Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262 isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a statement. It’s a statement about prioritizing security, efficiency, and reliability, all wrapped in a professional, low-profile package. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade equipment, this holster promises a blend of retention, accessibility, and comfort for the left-handed shooter carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P.
My journey to find this specific holster began with a frustrating search for a duty holster that didn’t feel like a compromise. I needed a Level III retention holster that offered a secure carry for my S&W M&P 9mm with a thumb safety, especially during high-activity scenarios and training exercises. Many holsters I tried felt bulky, slow, or lacked the robust retention I required; I wanted something that inspired confidence, not anxiety. This holster had to be left-handed, offer a drop, and feature an intuitive draw.
The unboxing was a breath of fresh air. The nylon-look finish gives it a professional, subdued appearance, and the holster felt substantial and well-made in my hands; it wasn’t flimsy plastic. The weight felt balanced, suggesting a well-engineered design that wouldn’t feel cumbersome on the belt. The build quality was immediately apparent.
Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7906, the Safariland 6365 stood out for its smoother draw and more intuitive retention system. I chose it over those competitors because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the proven track record of the ALS (Automatic Locking System). It seemed like the perfect solution, offering both speed and security.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked the part, felt good, and had the features I wanted, but the real test would be in the field. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the Safariland 6365 was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. The range offered a dynamic environment to test the holster’s draw speed and retention under pressure. I also wanted to see how the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) affected my movement. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions to focus solely on the holster’s performance.
The ALS system proved incredibly intuitive from the start. Disengaging the lock with my thumb felt natural and smooth, allowing for a consistently fast draw. The drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for me, clearing my body armor and allowing for a full grip before drawing. There were no hiccups in the draw stroke, and the holster retained the weapon securely during simulated foot pursuits.
After the first few hours, I didn’t notice any significant issues, just a slight adjustment to the draw stroke to ensure consistent disengagement of the ALS. The holster also remained secure on my belt, with no shifting or discomfort, even during more vigorous drills. The initial use solidified my belief that this was a well-designed and functional piece of gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and monthly tactical training exercises, the Safariland 6365 has proven its worth. It has been exposed to a variety of conditions, from scorching summer heat to freezing winter temperatures, and has remained reliable throughout. The nylon-look finish shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to dirt, sweat, and the occasional bump against barricades.
The durability is impressive. The holster body remains rigid, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanism has been sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. Compared to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability, retention, and ease of use.
The Safariland 6365 has exceeded my expectations. It provides a secure, reliable, and comfortable carry solution that I trust in any situation. This holster has become an integral part of my everyday carry setup, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality Level III retention holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262 is designed specifically for left-handed shooters carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm or .40 with a thumb safety. It features Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System), providing Level III Retention to ensure the firearm remains securely holstered until deliberately drawn. The nylon-look finish offers a professional and subdued appearance.
The holster incorporates a Hood Guard, offering added protection against unauthorized access or accidental release. An optional Sentry can be installed, further increasing the retention level to Level IV for maximum security. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) lowers the holster, providing clearance for body armor and optimizing the draw stroke. The simple, straight-up draw once the releases are deactivated ensures a swift and efficient presentation of the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 excels in performance and functionality, primarily due to its intuitive ALS system. The ALS automatically engages when the firearm is holstered, providing immediate and secure retention. The thumb release is naturally positioned for a seamless draw stroke, minimizing the time required to acquire a firing grip. The drop UBL further enhances the draw by positioning the firearm at an optimal height for quick and efficient access.
One potential area for improvement is the bulk of the holster. While the retention features are essential, they add some size. Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations by providing reliable retention, a smooth draw, and a comfortable carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance that is both durable and understated. The holster’s construction uses high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and reliability.
The ergonomic design of the ALS release and the drop UBL contribute to a user-friendly experience. There’s minimal learning curve for those familiar with Safariland holsters, but new users may need some practice to master the draw stroke. The holster’s weight is well-distributed, preventing discomfort during extended wear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it will last for years with proper care. The nylon-look finish is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture.
Maintaining the Safariland 6365 is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep it in optimal working condition. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a Hood Guard, offering additional protection for the weapon and the locking mechanism. An optional Sentry can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV. The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg straps, and tactical lights.
While the Safariland 6365 is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it can be adapted for use with some aftermarket components. Many users modify the holster to accommodate different optics or weapon lights. It’s important to note that modifying the holster may void the warranty.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides a secure hold on the firearm, giving peace of mind in various operational environments.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Once the ALS is disengaged, the draw stroke is clean and efficient, crucial in high-stress situations.
- Durable Construction: The nylon-look finish and robust materials ensure the holster can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Comfortable Drop UBL Design: The drop UBL lowers the holster, allowing for a more natural draw and clearing body armor effectively.
- Specifically Designed for S&W M&P: This holster is tailored for the S&W M&P 9mm & .40 with thumb safety, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
Cons
- Bulkiness: Level III retention adds some bulk compared to simpler holsters, which may affect concealment in certain situations.
- Learning Curve: New users may need some time to familiarize themselves with the ALS system and optimize their draw stroke.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262?
The Safariland 6365 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who require a high level of weapon retention and a reliable draw. It is also well-suited for individuals who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P with a thumb safety in demanding environments.
This holster may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its Level III retention and drop UBL design, which can add bulk and complexity. Individuals seeking a minimalist or highly concealable option may want to consider alternative holsters.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Model 6001 Sentry, which adds another layer of security to the ALS system, upgrading the holster to Level IV retention. Experimenting with different belt loop configurations may also enhance comfort and accessibility.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Left Hand 6365-619-262 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and performance. The ALS system is intuitive and effective, providing a secure hold on the firearm while allowing for a smooth and efficient draw. The durable construction and comfortable design make it a valuable addition to any professional’s gear.
The price of $195.00 is justified by the quality, features, and reputation of the Safariland brand. This holster is an investment in safety and peace of mind. I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone looking for a high-quality Level III retention holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P.
If you’re a left-handed shooter seeking a duty holster that won’t compromise on security or accessibility, then the Safariland 6365 is an excellent choice. Don’t settle for anything less than the best. Invest in your safety and performance today!