Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131 Review

What to Expect from the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131

For over a decade, I’ve relied on dependable holsters to carry everything from compact pistols to full-sized duty weapons. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131 promises to be a workhorse, combining level III retention with the popular Automatic Locking System (ALS) in a tactical package. It boasts a reputation for security and accessibility, two critical factors when selecting a duty holster, particularly in high-risk environments.

My need for a level III retention holster stems from working patrol in both rural and urban settings, demanding a holster that secures the firearm while allowing a smooth, rapid draw. Too many times, I’ve seen poorly designed holsters fail under stress, leading to potential safety hazards or a compromised draw. This led me to explore the Safariland offering, drawn by its established reputation in law enforcement and tactical circles.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III arrived in a standard cardboard box, securely packaged. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction and quality of the STX Tactical finish. The holster felt solid and well-made, hinting at its ability to withstand the rigors of daily duty.

I considered the Safariland 6378 ALS Concealment Paddle Holster and the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster, but chose the 6365 for its duty-specific design and proven track record. The 6378 seemed better suited for concealed carry, and the Serpa’s release mechanism has faced scrutiny in the past. The Safariland promised a blend of speed and security I found compelling.

My first impression was one of confidence. This wasn’t a flimsy, mass-produced holster; the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III felt like a serious piece of equipment designed for serious use. I was eager to test its functionality and 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 6365-744-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III at the shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. This allowed me to simulate real-world stress and evaluate the holster’s draw speed and retention capabilities. The weather was moderately humid, providing a good test of grip and release mechanism functionality.

The initial draw took some getting used to. Deactivating the ALS and hood required a coordinated thumb and hand movement that felt slightly unnatural at first. After a few practice runs, however, the motion became fluid and intuitive, resulting in a consistent, smooth draw.

One minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the hood guard. It required significant pressure to rotate, but loosened up after repeated use. Otherwise, the first use was positive, with the holster performing as advertised and instilling confidence in its retention capabilities.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, including field training exercises and range sessions, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III continues to perform admirably. The STX Tactical finish shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to abrasive surfaces and inclement weather. The ALS mechanism remains reliable, consistently locking the firearm in place.

Maintaining the holster is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

In comparison to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III stands out for its combination of security and accessibility. It offers a higher level of retention than standard level II holsters without sacrificing draw speed. Overall, I’m impressed with its performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131 is a duty holster designed for right-handed users. It features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a Level III Retention system. The holster has an STX Tactical Black finish and is designed to fit Sig Sauer P229R DAK W/ Bobbed Hammer and P229R DASA W/ Full Size Hammer pistols.

• Level III Retention: This signifies that the holster utilizes three independent retention devices to secure the firearm. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized removal.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS engages automatically upon holstering the weapon, providing an intuitive and secure retention method. This adds a layer of safety without impeding a fast draw.
• STX Tactical Black Finish: The STX Tactical finish offers increased durability and a non-reflective surface. This enhances the holster’s resistance to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The Drop UBL positions the holster lower on the user’s belt. This allows for easier access, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.

These specifications are vital because they directly influence the holster’s security, draw speed, durability, and comfort. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in potentially combative situations. The ALS ensures a quick and natural draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to a firearm. The ALS mechanism works flawlessly, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. Deactivation requires a deliberate thumb movement, preventing accidental release.

The Level III retention system adds an additional layer of security without hindering draw speed once mastered. The included hood guard further protects the weapon from unauthorized removal.

One potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS and hood guard. However, with practice, drawing becomes second nature. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade retention holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances comfort, especially during prolonged wear. The STX Tactical material provides a secure grip and a professional appearance.

The holster is user-friendly, although the initial setup and adjustment of the UBL (Universal Belt Loop) may require some effort. The draw stroke is relatively straight and natural, minimizing unnecessary movement.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is built to last, utilizing high-quality materials and robust construction techniques. The STX Tactical finish is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental damage. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland, ensuring long-term usability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic hoods. The holster also accepts the Safariland Sentry, an additional rotating hood for increased security.

While specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P229R, some users have reported compatibility with similar-sized firearms with minor adjustments. However, it is essential to verify compatibility before attempting to use the holster with a different weapon.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and military personnel who require a high level of firearm retention and accessibility. It is also well-suited for individuals who carry a firearm for personal defense in high-risk environments. The holster is ideal for anyone who prioritizes security, durability, and a reliable draw stroke.

This product may not be the best choice for individuals seeking a low-profile or concealed carry holster. The Level III retention system and Drop UBL design add bulk, making concealment more challenging. It may also be overkill for those who primarily use their firearm for recreational shooting or training in a controlled environment.

A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which adds an extra layer of security. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to ensure smooth operation.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-744-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and functionality. While it may require some initial training to master the draw stroke, the benefits of its Level III retention and ALS system far outweigh the learning curve. At $157.99, the price is justified by the holster’s quality construction and reliable performance.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and secure way to carry their Sig Sauer P229R. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III offers peace of mind and confidence, knowing that your firearm is safe, secure, and readily accessible when you need it most. Invest in your safety and choose the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III; you won’t regret it.