Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals demanding both retention and quick access. Made by Safariland, this holster combines the Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III Retention, providing a secure platform for your firearm. It also features a Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry.

For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that balanced security with a smooth, natural draw. Many holsters were either too bulky, difficult to manipulate under stress, or simply didn’t offer the level of retention needed in dynamic operational environments. The promise of Level III retention, coupled with Safariland’s reputation for quality, drew me to this particular model.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of ruggedness and deliberate design. The plain black finish spoke of professional austerity, while the weight and feel of the materials conveyed a sense of dependable durability. The holster felt solid in my hand, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of daily duty.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 before settling on the Safariland. The Serpa system, while popular, has faced criticism regarding its index finger release, and the Bianchi, while comfortable, seemed to lack the robust retention I desired. The Safariland’s ALS system, with its straightforward thumb release, seemed like a safer and more intuitive option.

Honestly, I was excited but also cautiously optimistic. I’ve had holsters that look great on paper but fail in real-world scenarios. I was eager to put the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 was at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The day was hot and humid, typical for a Georgia summer, which meant I was sweating profusely. I was particularly interested in how the holster would perform under less-than-ideal conditions.

The holster performed admirably, even with sweaty hands and simulated stress. The ALS system was easy to disengage with my thumb, and the draw was smooth and consistent. The Drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for a natural grip, significantly improving my draw speed compared to higher-riding holsters I’ve used in the past.

Initially, I needed a few practice draws to become fully comfortable with the ALS release and the slight forward cant of the holster. However, after about an hour of drills, the draw stroke became second nature. There were no unexpected snags or hang-ups, and the firearm re-holstered smoothly and securely every time.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use during training and security details, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 has proven remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear or tear, even on the high-friction areas around the ejection port and muzzle. The plain black finish has resisted scuffs and scratches surprisingly well.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a light application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. The holster has consistently performed without issue, regardless of the weather or environmental conditions. It has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy piece of gear.

Compared to my previous duty holster, a standard Level II retention model, the Safariland offers a noticeable improvement in both security and draw speed. The added Level III retention provides peace of mind in crowded or high-risk situations, while the ALS system allows for a faster and more fluid draw than traditional thumb-break holsters. It is a definite upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61

Specifications

• Level III Retention: The holster employs a three-tiered retention system including the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood. This offers enhanced security against unauthorized firearm removal.

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. It releases with a simple thumb activation, allowing for a fast, intuitive draw.

• Hood Guard: A standard feature on the 6365, the hood guard protects the rotating hood from accidental deactivation. This adds another layer of security.

• Slim, Compact Design: The holster’s design allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This enhances concealability and minimizes printing, especially under clothing.

• Simple Straight-Up Draw: Once all retention devices are deactivated, the draw is a simple, straight-up motion. This promotes a consistent and efficient draw stroke.

• 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL: The Drop UBL lowers the holster position by 1.5 inches. This facilitates a more comfortable and natural draw, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.

• Finish/Color: Plain Black. Provides a professional and low-profile appearance.

• Fits: Smith & Wesson M&P. Ensures a snug and secure fit for the specified firearm.

• Type: Right Hand. Designed specifically for right-handed shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It provides a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw when needed. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use, even under stress.

The holster’s strength lies in its balanced approach to security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides a high degree of security against unauthorized firearm removal, while the ALS system ensures a smooth and rapid draw. A potential area for improvement might be in the adjustability of the UBL, as some users may prefer a different ride height.

The holster far exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster in this price range. It offers a level of security and performance that rivals more expensive models. The Safariland 6365 has become my go-to holster for duty and training purposes.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 is excellent. The materials are durable and well-constructed, and the holster feels solid and robust in hand. The Drop UBL provides a comfortable and natural carry position.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. Once the user becomes familiar with the system, the draw stroke becomes second nature. The holster’s slim and compact design also contributes to its overall comfort and concealability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care and maintenance, the holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation. Overall, the holster is easy to maintain and repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different UBL options, leg straps, and mounting platforms. The holster itself is not directly customizable in terms of color or finish, but users can choose from a variety of compatible accessories to tailor the holster to their specific needs.

It’s worth noting that the ALS mechanism can be adjusted for tension, allowing users to fine-tune the draw stroke to their preference. This level of customization is a valuable feature for users who want to optimize their holster for speed and efficiency. Furthermore, the optional Sentry device can be installed to increase the retention level to Level III.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize both retention and quick access to their firearm. It will be most beneficial for those carrying a Smith & Wesson M&P.

Individuals who prefer a minimalist holster with no active retention devices might want to skip this product. Also, those who require a highly adjustable UBL system may find the fixed ride height limiting.

A must-have accessory would be a Safariland leg strap for added stability and support, especially during dynamic movements. Also, consider adding the optional Sentry device to further increase the holster’s retention capabilities.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-219-61 is an outstanding duty holster that offers an excellent balance of security, accessibility, and durability. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the Drop UBL provides a comfortable and natural carry position. It represents excellent value for its $199.99 price tag.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and secure duty holster. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance, durability, and overall quality. If you’re looking for a Level III retention holster that won’t let you down, the Safariland 6365 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t regret it.