Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. It combines Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention, providing both security and a smooth, quick draw. The hi-gloss black finish adds a professional look, while the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
My department recently mandated a Level III retention holster for all uniformed officers. I needed a left-handed holster that would securely retain my Sig Sauer P225, provide a fast draw under pressure, and be comfortable for extended wear. The Safariland 6365 appeared to meet these requirements, and Safariland’s reputation for quality and durability made it a strong contender.
Unboxing the Safariland 6365, I immediately noticed the robust construction and quality of materials. The hi-gloss finish was immaculate, and the holster felt solid and well-made. The ALS mechanism felt positive and secure, and the drop UBL seemed like a comfortable and practical design.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 holster. I chose the Safariland 6365 because of its proven track record in law enforcement and the positive reviews regarding its ALS system. The Blackhawk! Serpa system has faced some criticism regarding accidental discharges under stress, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t seem as secure as the Safariland option.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The holster felt like a professional-grade piece of equipment, and I was eager to put it to the test. The sleek design and positive locking mechanism inspired confidence, and I anticipated that it would be a significant upgrade over my previous Level II holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 at the police department’s shooting range during our monthly firearms qualification. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills in various scenarios, focusing on speed and weapon retention. The weather was sunny and dry, ideal for testing the holster’s draw speed and accessibility.
The holster performed exceptionally well. The ALS system disengaged smoothly and consistently, allowing for a fast and natural draw stroke. The drop UBL positioned the weapon perfectly for easy access, and I quickly adapted to the Level III retention system.
Initially, I experienced a minor issue with the hood guard slightly obstructing my grip during the draw. A few adjustments and practice repetitions resolved this, and it quickly became second nature. After several hours of use, I had no other issues and felt completely confident in the holster’s performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. It has held up well to the rigors of law enforcement work, including exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional scuff during foot pursuits. The hi-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance.
Despite frequent use, the holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, and the retention remains secure. I periodically clean the holster with a damp cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS components to ensure smooth operation.
The Safariland 6365 significantly outperforms my previous Level II holster in terms of both security and draw speed. The Level III retention provides a much greater sense of security in close-quarters situations, and the ALS system allows for a faster and more controlled draw than my old thumb-break holster. It’s a definite upgrade that gives me more confidence on the street.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92
Specifications
- Category: ALS Holsters
- Finish/Color: Hi Gloss Black
- Fits: Sig Sauer – P225
- Type: Left Hand
- Retention Level: Level III
- Material: Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend
- Mount: Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) – 1.5″ belt drop
These specifications are critical for a duty holster. The Level III retention provides enhanced security, while the Hi Gloss Black finish maintains a professional appearance. The Left Hand configuration is essential for left-handed shooters, and the compatibility with the Sig Sauer P225 ensures a proper fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) engages automatically upon holstering, and the Level III retention adds an additional layer of security. The draw is intuitive and smooth once the releases are deactivated.
The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, fast draw, and durable construction. The main weakness is the hi-gloss finish, which can be prone to scratches and requires frequent cleaning. Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The drop UBL provides a comfortable and accessible carry position, and the holster is lightweight enough for all-day wear. The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and precise construction.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the Level III retention system. With practice, the draw becomes fluid and natural. The ALS is intuitive, and the hood guard can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to last, constructed from Safariland’s durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend. The holster has proven to be resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. I use a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion. The hi-gloss finish requires frequent polishing to maintain its shine.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a hood guard. It is also compatible with the optional Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security.
The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. The drop UBL can be replaced with other Safariland mounting options to suit individual preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92
Pros
- Enhanced Security: The Level III retention system provides superior weapon security, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
- Fast and Smooth Draw: The ALS system allows for a rapid and reliable draw, even under stress.
- Durable Construction: Constructed from Safariland’s SafariSeven™ nylon blend, the holster is built to withstand the rigors of duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL positions the weapon comfortably and accessibly, even during extended wear.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi Gloss Black finish provides a sleek and professional look.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish: The Hi Gloss Black finish is prone to scratches and requires frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance.
- Learning Curve: The Level III retention system requires practice to master.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It is also suitable for private citizens who carry a firearm for personal defense and prioritize weapon retention. This is especially true for left-handed users.
Individuals who prefer a minimalist holster design or who do not require Level III retention should skip this product. Those who are not comfortable with the learning curve associated with a Level III holster may also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security and peace of mind. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the holster’s performance and extending its lifespan.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-79-92 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security, performance, and durability. While the hi-gloss finish requires extra care, the holster’s overall benefits far outweigh its minor drawbacks. The price is justified considering the level of security and reliability it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 to any law enforcement officer or security professional who needs a Level III retention holster. It has proven to be a reliable and valuable piece of equipment, and I am confident that it will serve me well for years to come. If you’re a left-handed shooter looking for a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster for your Sig Sauer P225, look no further than the Safariland 6365. Upgrade your gear and experience the peace of mind that comes with carrying a Safariland.