Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals demanding a high level of weapon retention. Safariland is a well-respected name in the industry, and this holster combines their Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, providing a secure and reliable carry option. Its drop Universal Belt Loop (UBL) positions the firearm lower on the hip, allowing for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw.

I was searching for a Level III retention holster for my Sig Sauer P229R DAK, something that provided both security and ease of access on duty. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily use while still allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 seemed to check all the boxes.

The initial impression out of the box was positive; the Safariland holster felt robust and well-made. The plain black finish looked professional, and the materials felt durable to the touch. The weight felt appropriate for a duty holster, not too heavy but substantial enough to feel secure.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but I ultimately chose the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 due to Safariland’s reputation for quality and reliability. The ALS system also seemed more intuitive than the Serpa’s push-button release. Initial impressions were definitely excitement, anticipating a holster that could handle the demands of everyday carry.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 at the shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The holster performed admirably in a dynamic environment. The ALS system locked the weapon securely in place during movement and grappling scenarios, while the drop UBL allowed for a consistent and comfortable draw stroke under pressure.

The holster retained the weapon securely even during simulated rain and dusty conditions. I found the ALS release to be intuitive and easy to operate even with gloved hands. I experienced no issues or malfunctions during the first training session, making the overall experience positive and reassuring.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 continues to hold up exceptionally well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily scuff marks on the exterior finish from contact with gear and clothing. The ALS mechanism remains smooth and reliable, with no degradation in retention.

Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the holster looking professional. Compared to previous leather holsters I’ve used, the Safariland requires significantly less maintenance. It definitely outperforms other duty holsters I’ve utilized in terms of durability, retention, and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P229R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer, P229R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The holster is a left-hand model. It boasts a Level III retention rating, achieved through the ALS system and a hood guard, providing a high degree of security against unauthorized removal.

The ALS system automatically locks the weapon in place upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for a quick and efficient draw. The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) lowers the holster, providing a more comfortable carry position and facilitating a faster draw, especially when wearing body armor. The plain black finish offers a professional and discreet appearance, ideal for law enforcement and security applications. These specifications are critical for duty use, where weapon security and rapid access are paramount.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention and facilitating a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system operates smoothly and consistently, allowing for a natural and intuitive draw stroke. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, knowing the weapon is secure even during physical altercations.

One minor weakness is that the hood guard can occasionally interfere slightly with the draw stroke, requiring a deliberate sweeping motion to deactivate. However, this becomes second nature with practice. The holster significantly exceeds expectations in terms of both security and draw speed, crucial for high-stress situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding, utilizing durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The holster’s weight is well-balanced, providing a secure feel without being overly cumbersome. The drop UBL design enhances comfort, allowing the weapon to ride lower on the hip and preventing interference with body armor or other gear.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 requires a brief period of familiarization to master the ALS release and hood guard deactivation. However, the learning curve is minimal, and the design becomes intuitive with practice. The ALS system is a crucial component, securing the weapon automatically upon holstering.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 is built to last for years with proper care. The robust materials and construction can withstand daily wear and tear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Minor repairs, such as replacing screws or adjusting the tension, can be easily performed with basic tools. The holster’s durability contributes to its overall value, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting duty solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 comes standard with a hood guard for added retention. Users can optionally install a Sentry for enhanced security. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic protectors.

Many users replace the standard UBL with a different drop height or cant angle to further customize the fit. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 is also compatible with various weapon lights and lasers that attach to the Sig Sauer P229R’s rail, though some may require a different holster model. This modularity makes it a versatile choice for various duty applications.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and quick access. It’s ideal for those who work in dynamic environments where weapon security is paramount. It’s also a good fit for anyone who prefers a lower ride height for their duty weapon.

This holster might not be the best choice for those seeking a concealed carry option or those on a very tight budget. Those with limited hand strength might find the hood guard slightly challenging to operate initially. A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt designed to support the weight of the holster and weapon.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. Its robust construction, intuitive ALS system, and comfortable drop UBL design make it a top contender in its class. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the value is justified by its performance, durability, and peace of mind.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-744-62 to any professional seeking a reliable and secure duty holster for their Sig Sauer P229R. Invest in your safety and effectiveness; you won’t be disappointed.