Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132 is a serious piece of kit designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon security and accessibility. Safariland, a renowned name in the holster industry, engineered this model for left-handed shooters using a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, blending rapid deployment with exceptional retention. This holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a hood guard, providing Level III retention, while the drop Uniform Belt Loop (UBL) offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
As a gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the world. I was seeking a holster that offered both rock-solid retention for open carry scenarios and a comfortable draw stroke that wouldn’t hinder my responsiveness. The Safariland 6365 seemed to strike that balance.
Upon unboxing, the holster’s robust construction and tactical black STX finish immediately impressed me. The materials felt durable, and the overall build quality spoke to Safariland’s reputation for producing professional-grade equipment. It felt substantial without being overly bulky.
Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used, such as those from Blackhawk and Galco, the Safariland 6365 stood out with its intuitive ALS system and the comfortable drop UBL. I had found other holsters cumbersome. I chose the Safariland 6365 because of its reputation for speed, security, and practical design tailored to the specific firearm I needed to carry.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to see if the Safariland 6365 lived up to the hype, and whether its features would translate into real-world performance in various tactical scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6365 at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and re-holstering drills. I also incorporated it into force-on-force training scenarios. The weather was a typical mixed bag, ranging from sunny and dry to a sudden downpour.
The Safariland 6365 performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The ALS system remained reliable, and the draw stroke was consistent, even with wet hands. Acquiring a proper grip and deactivating the ALS became second nature after only a few repetitions.
It took me about an hour of dedicated practice to fully adapt to the ALS and hood guard release. Once mastered, the draw stroke felt natural and efficient, significantly faster than with other Level III holsters I’d used. There were no initial issues, but I did make sure to thoroughly practice the release sequence to avoid any fumbling under stress.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are only minor signs of wear on the STX Tactical finish, primarily around the contact points with my duty belt. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after range sessions is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. In comparison to previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6365 has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132 is specifically designed for the left-handed shooter. It fits the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release for a straight-up draw.
The holster includes a hood guard for enhanced security, providing Level III retention. Level IV retention can be achieved with the optional Sentry. The finish is STX Tactical Black, offering a low-profile appearance and increased resistance to scratches and wear.
The drop UBL (Uniform Belt Loop) is designed for a 1.5″ belt and positions the holster lower on the hip for a more comfortable and accessible draw. The holster’s slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. These specifications are crucial for providing a secure, accessible, and comfortable carry option, particularly for law enforcement and military personnel operating in high-risk environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 performs its primary job of securing and enabling rapid deployment of the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP exceptionally well. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock on the weapon. This instills confidence that the firearm is secure during dynamic movements or potential struggles.
The straight-up draw is smooth and efficient once the ALS and hood guard are disengaged, allowing for rapid target acquisition. One minor weakness is that the hood guard can require some practice to manipulate quickly under stress. Overall, the Safariland 6365 significantly exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster, offering a combination of security and speed.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6365 is outstanding, utilizing high-quality materials and precise molding. The STX Tactical finish provides a durable and professional appearance, while the holster’s weight is balanced to prevent discomfort during extended wear. The drop UBL positions the weapon at an optimal height for a natural and comfortable draw stroke.
The learning curve for the ALS and hood guard is minimal with dedicated practice. The overall design is user-friendly and caters to the specific needs of law enforcement and military professionals.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The robust construction and durable materials ensure a long service life. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 includes the hood guard for added security. Safariland offers a variety of compatible accessories, including the Sentry for Level IV retention and various belt loop options to adjust ride height and cant. The holster is also compatible with a range of Safariland tactical accessories, such as leg shrouds and quick-release systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS and hood guard provide unparalleled security.
- Rapid and Smooth Draw: Once mastered, the ALS enables a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The STX Tactical finish and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Drop UBL: The drop UBL positions the weapon for a natural and accessible draw.
- Specifically Designed for Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP (Left Handed): Ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.
Cons
- Hood Guard Requires Practice: Manipulating the hood guard quickly under stress takes dedicated training.
- Potential Bulk: Level III retention adds some bulk compared to simpler holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132?
The Safariland 6365 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competition shooters requiring a secure and reliable Level III retention holster for their Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. Anyone prioritizing weapon security and accessibility in high-risk environments will benefit greatly.
This product is not ideal for casual concealed carriers who prioritize minimal bulk and ease of use over maximum retention. Individuals who are unwilling to dedicate time to practice the ALS and hood guard release should also consider alternative options. A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the holster to Level IV retention for even greater security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6365-185-132 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The price of $143.99 is justified by the exceptional quality, reliable performance, and peace of mind it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone needing a Level III retention option for their Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, invest in the Safariland 6365 – you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your carry system today.