Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component of a law enforcement officer’s or security professional’s daily kit. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster offers a blend of accessibility, retention, and durability, making it a trusted choice for those who carry a sidearm as part of their job. The Level III retention, coupled with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a protective hood, provides a secure carry while still allowing for a rapid draw when needed.

My need for this holster arose from a shift in my security consulting work requiring open carry in higher-risk environments. I needed a holster that offered both maximum security and a smooth, reliable draw, something my previous Level II holster couldn’t fully provide. My first impressions were positive: the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 felt robust, well-constructed, and the basket weave finish added a professional touch.

Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 stood out because of its superior retention mechanism and the more intuitive draw stroke afforded by the ALS system. While the Blackhawk relied on a finger release that could be problematic under stress, and the Bianchi lacked the active retention of the ALS, the Safariland offered a balance of security and speed that I found appealing. I was excited by the holster’s potential to enhance my security posture and provide confidence in demanding situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 was at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing drills and re-holstering exercises. The range offered a controlled environment to acclimate myself to the Level III retention system, specifically the ALS and the hood guard. Drawing from the holster required deliberate activation of the ALS release, followed by a smooth upward motion.

I performed drills in varying weather conditions, including light rain and high humidity. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 maintained a secure grip on my firearm in both conditions, proving its reliability in less-than-ideal weather. Getting used to the ALS release took some time, but after a few hours of practice, it became second nature. The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the UBL to sit comfortably on my belt, but that was quickly resolved with a few minor adjustments.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I carried it during several executive protection details, involving long hours standing and moving in diverse environments. The holster showed minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to abrasive surfaces and frequent use.

Maintenance has been straightforward, involving only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism with Safariland’s silicone spray. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 outperforms in both security and comfort, providing peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure, yet readily accessible.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 boasts a number of features and specs that make it a standout choice for duty carry:

• Level III Retention: Offers three levels of security, including the ALS, hood guard, and optional Sentry. This combination ensures the firearm remains secure during rigorous activity.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): An internal locking device that secures the weapon once holstered, released with a thumb. This allows for a natural draw stroke without compromising security.
• Hood Guard: Protects the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood from accidental release or tampering. This adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Lowers the holster ride height for improved draw speed and comfort. This is especially helpful for officers wearing body armor.
• Basket Weave Finish: Provides a professional appearance and added grip. The basket weave finish resists scratches and wear, maintaining a clean look.
• Right Hand Configuration: Designed specifically for right-handed users. This ensures proper fit and function for the intended user.
• Fits Sig Sauer P228, P229: Specifically molded to fit these firearm models. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing movement and maximizing retention.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The Level III retention provides confidence in high-risk situations, while the ALS and UBL enhance draw speed and comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 excels in its primary function: securely carrying a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. Drawing the weapon requires a deliberate action, which minimizes the risk of accidental discharge.

Its strengths lie in its robust retention, comfortable carry, and intuitive draw stroke once the ALS is mastered. A potential weakness could be the initial learning curve associated with the ALS, but this is quickly overcome with practice. The holster meets and exceeds expectations, providing a level of security and performance that justifies its price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. The materials used, primarily Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, are lightweight yet durable. The UBL provides a comfortable ride height, reducing strain on the lower back during extended wear.

The holster is user-friendly, with the ALS release positioned for easy access with the thumb. Some users may require time to adjust the UBL to their preferred height and angle, but once set, the holster provides a comfortable and ergonomic carry.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from high-quality materials, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven nylon blend is resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the holster is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. Replacing worn or damaged parts is also straightforward, as Safariland offers a wide range of replacement components.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 comes standard with the hood guard and the Drop UBL. Customization options include:

• Sentry: An optional device that adds another layer of security to the SLS hood.
• Various UBL heights: Allowing users to fine-tune the holster’s ride height to their preferences.
• Different finishes: Including plain black, hi-gloss, and STX Tactical.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as magazine pouches and flashlight holders, allowing users to create a customized duty rig.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private security contractors who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw stroke. It’s also suitable for competition shooters who participate in duty-style competitions.

This holster might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention features. Civilians seeking a simple open carry option may find it overkill. A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security for those operating in high-risk environments.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort. While the price may be higher than some competitors, the added security and durability justify the investment.

I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who requires a Level III retention system and a fast, natural draw. It’s a worthwhile investment in your safety and peace of mind. If you’re looking for a holster that can handle the demands of duty carry, look no further than the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Right Hand 6365-74-81.