Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone needing a secure and reliable way to carry a firearm. This left-handed holster, manufactured by Safariland, features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III Retention, ensuring your weapon stays secure until you need it. The drop Universal Belt Loop (UBL) offers a comfortable and accessible carry position, and the basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism.
As a tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours on the range and in the field, always searching for the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. My previous duty holster, while functional, lacked the refined retention system I needed for peace of mind in high-risk situations. I sought a Level III retention holster with a secure draw, a comfortable carry height, and a professional appearance.
The Safariland holster arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected with foam inserts. My initial impression was of quality craftsmanship; the basket weave finish looked impeccable, and the holster felt robust. The polymer construction seemed durable, but not overly bulky, which is crucial for all-day wear.
Compared to similar holsters from Blackhawk and Bianchi, the Safariland 6365 immediately stood out due to its ALS system. While the others relied on friction and thumb breaks, the ALS offered a more intuitive and positive locking mechanism. The drop UBL also seemed more comfortable than the standard belt loops on the others.
I was excited but cautiously optimistic. A holster is more than just a piece of gear; it’s an extension of your body and a critical tool in potentially life-threatening situations. My hope was that the Safariland 6365 would live up to its reputation and provide the security and reliability I needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention. The weather was sunny and dry, ideal for getting a feel for the holster without environmental distractions. The draw stroke felt surprisingly natural; the ALS release was intuitive and easily de-activated with my thumb during my grip acquisition.
The Safariland 6365 performed admirably under simulated stress drills; the weapon stayed securely holstered during rapid movement and awkward positions. I also noticed that the drop UBL kept the weapon at a comfortable height, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw, even when wearing body armor. There were no issues or surprises after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including daily wear during training exercises, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to rain and moderate dust. The polymer construction is clearly robust.
Maintenance has been simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly without any lubrication or adjustments.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6365 surpasses them in terms of both security and comfort. The ALS system provides a level of confidence that I didn’t have before, and the drop UBL makes all-day wear much more manageable. It’s a significant upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82 boasts several key specifications: It features Level III Retention due to the ALS system and hood guard. The holster is designed for left-handed users, specifically for a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP.
The holster has a basket weave finish in black. It incorporates the ALS (Automatic Locking System) to secure the weapon once holstered and has a slim, compact design. The 1.5″ belt drop is achieved via the UBL (Universal Belt Loop).
These specifications are essential for ensuring both safety and functionality. The Level III Retention provides maximum security against unauthorized weapon removal, a crucial consideration for duty carry. The left-handed design and specific firearm fit ensure proper retention and a smooth, efficient draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system locks the weapon securely in place, requiring a deliberate thumb release to draw. The draw stroke is clean and consistent after practice, thanks to the smooth interior lining and the ergonomic design.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its Level III Retention. This provides peace of mind in demanding situations. One minor weakness could be the need for practice to perfect the draw stroke for those unfamiliar with ALS, though it quickly becomes second nature.
Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. It balances security, accessibility, and comfort effectively.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 is constructed from a durable polymer material. The basket weave finish provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing look. The holster’s weight is well-distributed, and the drop UBL positions the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height.
The design is user-friendly, although the ALS system requires some initial familiarization. The thumb release is intuitively located, and the overall design promotes a natural draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the Safariland 6365 suggests a long service life. Even with daily use and exposure to varying environmental conditions, it shows minimal signs of wear. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a hood guard for added retention and offers the option to install a Sentry for Level IV Retention. While designed specifically for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, Safariland offers various mounting options and accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds.
Compatibility with other brands is limited due to the specific firearm fit, but Safariland offers a wide range of accessories within their own ecosystem. These allow users to customize the holster to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82
Pros
- Level III Retention provides excellent security, giving peace of mind in high-risk situations.
- The Drop UBL offers a comfortable carry position and facilitates a smooth, efficient draw.
- The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use with practice, allowing for a fast and reliable draw.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance, even under demanding conditions.
- Basket weave finish offers a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Cons
- Requires some initial training to master the ALS draw stroke, which might be a hurdle for new users.
- Specific firearm fit limits compatibility with other weapons, reducing versatility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82?
The Safariland 6365 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. It is ideal for those who carry a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP and prefer a left-handed holster.
Individuals who frequently switch between firearms or prefer a simpler retention system might want to explore other options. A must-have modification would be the addition of the Safariland Sentry for Level IV retention, depending on the user’s specific needs.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-185-82 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, accessibility, and durability. The price is justified considering the quality of construction and the peace of mind offered by the Level III Retention system.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone needing a reliable and professional-grade option for their Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. If you’re looking for a holster that will keep your weapon secure and accessible in any situation, the Safariland 6365 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and get your Safariland 6365 today!