Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand secure weapon retention and quick access. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, ensuring your firearm stays put until you need it. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable carry and easy access, even when wearing body armor.
After years of relying on Level II holsters, I needed an upgrade that provided an additional layer of security without sacrificing speed. With increasing threats in the field, a Level III holster seemed like a logical step, and the Safariland 6365 seemed to strike the right balance. I wanted something that was proven, reliable, and wouldn’t slow me down in a critical situation.
Out of the box, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The plain black finish is professional and understated, and the molded polymer felt robust. The weight was noticeable but not excessive, a trade-off I expected for the added security features.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but the Safariland’s ALS system had a reputation for being both secure and faster to draw from than the thumb-break systems used by its competitors. This factored heavily into my decision. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to test it out, but also a little apprehensive about whether the Level III retention would hinder my draw speed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6365 at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention under various conditions. The first few draws were awkward; getting used to the ALS release and the hood release required some practice. However, after about an hour, I started to get the hang of it, and my draw times began to improve.
I practiced in both dry and humid conditions to simulate real-world scenarios. The ALS release remained consistent regardless of moisture. The Safariland 6365 performed admirably. The only minor issue was the hood occasionally sticking slightly in dusty conditions, which required a more deliberate flick to clear.
The initial learning curve was a bit steeper than I anticipated, but the added security felt worth the effort. I was relieved that the draw stroke became relatively smooth with practice. I did note that the initial friction of the draw was higher than my previous Level II holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are a few minor scuff marks on the exterior, but nothing significant. The holster’s functionality hasn’t diminished.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. I wipe it down with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and debris. I also apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to keep it smooth. The Safariland 6365 has held up extremely well.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6365 offers significantly better retention and a similar draw speed after practice. It gives me increased confidence in the field. It is definitely an upgrade in terms of security and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61 is designed for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. It is a right-hand holster with a plain black finish. This holster also offers Level III Retention and is part of the Safariland ALS series. It features a 1.5″ belt drop and includes a hood guard.
The Safariland 6365 features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered. The Level III Retention combines the ALS with a rotating hood, providing an extra layer of security against unauthorized removal. The drop UBL positions the holster lower on the belt, improving access, especially when wearing bulky gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 excels at its primary job: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a relatively fast draw. The ALS system is intuitive once mastered, and the hood is easy to manipulate with practice. The Level III Retention provides a significant deterrent against weapon takeaways.
The holster’s main strength is its balance of security and accessibility. The initial draw requires a deliberate action, which prevents accidental releases. The only real weakness is the initial learning curve, which may require some dedicated practice to overcome. It absolutely meets expectations as a duty holster for high-risk environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 is constructed from durable, molded polymer. The build quality is excellent, with precise molding and robust hardware. The drop UBL is comfortable to wear, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly across the belt.
The holster’s design is user-friendly, although the Level III retention system takes some getting used to. The ALS release lever is well-positioned for easy access, and the hood rotates smoothly. It is a well-designed holster that balances security with ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. The polymer material is resistant to scratches and abrasions. With proper care, this holster should last for many years.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. Replacing any worn parts like the hood spring is easily accomplished. It is a very durable and easily maintained piece of equipment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a hood guard. The Safariland website offers additional accessories such as the optional Sentry, which provides Level IV Retention. Aftermarket accessories such as weapon lights and red dot sights may require a different holster model.
While the Safariland 6365 is primarily designed for use with the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, it’s compatible with various Safariland UBL mounts and leg shrouds. This allows for customization based on personal preference and mission requirements. It is a highly customizable and adaptable holster platform.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61
Pros
- Excellent retention: The ALS system combined with the Level III hood provides superior weapon security.
- Durable construction: The molded polymer material is built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
- Drop UBL: The drop UBL positions the holster for comfortable carry and easy access, especially with body armor.
- Relatively fast draw: With practice, the draw speed can be comparable to Level II holsters.
- Proven reliability: Safariland is a trusted brand with a long history of providing high-quality law enforcement gear.
Cons
- Learning curve: The Level III retention system requires practice to master.
- Increased friction: The initial draw requires more effort than Level II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention. It is also well-suited for those who work in high-risk environments where weapon takeaways are a concern. This is an excellent choice for anyone needing high-security firearm retention.
This product may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention system. Those who prioritize speed over security may find the learning curve frustrating. Someone looking for the quickest draw possible should probably consider a Level II holster instead.
A must-have accessory would be a dedicated practice regimen to master the draw stroke. Silicon lubricant for the ALS mechanism is also recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-185-61 is a well-designed and durable duty holster that provides excellent weapon retention. While it requires some practice to master the draw stroke, the added security and peace of mind are worth the effort. The Level III Retention is a significant deterrent to weapon takeaways, which is invaluable in high-risk environments.
The price is justified given the quality of construction, the reliability of the Safariland brand, and the added security features. Considering the level of protection it provides, it’s a reasonable investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone who needs a Level III duty holster. If you’re serious about weapon retention and want a holster that will stand up to the rigors of daily use, this is an excellent choice. Take the time to practice with it, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle any situation.