Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, features their Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III Retention, providing a secure and reliable way to carry a sidearm. The drop Universal Belt Loop (UBL) positions the firearm lower on the hip for a more comfortable draw, especially when wearing body armor.
Years ago, as a new officer, I struggled to find a holster that balanced security, accessibility, and comfort. My previous holster felt bulky and awkward, particularly when seated in a patrol car or engaging in foot pursuits. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality in law enforcement circles, so I sought a solution within their product line.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6365 immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean, professional appearance. The plain black finish, while simple, exudes a sense of durability and reliability. The materials felt solid, and the holster had a reassuring weight, indicating a well-made piece of equipment.
Compared to a similar Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 holster, the Safariland felt more intuitive and less prone to accidental releases during training drills. While the Serpa relied on a finger-activated button, the ALS of the Safariland felt more natural to disengage during the draw stroke. Another option was a Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the retention wasn’t as high, and the draw felt slower.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the Safariland 6365 appeared to be a significant upgrade from my previous holster, I knew the true test would come with extensive use in real-world scenarios. I was excited to see how the ALS system performed under stress and whether the drop UBL would genuinely improve my comfort and draw speed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6365 was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. I was able to test the holster while moving, drawing, and re-holstering under simulated stress. The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions, with the ALS system providing a secure hold and a smooth, consistent draw.
During a later training session held in light rain, the holster still maintained its grip and functionality. The textured release lever remained easy to manipulate even with wet hands. There were no unexpected issues, which instilled confidence in its weather-resistant design.
The draw felt incredibly natural and intuitive. The drop UBL positioned my firearm perfectly, allowing for a clean and efficient draw stroke without bumping into my vest or equipment. The ALS disengaged smoothly with my thumb during the draw, making it a seamless part of the motion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable piece of gear. The SafariSeven nylon blend exterior shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of daily duty. The internal suede lining has also protected my firearm’s finish from scratches and abrasion.
Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth and a light application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. The holster has remained consistently secure and reliable, even after repeated use in various environmental conditions. I feel confident relying on this holster.
Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6365 is a clear winner in terms of both security and comfort. The ALS provides a higher level of retention, while the drop UBL makes it more comfortable to wear for extended periods. It has exceeded my expectations in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users. It features a plain black finish, providing a professional and discreet appearance. The holster is made from Safariland’s durable SafariSeven nylon blend.
This holster provides Level III Retention. This includes the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering, and a rotating hood that requires deliberate action to release. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) is a 1.5-inch belt drop version. It allows the user to wear the firearm lower on the hip.
The Safariland 6365 is compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P .45 pistols without manual safeties. It also fits models equipped with ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon lights. The slim and compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and compatibility. The Level III Retention provides a high degree of protection against unauthorized removal. The drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, while the compatibility with specific firearms and lights ensures a secure and proper fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62 performs exceptionally well in securing and providing quick access to a sidearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing immediate retention. The rotating hood adds another layer of security, requiring a deliberate motion to disengage.
The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, smooth draw stroke, and comfortable carry. It is also easy to manipulate, even under stress. The only potential area for improvement is the rotating hood, which can require some practice to manipulate efficiently.
Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. Its combination of security, accessibility, and comfort makes it an excellent choice for law enforcement and security professionals. It inspires confidence with its rock-solid construction and intuitive design.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 features a slim, compact design that keeps the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The SafariSeven nylon blend provides a durable and weather-resistant exterior. The internal suede lining protects the firearm’s finish.
The holster is user-friendly, with an intuitive design that requires minimal training to master. The ALS release is positioned for easy access during the draw stroke, and the drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility. There is a small learning curve with the rotating hood, but once mastered, it becomes a seamless part of the draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to last, with a durable SafariSeven nylon blend exterior and a robust internal structure. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service. It is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth and a light application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. It is easy to keep the holster clean and functioning properly, ensuring long-term reliability. The durable construction provides peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a hood guard. This provides an additional layer of security. An optional Sentry can be installed for Level IV Retention.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. The modular design ensures compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62
Pros
- Superior Level III Retention: The ALS and rotating hood provide a high level of security.
- Comfortable Drop UBL Design: The drop UBL positions the firearm for a more comfortable draw, especially when wearing body armor.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend exterior is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
- Smooth and Consistent Draw Stroke: The ALS system disengages smoothly during the draw, allowing for a fast and efficient presentation.
- Compatible with Weapon Lights: The holster accommodates popular weapon lights such as ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, and X300.
Cons
- Rotating hood Requires Practice: Some users may find the rotating hood difficult to master initially.
- Price Point: The Safariland 6365 is more expensive than some other duty holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It is especially well-suited for those who wear body armor or other equipment that can interfere with the draw stroke. Left-handed shooters who value security and accessibility will find this an excellent choice.
Those who should skip this product include casual shooters or individuals who do not require a high level of retention. Users with budget constraints may also find other, more affordable options suitable for their needs. Those requiring an IWB (Inside the Waistband) option would need to explore other options as well.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a quality duty belt that is compatible with the drop UBL and a weapon light if the user intends to carry one. Regular cleaning and maintenance are also essential to ensure the holster functions properly. An optional Sentry upgrade is recommended for those seeking Level IV Retention.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62
In summary, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-4192-62 is an exceptional duty holster that offers a winning combination of security, accessibility, and comfort. Its robust construction, intuitive design, and Level III Retention make it an excellent choice for law enforcement and security professionals. It’s a holster that I trust my life with.
The price is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment. The Safariland 6365 delivers on its promises.
I personally recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster. It is a high-quality piece of gear that will provide years of dependable service. Invest in your safety and effectiveness – get yourself a Safariland 6365!