Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals, offering a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the holster market, this particular model is tailored for left-handed users and compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 pistols with thumb safeties. It stands out due to its Automatic Locking System (ALS), Level III retention, and a drop Uniform Belt Loop (UBL) attachment, combining security, accessibility, and ergonomic positioning.
My search for this holster was driven by a need for a secure and reliable way to carry my duty weapon during tactical training and potential real-world scenarios. I wanted a Level III retention holster that wouldn’t impede a smooth and quick draw, while also providing maximum protection against unauthorized access.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 felt incredibly robust and well-made. The plain black finish exudes a professional, no-nonsense aesthetic, and the overall weight seemed balanced for comfortable all-day wear. Build quality was exceptional, as expected from Safariland, with precise molding and durable materials.
I considered the Safariland 7378RDS 7TS™ ALS® Concealment Paddle & Belt Loop Combo Holster and the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster before settling on the 6365. I chose the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 because I prioritized the proven ALS retention system and the drop UBL for a more comfortable and accessible draw, which the others lacked in combination.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; I was excited to put this holster through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation. It felt like a serious piece of kit, purpose-built for demanding situations, and I had a feeling it would become an indispensable part of my gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 was at a tactical pistol training course held at an outdoor shooting range. The range exposed the holster to varying conditions, including bright sunlight, moderate wind, and accumulating dust. Drawing and re-holstering drills were conducted repeatedly over several hours.
The ALS system proved intuitive and reliable even under pressure. The draw was consistently smooth and fast once the ALS release was mastered, and the weapon securely locked back into place upon re-holstering. There were no malfunctions or accidental releases during the training session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 continues to perform admirably. The STX finish shows minimal signs of wear, and the holster maintains its structural integrity even after repeated exposure to adverse conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris.
This holster significantly outperforms my previous Level II retention holster in terms of both security and accessibility. The Level III retention gives me greater peace of mind in potentially volatile situations, while the drop UBL ensures a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. It’s a substantial upgrade in both safety and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users and is compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 pistols equipped with thumb safeties. It features Level III Retention for enhanced weapon security, employing the ALS (Automatic Locking System) to secure the weapon once holstered. It also includes a Hood Guard as standard, which further protects the firearm and makes it harder for unauthorized users to draw the weapon.
The plain black finish offers a professional look and minimizes visibility. The 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL provides a comfortable carry position and facilitates a faster, more natural draw stroke. These specifications are crucial because they provide a high level of security, ease of access, and user comfort, which are all essential for law enforcement and security personnel.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 excels in its core function: secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. The ALS system is highly effective, and the Level III retention provides an additional layer of security. The draw is smooth and natural once the ALS release mechanism is mastered.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable carry position. A potential weakness might be the slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but this is quickly overcome with practice. It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort, especially during prolonged wear. The materials used are durable and high-quality, contributing to the holster’s overall robustness and longevity.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the ALS release mechanism requires some initial familiarization. The drop UBL offers a comfortable and natural draw angle, minimizing strain on the wrist and shoulder.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its high-quality construction and durable materials, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 is built to last. The STX finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the holster’s overall design is robust enough to withstand daily wear and tear in demanding environments.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to keep the holster in good working order. The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 comes standard with a hood guard for added weapon security. An optional Sentry can be installed to further enhance retention, elevating the holster to Level IV Retention.
The holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. However, being a Safariland product, it generally works best with other Safariland accessories, ensuring optimal fit and function.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system provides a secure and reliable method of weapon retention, preventing unauthorized access while allowing for a smooth and rapid draw.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, the holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL positions the weapon for a comfortable and natural draw stroke, minimizing strain and fatigue.
- Professional Design: The plain black finish and slim profile make it suitable for law enforcement and security professionals.
- Easy Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining the holster is straightforward, ensuring long-term reliability.
Cons
- ALS Learning Curve: The ALS release mechanism requires some initial practice to master, which may be a drawback for new users.
- Limited Compatibility: While compatible with some accessories, it’s generally optimized for use with Safariland products, potentially limiting customization options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 is perfect for left-handed law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. It is ideal for those who prioritize security and reliability in potentially high-risk situations.
Individuals who prefer a simpler, Level I or Level II retention system, or those who require a holster compatible with a wider range of accessories, might want to skip this product.
A must-have modification is the optional Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV Retention for even greater security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort. Its ALS retention system is highly effective, and its durable construction ensures long-term performance. While the ALS release mechanism may require some initial practice, the benefits of enhanced security and a smooth draw far outweigh this minor drawback.
The price is justified given the holster’s quality, features, and performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-619-62 to any left-handed professional seeking a secure and reliable duty holster. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed.