Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry platform. This holster from Safariland combines their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention system and a Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for optimal functionality. The basket weave finish adds a professional touch, while the right-hand configuration makes it ideal for right-handed shooters using the Sig Sauer P225.
Having worked patrol for years, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of a secure and reliable holster, and that’s precisely what I was looking for when I started my search. I needed something that would keep my firearm secure during foot pursuits and potentially violent encounters, but still allow for a smooth and rapid draw when necessary. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality in the law enforcement community, and I was eager to see if the 6365 lived up to its reputation.
Upon receiving the holster, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and attention to detail. The basket weave finish was clean and consistent, and the molded polymer felt incredibly durable. The weapon locks in with a reassuring click, and the release mechanisms are intuitive and easily accessible. Comparing it to my old Level II holster, the added layer of security offered by the 6365 was a welcome upgrade.
My initial impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. It felt like a serious piece of equipment, built to withstand the rigors of daily duty. Now, it was time to see if it performed as well as it looked.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 took place at the shooting range, focusing on draw speed and weapon retention. I ran a series of drills, practicing drawing and re-holstering under different simulated stress conditions. The ALS system, once mastered, proved to be remarkably fast and efficient.
The holster performed admirably in both dry and wet conditions. A sudden downpour during one of my range sessions didn’t affect the holster’s functionality or retention capabilities. The initial learning curve was minimal; a few repetitions were enough to get the hang of the thumb release and hood manipulation. However, I did notice a slight stiffness in the ALS release during the first few draws, which smoothed out considerably with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has endured daily wear and tear, including exposure to extreme temperatures and rough handling, with no signs of significant wear. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s required to keep it in optimal condition.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 offers superior retention and comfort. The Drop UBL positions the weapon perfectly for a natural draw stroke, and the Level III retention provides peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure. It’s a noticeable upgrade in both security and usability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P225. It is constructed from durable Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend. The holster features a Level III Retention system incorporating the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Hood Guard.
The ALS system secures the weapon immediately upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The Level III retention adds an additional layer of security, further reducing the risk of unauthorized access. The Drop UBL lowers the holster, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic draw position. Finally, the basket weave finish offers a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 excels in its primary function: securing and readily deploying a firearm. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a consistent and reliable locking mechanism. The hood guard offers another layer of security, but does not impede the draw once deactivated.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, comfortable carry, and relatively simple draw stroke. One potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the Level III retention system, though this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster of this caliber.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealment under clothing. The Drop UBL provides a comfortable and natural draw angle, reducing strain on the wrist and shoulder.
The holster is constructed from high-quality materials and feels incredibly durable. The fit and finish are excellent, and the overall build quality is exceptional. While some users may find the Level III retention system slightly bulky, it’s a necessary trade-off for the added security.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. Its durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may benefit from occasional lubrication with a dry silicone-based lubricant. Overall, this holster is designed for low-maintenance, high-performance operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is compatible with a range of accessories. Safariland’s optional Sentry device can be installed to further enhance the Level III retention. Different belt loops and mounting options are available to customize the carry position.
While not specifically designed for extensive modification, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is compatible with most standard Safariland mounting platforms. This allows users to adapt the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention System: The combination of ALS and Hood Guard provides an incredibly secure hold on the firearm.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to wear, tear, and extreme conditions.
- Comfortable Drop UBL Carry: The lowered ride height promotes a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.
- Professional Basket Weave Finish: The basket weave pattern adds a touch of sophistication and professionalism.
- **Proven *Safariland* Reliability:** The Safariland name is synonymous with quality and dependability in law enforcement.
Cons
- Learning curve associated with mastering the Level III retention system.
- Slightly bulky design compared to Level I or Level II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry platform. This holster is ideal for individuals working in potentially hostile environments where weapon security is paramount. Those who appreciate quality construction and proven reliability will also find this holster a worthwhile investment.
Those seeking a minimalist or concealed carry holster should skip this product. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is designed primarily for open carry and is not ideal for concealed carry applications. A must-have accessory would be a good quality duty belt to properly support the weight of the firearm and holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional retention, durability, and comfort. At $195.00, the price is justified by the holster’s superior quality and performance. I would personally recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure way to carry their Sig Sauer P225.
If you prioritize weapon retention, durability, and a comfortable carry, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-79-81 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and peace of mind; you won’t be disappointed.