Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals needing a high level of weapon retention. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster combines the Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention rating, offering a secure and reliable carry option. The addition of the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a comfortable, lower ride height, while the nylon-look finish offers a professional aesthetic.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a duty holster that balanced speed of draw with genuine security. Many holsters I’ve used prioritized one over the other, leaving me feeling either too exposed or too slow on the draw. I needed a holster that could confidently secure my firearm while allowing for rapid deployment in critical situations.
My first impression was excellent; the holster felt incredibly robust and well-made. The Safariland 6365 exudes quality, from the thickness of the polymer to the smooth operation of the ALS mechanism. The nylon-look finish also gives it a professional, low-profile appearance, unlike some of the more tactical-looking options available.
Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Galco M7X Matrix, the Safariland 6365 felt more intuitive and secure. While the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt somewhat unnatural, and the Galco lacked the robust retention I desired, the Safariland’s ALS system seemed like a perfect compromise between speed and security. I was immediately impressed by how smoothly my pistol locked into place and how easily I could release it with proper technique.
I was genuinely excited. Finally, a holster that felt both secure and accessible – a true game-changer for my daily carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6365 at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and re-holstering drills. I also incorporated it into some force-on-force training scenarios to assess its performance under pressure. The holster performed admirably in both controlled and dynamic environments.
The Safariland 6365 handled flawlessly even in light rain, without any noticeable impact on the ALS mechanism or grip. I didn’t experience any fumbling or sticking, which speaks volumes about the holster’s design and construction.
Getting used to the ALS system took a bit of practice, but after a few hours of dry-fire drills, it became second nature. The straight-up draw, once the ALS is deactivated, is incredibly smooth and intuitive.
After the initial range session, I was extremely impressed, but a minor concern was the slight movement of the holster on my belt during rapid movement. Tightening the belt loops further resolved this issue, showing the importance of proper setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after countless draws and re-holstering.
The nylon-look finish has resisted scratches and abrasions remarkably well, maintaining its professional appearance. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable retention.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasionally, I’ll use a silicone-based lubricant to keep the ALS mechanism running smoothly. This holster outperforms any other Level III retention holster I’ve used in terms of long-term reliability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261 is designed specifically for the Heckler & Koch USP 9C/40C. It features Level III Retention, thanks to the ALS automatic locking system and a standard hood guard. The holster is finished with a durable nylon-look material and is a right-hand configuration with a 1.5″ belt drop UBL.
Level III retention provides significant security against unauthorized removal, making it suitable for duty carry. The nylon-look provides a low-profile professional appearance. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) lowers the ride height of the firearm, making it more accessible and comfortable for many users, especially when wearing body armor.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place.
The strengths of the holster lie in its robust retention, comfortable carry, and durable construction. One area for improvement might be the addition of an optional secondary retention device for extreme environments. The holster definitely meets expectations in terms of security and reliability; the quick draw is a welcome bonus.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 features a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The nylon-look finish provides a professional appearance, and the overall build quality is excellent.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the ALS system requires some practice. The drop UBL provides a comfortable and ergonomic draw angle.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The durable construction and high-quality materials ensure that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Maintaining the holster is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster includes a standard hood guard for added security. An optional Safariland Sentry can be installed to increase the retention level to Level IV. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds.
The ability to add the Sentry, taking the retention to Level IV, is a considerable advantage in high-risk environments. Compatibility with other Safariland accessories allows for greater customization and adaptation to individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261
Pros
- Provides excellent Level III retention, offering a high level of security against unauthorized removal.
- Features an intuitive ALS (Automatic Locking System) that is easy to learn and operate, enabling quick and efficient draws.
- The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a comfortable and ergonomic carry position, especially when wearing body armor.
- The nylon-look finish offers a professional and low-profile appearance, suitable for duty carry.
- Offers compatibility with Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry for Level IV retention.
Cons
- The ALS system requires a learning curve to master, necessitating dedicated practice.
- While robust, the nylon-look finish is not as durable as some other Safariland finishes, like STX Tactical, and may show wear over extended periods of heavy use.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention. Those who value a balance between security, accessibility, and a professional appearance will find this holster ideal.
Those who prefer simpler retention systems or require extreme durability above all else might want to consider other options. Someone who is just starting out and needs a very simple holster without a learning curve might want a simpler design.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry for increased retention. A good quality duty belt is also essential for proper holster support and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon-Look, Right Hand 6365-291-261 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security and performance. The combination of Level III retention, the intuitive ALS system, and the comfortable Drop UBL make it a top choice for professionals.
At $195.00, the price is justified considering the level of security, durability, and functionality this holster offers. The peace of mind knowing your weapon is secure and accessible is invaluable.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone seeking a reliable and professional duty holster. Invest in your safety and peace of mind. You won’t regret it.