Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of professional-grade equipment designed for those who demand uncompromising security and rapid access. This Level III retention holster from Safariland boasts the renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) combined with a protective hood, offering a formidable barrier against unauthorized firearm removal, while still allowing for a smooth, intuitive draw when seconds count. Its drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the firearm for an optimal draw stroke. The hi-gloss black finish delivers a professional appearance, making it ideal for law enforcement and security personnel.
My search for the perfect holster centered on a few key criteria. I needed a Level III retention holster that wouldn’t compromise on speed and accessibility. The drop UBL was also crucial. It allows me to comfortably carry a duty weapon without hindering my movement.
The Safariland holster arrived in a standard cardboard box. Initial inspection revealed a robustly constructed holster with a smooth, polished hi-gloss finish. The ALS system felt secure and the hood mechanism was easy to manipulate, giving me confidence in its level of retention.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 series holsters, but the Safariland’s ALS system consistently receives higher praise for its balance of security and speed. The Safariland also seemed to offer a better fit and finish for my Beretta PX4 Storm. The choice ultimately came down to Safariland’s reputation for quality and the proven reliability of the ALS system.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The holster felt solid and well-made. I was excited to test its performance in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 extensively at the shooting range. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills to assess the speed and security of the ALS system. I also ran drills in varying weather conditions from bright sunlight to light rain.
The holster performed flawlessly in all conditions. The ALS system provided confident retention without hindering the draw. Even when wet, the release mechanisms were easy to manipulate.
The initial draw stroke required a bit of practice to master the simultaneous release of the ALS and the hood. However, with just a few hours of training, the motion became natural and fluid. The drop UBL placed the weapon perfectly for a quick, efficient draw.
The only surprise was the initial stiffness of the ALS lever. It smoothed out considerably after the first few days of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated use in demanding training scenarios. The hi-gloss finish remains intact, with only minor scuffs from regular use.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. I periodically wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. I also apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 outperforms them in terms of both security and speed. The ALS system provides a tangible increase in weapon retention, while the drop UBL improves the draw stroke. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 boasts several key specifications. It has Level III Retention, achieved through the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a protective hood. The holster features a slim, compact design, which allows the weapon to ride close to the body.
The ALS system automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release for drawing. The hood guard provides an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The 1.5″ Belt Drop version is included, offering a lower ride height for improved draw speed and comfort. The holster is specifically designed to fit the Beretta PX4 Storm, ensuring a precise and secure fit.
These specifications are crucial for reliable performance. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations. The slim design enhances concealment and reduces bulk. The drop UBL improves comfort and optimizes the draw stroke for faster target acquisition.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 performs its job admirably. The ALS system provides reliable retention. The draw is smooth and intuitive with proper training.
Its strengths lie in its security and speed. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention. The drop UBL facilitates a fast and efficient draw.
A minor area for improvement would be the initial stiffness of the ALS lever. It improves with use but can be slightly challenging at first. The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 features excellent build quality. The materials used are durable and robust. The holster feels solid and well-made.
The holster is designed to be user-friendly. The ALS release is intuitive after initial training. The drop UBL provides a comfortable and natural draw position.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 is built to last. The durable construction and high-quality materials ensure a long service life. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable performance.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster includes a hood guard for added security. Safariland offers optional accessories such as the Sentry, which provides an even higher level of retention. Compatibility with other Safariland accessories allows for customization of the holster’s ride height and cant.
The holster is also compatible with various belt widths. This adds to its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides high security with the ALS system and hood guard.
- Fast and Efficient Draw: The drop UBL enhances draw speed and efficiency.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand rigorous use and demanding conditions.
- Comfortable Carry: Slim design and drop UBL offer a comfortable carry experience.
- Professional Appearance: Hi-gloss black finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- ALS Lever Stiffness: The ALS lever can be initially stiff. This requires a break-in period.
- Specific Fit: Designed specifically for the Beretta PX4 Storm. It is not a universal holster.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 is perfect for law enforcement officers and security personnel. It’s also ideal for anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention. Those prioritizing both security and a rapid draw stroke would greatly benefit from this holster.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who prefer open-carry holsters with minimal retention. Also, those who require a universal holster that accommodates multiple firearm models might want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry. It adds an additional layer of security. A quality duty belt that is 1.5″ is also essential for optimal holster performance and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91 is a top-tier duty holster. It offers an exceptional balance of security, speed, and durability. The Safariland holster delivers peace of mind knowing your firearm is secure.
At $213.99, the price is justified given the level of security and quality it provides. The investment is worthwhile for professionals who rely on their equipment daily.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-180-91. It is a reliable and well-designed holster that will serve you well in demanding situations. If you need a Level III retention holster for your Beretta PX4 Storm, this is the one to get. Invest in your safety and get yours today!