Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a commitment to security, accessibility, and professional performance, built by the respected manufacturer, Safariland. This holster, specifically designed for left-handed users, offers Level III retention, combining the Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a protective hood, and it rides on a Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) platform for optimal firearm positioning.

I needed a duty-grade holster that could reliably secure my 1911 with a weapon light during tactical training scenarios. I was searching for something that wouldn’t sacrifice draw speed for retention level.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean, professional appearance. The plain black finish is understated yet businesslike, and the molded polymer felt incredibly durable, without excessive weight. The ALS lever moved smoothly and positively, and the hood guard added an extra layer of confidence. Compared to a simple Level II retention holster or a thumb-break design, the Safariland 6365 promised a higher degree of security. I chose this Safariland model over similar offerings from Blackhawk! and Galco due to Safariland’s reputation for duty-grade gear and the specific ALS retention system, which I found more intuitive than other locking mechanisms. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promises of security and quick deployment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland 6365 at a law enforcement training range during a force-on-force scenario. The range environment was relatively dry, but involved rapid movement, transitions between cover, and simulated grappling. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III performed admirably in these conditions, maintaining a secure hold on my weapon throughout the drills. Drawing the weapon after disengaging the ALS and hood felt surprisingly natural. There was minimal learning curve, despite the Level III retention.

The only initial issue was adjusting the UBL to my preferred height for optimal draw stroke. Even after some rough handling and simulated struggles, the holster showed no signs of failing or releasing the firearm unintentionally.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in training and competition, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from freezing to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and in both dry and moderately wet conditions. The holster’s polymer construction shows minimal wear and tear, with only minor scuff marks on the exterior. Cleaning is simple. Wiping it down with a damp cloth and applying a silicone-based protectant keeps it looking and functioning like new.

Compared to my previous experience with a Level II retention holster from a different manufacturer, the Safariland 6365 offers a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. It outperforms my expectations in terms of both retention and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62 features several key specifications:

• Level III Retention: Achieved through the combination of the ALS automatic locking system and a rotating hood. This offers a high degree of security against unauthorized removal of the weapon.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering; the release is intuitive and quick, requiring only a thumb swipe.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Lowers the holster slightly from the belt line for a more comfortable draw, especially when wearing body armor. The UBL is adjustable to accommodate different belt sizes up to 1.5 inches.
• Hood Guard: Protects the rotating hood from being accidentally disengaged. The hood guard adds a crucial layer of security, particularly in close-quarters situations.
• Plain Black Finish: Professional and low-profile appearance.
• Left-Hand Configuration: Designed specifically for left-handed users. This ensures an ergonomic and efficient draw stroke.
• Fits Specific 1911 Models with Rails: Specifically designed to fit Kimber 1911s w/rails (Gold Combat RL; Custom TLE/RLw/Surefire X200 or X300 light), Springfield Armory 1911s w/rails (Operator w/Surefire X200 or X300 light), and Wilson 1911s w/rails (CQB w/Surefire X200 or X300 light).
  Note: The holster will not retain the weapon without a weapon light attached to the Springfield Armory and Wilson models.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s security, draw speed, comfort, and compatibility. The Level III retention provides a high degree of confidence in weapon security, while the ALS and Drop UBL facilitate a smooth and efficient draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62 performs its job exceptionally well. The retention is rock-solid, yet the draw is surprisingly fast with practice. The ALS system is intuitive. The Drop UBL positions the weapon for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.

The holster’s strengths lie in its security, accessibility, and durable construction. The primary weakness is that it requires a specific weapon light to function correctly with certain 1911 models, which can be a limitation for some users. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, using durable and weather-resistant polymer. The weight is appropriate for its size and retention level; it doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome. The Drop UBL ensures comfortable carry, even during extended periods.

It is user-friendly, although there’s a slight learning curve to master the ALS release and hood rotation. However, with a few practice sessions, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is built to last. The durable polymer construction can withstand significant abuse.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with the Drop UBL. Safariland offers optional accessories such as the Sentry (a device that further restricts hood movement) and various belt adapters.

The holster is compatible with Safariland’s extensive line of accessories and mounting platforms. While not strictly “customization,” users can adjust the ride height of the UBL. Also, as this is a 1911 holster, different 1911s can have their grips customized as well.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a high level of weapon retention and quick access. It is an excellent choice for anyone carrying a 1911 with a weapon light and needs a secure and reliable holster.

Who should skip this product? Those who do not carry a weapon light on their 1911 (for certain models) or prefer a minimalist holster design.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality duty belt is essential to properly support the weight of the firearm and holster. Practicing the draw stroke is crucial to maximizing efficiency with the ALS system.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62

In summary, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-560-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, accessibility, and durability.

The price of $207.00 is justified, considering the level of protection and reliability it provides.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who demands the best in weapon retention and performance. If you need a duty-grade holster for your 1911 with a weapon light, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is an investment you won’t regret.