Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster boasts Level III retention, ensuring a high degree of security for the sidearm. The Automatic Locking System (ALS), coupled with a hood guard, offers multiple layers of protection against unauthorized access.
My need for a Level III retention holster arose from a shift in my responsibilities, requiring a higher level of security than my previous Level II holster offered. I was looking for a reliable and durable holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing quick and easy access to my weapon when needed. The Safariland 6365 seemed like the perfect fit.
Upon unboxing, the high-gloss black finish immediately caught my eye; it’s a classic, professional look. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear. The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) also seemed robust, promising a stable and comfortable carry.
I considered the Safariland 6360 (ALS Level I) and the Safariland 6378 (ALS Concealment Paddle Holster) before settling on the 6365. While the 6360 offered a simpler draw, it lacked the enhanced security I required. The 6378, designed for concealed carry, wasn’t suitable for my overt duty carry needs.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Safariland 6365 appeared to be a well-designed and highly functional duty holster. I was excited to put it through its paces 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 6365-84-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91 at a local shooting range during a qualifications course. The weather was mildly humid, and I was performing a series of drills that involved drawing and re-holstering my weapon multiple times. The holster was mounted on my duty belt, and I was wearing my standard uniform.
The ALS system required a bit of familiarization, but after a few practice draws, I was able to consistently and quickly release the weapon. The draw was smooth and efficient, and the re-holstering process was equally straightforward. The high-gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, did show fingerprints and smudges easily.
Initially, the hood guard felt slightly awkward, but I quickly adapted to deactivating it as part of my draw stroke. There were no significant issues after the initial learning curve, and the holster performed exactly as intended.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use in a variety of environments, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The holster has been exposed to rain, dust, and extreme temperatures, and it has consistently performed without fail. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, and the retention remains secure.
There are minor scratches on the high-gloss finish from rubbing against gear and equipment, which is to be expected with regular use. The holster itself remains structurally sound, with no cracks or signs of weakening. Cleaning involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism as needed.
Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6365 offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. The Level III retention provides an extra layer of protection against unauthorized weapon removal, making it a worthwhile upgrade for duty carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91 is specifically designed for right-handed users and is compatible with Smith & Wesson SW99 and Walther P99 pistols. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. It is constructed from durable Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend.
The holster also includes a hood guard for added security and a Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) that positions the holster lower on the hip for improved draw speed and comfort. The hi-gloss black finish provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Level III retention significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized weapon removal.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and reliable, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The hood guard, while initially requiring some adjustment, adds an extra layer of security without significantly hindering the draw stroke.
One minor weakness is the high-gloss finish, which is prone to showing fingerprints and scratches. However, this is purely cosmetic and does not affect the holster’s functionality. Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 is designed with both security and user comfort in mind. The Drop UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for a smooth and natural draw. The holster’s slim and compact profile allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during extended wear.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and hood guard, but the system is ultimately user-friendly and intuitive. The holster’s design prioritizes functionality and security without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care and maintenance, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance involves regularly cleaning the holster with a damp cloth and applying a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. The holster is relatively easy to maintain and repair, with replacement parts readily available from Safariland.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a variety of accessories, including the Safariland Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security. The Drop UBL can be swapped out for other Safariland belt attachments to customize the ride height and carry angle. No modifications are required.
While the holster itself is not highly customizable, the availability of compatible accessories allows users to tailor the system to their specific needs and preferences. The compatibility with Safariland‘s extensive line of accessories is a significant advantage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91
Pros
- Level III Retention: Provides superior security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): Ensures a secure and reliable lock on the weapon.
- Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Offers a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Professional Appearance: Hi-gloss black finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish: Shows fingerprints and scratches easily.
- Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS and hood guard.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and security. It is ideal for those who prioritize safety and reliability in a duty holster. Its Level III retention makes it an essential choice for situations where weapon security is paramount.
Individuals primarily focused on concealed carry or those who prefer a simpler, Level I retention holster should skip this product. Those looking for maximum concealability may find this holster too bulky.
A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security. Also, users may want to consider different Safariland belt attachments to fine-tune the holster’s ride height and carry angle for optimal comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-84-91 is a well-designed and highly functional duty holster that delivers on its promises. The Level III retention provides an exceptional level of security, while the ALS and Drop UBL ensure a smooth and efficient draw stroke. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any duty rig.
At $212.60, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the level of security, and the overall performance of the holster. While the hi-gloss finish may require some extra attention, the benefits of the Safariland 6365 far outweigh its minor drawbacks.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone seeking a reliable and secure Level III duty holster. If you need enhanced weapon security without sacrificing accessibility, this is the holster for you. Upgrade your duty rig today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is safe and secure.