Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132 is more than just a holster; it’s a vital piece of equipment for anyone who takes firearm security seriously. Manufactured by Safariland, this Level III retention holster offers a robust combination of security and accessibility. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and the included hood guard provide multiple layers of protection, while the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) ensures a comfortable and ergonomic carry.

I needed a holster that provided maximum weapon retention without sacrificing speed of draw. Over the years, I’ve seen too many accidental firearm discharges due to inadequate holster security, and I was determined to find a solution that minimized that risk without hindering my response time. The Safariland ALS Level III promised precisely that balance.

The holster arrived in a simple, functional package. My first impression was of the ruggedness of the STX Tactical Black finish and the solid construction. The materials felt durable, and the holster had a reassuring weight to it, indicative of quality construction.

I was choosing between this Safariland model and a similar offering from Blackhawk!, as well as a custom Kydex holster. I chose the Safariland because of its proven track record with law enforcement and military personnel, the reputation of its ALS system, and the positive reviews regarding its long-term durability. It seemed the best overall investment for reliability and security.

My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of apprehension, as Level III retention holsters can sometimes be cumbersome. I was eager to see if the Safariland ALS Level III could deliver on its promise of a secure yet fast draw.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Level III at my local shooting range, incorporating it into my regular training drills. The holster was attached to my duty belt, and I practiced drawing and re-holstering my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C numerous times. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke and ensure I could consistently disengage the retention mechanisms under pressure.

I also tested the holster during an outdoor training session in moderately wet conditions. The STX Tactical finish proved to be adequately slip-resistant, even with damp hands. There was no noticeable change in the ALS system’s functionality.

Getting used to the Level III retention system took a little time. Initially, I fumbled with the hood release, but after about an hour of dedicated practice, the draw became smooth and natural. The drop UBL provided a comfortable ride height, allowing for a full grip on the pistol before drawing.

The only initial issue was that the ALS release required a very deliberate thumb placement. I needed to consciously ensure my thumb was in the correct position each time to avoid any delay in drawing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly range sessions and occasional field exercises, the Safariland ALS Level III has proven to be incredibly durable. The STX Tactical Black finish shows minimal wear, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly. The holster has retained its shape and tension, ensuring a secure fit for my M&P 45C.

There are only slight signs of wear around the ejection port area from the repeated drawing and re-holstering, but it’s purely cosmetic. The holster has endured significant abuse, including scrapes against barricades and being exposed to various weather conditions, and it still performs like new.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This minimal maintenance keeps the holster in optimal condition.

Compared to other Level II and Level III holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland ALS Level III stands out for its balance of security, speed, and durability. It outperforms other holsters in terms of ease of use and long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132

Specifications

• Level III Retention: The holster utilizes both the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood for Level III retention. This combination makes it extremely difficult for anyone other than the wearer to draw the weapon.
• Level IV Retention with Optional Sentry Installed: Adding the optional Sentry device provides an additional layer of security, upgrading the holster to Level IV retention. This is ideal for situations where maximum security is required.
• ALS Automatic Locking System: The ALS automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, providing immediate retention. This passive retention system is reliable and requires no manual activation.
• Hood Guard Standard: The included hood guard helps prevent unauthorized access to the hood release mechanism. This is a simple but effective deterrent against someone trying to manipulate the holster.
• Slim, Compact Design: Despite the multiple layers of retention, the holster maintains a relatively slim profile. This allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort.
• Simple Straight Up Draw: Once all releases are deactivated, the draw is a natural, straight-up motion. This allows for a fast and efficient draw stroke.
• Includes Hood Guard, Optional Sentry Available: The holster comes standard with a hood guard, and the optional Sentry provides an additional level of security. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs.
• 1.5″ Belt Drop Version: The drop UBL is designed to fit 1.5″ belts, which is a common size for duty belts and tactical belts. The drop provides a comfortable ride height and facilitates a full grip on the weapon before drawing.
• Available in STX TACTICAL Black: The STX Tactical Black finish provides a durable and professional appearance. This textured finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions.
• Gun Fit: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P 45C w/o Thumb Safety IT M3. This holster is specifically molded to fit the S&W M&P 45C without a thumb safety, ensuring a secure and precise fit.
• Hand: Left. This holster is designed for left-handed users, ensuring a proper and ergonomic draw stroke.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, accessibility, and comfort. The Level III retention ensures the weapon stays secure in high-risk situations, while the drop UBL enhances comfort and draw speed. The STX Tactical finish contributes to the holster’s overall durability and professional appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Level III performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system provides a positive and audible click when the weapon is holstered, confirming that it is securely locked in place. The hood guard adds an extra layer of security, requiring a deliberate action to release the hood before drawing.

The holster’s greatest strength is its balance of security and speed. While Level III retention can sometimes be slow and cumbersome, the Safariland ALS Level III allows for a surprisingly fast draw once the user becomes accustomed to the release mechanisms. The only weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the draw stroke, but this is easily overcome with practice.

The Safariland ALS Level III meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing my weapon is secure, without sacrificing my ability to quickly access it when needed.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Level III boasts a robust and well-thought-out design. The materials are high-quality and durable, and the construction is solid. The holster has a reassuring weight to it without feeling overly bulky. The Safariland holster is extremely comfortable, thanks to the drop UBL.

The Safariland ALS Level III is user-friendly. The ALS release and hood rotation are intuitive, and the draw stroke is smooth and natural once mastered.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Level III is built to last. The STX Tactical Black finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the holster has proven to be incredibly durable even under heavy use. The lifespan of this holster is exceptionally long with appropriate use.

The Safariland ALS Level III is easy to maintain and repair. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism helps ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Level III comes with a standard hood guard. The optional Sentry provides an additional level of security.

The Safariland ALS Level III is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. Compatibility is great, but it is important to ensure the accessories are designed for Safariland holsters.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132?

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon security. It is also suitable for those who prioritize weapon retention but still need a relatively fast draw.

This holster may not be ideal for casual range shooters or those who prioritize maximum comfort over security. The Level III retention system can be overkill for these individuals.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a dedicated training regimen to master the draw stroke. Also, consider adding the optional Sentry for maximum security.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – STX Tactical Black, Left 6365-9192-132 is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a secure, reliable, and durable duty holster. While it requires some practice to master, the benefits of its Level III retention system far outweigh the initial learning curve.

At a price of $159.99, the Safariland ALS Level III offers exceptional value for the money. The quality of construction, the reliability of the ALS system, and the comfortable carry make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who takes firearm security seriously.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Level III to anyone who needs a top-tier duty holster. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t be disappointed!