Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 Review

Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 promises a high level of security and a smooth, intuitive draw for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts alike. This Level III retention holster from Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, aims to provide both peace of mind and rapid accessibility. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and included hood guard are designed to prevent unauthorized access while still allowing for a quick, straight-up draw when needed.

My need for this particular holster stemmed from an increased focus on training scenarios where weapon retention was paramount. I was looking for a holster that offered more than just passive retention, especially during close-quarters drills and simulated combative situations. Having used other Safariland products in the past, I was confident in their reputation for durability and functional design.

Unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction. The molded Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly strong, and the plain black finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense look. The drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) attachment appeared well-made and ready for secure mounting.

Compared to other Level II holsters I’ve used, like those from Blade-Tech or Blackhawk, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III offered a clear step up in security with its ALS and hood guard combination. While the others were easier to draw from initially, they lacked the positive retention I desired for more demanding applications. I chose this particular model because of its proven track record among law enforcement agencies and its ability to accommodate my Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail.

My initial impression was positive, leaning towards excitement. The build quality and multi-layered retention system instilled confidence, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions, especially in terms of draw speed and comfort during extended wear.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 primarily at an outdoor shooting range and during force-on-force training scenarios. The range provided a controlled environment to assess draw speed and holster manipulation, while the force-on-force training offered a more dynamic test of retention and overall usability. Conditions varied from sunny and dry to mildly wet.

The holster performed admirably in both settings. The ALS system, while initially requiring some familiarization, became intuitive quickly. The straight-up draw, once all releases were deactivated, was smooth and consistent. The drop UBL provided a comfortable ride height that allowed for a natural grip acquisition.

There were no major issues during the first use, although I did notice that the hood guard could occasionally snag on my clothing during certain movements. This was easily remedied by adjusting my technique and ensuring a deliberate, clean motion when drawing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated draws and exposure to the elements. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend has held up well, showing no scratches or deformation.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism operates smoothly without requiring any specialized lubrication. Compared to my previous experiences with nylon and leather holsters, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III requires significantly less upkeep.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III has exceeded my expectations. It provides a superior level of retention compared to my previous holsters while maintaining a reasonable draw speed. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for both professional and recreational use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61

Specifications

• Category: ALS Holsters.
• Finish/Color: Plain Black.
• Fits: Springfield Armory – Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail.
• Type: Right Hand.
• Level III Retention: Offers a high degree of security against unauthorized weapon removal.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering.
• Hood Guard: Provides an additional layer of security, protecting the weapon from upward draws.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Allows for a lower ride height, improving draw speed and comfort.
• Slim, Compact Design: Ensures the weapon rides close to the body for better concealment and comfort.

These specifications are critical for ensuring both the security and usability of the holster. The Level III retention and ALS are paramount for preventing unauthorized access, while the Drop UBL and slim design enhance comfort and concealability. The fact that it’s specifically designed for the Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail ensures a perfect fit and reliable operation.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function, secure weapon retention, is handled flawlessly by the ALS and hood guard system. The draw is surprisingly smooth and fast once the release mechanisms are mastered.

The main strength of this holster is its balance between security and accessibility. It provides a high level of retention without sacrificing draw speed. One potential weakness is the learning curve associated with the ALS and hood guard, which may require some initial practice.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III meets and even exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster. It offers a superior level of security without compromising usability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 is constructed from high-quality materials and features a well-thought-out design. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend is both durable and lightweight. The holster’s slim profile ensures that the weapon rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the ALS and hood guard require some initial familiarization. The drop UBL provides a comfortable ride height that allows for a natural grip acquisition.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 is built to last. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 includes a standard hood guard. While not included, an optional Sentry device can be installed for an even higher level of security.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. Its mounting pattern also allows for compatibility with some accessories from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and serious firearm enthusiasts who prioritize weapon retention and a secure carry. Also, ideal for those who carry a Springfield Armory Operator 1911-A1 W/ Picatinny Light Rail and require a holster specifically designed for that platform.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who prioritize the absolute fastest draw speed over maximum retention, or those who are unwilling to dedicate time to mastering the ALS and hood guard system.

Must-have accessories or modifications? An optional Sentry device can be installed for an even higher level of security. Depending on individual preferences, different belt loops or leg shrouds may also be desirable.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 is an excellent choice for those who need a high-quality, secure, and reliable holster. Its Level III retention system and durable construction provide peace of mind, while its relatively smooth draw and comfortable carry make it practical for everyday use.

The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s quality, features, and reputation. It represents a solid investment for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts alike.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III to anyone seeking a Level III retention holster that balances security and accessibility. If you’re looking for a holster that can withstand demanding conditions and provide reliable weapon retention, look no further. Invest in your safety and security – get the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-56-61 today!