Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone who relies on their firearm for duty or personal defense. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster offers a blend of security, speed, and comfort that’s hard to beat. It stands out thanks to its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the convenience of the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), positioning the firearm for a smoother, faster draw.
After years of wrestling with subpar holsters that compromised either security or accessibility, I needed a solution that offered both without sacrificing comfort. I was searching for a duty-grade holster that would allow a natural draw stroke. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster seemed to fit the bill, promising a secure Level II Plus retention with the added benefit of a drop platform for enhanced ergonomics.
Unboxing it was a breath of fresh air; the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster felt solid and well-constructed, with a noticeable heft that spoke to its durability. The STX Tactical finish felt rugged, and the ALS mechanism clicked reassuringly. The drop UBL was also immediately appealing, promising a comfortable fit and a natural draw angle.
I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster for its balance of Level II Plus retention, the UBL platform’s ergonomic benefits, and Safariland’s reputation for durability in demanding environments. The SERPA system, while popular, didn’t offer the same level of passive retention security as the ALS, and the shoulder system wasn’t practical for everyday carry on duty.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. I knew Safariland made quality gear, but the proof is always in the pudding. I was eager to see if the holster lived up to its promise of a secure, fast, and comfortable carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster at the shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. I also wore it during regular patrol duty for a week.
The holster performed admirably in varied conditions, from the dry, dusty range to a surprise rain shower during patrol. The ALS system never faltered, and the draw remained smooth and consistent regardless of the weather. It took a few hours to become completely comfortable with the ALS release, ensuring a fluid draw under pressure.
The only minor issue was adjusting the UBL to the perfect height on my duty belt. After some adjustments, the holster sat perfectly and provided a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster has proven incredibly reliable. The finish shows minimal wear, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly.
The holster requires minimal maintenance – occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a bit of silicone lubricant on the ALS components keeps it running smoothly. This is a far cry from some leather holsters that require constant attention. Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster significantly outperforms them in both security and comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster
Specifications
- The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon once holstered, providing Level II Plus Retention. This means the firearm is automatically locked in place and requires a deliberate action to release.
- With the optional Sentry installed, the holster achieves Level III Plus Retention. This adds an additional layer of security for high-risk situations.
- The Hood Guard is a standard feature on the 6365 holsters. This protects the SLS (Self Locking System) hood from accidental or unauthorized manipulation.
- The slim, compact design keeps the weapon close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort, especially during prolonged wear.
- The simple straight-up draw becomes intuitive once the releases are de-activated. This allows for a fast and efficient presentation of the firearm.
These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance and user experience. The ALS ensures the weapon stays secure, while the Drop UBL promotes a comfortable and efficient draw. The slim design minimizes bulk, making it ideal for everyday carry on duty.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system provides confidence that the weapon will remain in place during strenuous activity. The strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and comfort.
One potential weakness could be the learning curve for mastering the ALS release under stress. However, with consistent practice, this becomes second nature. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and a solid construction. The holster is lightweight considering its robust design, and the Drop UBL provides a comfortable carry position. The design is user-friendly, but requires a bit of practice to master the ALS release smoothly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster is built to last, even under demanding conditions. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure longevity. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster comes standard with a Hood Guard and the Drop UBL platform. Customization options include the Safariland Sentry, which adds another layer of retention. The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt mounts and leg shrouds, allowing users to configure it to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Level II Plus Retention with the ALS system provides peace of mind. This ensures the firearm remains secure during dynamic movements and potential struggles.
- The Drop UBL platform enhances comfort and allows for a faster, more natural draw stroke. This ergonomic design reduces strain and improves reaction time.
- Durable construction and high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster is built to withstand daily use in demanding environments.
- Simple and intuitive design allows for easy operation and maintenance. The ALS system is easy to learn and use, and the holster requires minimal upkeep.
- Compatibility with a wide range of Safariland accessories provides customization options. Users can tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Cons
- The ALS release requires practice to master under stress. New users may need time to develop muscle memory for a smooth and consistent draw.
- The price point may be higher than some other duty holsters. However, the added security and durability justify the investment for serious users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable way to carry a firearm on duty. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters and tactical trainers who demand a high level of performance from their gear. Someone looking for concealed carry should skip this product due to its size. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry, for those seeking additional retention.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and comfort. While the price may be a bit higher than some competitors, the added features and durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their firearm for personal defense or professional duty.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster to anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing duty holster. Upgrade your gear and experience the Safariland difference today!
