Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 represents a serious piece of kit for law enforcement, security professionals, and anyone requiring Level III retention with a duty holster. This isn’t some flimsy, off-the-shelf solution; this is a meticulously crafted holster designed for secure weapon carry and rapid deployment in high-stress situations. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize firearm security.

I needed a holster that offered both exceptional retention and ease of draw for my role as a security consultant, often working in environments where weapon security is paramount. I was specifically searching for a holster that could accommodate my railed 1911 with a weapon-mounted light and provide a reliable level of retention without hindering my ability to quickly access my firearm.

My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 was its robust construction and the quality of the materials. The hi-gloss finish gives it a professional, almost intimidating look, and the overall feel exudes durability. The weight is substantial, which isn’t a surprise considering the level of retention and the included Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop).

I considered the Blackhawk SERPA Level 3 Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 series. I chose the Safariland due to its reputation for superior retention mechanisms and the specific ALS system, which I felt offered a more intuitive and reliable draw stroke. The drop UBL also seemed more adaptable to different belt setups compared to the fixed belt loops on the Bianchi.

I was immediately impressed with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92. While the hi-gloss finish might be a bit much for some, the overall design and feel inspired confidence that my weapon would be secure and readily accessible when needed.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at a private shooting range, simulating various scenarios I might encounter in my security consulting work. These included drawing under stress (simulated by physical exertion and time constraints) and performing reloads while maintaining situational awareness. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 performed admirably in dry conditions, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I mastered the ALS release.

I also tested the holster in light rain to simulate adverse weather conditions. The grip remained secure, and the draw stroke wasn’t significantly affected by the moisture. However, the hi-gloss finish did become slightly slippery, reinforcing the need for a firm grip during the draw.

There was a slight learning curve with the ALS release, requiring some practice to consistently deactivate it under pressure. However, once I got the hang of it, the draw became fluid and natural. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I could acquire a shooting grip once the weapon cleared the holster.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite daily use and exposure to various environmental conditions. The finish has maintained its integrity, and the ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.

The only minor wear is some slight scuffing on the interior of the holster from repeated draws and re-holstering. This is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect the holster’s performance or retention capabilities.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 far outperforms my previous duty holsters in terms of both retention and speed of draw. The ALS system provides a level of security I haven’t experienced with other holsters, while still allowing for a rapid and efficient draw stroke.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92

Specifications

• Level III Retention: The holster features a Level III Retention system, providing three independent levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. This includes the ALS (Automatic Locking System), the hood guard, and the optional Sentry.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This system automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The ALS mechanism provides a simple, intuitive, and highly effective method of retention.
• Hood Guard: The hood guard further enhances security by preventing the ALS release from being easily accessed by someone other than the user. The hood can be deactivated during the draw stroke with proper training.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The UBL lowers the holster, allowing for a more comfortable draw, especially when wearing body armor or other tactical gear. The Drop UBL positions the firearm lower on the hip, improving access and reducing interference with other equipment.
• Hi-Gloss Black Finish: The Hi-Gloss Black finish provides a professional and durable exterior. While aesthetically appealing, the finish is primarily for durability and resistance to the elements.
• Left-Hand Configuration: This holster is specifically designed for left-handed shooters, ensuring optimal ergonomics and ease of access. The design caters specifically to the left-hand draw stroke.
• Fits Specific 1911 Models with Rails: The holster is molded to fit Kimber 1911 w/rails (Gold Combat RL, Custom TLE/RL w/Surefire X200 or X300 light), Springfield Armory 1911 w/rails (Operator w/Surefire X200 or X300 light), and Wilson 1911 w/rails (CQB w/Surefire X200 or X300 light). It’s crucial to verify compatibility with your specific firearm model and light configuration.
• Compatibility Note: The holster will not retain the weapon without the specified light attached. This design feature ensures proper retention and functionality.
• Optional Sentry: An optional Sentry device can be installed to convert the holster to Level IV Retention, providing an even greater level of security. The Sentry adds an additional layer of complexity to the release mechanism, further deterring unauthorized access.
• Slim and Compact Design: The slim design ensures the weapon rides close to the body, minimizing printing and improving concealment. This design feature is crucial for comfortable all-day carry and tactical maneuverability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk environments.

The primary strength of this holster is its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS system provides a high level of retention, while the thumb release allows for a quick and natural draw stroke. The only potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but this is easily overcome with practice.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 exceeds my expectations in terms of both security and usability. The Level III retention provides the level of protection I need in my line of work, while the smooth and consistent draw stroke allows me to quickly deploy my weapon when necessary.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The holster feels solid and durable, and the hi-gloss finish gives it a professional appearance.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release. However, with a few hours of practice, the draw becomes fluid and natural.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 is built to last, with durable materials and robust construction. The holster should provide years of reliable service with proper care and maintenance.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, making maintenance a breeze.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with the Hood Guard and the Drop UBL. The most common customization is the addition of the optional Sentry for Level IV retention.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 is also compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting options. Ensure compatibility before purchasing accessories.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a rapid draw stroke. It is particularly well-suited for those who carry a railed 1911 with a weapon-mounted light and need a reliable duty holster.

This holster might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention. It’s primarily designed for open carry in a duty or tactical environment. Individuals who do not use a weapon-mounted light should also avoid this model, as it requires the light for proper weapon retention.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry for converting to Level IV Retention if even more security is desired. Proper training on the ALS system is also essential.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 is an outstanding duty holster that provides a rare combination of security, accessibility, and durability. While the hi-gloss finish might not appeal to everyone, the overall design and functionality of this holster are top-notch.

At $224.60, the price is justified by the high level of security and the quality of construction. This is a serious piece of equipment for serious professionals.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-560-92 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster for their railed 1911 with a weapon light. Invest in your safety and security – you won’t regret it!