Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 is a serious piece of kit for anyone needing secure and reliable firearm retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating. The drop Universal Belt Loop (UBL) allows for a comfortable and accessible draw, even when wearing body armor. The nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance while offering enhanced durability.
I found myself needing a holster that could provide both exceptional retention and a comfortable draw for duty use. My previous Level II holster, while adequate, didn’t provide the peace of mind I wanted in high-risk situations. The need for a Level III holster with a drop UBL for optimized draw height was paramount.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. The holster felt robust, but not overly bulky, and the nylon-look finish looked clean and professional. The ALS mechanism engaged smoothly and positively, and the included hood guard added an extra layer of security.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Gunleather Matrix Level 3 before settling on the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261. The Safariland ALS system is widely regarded as one of the most intuitive and reliable active retention systems available. The superior reputation for quality and durability ultimately swayed my decision.
I was immediately excited about the potential of this holster. It promised a secure, comfortable, and efficient carry for my Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. It instilled confidence that I could perform under pressure in any situation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 at the local shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke and retention under simulated stress. The training involved multiple repetitions of drawing and re-holstering my Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP.
Even with heavy gloves, the ALS release was easy to manipulate, and the draw stroke felt natural and fluid. The drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for a quick and efficient presentation. The holster performed flawlessly even in the dusty environment of the range.
There was a slight learning curve to disengaging all the retention features under pressure. But after several repetitions, it became second nature. I was pleasantly surprised by how secure the holster felt. I knew my weapon would stay put unless I intentionally drew it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training exercises and duty scenarios, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 has proven to be incredibly reliable. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. It has withstood being bumped, scraped, and even exposed to rain and mud.
The nylon-look finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuff marks. Cleaning is simple and straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking professional. The ALS mechanism continues to operate smoothly and reliably.
Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 significantly outperforms in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall durability. It has given me a much greater sense of security and confidence in my ability to protect myself and others.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 boasts several key specifications. It achieves Level III Retention by combining the ALS (Automatic Locking System) with a hood guard. The holster is designed specifically for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP.
The ALS secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. It is deactivated with a simple thumb release. The hood guard further protects against unauthorized removal of the firearm.
The drop UBL lowers the holster, providing a more natural draw position. The nylon-look finish offers a professional appearance and enhanced durability. It’s designed for right-handed users.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the user’s safety, comfort, and efficiency. Level III retention provides a high degree of security, minimizing the risk of weapon disarming. The drop UBL ensures a comfortable and accessible draw stroke, even with bulky gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 performs its job exceptionally well. The combination of the ALS and hood guard provides excellent weapon retention without sacrificing draw speed. The drop UBL promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke.
The holster’s strengths lie in its reliability, durability, and ease of use. The ALS mechanism engages smoothly and positively, providing audible and tactile feedback. The drop UBL is adjustable to accommodate different body types and gear configurations. A minor weakness is that the initial learning curve for mastering the multiple retention systems takes some dedicated training.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations. It offers a level of security and performance that inspires confidence in high-stress situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 is built with high-quality materials. The holster feels solid and durable without being overly bulky or heavy. The nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance and resists scratches and abrasions.
The holster is user-friendly, although mastering the Level III retention system takes some practice. The ALS release is intuitively placed and easy to manipulate. The drop UBL allows for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 is built to last. The robust construction and durable materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use. Minimal maintenance is required; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
The simple design makes repair straightforward if any parts were to fail. Safariland also offers excellent customer support and replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 includes a hood guard. This adds an extra layer of security. The Safariland Sentry is an optional accessory that can be added for Level IV Retention.
The holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows for customization based on individual preferences and mission requirements. Aftermarket weapon lights can be accommodated depending on the model selected.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high degree of security, minimizing the risk of weapon disarming.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Smooth and Reliable ALS Mechanism: Ensures a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Drop UBL: Allows for a comfortable and natural draw position, even with bulky gear.
- Professional Appearance: The nylon-look finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- Requires dedicated practice to master all retention systems under pressure.
- The Level III retention can feel bulky compared to open-top holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters who prioritize security and draw speed. The holster is well-suited for tactical training, duty carry, and open carry scenarios.
This product might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level III retention features. Those who prefer a minimalist holster or prioritize comfort over maximum security should consider alternative options.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry for Level IV retention. Consistent training with the specific firearm and holster is also necessary.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. It combines a proven retention system with a comfortable and accessible draw stroke.
The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. It’s a worthy investment for anyone who relies on their firearm for personal protection or professional duty.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-185-261 to anyone looking for a secure, reliable, and efficient holster. Invest in your safety and performance; you won’t be disappointed.