Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 Review

First Impressions of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 isn’t just another holster; it’s a statement about preparedness and professionalism. From Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, comes a holster designed for secure weapon retention and rapid deployment, particularly tailored for left-handed users carrying a Beretta PX4 Storm. The holster promises a blend of Level III retention, thanks to its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and hood guard, combined with the convenience of a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for a more comfortable and accessible carry.

As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve always prioritized reliable retention and comfortable carry, especially in demanding situations. My existing duty holster, while functional, lacked the added security of a Level III system, prompting my search for an upgrade. The combination of ALS, hood guard, and drop UBL caught my attention, promising enhanced security without sacrificing speed.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction and the familiar Safariland quality. The plain black finish offers a professional, low-profile appearance, while the molded polymer felt substantial and ready for hard use. The weight felt appropriate for a duty-grade holster, striking a balance between durability and comfort.

I considered other Level III holsters from reputable brands like Blackhawk and Bianchi, but the Safariland’s ALS system and reputation for reliability swayed me. While other brands offered similar features, Safariland’s consistent performance track record, especially within law enforcement circles, made it the clear winner. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 came across as a purpose-built tool designed to handle the rigors of daily duty.

Initially, I was impressed by the apparent simplicity of the ALS system, but also slightly apprehensive about mastering the draw under pressure. The level of security gave me a reassurance for challenging scenarios. Overall, my first impression was one of cautious optimism – eager to see if the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 could live up to its reputation and meet the demands of real-world use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 was at a local shooting range and during force-on-force training scenarios. I integrated it into my standard duty belt setup with my Beretta PX4 Storm. The holster felt secure, even during rapid movements and simulated struggles.

During a particularly rainy training session, the ALS system remained fully functional, and the grip remained positive despite the wet conditions. It did take some time to adjust to the draw stroke. The draw stroke felt a bit different from my previous Level II holster.

The only initial hiccup was the learning curve associated with deactivating both the hood guard and the ALS during the draw. After several repetitions, the motion became more fluid and intuitive. This confirmed the importance of consistent practice with any new piece of equipment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and monthly scenario-based training, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuff marks on the plain black finish from contact with other gear. The holster has retained its structural integrity.

Cleaning the holster is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Periodically, I apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This simple maintenance has kept the system functioning flawlessly.

Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 offers a noticeable increase in security and peace of mind. The Level III retention system provides an added layer of protection against unauthorized weapon removal, while the drop UBL enhances comfort during extended periods of wear. The holster’s robust construction and reliable performance have exceeded my initial expectations, solidifying its place as my primary duty holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 is specifically designed for the Beretta PX4 Storm pistol and is available in a left-hand configuration. It features a Level III retention system incorporating Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a protective hood guard. The plain black finish provides a professional, low-profile aesthetic.

The holster comes equipped with a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) that positions the weapon lower on the hip. The drop UBL creates more comfortable carry and easier access, especially when wearing body armor or other bulky gear. The ALS system automatically engages upon holstering the weapon, securing it until deliberately released by the user.

The hood guard further enhances retention by preventing unauthorized access to the weapon from above. This combination of ALS and hood guard provides Level III security, making it suitable for law enforcement and tactical applications. The use of durable, molded polymer ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 performs exceptionally well in providing secure weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw stroke. The ALS system engages positively and releases cleanly with proper technique. The draw requires a deliberate thumb release of the ALS lever and a simultaneous rotation of the hood guard.

The strengths of this holster lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable carry, thanks to the drop UBL. The Level III security provides peace of mind in high-risk environments. One minor area for improvement would be a more intuitive design for the hood guard release.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. The holster’s balance of security, accessibility, and comfort makes it a valuable asset for anyone requiring a reliable weapon carrying solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 boasts a streamlined and functional design. The molded polymer construction provides excellent durability without adding excessive weight. The drop UBL positions the holster at an optimal height for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, though mastering the Level III retention system requires dedicated practice. The ALS release is intuitive, and the hood guard becomes second nature with repetition. Safariland has designed this for efficiency.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 is built to withstand the demands of daily duty use. The rugged polymer construction and robust retention system ensure long-lasting performance. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Safariland has a reputation for quality. The simplicity of the design contributes to its durability and ease of maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 comes standard with the hood guard and drop UBL attachment. While not offering extensive customization options like interchangeable shells, it is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and leg shrouds, allowing users to tailor the carry position to their preference. The ALS Sentry is an optional accessory that can increase the retention level of the holster.

The holster also works well with a variety of tactical belts from different brands. This versatility makes it easy to integrate into existing gear setups. Safariland’s ecosystem of accessories offers a degree of customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a high level of weapon security and a comfortable carry position. Those who prioritize retention and rapid deployment will find this holster an invaluable asset. Left-handed shooters, in particular, will appreciate the dedicated design tailored to their needs.

This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its Level III retention system and drop UBL, which can make it less discreet. Casual shooters who prioritize ease of use over maximum security may also find the Level III system unnecessary. A must-have accessory is the Safariland ALS Sentry, for those seeking even greater retention.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and comfort. The price of $199.99 is justified given the holster’s robust construction, Level III retention system, and enhanced ergonomics.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and accessible weapon carrying solution for their Beretta PX4 Storm. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-180-62 is more than just a holster; it’s an investment in your safety and readiness. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.