Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 Review

Using the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 in the Real World

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 represents a pinnacle in duty holster design, blending speed, security, and Safariland’s renowned durability. This holster is not just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone requiring secure and reliable firearm retention. With its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III retention, it promises peace of mind while offering a smooth, intuitive draw.

I’ve spent years searching for the ideal duty holster, something that balances accessibility with uncompromising security. My previous holsters often felt like a compromise, either too slow on the draw or not secure enough for demanding environments. I’d read countless reviews and seen officers in the field relying on Safariland holsters, so I decided to give the 6365 ALS Level III a try.

The holster arrived in Safariland’s standard packaging: functional and no-nonsense. My initial impression was one of solid construction; the plain black finish looked professional and the materials felt robust. The weight was noticeable, but not excessive, suggesting a durable build without unnecessary bulk.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 before settling on the Safariland. The Serpa’s trigger finger release always made me a little nervous, and the Bianchi lacked the ALS security I desired. The Safariland’s reputation for reliability and the intuitive nature of the ALS system were the deciding factors.

Initially, I was excited but also a little apprehensive. Level III retention can sometimes mean a clunky and slow draw, and I was hoping the Safariland could deliver on its promise of both security and speed. It looked great out of the box, but the true test would be in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III at the range during a force-on-force training scenario. The range provided a controlled environment to practice drawing and re-holstering under simulated stress. I wanted to see how it performed when speed and precision were paramount.

The holster performed admirably in varying conditions; the weather was typical of early spring, alternating between light rain and sunshine. Even with wet hands and a damp holster, the ALS system functioned flawlessly. The grip remained secure, and I never felt like the weapon was at risk of accidental release.

There was a slight learning curve to deactivating the ALS while simultaneously disengaging the hood guard. After a few practice draws, however, the motion became fluid and natural. The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the firearm perfectly for a smooth, straight draw. I experienced no issues after getting used to the draw stroke.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III has proven its worth. It is now my go-to duty holster for patrol and security details. It has endured everything from daily wear and tear to exposure to harsh weather conditions.

The holster has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear. The plain black finish has resisted scratching and scuffing, and the ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts keeps it in top condition. The holster is very easy to maintain.

Compared to previous holsters, the Safariland significantly outperforms in both security and draw speed. The ALS provides unparalleled peace of mind, and the Drop UBL allows for a consistent and efficient draw stroke. It has exceeded my expectations, becoming an indispensable part of my duty gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its outstanding performance. It is designed for right-handed users and features a plain black finish for a professional appearance. The holster is compatible with Springfield Armory XD series pistols in .357, .40, .45, and 9mm calibers.

The Level III Retention indicates that the holster employs three distinct security measures to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth draw. The Hood Guard adds another layer of protection, preventing others from manipulating the ALS release. Finally, the optional Sentry, adds an additional level of security, making the holster more secure.

The Drop UBL positions the holster lower on the hip, improving accessibility and comfort, especially when wearing body armor. The slim and compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. These specifications are crucial for officers and security personnel who need a secure, accessible, and comfortable holster for everyday carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III excels in both performance and functionality. The ALS provides a secure hold on the firearm, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. The intuitive thumb release allows for a fast and smooth draw, even under stress.

The Level III Retention provides an added layer of security over Level I and II retention holsters. The Drop UBL makes the holster usable while wearing a vest or other type of protective gear. It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster, providing a reliable and secure platform for carrying a firearm.

However, the Level III Retention can be a drawback for those unfamiliar with the system, or who do not practice with the system regularly.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The materials are durable and long-lasting, standing up to the rigors of daily use. The weight is balanced, preventing the holster from feeling cumbersome or uncomfortable.

The slim and compact design ensures the weapon rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The Drop UBL further enhances comfort by positioning the holster at an optimal height. The ALS thumb release is intuitively placed and easy to operate, even with gloved hands.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is built to last. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the construction is solid and robust. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts are all that’s needed to keep the holster in top condition.

With proper care, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III should provide years of reliable service. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use. Regular maintenance ensures a long and healthy life for the holster.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III comes standard with a Hood Guard. The optional Sentry adds another layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms.

The ability to customize the holster with different accessories allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences. Whether it’s adding a leg shroud for added stability or swapping out the belt loop for a different ride height, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III can be configured to meet the demands of any situation.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It’s ideal for those who prioritize firearm retention and need a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use. It is also suitable for those carrying Springfield Armory XD Series pistols.

This holster is not recommended for individuals who prefer minimalist holsters or those who are unwilling to invest time in practicing the Level III draw stroke. It might also be overkill for concealed carry purposes where a lower level of retention is sufficient.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a good quality duty belt that can properly support the weight of the firearm and holster. Also, regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the holster’s performance and longevity.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-149-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and exceptional performance. It provides unparalleled peace of mind knowing your firearm is safe and secure.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster. If you carry a Springfield Armory XD Series pistol and demand the highest level of retention, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is the perfect choice. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t regret it.