Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 is a duty-grade holster designed for secure weapon retention and comfortable carry. Manufactured by Safariland, it boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III Retention rating, making it a popular choice for law enforcement and security personnel. The drop Universal Belt Loop (UBL) positions the firearm for a faster, more natural draw, while the plain black finish offers a professional, low-profile appearance.
As a left-handed shooter working in security, I needed a reliable and secure holster that wouldn’t hinder my movement or compromise weapon access. I was specifically looking for a Level III retention holster that offered both passive and active security measures. My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 was that it felt incredibly robust and well-constructed.
I considered a few other options, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite. I chose the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the intuitive nature of the ALS system. Honestly, I was excited to try it out, hoping it would live up to the hype I’d heard from colleagues.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the holster at the shooting range, focusing on draw speed and re-holstering efficiency. The drop UBL allowed for a smooth and natural draw stroke, significantly improving my draw time compared to my previous high-ride holster. The ALS system engaged automatically upon re-holstering, providing a reassuring click that the weapon was secure.
During a training exercise in slightly damp conditions, I noticed the holster’s grip remained secure, and the ALS release was easy to manipulate even with wet hands. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the first use, leaving me impressed with its out-of-the-box performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use during my security patrols, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are only minor scuff marks on the plain black finish, which is expected from daily wear and tear. The holster has maintained its structural integrity and secure weapon retention capabilities.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 has significantly outperformed them in terms of comfort, security, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 is a Level III Retention holster designed for left-handed shooters. It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) that secures the weapon once holstered. The holster includes a Hood Guard as standard, and an optional Sentry is available for added security.
The holster fits Sig Sauer P220 and P226 handguns. It has a plain black finish and includes a 1.5″ belt drop UBL.
These specifications translate to a secure, comfortable, and easily accessible carry for duty use. The Level III Retention provides peace of mind, while the drop UBL allows for a faster, more efficient draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its Level III retention system provides a high level of security, making it difficult for anyone other than the user to draw the weapon. The ALS system is intuitive and allows for a quick and smooth draw once the release is de-activated.
One slight weakness is the potential for the ALS mechanism to become slightly stiff in extremely cold conditions, but this is easily remedied with proper lubrication. Overall, the holster exceeds expectations in terms of security, draw speed, and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s build quality is top-notch, utilizing durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. Its weight is well-distributed, and the drop UBL positions the firearm in a comfortable and accessible location. There’s a slight learning curve to master the ALS release, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 is built to last, thanks to its high-quality construction and robust materials. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with a Hood Guard, and an optional Sentry can be installed for even greater security. While the holster itself doesn’t offer a wide range of customization options, its compatibility with the Safariland UBL system allows users to adjust the ride height and cant. The holster is also compatible with a variety of other Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and quick-release systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: The drop UBL and intuitive ALS system allow for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the demands of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL positions the firearm in a comfortable and accessible location.
- Compatibility with Safariland Accessories: Allows for customization and versatility.
Cons
- ALS mechanism can be stiff in extremely cold temperatures if not properly lubricated.
- Slight learning curve to master the ALS release.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and security. Left-handed shooters will particularly appreciate its design and functionality. Those who prioritize a concealed carry holster should probably look elsewhere, as this is designed primarily for open carry duty use.
A must-have accessory is a quality gun belt to properly support the weight of the firearm and holster. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 is an outstanding duty holster that provides exceptional security, comfort, and durability. The price of $199.99 is justified considering its build quality and performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm.
If you’re a left-handed shooter looking for a Level III retention holster, this is an excellent choice. Don’t hesitate – invest in the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-77-62 and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is secure and readily accessible.