Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who demand both security and rapid access to their firearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster boasts Level III Retention, the ALS (Automatic Locking System), and a durable nylon-look finish. This combination promises a secure carry and a professional appearance.
As a left-handed shooter working in private security, I needed a holster that offered multiple levels of retention without sacrificing a smooth, fast draw. I was tired of the clunky, uncomfortable holsters that were common in the industry. I needed something that would stand up to daily wear and tear while ensuring my firearm was secure.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 was positive. The nylon-look finish gives it a professional, low-profile appearance. The build quality felt solid and well-constructed.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 holster. I chose the Safariland because of its reputation for durability and the proven effectiveness of the ALS system, which seemed more intuitive than the retention mechanisms on the other holsters. The Safariland also appeared more compact, which was crucial for all-day carry.
I was definitely excited to try it out! I had high expectations for a Safariland product, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. The hope was that this holster would finally provide the right balance of security, accessibility, and comfort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 at the shooting range during a training session. I ran through a series of drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering my Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP under time pressure. The weather was sunny and mild, typical for a Southern California day at the range.
The ALS system took a few repetitions to become familiar with, but once I got the hang of it, the draw was surprisingly smooth and fast. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the firearm perfectly for a natural grip. There were no malfunctions or issues with the holster itself.
The only initial issue was getting used to the simultaneous release of the hood and the ALS. It required a coordinated movement, but after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. The holster performed exactly as advertised, securing the weapon effectively and allowing for a rapid draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use during my security shifts, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the holster body or the retention mechanisms. The nylon-look finish still looks professional despite constant rubbing against clothing and gear.
The holster has proven to be very durable. It’s seen rain, dust, and even a few minor scuffs, but it still functions flawlessly. I clean the holster regularly with a damp cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to keep it operating smoothly.
Previously, I used a cheaper nylon holster with a thumb break, and the Safariland is a significant upgrade in terms of both security and comfort. The ALS provides a much more positive retention than the thumb break, and the drop UBL makes the firearm more accessible and comfortable to carry for extended periods. It definitely outperforms my previous holsters.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 is specifically designed for left-handed shooters and fits the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. It features Level III Retention, meaning it has multiple security features to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. The holster utilizes Safariland’s ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered and is released with a thumb-operated lever.
The holster also features a hood guard as a standard Level III retention component. The finish is a durable nylon-look material that provides a professional, low-profile appearance. It comes with a 1.5″ belt drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) attachment, positioning the holster slightly lower on the belt for improved accessibility.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, accessibility, and comfort. The Level III Retention provides peace of mind knowing the firearm is secure. The ALS ensures a fast and intuitive draw. The drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor or other bulky gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 performs its job exceptionally well. The firearm is securely retained, and the draw is smooth and relatively fast with practice. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods thanks to the drop UBL.
The biggest strength is the ALS. It provides a secure and intuitive retention mechanism that is easy to operate with practice. The weakness, if any, is that the Level III retention requires a coordinated movement to release both the hood and the ALS, which can take some getting used to.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 definitely meets my expectations. It provides the level of security and accessibility that I need for my job. The comfort is a welcome bonus.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The materials are durable and the construction is solid. The weight is reasonable for a duty holster.
The holster is relatively user-friendly. The ALS requires some practice, but it quickly becomes second nature. The drop UBL is easy to attach to a belt and provides a comfortable and accessible carry position.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 is built to last. The materials are durable and the construction is solid. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that is required. The holster is designed to be field serviceable, with replacement parts readily available from Safariland.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 comes standard with the hood guard and the drop UBL. An optional Sentry device can be installed for Level IV Retention, adding an additional layer of security. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical mounting platforms.
The holster is also compatible with various lights and lasers that are designed to fit the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. This allows for customization to meet specific operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262
Pros
- Level III Retention provides excellent security against unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- The ALS (Automatic Locking System) offers a fast and intuitive draw once mastered.
- The Drop UBL provides a comfortable and accessible carry position.
- Durable construction and nylon-look finish ensure long-lasting professional appearance.
- Compatibility with accessories allows for customization to meet specific needs.
Cons
- The Level III Retention requires a coordinated movement that takes practice to master.
- Higher price point compared to simpler Level I or Level II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of security and accessibility for their firearm. It’s also a good choice for those who carry a firearm as part of their job and need a comfortable and durable holster for all-day wear. It is Ideal for individuals requiring Level III Retention, and left-handed Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP owners.
This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealment over security. The Level III Retention system can be overkill for everyday carry. People who prefer a simpler, less expensive holster should skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry for Level IV Retention, especially in high-risk environments. Regular cleaning and lubrication are also recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 is an excellent duty holster that provides a high level of security, accessibility, and comfort. The ALS system is intuitive and effective. The drop UBL makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The price of $195.00 is justified by the quality of the materials, the durability of the construction, and the effectiveness of the retention system. It’s an investment in your safety and peace of mind.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-185-262 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster. If you are a left-handed shooter with a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, this holster is a no-brainer. Invest in your safety and get yourself a Safariland. You won’t regret it.