Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention for enhanced security. The drop Uniform Belt Loop (UBL) allows for a comfortable draw, and the STX TAC Black finish provides a low-profile, professional appearance.
As a left-handed shooter and a gear specialist working closely with law enforcement, I’ve always been on the lookout for the perfect balance between security, accessibility, and comfort. My biggest issue was finding a Level III retention holster that wouldn’t slow down my draw or feel bulky on my duty belt. The initial impression of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 was promising, offering a streamlined design with a reputable locking mechanism.
Upon unboxing, the holster immediately felt robust and well-made. The STX Tactical finish had a nice texture and a professional appearance. It felt lighter than my previous Level II holster, which was a pleasant surprise.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite Level 3. However, the Safariland‘s ALS system and reputation for durability ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 at a local shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. The conditions were relatively dry, but the temperature was around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a fair amount of sweat. I found the draw stroke to be smooth and intuitive once I got used to the ALS release.
The UBL drop provided a comfortable grip and allowed for a natural draw, even with my body armor on. After about 50 draws, I started to feel more confident and efficient with the ALS system. There were no malfunctions, and the holster retained my weapon securely throughout the training.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 has held up exceptionally well. The STX Tactical finish shows minimal signs of wear, despite daily use and exposure to various weather conditions. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.
Maintenance has been simple; I wipe it down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove any dirt or sweat. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland requires minimal upkeep. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III retention provides a high degree of security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized weapon removal. The Level III rating is crucial for law enforcement and security personnel in high-risk situations.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): The ALS automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, natural draw. This significantly reduces the risk of accidental disarming.
- Material: Constructed from a durable STX Tactical molded synthetic, the holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The STX material offers excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors.
- Drop UBL (Uniform Belt Loop): The drop UBL provides a 1.5″ drop, positioning the weapon for a more comfortable and efficient draw, especially when wearing body armor. This drop height is optimal for most duty belts.
- Hand Orientation: Specifically designed for left-handed shooters. The left-handed design ensures proper ergonomics and accessibility for left-handed users.
- Finish: The STX TAC Black finish offers a low-profile, professional appearance that blends seamlessly with duty uniforms. The black finish is also non-reflective.
- Compatibility: Designed for the Heckler & Koch P2000. Proper fit ensures secure retention and smooth draw.
These specifications are important because they collectively contribute to the holster’s security, durability, comfort, and overall functionality. The level of retention and the materials used directly impact the safety and longevity of the holster, while the drop UBL and hand orientation influence the user’s comfort and draw speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable. The ALS mechanism works flawlessly every time.
The only potential weakness is the slight learning curve associated with the ALS release. However, with consistent practice, this becomes second nature. It more than meets my expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel robust and well-assembled, and the drop UBL provides a comfortable carry. The weight distribution is also well-balanced.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS, but it is easily overcome with practice. The overall design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 is built to last. The STX Tactical material is highly resistant to wear and tear. Minimal maintenance is required.
The occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functional. The Safariland is designed for long-term use in demanding environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 comes standard with a hood guard. This adds an extra layer of security. An optional sentry can be installed for increased retention.
The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as different UBLs and leg shrouds. The compatibility with other Safariland products offers a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Smooth and Intuitive ALS Draw: Allows for a fast and efficient draw once the ALS release is mastered.
- Durable STX Tactical Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Drop UBL Design: Positions the weapon for a more natural and ergonomic draw, especially with body armor.
- Trusted Safariland Reputation: Known for quality and reliability in law enforcement gear.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release mechanism.
- Can feel bulky: Some users may find the Level III retention system adds bulk compared to lower retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention. It is also suitable for those who prioritize a comfortable and ergonomic draw. This holster is ideal for professionals working in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prioritize concealed carry or those who prefer a minimalist holster design. Also, beginners might find the ALS system a bit challenging at first. A must-have modification is consistent training with the ALS to develop muscle memory and proficiency.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132
Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 is an excellent duty holster that provides a high level of security, durability, and comfort. The price of $157.99 is justified given the quality of materials, the reliability of the ALS system, and the Safariland‘s reputation. The price is fair considering the enhanced security features.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their weapon. If you are a left-handed shooter looking for a duty-grade holster that offers Level III retention, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-97-132 is definitely worth considering. Invest in your safety and efficiency – you won’t regret it.