Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131 is a serious piece of kit designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals who demand top-tier weapon retention and a quick, efficient draw. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster world, delivers a holster that balances security with accessibility. Its Level III retention, coupled with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a convenient drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), makes it a compelling option for those who operate in high-risk environments.

I sought out this specific holster to address concerns about weapon security while working in plain clothes details where retention was paramount. I needed a holster that could prevent unauthorized access to my sidearm, yet still allow for a rapid draw in a critical situation.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of rugged durability. The STX TAC Black finish offered a matte, non-reflective surface ideal for tactical applications. The construction felt incredibly solid, and the ALS mechanism engaged with a reassuring click, indicating a secure lock.

Compared to my previous holsters – a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco leather model – the Safariland 6365 immediately stood out. The Blackhawk, while offering speed, lacked the Level III retention I now required, and the Galco, while comfortable, was simply too slow for my operational needs. This Safariland appeared to offer the best of both worlds: speed and enhanced security.

I was immediately excited and impressed by the quality and thought that went into the design, as it felt like a purpose built tool with no compromise. This holster looked like it would perform, and I couldn’t wait to get it onto the range and see how it handled.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6365 was at a local shooting range, simulating various scenarios including drawing under stress and rapid re-holstering. I tested it with my Sig Sauer P225, the pistol the holster is designed for. The first draw took some getting used to, as deactivating the ALS and the hood required a slightly different technique than I was accustomed to.

I also subjected the holster to simulated environmental conditions, splashing it with water and exposing it to fine sand to mimic real-world scenarios. The ALS mechanism continued to function flawlessly despite these challenges. However, I found that very fine dust could potentially impede the hood rotation if not properly maintained.

The draw stroke, once mastered, was surprisingly smooth and quick, despite the multi-stage release. The drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for a natural grip, and the re-holstering process was equally intuitive, with the ALS automatically engaging upon the weapon being seated. It was obvious that Safariland had put a great deal of thought into the ergonomics of the system.

After my first session with the holster, I noticed a slight bit of wear on the inside of the hood from repeated draws. This was purely cosmetic, and the holster continued to function perfectly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in both training and real-world applications, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be an incredibly reliable piece of gear. There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond the aforementioned cosmetic markings on the hood. The ALS mechanism continues to engage securely and release smoothly.

Maintenance has been minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps the holster clean and functioning optimally. The STX TAC Black finish has also proven to be highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, maintaining a professional appearance.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6365 far surpasses them in terms of both security and speed. The Level III retention provides a significant deterrent to unauthorized access, and the ALS system allows for a faster draw than traditional thumb-break holsters. The Safariland 6365 exceeded my expectations and has instilled confidence in my ability to safely and effectively carry my firearm.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131

Specifications

• The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III holster features a Level III retention system, incorporating both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a rotating hood for enhanced security. This combination makes it incredibly difficult for someone other than the wearer to remove the firearm.
• It is constructed from durable STX TAC Black material, which offers excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. The finish is also non-reflective, making it suitable for tactical applications.
• The holster is designed specifically for right-handed users and is molded to fit the Sig Sauer P225 perfectly. This ensures a secure fit and a smooth, consistent draw.
• The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) lowers the holster, allowing for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw, especially when wearing body armor or other bulky gear. It also keeps the firearm away from the armpit, improving comfort and range of motion.
• An optional Sentry device can be installed for even greater retention, converting the holster to Level III+. This adds another layer of security, making it virtually impossible for anyone to remove the firearm without the wearer’s explicit action.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 performs exceptionally well in its intended role: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw when needed. The ALS mechanism provides a positive and audible lock, giving the user confidence that their weapon is secure.

The strengths of the holster lie in its combination of speed and security. It offers a Level III retention, providing a significant deterrent to unauthorized access, yet still allows for a surprisingly fast draw once the releases are deactivated. The primary weakness lies in the need for practice to master the release sequence.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm, and its speed and ease of use, once mastered, make it a valuable asset for law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 is designed with ergonomics in mind. The drop UBL positions the firearm for a natural grip, minimizing wrist strain and maximizing draw speed.

The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and precise molding. The holster is also surprisingly lightweight considering its robust construction. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and hood release. However, with practice, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The STX TAC Black material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism as needed. The holster should last for many years with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 comes standard with the hood guard. It also offers compatibility with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry, which adds an additional layer of retention.

The holster is also compatible with various mounting options, allowing users to customize the ride height and cant. This versatility ensures that the holster can be adapted to meet the specific needs of the individual user.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131?

The Safariland 6365 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a quick, efficient draw. It is also ideal for those who operate in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.

This product should be avoided by casual shooters who prioritize comfort and ease of use over security. The Level III retention system may be overkill for those who do not require a high level of weapon security.

A must-have accessory is the optional Sentry, which provides an even greater level of retention. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also recommended for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-79-131 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. It is a valuable asset for anyone who requires a reliable and effective way to carry a firearm in demanding environments.

At $143.99, the price is justified by the exceptional quality, performance, and security features offered. It represents a significant investment in personal safety and operational effectiveness.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone who requires a Level III retention holster. If you are serious about weapon security and demand a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use, the Safariland 6365 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and order yours today!