Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals demanding a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality in the holster world, this model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III retention rating, offering excellent security. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the firearm lower on the hip for enhanced comfort and accessibility, while the basket weave finish provides a professional appearance.
I was searching for a holster that offered both superior weapon retention and comfortable all-day wear for my work in private security. The Safariland reputation for quality and the Level III security features immediately caught my attention. The drop UBL was a critical feature, promising to alleviate the discomfort I experienced with higher-riding holsters during long shifts.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6365 exuded quality. The basket weave finish was impeccably applied, the polymer felt robust, and the mechanisms operated smoothly. The weight felt appropriate for a duty holster; substantial enough to feel secure but not excessively heavy.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, but the Safariland’s ALS system seemed more intuitive and less prone to accidental release under stress compared to the Serpa’s finger release. The Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of documented retention as the Safariland. My initial impression was excitement; I felt confident this holster would meet my needs for security, comfort, and professional appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6365 primarily at the shooting range and during several 12-hour security shifts. The range provided a controlled environment to practice drawing and re-holstering, while the security shifts allowed me to assess comfort and practicality during real-world use. Even during dynamic movements, the holster remained securely in place, providing confidence in its retention capabilities.
The holster performed admirably in various weather conditions, including light rain and hot, humid days. The ALS system never faltered, and the firearm remained secure. I required a few hours to become fully accustomed to the ALS release, but the draw stroke quickly became fluid and natural.
There were no significant issues during the initial testing. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I adapted to the draw stroke, and the drop UBL noticeably improved comfort compared to my previous holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear on the basket weave finish, and the polymer body remains structurally sound. The ALS mechanism still functions flawlessly.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. I periodically wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Occasionally, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
The Safariland 6365 outperforms my previous holsters in both retention and comfort. I feel significantly more secure carrying my firearm in this holster, and the drop UBL design has eliminated the lower back pain I previously experienced during long shifts.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81
Specifications
- Category: ALS Holsters. This signifies its primary retention mechanism is Safariland’s Automatic Locking System.
- Finish/Color: Basket Black. This provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Fits: Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. This specific model is molded to fit these particular firearms.
- Type: Right Hand. This holster is designed for right-handed shooters.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s functionality and suitability for specific users. The ALS system provides excellent retention, the basket weave finish offers a professional look, and the precise fit ensures a secure and reliable draw. The right-hand designation obviously makes it unsuitable for left-handed users.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and allowing for a rapid draw of the firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security against unauthorized removal.
A key strength is the balance between retention and speed. The ALS allows for a quick, straight-up draw once disengaged. The only weakness I’ve observed is that the release mechanism can be slightly stiff when new, requiring a break-in period for optimal smoothness.
The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It provides excellent security, comfortable carry, and a reasonably fast draw.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 features a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body. The drop UBL enhances comfort by positioning the firearm lower on the hip. The build quality is excellent, utilizing durable polymer materials that can withstand demanding use.
The holster is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release is intuitive, and the draw stroke becomes natural with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The durable polymer construction and robust hardware ensure long-term reliability. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster includes a hood guard, which adds another layer of security. An optional Sentry is available, further increasing the retention level to Level IV.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81
Pros
- Exceptional Weapon Retention: The Level III retention provided by the ALS system offers peace of mind, ensuring the firearm remains secure.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL design positions the firearm lower on the hip, significantly improving comfort, especially during extended periods of wear.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality polymer materials, the holster is designed to withstand demanding use and harsh environments.
- Intuitive ALS System: The Automatic Locking System is easy to learn and operate, allowing for a rapid and efficient draw stroke.
- Professional Appearance: The basket weave finish provides a clean and professional look suitable for duty use.
Cons
- Release Mechanism Stiffness: The ALS release can be slightly stiff when new, requiring a break-in period.
- Specific Firearm Fit: This model is specifically molded for the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails, limiting its compatibility with other firearms.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private citizens who prioritize weapon retention and comfortable all-day carry with a Smith & Wesson 5946 or 5943 DAO Without Rails. It is also suitable for those who require a professional-looking holster.
Those who need a holster compatible with a wider range of firearms or prefer a different retention system should skip this product. Left-handed shooters will obviously need to find a left-handed version of this holster.
A sturdy duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism will also help maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-320-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, comfort, and durability. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention, while the drop UBL enhances comfort during extended wear.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the advanced retention features. The level of security and assurance it gives is worth the cost.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable duty holster for their Smith & Wesson 5946 or 5943 DAO Without Rails. If you value weapon security and all-day comfort, the Safariland 6365 is an excellent choice.