Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 Review

Does the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 Live Up to Its Name?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 is a serious piece of kit, designed for duty use where retention and quick access are paramount. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and tactical communities. This holster promises Level III retention, a drop platform for comfortable carry, and the security of the ALS (Automatic Locking System).

I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily carry, offer top-tier retention in dynamic situations, and still allow for a smooth, efficient draw. Standard Level II holsters felt lacking, especially when working in crowded or potentially combative environments. The promise of the ALS system combined with the Level III retention of the Safariland 6365 immediately caught my attention.

Unboxing it, I was immediately struck by the ruggedness of the STX TAC Black finish. The material feels incredibly durable, ready to shrug off scuffs and scrapes. The build quality is exactly what I’ve come to expect from Safariland: solid, precise, and confidence-inspiring.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Galco Fletch high ride holster, the Safariland 6365 offered a superior balance of security and accessibility. The Serpa felt less intuitive to draw from under stress, while the Galco lacked the necessary level of retention for my intended use. The choice was easy once I considered the overall package the Safariland 6365 provided.

My first impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 looked and felt like a serious tool, and I was eager to put it through its paces to see if it lived up to its reputation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6365 was at a three-day tactical shooting course focused on close-quarters combat. The course involved a lot of movement, dynamic drills, and simulated force-on-force scenarios. This provided an ideal environment to assess the holster’s retention and draw speed.

During the course, the weather ranged from sunny and dry to heavy rain. The STX TAC finish proved to be exceptionally grippy, even when wet. The holster retained my Heckler & Koch USP 9C securely through every drill, giving me confidence that my weapon wouldn’t be compromised.

The draw stroke took some getting used to, primarily because of the Level III retention. However, after a few hours of practice, the motions became fluid and intuitive. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the handgun perfectly for a natural, efficient draw, regardless of whether I was seated, standing, or moving. There were no malfunctions or issues with re-holstering, even under stress.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be exceptionally reliable and durable. I’ve used it during countless range sessions, training exercises, and even while hiking in rough terrain. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even around the high-friction areas.

The STX TAC Black finish has resisted scratches and scuffs remarkably well. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable retention every time.

In comparison to cheaper holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6365 is in a different league entirely. The peace of mind knowing that my weapon is secure, combined with the speed and efficiency of the draw, makes it worth every penny. It’s a significant upgrade that enhances both safety and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131

Specifications

• Retention Level: Level III – provides three independent levels of retention for maximum security. This includes the ALS (Automatic Locking System), a hood guard, and an optional sentry device.
• Material: STX TAC Black – a durable, textured synthetic material that offers excellent resistance to abrasion and the elements. This ensures the holster maintains its integrity and appearance even after extensive use.
• Design: Slim and Compact – designed to ride close to the body for enhanced concealability and comfort. This is especially important for duty use where the holster needs to be worn for extended periods.
• Mount: Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) – lowers the holster from the beltline, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic draw. This position is ideal for users wearing body armor or other gear that might interfere with a higher-riding holster.
• Hand Orientation: Right Hand – specifically molded for right-handed shooters.
• Weapon Fit: Heckler & Koch USP 9C – specifically designed to fit the HK USP 9 Compact model.
• Draw: Straight Up – allows for a natural and efficient draw once the retention devices are deactivated.
• Additional Features: Includes hood guard; optional sentry available for even greater security.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and comfort. The Level III retention ensures the weapon stays secured in even the most demanding situations, while the STX TAC Black material provides long-lasting durability. The drop UBL enhances the ergonomics and makes for a smoother, faster draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 performs its primary function – securing and providing quick access to a handgun – exceptionally well. The ALS system engages automatically when the weapon is holstered, providing immediate retention. The Level III retention adds another layer of security, making it incredibly difficult for anyone to disarm the user.

One of the biggest strengths is the intuitive draw stroke. Once the releases are deactivated, the weapon comes out smoothly and naturally. The design is well thought out and executed.

However, there is a learning curve associated with the Level III retention. It takes practice to consistently and efficiently deactivate all the retention devices under pressure. Also, the holster can feel somewhat bulky, especially compared to minimalist designs.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a high level of security without sacrificing speed or accessibility.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, as you would expect from Safariland. The materials are robust and feel like they can withstand significant abuse. The holster is reasonably lightweight, considering the level of retention it offers.

From an ergonomic standpoint, the drop UBL is a game-changer. It positions the handgun in a way that makes it easy to reach and draw, even when wearing bulky gear. The holster is relatively user-friendly, although it does take some time to become proficient with the retention system.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The robust construction and durable materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. With proper care, this holster should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic covers. The optional sentry device can be added for even greater security.

The holster is also compatible with some accessories from other brands, such as tactical lights and lasers. However, compatibility may vary, so it’s always best to check before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high-level of weapon retention. It’s also ideal for individuals who carry a handgun as part of their job and need a holster that can withstand demanding conditions. Those participating in tactical training or competitive shooting may also benefit from its robust design and secure retention.

Those looking for a minimalist or concealed carry holster should skip this product. The Safariland 6365 is designed for duty use and is not the most discreet option. Similarly, individuals who are new to handguns or uncomfortable with complex retention systems may find the Level III retention to be overwhelming.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry. It offers an added layer of security.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-291-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and performance. While there is a learning curve associated with the Level III retention, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The holster’s robust construction and reliable ALS system provide peace of mind in demanding situations.

At $157.99, the price is justified given the quality and functionality offered. It’s an investment in safety and performance that’s well worth making.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone who needs a high-quality, Level III retention holster. If you value security, durability, and performance, then this is the holster for you. Take the plunge and experience the Safariland difference!