Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry. Built by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster features their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III retention rating. The plain cordovan finish offers a professional appearance, while the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a comfortable and accessible draw.
For years, I’ve relied on Safariland holsters, knowing their durability and retention are unmatched when lives are on the line. After a close call during a foot pursuit where my previous holster failed to retain my weapon during a tumble, I knew I needed an upgrade to a Level III retention system. This Safariland 6365 promised the enhanced security I needed without sacrificing a smooth, intuitive draw.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6365, I was immediately impressed with the build quality. The leather, though plain, was supple and well-formed, and the ALS mechanism felt solid and dependable. Compared to my older Safariland Level II holster and a competitor’s offering from Blackhawk, the 6365 felt noticeably more robust and secure, while retaining a surprisingly slim profile.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the increased level of security offered by the Level III retention, but also slightly concerned about whether it would hinder my draw speed and weapon presentation. However, the reputation of Safariland‘s ALS system gave me confidence that it would perform as advertised.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6365 was at the local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention under pressure. I practiced drawing and re-holstering hundreds of times, simulating various scenarios I might encounter in the field. The ALS system proved intuitive; with practice, disengaging the lock became second nature.
Even in the sweltering Texas heat, the cordovan leather maintained a secure grip, and the drop UBL positioned the weapon perfectly for a smooth, consistent draw. The holster performed flawlessly in the dusty environment, with no issues in the ALS mechanism. Despite my initial concerns, my draw speed remained surprisingly consistent with my previous holster.
Initially, the Level III retention felt a bit stiff, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to disengage the ALS and SLS (Self Locking System) hood. After a few hours of dry-fire practice, however, the mechanism smoothed out considerably. There were no malfunctions during the initial range session, and the holster instilled a strong sense of confidence in its retention capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be exceptionally reliable and durable. Despite constant rubbing against clothing and gear, the cordovan finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable retention.
There have been no signs of degradation in the leather or the polymer components, even after exposure to rain and prolonged periods of high humidity. The holster requires minimal maintenance; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6365 has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
The Safariland 6365 has become an integral part of my everyday carry, providing a secure and comfortable platform for my sidearm. Its Level III retention offers peace of mind, knowing that my weapon is secure even in the most demanding situations. It has outperformed every other duty holster I’ve used over the past decade.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052 is specifically designed for left-handed shooters. It features Safariland‘s patented Automatic Locking System (ALS) which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. The Level III retention is achieved through the ALS, the SLS rotating hood, and the overall holster design.
The holster is constructed from Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, which is highly durable and resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion. It features a plain cordovan finish for a professional, low-profile appearance. The Drop UBL lowers the holster by approximately 1.5 inches, providing a more comfortable and natural draw stroke. The holster is specifically molded to fit Sig Sauer P228 and P229 handguns.
These specifications are critical for law enforcement and security professionals because they directly impact weapon security, draw speed, and overall comfort. The ALS and Level III retention ensure the weapon remains secure during foot pursuits, physical altercations, or other demanding situations. The Drop UBL allows for a more natural and ergonomic draw, which is essential for quick and accurate weapon presentation. The durability of the materials ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in harsh environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system is remarkably effective, providing a positive lock that is easy to disengage with the thumb while simultaneously drawing the weapon. The Level III retention provides an added layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
A significant strength of the Safariland 6365 is its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS and SLS systems are easily defeated with proper training and technique, allowing for a draw stroke that is nearly as fast as a Level II holster. The cordovan finish provides a professional appearance without being overly flashy, and the Drop UBL positions the weapon at a comfortable and accessible height. The only weakness I’ve observed is that the SLS hood can occasionally snag on clothing during the draw stroke if the user isn’t deliberate in their technique.
The Safariland 6365 far exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a level of security that is unmatched by other holsters I have used, without sacrificing draw speed or comfort. The holster is well-designed, durable, and reliable, making it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a high-quality Level III retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 boasts a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. The use of SafariSeven™ nylon blend contributes to the holster’s lightweight feel without sacrificing durability. The cordovan finish provides a professional and understated appearance.
The holster is designed to be user-friendly, with the ALS and SLS mechanisms positioned for easy access and manipulation. The Drop UBL improves ergonomics by lowering the weapon and creating more space for the hand to acquire a proper grip. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS systems, but with practice, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and fluid.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to last, with its SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction offering exceptional resistance to wear, abrasion, and environmental factors. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ALS and SLS mechanisms can be lubricated with a small amount of gun oil to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including the Sentry hood guard, which provides an additional layer of security. The holster can also be used with different belt attachments, allowing the user to customize the ride height and cant.
While the Safariland 6365 is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it may also be compatible with some accessories from other brands, depending on the specific product. Compatibility should be verified before purchase.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled weapon security, crucial for high-risk environments.
- Smooth and Intuitive Draw: The ALS system allows for a rapid and efficient draw stroke with practice.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Comfortable Carry: The Drop UBL positions the weapon for a natural and ergonomic draw.
- Professional Appearance: The plain cordovan finish offers a low-profile and understated look.
Cons
- SLS Hood Snag: The SLS hood can occasionally snag on clothing during the draw.
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS and SLS systems requires dedicated practice.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry platform. The Level III retention is particularly well-suited for those working in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.
Individuals who prioritize draw speed above all else may want to consider a Level II holster instead. Also, those unfamiliar with Safariland‘s ALS system may find the learning curve challenging.
A Safariland Sentry is a must-have accessory for enhanced security. Additional belt loops may be necessary to customize the holster’s ride height and cant.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Cordovan, Left Hand 6365-74-052 is an exceptional duty-grade holster that provides a superior level of weapon security and a comfortable carry. The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s durability, reliability, and advanced retention features.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a high-quality Level III retention system. Its combination of security, accessibility, and comfort makes it an invaluable piece of gear. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – get the Safariland 6365 today!