Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131 represents a significant evolution in duty holster design, combining speed, security, and adaptability. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade equipment, this holster boasts Level III retention, ensuring firearm security in even the most demanding situations. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and unique drop-down Universal Belt Loop (UBL) configuration make it a compelling choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.

I needed a holster that offered maximum security without sacrificing draw speed, and something that could withstand the rigors of daily use in various environments. My previous holster, a simple Level II retention model, left me feeling vulnerable in close-quarters scenarios, and its flimsy construction showed wear after only a few months. The Safariland 6365 promised a solution to both concerns.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction and the quality of the STX Tactical finish. The holster felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the molded design suggested a precise fit for the intended firearm (in this case, a Smith & Wesson 5946). The UBL felt solid and ready to attach to my duty belt.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, such as models from Blackhawk and Galco, the Safariland stood out for its intuitive ALS mechanism and the adjustability of the UBL. While the Blackhawk offered similar retention levels, its release button felt less natural, and the Galco, though beautifully crafted, lacked the same level of security. The Safariland felt like the perfect blend of security and accessibility.

My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a touch of apprehension. I was eager to test its security features and draw speed under pressure, but I also wondered if the Level III retention would make drawing the weapon cumbersome. The real test would come in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6365 at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. This involved practicing drawing and engaging targets under simulated stress. The weather was typical for late spring: humid with intermittent rain.

The holster performed exceptionally well, even in the slightly damp conditions. The ALS mechanism provided a positive and audible click when the firearm was holstered, assuring me that it was securely locked in place. The draw stroke, once I became accustomed to the release, was surprisingly smooth and fast.

Initially, I struggled slightly with the thumb placement required to deactivate the ALS while simultaneously defeating the hood. However, after a few dozen repetitions, it became second nature. There were no malfunctions or failures of the locking mechanism during the entire training session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and various outdoor training exercises, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be remarkably durable. The STX Tactical finish shows minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to abrasion from clothing, gear, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces.

The locking mechanism continues to function flawlessly, and the UBL remains securely attached to my duty belt. I have noticed some minor scuffing on the interior of the holster from repeated drawing and holstering, but this is purely cosmetic and does not affect its performance.

Maintaining the Safariland 6365 is simple. I periodically wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holster, which required frequent adjustments and repairs, the Safariland has been virtually maintenance-free. It far outperforms any holster I have owned in terms of durability, reliability, and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131

Specifications

• The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is designed for right-handed users and features a Level III Retention system. This ensures a high degree of firearm security.
• It utilizes the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered. The user must depress the release lever with their thumb to draw.
• The holster comes with a Hood Guard as standard. This protects the hood release mechanism from accidental activation.
• The STX Tactical Black finish provides a low-profile, non-reflective appearance and adds to the holster’s durability. It resists scratches and abrasions.
• The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster 1.5 inches below the belt line. This enhances accessibility and comfort, especially when wearing body armor or other bulky gear.
• It is specifically molded to fit the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO Without Rails. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing movement and maximizing draw speed.

These specifications are crucial for ensuring both the safety and efficiency of the user. The Level III Retention provides peace of mind in potentially violent encounters, while the Drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility during prolonged wear. The precise molding ensures a secure fit, preventing accidental dislodgement of the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock that requires a deliberate action to release. The Hood Guard adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable UBL design. The only area that could potentially be improved is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS release. However, with practice, this becomes second nature. It significantly exceeds my expectations in terms of security and comfort.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 boasts a slim, compact design that keeps the firearm close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealability, even with a full-sized service weapon. The STX Tactical material is durable and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The holster is surprisingly comfortable to wear, thanks to the Drop UBL, which distributes the weight of the firearm evenly across the belt line. The ALS release lever is ergonomically positioned for easy access and manipulation. There is a slight learning curve, but the design is generally intuitive and user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The STX Tactical material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The locking mechanism is constructed from durable metal components that are designed for long-term reliability.

Maintaining the Safariland 6365 is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanism is all that is required to keep it in optimal condition. The holster is also field-repairable, with replacement parts readily available from Safariland. I expect this holster to last for many years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 comes standard with the Hood Guard and Drop UBL. While it doesn’t include any other accessories out of the box, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers.

The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s Sentry system. This adds another layer of retention to the holster. You can easily modify the holster to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a high level of firearm security without sacrificing draw speed. It is also a good choice for civilian concealed carriers who prioritize safety and security.

This product may not be suitable for individuals who are new to firearms or those who prefer a simpler, less secure holster. The ALS system requires practice and familiarity to master, and it may not be ideal for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity. A must-have accessory would be additional training repetitions to develop muscle memory with the ALS.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6365-320-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort. While the ALS system requires a bit of practice to master, the benefits in terms of firearm retention and draw speed are well worth the effort.

At $147.99, the price is justified given the holster’s high-quality construction, robust features, and proven performance. It’s an investment in safety and peace of mind.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone who needs a secure and reliable duty holster. If you’re looking for a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide you with the confidence you need in high-pressure situations, look no further. Upgrade your gear today and experience the Safariland difference!