Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 Review

Here’s What I Think of the Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62

After a decade spent testing and relying on gear across demanding environments, from the unforgiving outdoors to the controlled chaos of workshop benches and precise lab settings, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly performs. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 is a piece of equipment that immediately signals its serious intent. It’s designed for professionals who need unwavering weapon retention without compromising access, a balance that many holsters struggle to strike.

My acquisition of this specific holster was driven by a need for enhanced security and reliable draw speed during extended field operations and specialized training scenarios. Previous experiences with less robust retention systems had highlighted the critical importance of a holster that guarantees weapon security under duress, yet allows for a swift, natural presentation when required. The combination of Safariland’s reputation and the ALS system’s proven track record made this model a compelling choice for my demanding applications.

Initial impressions upon unboxing this unit were dominated by its robust construction and thoughtful design. The matte black finish feels durable and resists scuffing, and the overall build quality suggests it’s engineered to withstand significant abuse. There’s a tangible sense of security when handling it, a feeling that this holster is built to last and perform under pressure.

While I considered other high-level retention holsters, many either added excessive bulk or compromised on the speed of the draw. This Safariland offering seemed to hit the sweet spot, promising the retention of a Level III system with the streamlined profile often found in lower-retention designs. My first reaction was one of satisfied anticipation; it felt like a tool designed to solve a problem I’d wrestled with for years.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing of this Safariland ALS holster began on the firing range during rigorous qualification courses and then transitioned to extended field work, involving rapid deployment drills under varied weather conditions. This included exposure to dust, moderate moisture, and temperature fluctuations common in early spring and late autumn fieldwork. The holster consistently performed admirably, ensuring the weapon remained secure during dynamic movements and demanding scenarios.

The ALS Automatic Locking System is impressively intuitive, requiring only a natural thumb-sweep motion to disengage. While there’s a slight learning curve to perfect the combined motions of deactivating the ALS and the hood guard simultaneously, it becomes second nature quite rapidly. The simple straight-up draw is a significant advantage, feeling natural and efficient once mastered.

After the initial few draws and re-holstering cycles, I noticed a subtle break-in period for the retention mechanism. This is common with high-retention holsters; it smoothed out considerably, making weapon retrieval even faster without any perceived compromise in security. No significant issues or unexpected quirks arose; it simply performed as advertised, which is precisely what you expect from a professional-grade piece of equipment.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks of daily wear, both on and off the range, have shown this holster to be exceptionally reliable. It’s become an indispensable part of my operational loadout, proving its worth in countless repetitions of drawing and re-holstering. The Level III Retention is not just a feature but a guarantee; my firearm has never shown any sign of accidentally dislodging, even during strenuous activities.

Durability has been superb. Despite constant use, the holster shows minimal signs of wear. The Plain Black finish remains intact, and there are no cracks or structural weaknesses apparent, even after it suffered an accidental drop onto a concrete floor during a training exercise. The Hood Guard is robust and has maintained its protective integrity without becoming brittle.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional light lubrication of moving parts keeps it functioning optimally. The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) system allows for easy belt adjustments and can be quickly detached if needed. Compared to previous holsters that became stiff or developed rattles after extensive use, this Safariland unit has maintained its smooth operation and secure fit.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 is constructed from durable, injection-molded polymer, ensuring a balance of strength and lighter weight. It provides Level III Retention, meaning it secures the firearm with two distinct locking points in addition to the natural retention of the holster fit, with the option to upgrade to Level IV Retention by installing the optional Sentry device. The holster features the ALS Automatic Locking System, which automatically locks the weapon when holstered.

A standard Hood Guard is integrated into the design, offering an additional layer of protection for the firearm’s sights and controls. The design promotes a slim, compact profile, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for better concealment and reduced printing under clothing, a significant advantage for off-duty carry or tactical operations where a low profile is essential. The draw stroke is designed for a simple, straight-up motion once all retention devices are disengaged, facilitating a fast and instinctive presentation.

This particular model is the 1.5″ Belt Drop version of the UBL, positioning the holster at a comfortable height for most users and ensuring it doesn’t interfere with plate carriers or chest rigs. It’s available in various finishes, but this unit is the Plain Black variant. The gun fit is specifically for the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1, BBL 3.50″. The Hand specified is Left, indicating it’s designed for a left-handed shooter.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any duty holster is to secure a firearm and allow for its rapid, reliable deployment. The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 excels in both these areas. The ALS system provides an exceptionally secure grip on the weapon, preventing accidental disengagement.

The strength of this holster lies in its retention capabilities. The Level III Retention is exceptionally effective, providing peace of mind during high-intensity activities where weapon retention is paramount. The Hood Guard adds a crucial layer of protection, safeguarding the firearm from environmental elements and potential interference.

However, the primary weakness, if one can call it that, is the inherent complexity of a Level III system compared to a Level I or II holster. While the draw is designed to be intuitive, mastering the simultaneous deactivation of the ALS thumb lever and the Hood Guard requires consistent practice. For users accustomed to simpler retention methods, there will be a slight learning curve, but the security gained is well worth the effort.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster prioritizes functionality and durability. The injection-molded polymer construction feels robust, with no flex or creaking under stress. The Plain Black finish is understated and professional, resisting abrasions from regular use.

Ergonomically, the Drop UBL is a standout feature. Its 1.5-inch drop positions the firearm at a comfortable height that clears most tactical vests and plate carriers, preventing interference and facilitating a more natural draw stroke. The slim, compact design is also a major plus, minimizing bulk and reducing the likelihood of the holster snagging on gear or printing heavily.

The tactile feedback from the ALS thumb lever and the Hood Guard is positive and distinct, providing confidence that they are properly engaged or disengaged. The retention mechanism itself is well-engineered, providing a secure fit for the specified firearm without excessive friction that could impede a smooth draw.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, this holster is built for the long haul. The high-quality polymer used by Safariland is known for its resilience to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors. I anticipate this unit will continue to perform reliably for many years, even with heavy, consistent use.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down is usually sufficient to keep it clean. For deeper cleaning or if exposed to significant grit, a mild soap and water solution can be used. It’s important to ensure all moving parts, especially the ALS lever and Hood Guard mechanism, are free of debris to maintain smooth operation. I have not encountered any specific failure points with this type of holster from Safariland; they are engineered for extreme durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular Safariland ALS holster comes as a complete unit, but its modular design allows for some customization. The Drop UBL is a key component, and Safariland offers various other mounting solutions for their holsters, allowing users to adapt them to different carry preferences or gear configurations.

The most significant “customization” related to this holster is the potential to add the optional Sentry. This accessory further enhances the holster’s security, bringing the retention level up to Level IV. For individuals operating in extremely high-risk environments, this upgrade is a critical consideration. While no other primary accessories are included, the holster is designed to work seamlessly with the specified weapon lights and lasers, ensuring those accessories don’t impede the draw or retention.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62?

This Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 holster is ideally suited for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and responsible citizens who require the highest level of weapon retention. It’s for individuals who prioritize security and reliability above all else, especially those who operate in dynamic environments where accidental weapon loss or unauthorized access is a critical concern. The 1.5″ Belt Drop configuration makes it particularly beneficial for those who wear body armor or chest rigs, as it provides clearance for a comfortable and efficient draw.

Those who need a simple, no-frills holster for casual range use or basic concealed carry might find the Level III Retention to be overkill and potentially slower to deploy. This holster is also specifically for the HK P2000 with certain lights, so if you don’t own that exact configuration, this model won’t be suitable. For optimal use, a good quality, sturdy belt is a must; a flimsy belt will compromise the holster’s stability and the efficiency of the draw.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62

The Safariland ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL – Plain Black, Left 6365-1972-62 is a testament to Safariland’s commitment to providing top-tier retention solutions. It masterfully balances extreme security with a surprisingly efficient draw once the user is proficient. The build quality is superb, promising longevity and reliability even in the harshest conditions.

At $209.99, this holster represents a significant investment, but one that is thoroughly justified by its performance, durability, and the critical security it offers. For professionals and serious enthusiasts who cannot afford any compromise on weapon retention, the value proposition is undeniable.

I would unequivocally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a duty-grade solution for their Heckler & Koch P2000 with the specified accessories. If your operational requirements demand the best in weapon security, this Safariland ALS holster is an outstanding choice that will not disappoint.