The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62: A Review After Real Use
In the realm of duty gear, few names carry as much weight and respect as Safariland. Their holsters are synonymous with reliability, security, and professional performance, and the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62 is no exception. This holster is designed for left-handed users carrying a Sig Sauer P228 or P229, offering Level III retention with the added convenience of a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) mount. This holster promised to provide a secure and accessible carry solution, something I desperately needed.
For years, I’ve relied on a variety of holsters, but never found one that perfectly balanced security with a fast, natural draw. My previous setup was a Level II retention holster that felt inadequate in high-risk environments. The need for enhanced security, combined with the desire for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke, led me to the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III exuded quality. The plain black finish was professional and discreet, while the overall construction felt robust and durable. Compared to a similar Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a Galco leather holster, the Safariland immediately stood out due to its superior retention mechanism and the added stability offered by the drop UBL. It promised to be more secure than the Serpa and faster to draw from than the leather Galco.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. I was eager to test the holster’s Level III retention system and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation. I was especially interested in the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and how it would perform under stress.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III came at the local shooting range during a tactical training session. I spent the day practicing drawing and re-holstering drills, focusing on smooth and efficient movements. The weather was slightly humid, which would test the grip and draw in less-than-ideal conditions.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III performed admirably. The ALS system engaged automatically upon holstering, providing a positive and reassuring click. Drawing required deactivating the ALS with my thumb while simultaneously releasing the hood, which became intuitive after a few repetitions. I needed a short time to get used to the two release actions.
There were no significant issues during the first use. I did notice that the draw stroke required a slightly more deliberate motion compared to my previous Level II holster. However, the added security was well worth the adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve used it during numerous training sessions, outdoor events, and even a few hiking trips. The holster has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The plain black finish has remained intact, with only minor scuff marks from regular use. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth release. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III outperforms my previous holster in every aspect, offering superior security, comfort, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62
Specifications
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Level III Retention: The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III offers three levels of retention, providing a high degree of security against unauthorized removal. This feature is crucial for law enforcement and security personnel operating in high-risk environments.
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ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. This system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive and reassuring lock.
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Hood Guard: The standard hood guard protects the weapon from accidental release or tampering. This adds another layer of security to the holster.
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Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The drop UBL positions the holster lower on the belt, improving accessibility and comfort, especially when wearing body armor or other bulky gear. The 1.5″ belt drop version is ideal for duty belts.
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Fits Sig Sauer P228, P229: This holster is specifically designed to fit the Sig Sauer P228 and P229, ensuring a snug and secure fit. This precise fit minimizes movement and enhances weapon retention.
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Left-Handed Design: The holster is designed for left-handed users, providing a comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke. This caters to the specific needs of left-handed shooters.
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Plain Black Finish: The plain black finish is professional and discreet, ideal for duty and tactical applications. It doesn’t attract unnecessary attention.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while providing a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system is reliable and intuitive, providing a positive lock upon holstering and a smooth release when needed. The Level III retention offers a high degree of security, making it suitable for demanding environments.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable carry. However, the added security of the Level III retention does require a slightly more deliberate draw stroke. The holster meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering on its promise of security, comfort, and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III features a slim and compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The construction is robust, using high-quality materials that provide excellent durability. The drop UBL enhances comfort by positioning the holster lower on the belt.
The holster is user-friendly, although the Level III retention system does require some familiarization. After a few practice draws, the motion becomes intuitive and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is built to last, using durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear even after months of consistent use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III includes a standard hood guard and is compatible with optional accessories like the Safariland Sentry. While there aren’t many options to directly customize the holster itself, the UBL platform allows for mounting on various belt systems. It is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories designed to enhance its functionality. The compatibility with other Safariland accessories allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62
Pros
- Unmatched Level III Retention: Provides superior security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Reliable ALS System: Automatic Locking System ensures secure holstering and smooth draw.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Drop UBL: Enhances accessibility and comfort, especially with gear.
- Professional Design: Plain black finish suitable for duty and tactical applications.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: Level III retention requires practice for smooth draws.
- Price: Higher price point compared to Level I or II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of firearm security. It is also well-suited for tactical trainers who need a durable and reliable holster.
This holster might not be the best choice for casual range shooters or individuals who prioritize speed over security. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry for even greater retention, or a compatible flashlight mount if needed.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-74-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and performance. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the effectiveness of the retention system, and the overall comfort and functionality. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable way to carry their Sig Sauer P228 or P229. If you prioritize safety and efficiency, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference.