Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. This holster boasts advanced retention features, including the Automatic Locking System (ALS), to ensure a secure carry while still allowing for a rapid draw when needed. Its durable construction and hi-gloss finish provide a professional appearance, making it a popular choice for uniformed personnel.
For years, I struggled with finding a duty holster that offered both exceptional weapon security and a smooth, intuitive draw. Many holsters I’ve used felt either too bulky or didn’t provide adequate retention for active duty situations. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily wear and provide a reliable platform for my sidearm.
My first impression was one of immediate quality. The hi-gloss finish is striking, and the heft of the holster suggests a robust build. The ALS system felt immediately secure, and the drop UBL platform looked like it would offer a comfortable draw height.
Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, the Safariland stood out due to its refined ALS mechanism and streamlined design. While the Serpa offers similar retention, it has faced criticism regarding its draw technique under stress. The Bianchi, while comfortable, lacks the advanced security features of the Safariland. I chose the Safariland for its proven track record in law enforcement and its reputation for reliability.
I was excited to see if the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 could live up to its reputation and address my needs for a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 at the shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. The holster was subjected to rapid draw drills, movement drills, and simulated combat scenarios. It performed admirably under all conditions, providing a consistent and reliable draw stroke.
The holster functioned flawlessly in varying conditions, including light rain and dusty environments. The ALS system remained secure, and the draw stroke was smooth even with wet hands. The drop UBL provided a comfortable and natural draw angle, reducing strain during extended training sessions.
There was a slight learning curve involved in mastering the ALS release. However, after a few practice sessions, the draw became intuitive and efficient. The holster initially felt a bit stiff, but it broke in nicely after several uses.
After the first day of testing, I was impressed by the Safariland’s performance but noted the need for continued practice to refine the draw stroke. The only surprise was how quickly the ALS release became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in both training and duty scenarios, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 has proven to be remarkably durable. It has withstood daily wear and tear without showing any significant signs of degradation. The ALS system continues to function reliably, and the hi-gloss finish remains relatively scratch-resistant.
The holster has shown only minor wear on the interior lining where the firearm contacts the holster body. The Safariland is easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, maintaining its professional appearance with minimal effort. I have occasionally applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland outperforms them in both retention security and draw speed. The Safariland’s robust construction and reliable ALS system instill confidence in its ability to withstand the demands of law enforcement duty.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is a Level III retention holster utilizing Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System). The ALS secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. It also features a hood guard, further enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, a thermal-molded nylon blend that provides excellent resistance to abrasion and impact. The hi-gloss black finish offers a professional appearance suitable for uniformed duty. It is designed for right-hand draw and includes the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), which lowers the holster approximately 1.5 inches from the belt line for improved draw access, especially when wearing body armor. The particular model (6365-320-91) is designed to fit Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, durability, and user comfort. Level III retention provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized firearm removal. The Drop UBL enhances draw speed and reduces strain, while the durable construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention and facilitating a rapid, reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing audible and tactile feedback to confirm the weapon is secure. The thumb release is intuitive and allows for a smooth, natural draw stroke.
The key strength of this holster is its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides peace of mind, while the ALS and Drop UBL ensure a fast and efficient draw. A potential weakness could be the slight learning curve required to master the ALS release, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The SafariLaminate construction provides a robust yet lightweight platform. The Drop UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for a comfortable and natural draw.
The holster is generally user-friendly, but the ALS release requires some initial training. Once mastered, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient. The slim profile and comfortable UBL make it ideal for extended wear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is built to last, constructed from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The SafariLaminate is resistant to abrasion, impact, and moisture.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s needed to keep the holster in optimal condition. Replacement parts, such as ALS springs and UBL hardware, are readily available from Safariland.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 comes standard with the hood guard for enhanced security and the Drop UBL. An optional Sentry can be installed for Level IV retention, providing an additional layer of security in high-risk environments. Safariland also offers various belt loops and mounting platforms, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including magazine pouches, handcuff cases, and other duty gear. The UBL can also be swapped out for other Safariland mounting platforms, such as the thigh rig or MOLLE adapter.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is resistant to abrasion, impact, and moisture, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Drop UBL for Comfortable Draw: The Drop UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Professional Appearance: The hi-gloss black finish provides a clean and professional look suitable for uniformed duty.
- Compatibility with Accessories: The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing for customization.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: The ALS release requires some initial training to master.
- Hi-Gloss Finish Can Scratch: While durable, the hi-gloss finish can be susceptible to scratches with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high-security duty holster. It’s an ideal choice for those who prioritize weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw stroke. It’s also well-suited for individuals who wear body armor, as the Drop UBL provides improved access to the firearm.
This holster might not be the best choice for casual shooters or concealed carry users due to its Level III retention and duty-grade design. It’s primarily intended for uniformed personnel or those who require a high level of security in their holster.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a regular application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and performance. Its advanced ALS system, robust construction, and comfortable Drop UBL make it a standout choice for law enforcement and security professionals. While the ALS release requires some initial training, the benefits of enhanced weapon retention and a rapid draw far outweigh the learning curve.
At $212.60, the price is justified given the holster’s quality, features, and reliability. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is a worthwhile investment for anyone who demands the best in duty gear.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster. If you’re looking for a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily duty and provide a consistent, confident draw, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-320-91 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed.