• With the optional Sentry installed, the retention level increases to Level IV. This adds an extra layer of protection for extreme circumstances.
• The ALS Automatic Locking System secures the weapon as soon as it’s holstered. This prevents accidental dislodgement.
• The holster comes standard with a Hood Guard. This prevents others from manipulating the release mechanism.
• Its slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This improves concealment and comfort.
• The draw is a simple straight-up motion once all releases are deactivated. This ensures a fast and efficient presentation.
• It features a 1.5″ Belt Drop version. This provides a lower ride height for improved accessibility.
• The finish is STX Hi-Gloss Black. This offers a professional appearance and enhanced durability.
• This model is specifically designed for the Beretta 92/96 series pistols (and variants) with a 4.70″-4.90″ barrel. This ensures a snug and secure fit.
• It is configured for a right-hand draw. This caters to the needs of right-handed shooters.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The Level III Retention and ALS system provide peace of mind in high-risk situations, while the drop UBL enhances draw speed and comfort. The precise gun fit ensures reliable retention and prevents accidental dislodgement.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III excels in its primary function: providing secure and accessible weapon retention. The ALS system engages positively and consistently, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. The straight-up draw is intuitive and efficient, allowing for rapid target acquisition.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry. One area for potential improvement is the stiffness of the thumb release, which can require significant pressure to disengage, especially when new. However, the thumb release becomes smoother with consistent use.

Overall, the Safariland ALS Level III meets and even exceeds expectations. Its superior security and accessibility are worth the initial investment.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland ALS Level III is exceptional. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, and the overall construction feels solid and reliable. The drop UBL is comfortable for extended wear, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly across the belt line.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. However, it quickly becomes second nature with practice. The holster is designed for intuitive operation, minimizing the risk of accidental disengagement.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Safariland ALS Level III is built to last. Its robust construction and durable materials ensure years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

The holster’s resistance to wear and tear makes it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their gear in demanding environments. It stands up to the rigors of daily use without compromising functionality or security.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III is compatible with a range of accessories, including Safariland’s own line of belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical accessories. The optional Sentry enhances the retention level, providing an extra layer of security.

While the holster is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it is also compatible with some aftermarket belt loops and mounting platforms. The wide range of customization options allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and security. Anyone who carries a Beretta 92/96 series pistol and needs a dependable duty holster will benefit from the Safariland ALS Level III.

Those who are new to firearms or prefer a simpler holster design might want to skip this product. The ALS system requires practice and familiarity. Those who prefer open-carry might find the Level III retention unnecessary.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which enhances the retention level to Level IV. Also, consider a quality gun belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491

In summary, the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Hi-Gloss Black, Right 6365-73-491 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its superior retention, reliable performance, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their gear in demanding environments. While there is a slight learning curve, the benefits of the ALS system far outweigh the initial adjustment period.

The price is justified by the level of security and peace of mind it provides. The materials and construction are top-notch, which justifies the investment.

I would absolutely recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone seeking a high-quality duty holster for their Beretta 92/96 series pistol. Its superior retention, comfortable carry, and durable construction make it a top contender in its class. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in the Safariland ALS Level III today!