First Impressions of Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand
The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand is designed for professionals who demand both speed and security. This holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) in a rugged, low-profile design that promises Level III retention. Having relied on Safariland holsters throughout my career in law enforcement and tactical training, I was eager to see how this particular model balanced accessibility and weapon security in a duty setting.
For years, I’d been using a Level II retention holster, which felt insufficient given the evolving threat landscape and the need for enhanced weapon security. I sought a holster that provided a higher level of protection against unauthorized access while still allowing for a smooth and rapid draw under stress. The reputation of Safariland and the promise of the ALS/SLS combination drew me to the Model 6365.
Upon receiving the holster, I immediately noticed its robust construction and the familiar feel of the SafariLaminate material. The build quality felt solid and reliable, which is crucial for a piece of gear intended for duty use. Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used from BlackHawk and Bianchi, the Safariland seemed more streamlined and less bulky, a characteristic I valued for comfort during extended wear. My initial impression was positive; the holster felt like a well-engineered piece of equipment, exuding a sense of confidence.
I was excited to integrate this holster into my duty setup, hoping it would enhance my peace of mind knowing my firearm was secure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand took place at the shooting range during a firearms training session. I specifically focused on draw speed, re-holstering efficiency, and the overall comfort of the low-ride design. The weather was dry, with temperatures around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
The ALS immediately engaged upon holstering, providing an audible click and a positive lock. The SLS hood was easily manipulated with my thumb, and the draw stroke felt surprisingly smooth and natural for a Level III holster. After several practice draws, I was able to achieve a draw time comparable to my Level II holster, proving that the added security didn’t necessarily equate to a slower response time.
I did experience a slight issue with the SLS hood initially, finding it a bit stiff to disengage with gloves on. This required some adjustment of the tension screw and additional practice to overcome.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. I have worn it through various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and high humidity, without any noticeable degradation in performance. The SafariLaminate construction has shown no signs of wear and tear, and the internal suede lining continues to protect the firearm’s finish.
Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth occasionally to remove dirt and grime. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS and SLS mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. In comparison to a previous nylon duty holster, the Safariland offers superior durability and retention. It definitely outperforms my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand
Specifications
The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand is specifically designed for Glock pistols and offers a combination of features tailored for law enforcement and tactical professionals. It comes in black and is designed for right-handed users. The holster is a belt holster made from SafariLaminate.
The accessory attachment system is a belt loop, accommodating belts up to 2.25 inches in width, and its application is duty use. It utilizes both an ALS (Automatic Locking System) and an SLS (Self Locking System), providing Level III Retention. The material is SafariLaminate. These specifications translate to a holster that is rugged, secure, and designed for quick access in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand excels in providing a high level of weapon security while maintaining a reasonable draw speed. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, creating a secure lock that prevents the firearm from being drawn without intentional manipulation. The SLS hood adds an additional layer of protection, requiring the user to depress and rotate the hood forward before drawing.
The primary strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS/SLS system provides confidence that the firearm is secure, while the thumb-activated release mechanisms allow for a relatively quick and efficient draw stroke. One area for potential improvement could be the adjustability of the SLS hood tension.
The holster definitely meets expectations for a Level III retention duty holster and even exceeds them, considering how smooth the draw stroke is.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand is excellent, with durable SafariLaminate construction and a robust design. The holster feels solid and well-made. The low-ride belt loop positions the firearm slightly lower on the hip, improving comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release mechanisms, but with practice, the draw stroke becomes intuitive. The design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its SafariLaminate construction and robust design, the Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand is expected to last for many years with proper care. The holster is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms are all that is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand comes standard with the ALS and SLS retention systems and the low-ride belt loop. There are several aftermarket accessories and customization options available. The belt loop can be swapped out for different ride heights or attachment methods.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for rapid transfer of the holster between different mounting platforms. These features make it adaptable to various mission requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand
Pros
- Exceptional weapon security: The ALS/SLS system provides Level III retention, offering a high degree of protection against unauthorized access.
- Smooth and relatively fast draw stroke: Despite the Level III retention, the draw stroke is surprisingly smooth and efficient with practice.
- Durable construction: The SafariLaminate construction is rugged and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable low-ride design: The low-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, even when wearing body armor.
- Proven track record: Safariland holsters are widely used and trusted by law enforcement and military professionals.
Cons
- SLS hood can be stiff initially: The SLS hood may require some break-in and adjustment to achieve optimal smoothness.
- Slightly heavier than Level II holsters: The added security comes with a slight increase in weight compared to Level II retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand?
The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a high level of weapon security without sacrificing accessibility. It is also well-suited for individuals who carry a firearm in potentially high-risk environments where weapon retention is paramount. Those who are in the military or in law enforcement will benefit greatly from this holster.
Individuals who prioritize a minimalist design or require the absolute fastest draw speed may want to consider a Level II retention holster instead. Those who are new to firearms or unfamiliar with Level III retention systems may find the Model 6365 a bit challenging to master initially. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland QLS system for quick holster transfer between platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand
The Safariland Model 6365 ALS/SLS Low-Ride Level-III Duty Glock Holster, Right Hand is a well-engineered and highly effective duty holster that provides an excellent balance of weapon security and accessibility. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the reliability of the retention system, and the peace of mind it provides. It is definitely worth every penny.
I would highly recommend this holster to any professional who requires a Level III retention holster for duty use. It provides a sense of security that other holsters simply cannot match. If you’re seeking a dependable, rugged, and secure duty holster, the Safariland Model 6365 is an excellent choice – upgrade your carry setup today!