Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and tactical professionals who demand a high level of weapon security and a reliable draw. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster incorporates the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level III retention and features a convenient drop Universal Belt Loop (UBL) for comfortable carry. Its durable nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance while withstanding the rigors of daily use.

I needed a holster that offered a secure carry for my railed 1911 with a weapon light, while also allowing for a smooth and fast draw in high-stress situations. I was looking for something that would stand up to the demands of training and potentially real-world use. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III seemed to fit the bill with its reputation for security and speed.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the solid feel and quality of the materials. The nylon-look finish is clean and professional. The holster feels substantial without being overly bulky. It’s clear that Safariland prioritized durability in the construction.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite before settling on the Safariland 6365. I ultimately chose the Safariland because of its proven ALS system, its compatibility with my specific firearm/light combination, and the UBL’s reputation for comfort compared to other drop-leg options. The Blackhawk! Serpa’s release mechanism has been a source of controversy, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of retention I was looking for.

My first impression was one of excitement. I was eager to get it onto my belt and start practicing my draw. The holster felt like a serious piece of gear designed for serious use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261 to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland 6365 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. I drilled drawing and re-holstering under simulated stress with targets placed at varying distances. The weather was dry and relatively mild, but the ground was uneven, and I was moving frequently.

The ALS system performed flawlessly, retaining the weapon securely even during dynamic movements. The draw was surprisingly smooth and intuitive once I got the hang of deactivating the ALS lever. The drop UBL provided a comfortable ride height that allowed for a natural grip on the firearm.

I had no major issues, but I did need some time to adjust to the ALS release. I initially fumbled with the lever a few times. After about an hour of practice, the motion became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly range training and occasional wear during outdoor activities, the Safariland 6365 has held up incredibly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the nylon-look finish. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.

The holster’s durability is impressive. It has withstood repeated draws, re-holstering, and exposure to dust and dirt without any degradation in performance. The nylon-look material is easy to wipe down and clean with a damp cloth.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6365 is significantly more secure and comfortable for extended wear. My previous holsters either lacked the same level of retention or caused discomfort due to their rigid construction or poorly designed belt attachments. The Safariland outperforms them both in security and ergonomics.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261

Specifications

• Category: ALS Holsters. This designates it as part of Safariland’s line of holsters utilizing their Automatic Locking System (ALS).

• Finish/Color: Nylon-Look. Provides a durable and professional appearance similar to nylon but with the rigidity of the holster’s polymer construction.

• Fits:

  • Kimber – 1911 w/rails: Gold Combat RL; Custom TLE/RLw/Surefire X200 or X300 light NOTE: Holster will not retain weapon without light attached. This means it’s specifically molded for these railed 1911 variants with compatible weapon lights.
  • Springfield Armory – 1911 w/rails: Operator w/Surefire X200 or X300 light NOTE: Holster will not retain weapon without light attached. Again, molded for specific railed 1911s needing the light for proper retention.
  • Wilson – 1911 w/rails: CQB w/Surefire X200 or X300 light NOTE: Holster will not retain weapon without light attached. Same requirement of weapon light for retention.

• Type: Right Hand. Designed for right-handed shooters.

The fact that this holster requires a weapon light for retention might be a dealbreaker for some, but it ensures a secure fit for those who always carry with a light. The ALS system is a game-changer for active retention, offering both security and a relatively quick draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system activates automatically upon holstering, providing Level III retention. The Hood Guard adds another layer of security.

The main strength is the secure retention. The ALS system provides peace of mind, knowing the weapon is safely held in place. The weakness is that drawing requires a very specific motion.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations for security and draw speed. It provides a high level of confidence in weapon retention while remaining relatively easy to use with practice.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. Safariland uses durable materials that are built to withstand demanding conditions. The weight is appropriate for a duty-grade holster, feeling substantial without being overly heavy.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, but requires practice to master the draw stroke. The learning curve is not steep. However, consistent training is necessary to develop proficiency.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction suggest it will withstand years of use. Maintenance is simple. It requires only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with a Hood Guard for added security. The optional Sentry device provides an even higher level of security.

It is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical accessories. Many shooters customize their Safariland holsters with different mounting options to suit their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a high level of weapon security and a reliable draw. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and retention.

This product isn’t ideal for those who prefer a simple open-top holster or who don’t use a weapon light on their firearm. It might also be overkill for casual shooters who don’t require Level III retention.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for proper support and stability. Regular practice with the draw stroke is essential to develop proficiency and muscle memory.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-560-261 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. While it requires a weapon light and some dedicated practice, the benefits of its robust retention system and comfortable carry make it a worthwhile investment for serious users.

The price of $207.00 is justified by the quality of materials, the reliability of the ALS system, and the overall performance of the holster. It’s an investment in safety and efficiency.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone who needs a Level III retention holster for their railed 1911 with a weapon light. Train with it, trust it, and you won’t be disappointed. Equip yourself with confidence and experience the difference a quality holster can make.