Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a quick, reliable draw. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, providing excellent security. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) allows the firearm to ride lower on the hip, improving accessibility while wearing body armor or other gear.
I needed a Level III retention holster that wouldn’t sacrifice speed. Many retention holsters feel clunky and slow, but the ALS system promised a smooth, intuitive draw. I chose this holster specifically for its balance of security and accessibility, something critical in high-stress environments.
Out of the box, the holster looks incredibly professional. The Hi Gloss Black finish is striking, if a little flashy, and the molded construction feels robust. The weight is noticeable, but reassuring; it speaks to the quality of the materials used.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 Duty Holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its superior ALS system and reputation for durability. The Serpa felt less secure, and the Bianchi lacked the drop UBL feature, making it less ideal for use with my body armor. I was immediately impressed with the solid feel and positive locking mechanism.
I was cautiously optimistic. I’ve used Safariland products before and found them to be reliable, but I was concerned about the “Hi Gloss” finish being too reflective in tactical situations. Ultimately, I was excited to test its Level III retention system and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 at my local shooting range. The conditions were dry and sunny, providing a good baseline for performance. The draw stroke felt surprisingly natural, even with the Level III retention.
The ALS system disengaged smoothly with my thumb, allowing for a quick and efficient draw. I did experience a little difficulty re-holstering initially, but that was quickly resolved with practice. The holster performed well in various shooting drills, from rapid fire to controlled pairs.
There were no significant issues during the first use. I did notice that the Hi Gloss Black finish attracted fingerprints and smudges easily, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its professional appearance. I was also pleasantly surprised by how well the drop UBL positioned the firearm for a comfortable and natural grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use in varying conditions, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 has proven to be incredibly durable. It has been exposed to rain, dust, and extreme temperatures without any noticeable degradation in performance. There are some minor scratches on the Hi Gloss Black finish, but the holster itself remains structurally sound.
The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable weapon retention. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanism have kept it in optimal condition. I have been consistently impressed with its durability and reliability.
This holster outperforms any other duty holster I have used in terms of retention and draw speed. I previously relied on a Level II holster, but the Safariland 6365 offers a significant increase in security without sacrificing accessibility. It has exceeded my expectations and become my go-to duty holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 is designed to fit the Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail. It is a Right Hand holster with a Hi Gloss Black finish and features Level III Retention. The holster includes the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a Hood Guard.
The drop UBL lowers the holster by 1.5 inches, making it compatible with body armor and other tactical gear. The holster is constructed from a durable, thermal-molded SafariSeven™ nylon blend. These specifications ensure a secure, comfortable, and accessible carry for law enforcement professionals.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention while allowing for a smooth and efficient draw. The holster’s functionality is enhanced by the drop UBL, which improves accessibility and comfort.
The primary strength of this holster is its balance of security and speed. The Level III retention ensures that the firearm remains secure, while the ALS allows for a quick and intuitive draw. The only area for potential improvement is the Hi Gloss Black finish, which can be prone to scratches and smudges. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The molded construction and SafariSeven™ material contribute to its durability and comfortable fit. The Hi Gloss Black finish provides a professional appearance.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the ALS release and re-holstering. The drop UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height for a comfortable and natural grip. The overall design prioritizes both functionality and comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 is built to last, thanks to its durable SafariSeven™ construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The holster is relatively easy to clean and maintain.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep it in good working order. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, further enhancing its durability. The holster is built for longevity and is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 comes standard with a Hood Guard, which provides additional security. It is also compatible with an optional Sentry device for an even higher level of retention. The drop UBL can be adjusted or replaced with other Safariland belt attachment systems.
The holster is designed to accommodate the Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail. It can also be customized with various Safariland accessories, such as magazine pouches and handcuff carriers. The compatibility with Safariland’s ecosystem of accessories allows for a fully customized duty rig.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91
Pros
- Excellent Level III Retention: The ALS system provides a high level of security while allowing for a quick and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Drop UBL: The drop UBL positions the firearm at an optimal height for a comfortable and natural grip, especially when wearing body armor.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail.
- 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 smudges, requiring frequent cleaning.
- Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS release and re-holstering.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who wear body armor or other tactical gear due to the drop UBL feature. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 is an excellent choice for those who carry a Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail.
This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention system. Individuals who prioritize deep concealment over weapon retention may want to consider a different holster. Those who prefer a less flashy finish might also want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry device for increased retention. Regular cleaning supplies and lubrication will also help maintain the holster’s performance. Consider Safariland magazine pouches and handcuff carriers to complete your duty rig.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance. Its Level III retention system, durable construction, and comfortable design make it a reliable choice for law enforcement and security professionals. While the Hi Gloss Black finish may require extra maintenance, the overall benefits of this holster outweigh its drawbacks.
At $212.60, the price is justified given the holster’s quality, features, and reliability. The Safariland 6365 offers excellent value for those who prioritize weapon retention and a quick, efficient draw.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-56-91 to anyone in need of a secure and dependable duty holster. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed!