Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone needing a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a leader in holster technology, this model combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention for enhanced security. The addition of the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows for comfortable carry below the duty belt, a feature sought after by many.
My journey to this holster began with a growing unease with the retention level of my previous holster during high-risk operations. I needed something that offered an additional layer of security without sacrificing speed and accessibility. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262, with its combination of ALS and a protective hood, seemed to offer the perfect solution.
Unboxing it, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction and the professional “Nylon-Look” finish. The holster felt solid, well-made, and ready for serious duty. The weight was reasonable, considering the retention features, and the overall design appeared streamlined and compact.
I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the Safariland‘s reputation for quality and the specific ALS system swayed my decision. The Serpa’s trigger finger release has always made me nervous, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of active retention as the Safariland. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 seemed like a more secure and professional choice.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a slight bit of intimidation. I knew I was holding a top-tier holster, but I also knew I would need to dedicate time to properly train with it to master the draw stroke under stress. This wasn’t just a holster; it was an investment in my safety and the safety of those around me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 at my agency’s training range and during several force-on-force scenarios. I focused on familiarizing myself with the ALS release and the hood deactivation while maintaining a consistent and efficient draw. The UBL drop provided a comfortable and natural grip angle.
During a simulated rainy environment, the Nylon-Look finish provided adequate grip, and the release mechanisms remained functional despite the moisture. The holster performed admirably in dusty conditions too, with no noticeable impairment to the locking system. The ease of use improved dramatically with practice.
Initially, I fumbled slightly with the hood release, but after a few hours of dedicated training, it became second nature. The only real issue I encountered was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance between retention and draw speed. Finding the sweet spot took some experimentation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 has proven to be exceptionally reliable and durable. There are minimal signs of wear, primarily scuff marks on the bottom of the holster from rubbing against gear and vehicle seats. The retention mechanisms still function flawlessly, providing the same secure lockup as day one.
The Nylon-Look finish has held up remarkably well to the rigors of daily duty. I wipe it down with a damp cloth occasionally, and it maintains its professional appearance. This holster has exceeded my expectations.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 offers a significant improvement in security and peace of mind. The added layer of retention provides confidence in potentially volatile situations, and the UBL drop enhances comfort during long shifts. It has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. It is a left-hand holster with a Nylon-Look finish. The holster provides Level III Retention due to its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a protective hood.
The ALS secures the weapon immediately upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The holster utilizes a 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL. An optional Sentry can be installed to increase the retention to Level IV.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The ALS system provides a significant increase in security, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon. The left-hand configuration ensures compatibility for left-handed shooters. The UBL drop promotes a more natural draw stroke and improves comfort, particularly when wearing body armor or other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to a firearm. The ALS system engages automatically and provides a very secure hold on the weapon. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive with proper training.
The holster’s strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides a deterrent against weapon takeaways, while the ALS allows for a surprisingly fast draw once the user is familiar with the system. The primary weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the hood release and ALS simultaneously.
Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade Level III holster. It provides a high level of security and comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 boasts a slim and compact design. The materials are high-quality polymer, contributing to its durability. The Nylon-Look finish adds a professional and understated aesthetic.
The holster’s design is user-friendly, although some practice is required to become proficient. The UBL drop positions the weapon for a comfortable and natural draw. The holster is well-balanced and does not feel bulky or cumbersome.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 is built to last, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily duty. The durable polymer construction resists scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The locking mechanisms are robust and reliable.
Maintenance is simple, generally only requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Occasional lubrication of the locking mechanisms may be necessary to ensure smooth operation. Overall, the holster is easy to maintain and repair if necessary, though the need for repair is unlikely.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 comes standard with a hood guard. An optional Sentry can be installed for Level IV Retention. The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds.
The compatibility with Safariland‘s ecosystem of accessories allows for significant customization. Users can adapt the holster to their specific needs and preferences. It is worth noting that aftermarket modifications could potentially compromise the holster’s integrity and retention capabilities, thus voiding any warranty.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Secures the weapon immediately upon holstering, allowing for a fast and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty with high-quality materials.
- Comfortable UBL Drop: Positions the weapon for a more natural and comfortable draw stroke.
- Professional Nylon-Look Finish: Offers a low-profile and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Cons
- Steep learning curve: Requires dedicated training to master the ALS release and hood deactivation.
- Potential for Fumbling: Some users may initially experience fumbling with the release mechanisms under stress.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable method of carrying a firearm in a duty environment. It is also well-suited for individuals who prioritize weapon retention and desire a comfortable carry position. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 is ideal for any left-handed shooter looking for a Level III Retention holster for their Smith & Wesson 5946 or 5943.
This holster might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer a minimalist or concealed carry holster. It is also not ideal for those who are unwilling to dedicate the time and effort required to properly train with the ALS and hood release mechanisms.
A must-have accessory would be a Safariland leg shroud if the user prefers a lower carry position. Also, investing in dummy training rounds and a dedicated training regime will help the user develop a consistent and efficient draw stroke.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 is an outstanding duty holster that offers a superb balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. It provides a significant upgrade over Level II holsters and instills confidence in potentially dangerous situations. At a price of $195.00, this holster represents a solid value for the level of protection and quality it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-320-262 to any left-handed professional who carries a Smith & Wesson 5946 or 5943. It’s a worthwhile investment in safety and peace of mind. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the difference a quality holster makes.