Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 isn’t just a holster; it’s a statement about readiness and responsibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, this holster boasts Level III retention with the intuitive ALS (Automatic Locking System), offering a blend of security and quick access that’s crucial in high-stakes situations. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the firearm for a smoother draw, while the nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance without the maintenance hassles of leather.
For years, I’ve carried concealed, but my needs shifted when I started volunteering with a local search and rescue team. I needed a duty-style holster that could withstand the rigors of the field while providing maximum security for my firearm in challenging environments. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 appeared to be the perfect answer to my requirements.
My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 was its solid construction and thoughtful design. The holster felt robust without being overly bulky, and the nylon-look finish had a professional, understated aesthetic. The ALS mechanism felt positive and secure during initial dry-fire drills.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the Safariland‘s reputation for reliability and the specific ALS retention system swayed my decision. The Serpa’s release mechanism has been debated for safety concerns, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of retention as the Safariland. I picked the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 as it felt like the most comprehensive system balancing security, accessibility, and durability.
Excitement and a bit of cautious optimism were my initial feelings. It looked right, felt right, but the real test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 was at a weekend training exercise with the search and rescue team. We were practicing search patterns in a heavily wooded area with varying terrain. The weather was typical for the Pacific Northwest in spring: damp, with light rain.
The holster performed admirably in the wet conditions. The ALS mechanism didn’t seize up or become difficult to operate despite the moisture. The drop UBL design allowed for a smooth, consistent draw, even while wearing gloves and navigating uneven ground.
There was a slight learning curve with deactivating the ALS while under stress. However, after a few hours of practice, it became second nature. I did notice the holster rubbed slightly against my thigh during prolonged hiking, but this was easily remedied by adjusting the belt position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and monthly field exercises, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 has proven its durability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. The nylon-look finish has resisted scratches and abrasions far better than a traditional leather holster would have.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s typically required. I occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous experience with leather holsters, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 is significantly easier to maintain and clean.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 has exceeded my expectations. Its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable carry position make it an invaluable piece of gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level III, providing a high degree of security against unauthorized removal. This is paramount for duty carry or open carry in environments where weapon retention is a concern.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. This allows for intuitive operation and fast draw speed once the release is deactivated.
- Construction Material: Durable thermal-molded Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend, offering excellent resistance to heat, cold, and moisture. This ensures the holster maintains its shape and function in harsh conditions.
- Finish: Nylon-Look, providing a professional appearance with enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. This resists scratching and abrasion better than traditional leather.
- UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Drop and offset configuration for optimal draw position. This enhances comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
- Fits: Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 with thumb safety. This ensures a snug and secure fit for the specified firearms.
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand. This dictates the side of the body on which the holster is worn.
- Hood Guard: Standard, providing additional protection against unauthorized access to the firearm. This adds an extra layer of security.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 performs exceptionally well in terms of weapon retention and accessibility. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a fast and consistent draw stroke with practice. The drop UBL positions the firearm perfectly for a comfortable and efficient draw.
The holster’s primary strength is its Level III retention. This gives peace of mind knowing that the firearm is secure, even during strenuous activity or close-quarters encounters. The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the ALS release under stress.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-style holster. It provides the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 is outstanding. The materials are top-notch, and the construction is robust. The holster sits comfortably against the body, and the drop UBL prevents it from digging into the hip.
The ALS mechanism is easy to understand and operate with minimal training. The design prioritizes both security and ease of access.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 is built to last. The durable thermal-molded SafariSeven nylon blend can withstand years of hard use.
Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The robust design ensures years of reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 comes standard with a hood guard for added security. It’s also compatible with an optional Safariland Sentry device, which provides an even higher level of retention. The UBL can be swapped out for other Safariland belt attachments depending on the user’s preference.
It’s designed to be compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, allowing for a customizable duty rig. The holster fits the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 with thumb safety like a glove.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Intuitive ALS (Automatic Locking System): Allows for fast and consistent draws with practice.
- Durable SafariSeven Construction: Ensures long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
- Comfortable Drop UBL Carry: Positions the firearm for optimal draw and all-day comfort.
- Professional Nylon-Look Finish: Offers a clean and understated aesthetic with superior durability.
Cons
- The ALS mechanism requires practice to master under stress.
- The drop UBL may cause slight rubbing during extended periods of hiking.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, military professionals, and anyone who requires a high-security, duty-style holster for open or tactical carry. It’s also well-suited for search and rescue personnel, range instructors, and competitive shooters who demand reliable weapon retention.
Who should skip this product? Individuals looking for a concealed carry holster or those who prioritize comfort over absolute security.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider adding the Safariland Sentry for Level IV retention, or explore different Safariland belt attachments for a more customized carry setup.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 is a serious piece of gear for serious professionals. Its blend of security, accessibility, and durability is unmatched in its class.
At a price of $195.00, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 represents an excellent value for the level of protection and performance it provides. Peace of mind is priceless, and this holster delivers it in spades.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-619-261 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty-style holster. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with the best.