Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 represents a significant leap in duty holster design, blending speed, retention, and comfort in a package tailored for law enforcement and tactical professionals. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, is designed for right-handed users and is compatible with the S&W M&P .45 (with or without thumb safety). Its Level III retention, coupled with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), aims to provide both secure weapon retention and a natural, efficient draw.

My journey to this specific holster began with a need for enhanced security without sacrificing speed and accessibility. After transitioning from open carry to concealed carry as a security contractor, I needed a duty holster that could reliably retain my firearm during strenuous activity while still allowing for rapid deployment when necessary. The Level III retention and the reputation of Safariland‘s ALS system made this model incredibly appealing.

Upon unboxing the holster, the immediate impression was one of robust quality. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a durable, non-reflective surface, and the overall construction felt incredibly solid, promising longevity even under harsh conditions. The drop UBL seemed well-engineered, designed to keep the weapon clear of body armor while still maintaining a stable platform.

Compared to my previous Level II retention holster and a competitor’s offering with a similar drop platform, the Safariland 6365 stood out due to its intuitive ALS mechanism and the adjustable tensioning device. I favored it because it offered a more secure retention level without requiring multiple actions for weapon release, unlike some competitor models. My initial feeling was a mix of excitement and anticipation, eager to put this holster through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype surrounding Safariland products.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6365 was the shooting range, followed by several days of simulated tactical scenarios in a training environment. The range provided a controlled setting to familiarize myself with the ALS system and practice drawing and reholstering under time constraints. The simulated tactical scenarios helped to assess the holster’s comfort and retention during dynamic movement, including running, climbing, and engaging targets from various positions.

The Safariland 6365 performed admirably in both settings. In wet conditions during an outdoor training exercise, the STX Tactical finish provided a secure grip, preventing slippage even with wet hands. It only took a short period to fully acclimate to the ALS, after which the draw became fluid and intuitive, allowing for consistently quick target acquisition.

The only minor issue encountered during the first use was adjusting the tensioning screw to achieve the optimal balance between retention and ease of draw. After some fine-tuning, the holster performed flawlessly, securely retaining the weapon while still permitting a rapid and reliable draw.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in diverse environments, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, with the STX Tactical finish resisting scratches and abrasions even after repeated contact with abrasive surfaces. Regular cleaning involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6365 has exceeded expectations in both retention and comfort. The drop UBL has significantly reduced the strain on my lower back, allowing for extended periods of wear without discomfort, even when carrying a fully loaded firearm. The level of security it provides gives peace of mind during more demanding scenarios, knowing my weapon is securely retained until needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 is a right-handed duty holster designed for the S&W M&P .45 (with or without thumb safety). It features Level III Retention with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) securing the weapon once holstered, and it can achieve Level IV Retention with an optional Sentry installed. The holster utilizes the STX Tactical Black finish for durability and a non-reflective appearance.

• Finish/Color: The STX Tactical Black finish is a textured, non-reflective coating that provides excellent durability and a professional appearance. It resists scratches and abrasions, making it ideal for demanding environments.
• Retention Level: The Level III retention system incorporates the ALS, which automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw. With the optional Sentry, Level IV retention adds an additional layer of security against unauthorized removal.
• UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The Drop UBL positions the holster lower on the hip, clearing body armor and providing a more ergonomic draw stroke. The 1.5″ belt drop is a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment.
• Hood Guard: The included hood guard provides added protection against accidental ALS deactivation and unauthorized weapon removal attempts.
• Fits: Specifically designed for the S&W M&P .45 (with or without thumb safety). This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing weapon movement within the holster.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, security, and comfort. The Level III retention provides a high degree of protection against weapon takeaways, while the Drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility. The STX Tactical Black finish offers both durability and a professional aesthetic.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 excels in its primary function: secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. The ALS system is incredibly intuitive, allowing for a smooth and natural draw stroke once the thumb release is mastered. The drop UBL positions the weapon for optimal accessibility, reducing draw times and minimizing strain on the user.

• Strengths: The Level III retention offers exceptional security. The ALS system is intuitive and efficient.
• Weaknesses: The ALS release requires practice to master. The tensioning adjustment can be sensitive, requiring fine-tuning.

Overall, the holster meets and often exceeds expectations for duty-grade retention and accessibility. Its proven design and robust construction make it a reliable choice for professionals in high-risk environments.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional and non-reflective appearance. The Drop UBL positions the weapon for a natural draw stroke, reducing strain and improving accessibility.

• Build Quality: Constructed from durable materials, the holster feels incredibly solid and well-made. The STX Tactical Black finish resists scratches and abrasions.
• User-Friendly: The ALS system requires practice, but it becomes intuitive with use. The tensioning adjustment allows for customization of the draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. Its robust construction and durable materials ensure long-lasting performance. Regular maintenance involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism.

The holster should last for many years with proper care, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their gear. The design allows for easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry for Level IV retention. The Drop UBL can be swapped for other belt attachment systems, such as paddle attachments or thigh rigs. The ALS mechanism can be adjusted for tension, allowing for customization of the draw stroke.

The holster is also compatible with various weapon-mounted lights, though specific compatibility depends on the light model. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for professionals who need to customize their gear to meet specific operational requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It’s ideal for those who work in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount. The holster’s durable construction and comfortable design make it suitable for extended periods of wear.

This product is not ideal for individuals who prioritize maximum concealment or those unfamiliar with duty-style holsters, as it may require some training and adjustment to master the ALS system. For concealed carry, smaller and more streamlined options may be more appropriate.

Must-have accessories include the optional Sentry for Level IV retention and a quality duty belt to provide a stable platform for the holster. Regular maintenance with a silicone-based lubricant is also recommended to ensure smooth ALS operation.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131

In summary, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-519-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, comfort, and accessibility. The price is justified by its robust construction, reliable performance, and long-lasting durability. The Safariland 6365 is a worthwhile investment for professionals who demand the best in weapon retention and deployment.

I highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a secure and dependable duty holster for the S&W M&P .45. Invest in your safety and efficiency; you won’t be disappointed.