Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models Review

What Makes Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models Stand Out?

In the world of duty holsters, the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models aims to strike a balance between security, accessibility, and comfort. Specifically designed for Glock 34/35 pistols with a Streamlight X300U weapon light, this right-handed, hi-gloss black holster boasts Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for Level-III retention. Combined with a low-ride belt loop, and durable SafariLaminate construction, it promises a secure and comfortable carry for law enforcement, security personnel, and potentially, competition shooters who prioritize retention.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve often wrestled with the compromise between a holster that securely retains a weapon and one that allows for a fast, intuitive draw. My department’s recent shift to the Glock 34/35 with the X300U created an immediate need for a duty holster that could accommodate the weapon light while providing Level-III retention, and I wanted something that wouldn’t feel like I was wearing a medieval torture device all day.

My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models was its sturdy construction and clean aesthetics. The hi-gloss black SafariLaminate felt robust, promising resistance to the scuffs and scrapes inevitable in daily duty. The suede lining was a welcome touch, hinting at a focus on protecting the firearm’s finish.

I initially considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Galco M5X Matrix, but opted for the Safariland due to its reputation for reliable retention mechanisms and the low-ride design, which I felt would offer a more comfortable and natural draw stroke. The Blackhawk! felt too bulky, and the Galco lacked the robust feel I was seeking.

My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential for a secure and comfortable duty holster, but also mindful that Safariland holsters can sometimes require a break-in period to achieve optimal draw smoothness.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models at our department’s training range, running through drills that emphasized weapon retention and rapid presentation. The holster performed admirably in dry conditions, offering a secure hold on my Glock 34/35 with the X300U. The ALS and SLS systems were intuitive to disengage with practice.

During a simulated rain scenario, I noticed a slight decrease in the speed of my draw, likely due to the moisture affecting the grip and the ALS release. However, the retention remained solid, and I was confident that the weapon wasn’t going anywhere without deliberate action. Acquiring a solid grip and disengaging the retention devices required a bit more focus in wet conditions.

The holster required some adjustment to get used to, especially the SLS hood rotation. Initially, the motion felt somewhat unnatural, but after a few hours of dry-fire practice, I found myself operating it smoothly and efficiently. The low-ride design was instantly more comfortable than my previous mid-ride holster.

After the first day of use, the only issue I encountered was a slight stiffness in the ALS release, which I anticipated would improve with break-in. Other than that, the Safariland holster performed as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of consistent use on duty and at the range, the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The SafariLaminate construction has held up well, showing only minor scuffs from daily wear and tear. The suede lining has kept the Glock’s finish protected.

The ALS and SLS mechanisms continue to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth, predictable draw. The initial stiffness of the ALS release has dissipated with use, and the draw stroke is now fluid and intuitive.

Maintenance has been simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS and SLS mechanisms keeps the holster in top condition. The holster is easy to disassemble for deeper cleaning if necessary.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland significantly outperforms them in terms of both security and comfort. The Level-III retention provides peace of mind in potentially volatile situations, and the low-ride design makes all-day carry significantly more comfortable. I’m no longer dreading my shifts due to holster discomfort.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models

Specifications

• Model: 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Holster.
• Weapon Compatibility: Glock 34/35 with Streamlight X300U. The specific mold ensures a snug and secure fit, which is crucial for retention and draw speed.
• Retention Level: Level-III. This offers a high degree of security, essential for duty use in potentially hostile environments.
• Hand Orientation: Right Hand.
• Finish: Hi-Gloss Black SafariLaminate. The durable finish protects the holster from wear and tear and provides a professional appearance.
• Retention Systems: Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS). These systems work in tandem to provide a secure hold on the weapon while allowing for a relatively fast and intuitive draw.
• Belt Loop: Low-Ride. This positions the holster lower on the belt, promoting a more comfortable and natural draw stroke.
• Lining: Suede. The soft suede lining protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and abrasions.
• Construction: SafariLaminate. SafariLaminate offers excellent durability and resistance to the elements.

These specifications are critical for law enforcement and security personnel who require a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing a high degree of weapon retention. The compatibility with the Streamlight X300U is particularly important, as weapon lights are becoming increasingly common on duty weapons.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS and SLS systems work seamlessly, providing a confident Level-III retention without hindering draw speed once mastered. The low-ride belt loop promotes a comfortable and natural draw stroke, reducing strain on the shoulder and back.

A minor weakness is the potential for the ALS release to become slightly stiff in wet conditions, but this can be mitigated with proper maintenance and practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level-III duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland holster is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The SafariLaminate construction is both durable and lightweight, and the low-ride belt loop distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, reducing fatigue. The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish, and the overall design is streamlined and professional.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS systems, but the mechanisms are intuitive and easily learned with practice. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, even during strenuous activity.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariLaminate construction of the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models suggests excellent long-term durability. The holster has shown no signs of significant wear and tear after three months of daily use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster is also relatively easy to disassemble for more thorough cleaning or repairs if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models comes standard with the ALS and SLS retention systems and the low-ride belt loop. While it is specifically designed for Glock 34/35 pistols with the Streamlight X300U, Safariland offers a variety of accessories and modifications for its holsters, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic mounts.

The holster is also compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories and components, allowing users to customize it to their specific needs and preferences. You can swap out the belt loop for a different ride height or add a leg shroud for increased stability.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III – 1 out of 30 models