Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61 Review

True Results from the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a comfortable carry position. Safariland is a well-known name in the industry, respected for its durable and reliable holsters, and this model is no exception. It combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention system and a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for enhanced security and accessibility.

My career has involved countless hours on the range and in the field, often in high-risk environments, so a reliable holster is non-negotiable. I needed a holster that offered both secure retention to prevent unauthorized access to my firearm, and also a quick, intuitive draw when speed is critical. The need for enhanced security, especially in crowded or potentially hostile environments, prompted my search for a Level III holster like the Safariland 6365.

Out of the box, the Safariland 6365 presents a professional and functional appearance. The plain black finish is understated and blends well with duty uniforms or tactical gear. The holster feels solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.

I considered a few other options before settling on the Safariland 6365. The Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 holster was a contender, but I’ve heard mixed reviews about its draw stroke under stress. Also, the Bianchi Accumold Elite was considered, but I preferred the Safariland’s ALS system for its speed and simplicity. Ultimately, the Safariland’s reputation for quality, combined with its intuitive ALS retention system and Level III security, made it the clear winner.

My first impression was one of relief and anticipation. I was excited to finally have a holster that I felt confident in, both in terms of security and draw speed. It looked and felt like a high-quality piece of gear, and I was eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at the shooting range, where I focused on practicing my draw stroke and re-holstering under time pressure. I also wore the holster during a training exercise that simulated real-world scenarios involving foot pursuits and close-quarters combat. The first use was smooth, the ALS system disengaged naturally with my thumb as I established my grip, and the draw was clean and consistent.

I tested the Safariland 6365 in both dry and humid conditions to assess its performance. The holster performed flawlessly in both scenarios; the ALS system remained reliable even when my hands were slightly wet. I was particularly impressed with how the drop UBL kept the holster stable and prevented it from shifting during movement.

Getting used to the Level III retention system took a little practice. I needed to train my thumb to simultaneously disengage the ALS and release the hood. After a few hours of dry practice, the draw stroke became intuitive and natural.

My only initial concern was the stiffness of the leather. I anticipate, with regular use, it will break in over time. Otherwise, it was smooth sailing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be an extremely reliable piece of gear. The holster has held up well to daily wear and tear, showing no signs of significant wear or damage. The leather has begun to soften and conform to my body, increasing comfort during extended wear.

The holster has remained remarkably durable. There is some minor scuffing on the exterior, but the internal locking mechanisms continue to function perfectly. The retention system remains secure, providing peace of mind knowing that my firearm is safe from unauthorized access.

Maintenance has been minimal. I regularly wipe down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I also occasionally apply leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, durability, and comfort. The ALS system is faster and more reliable than traditional thumb break designs, and the drop UBL provides a more stable and comfortable carry position. It’s a clear step up in quality and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61 is specifically designed for certain Sig Sauer models as shown in its specifications. It is a right-hand holster with a plain black finish. Its defining features are its Level III retention, the ALS (Automatic Locking System), and the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop).

• Level III Retention: This holster offers three independent levels of retention, providing a high degree of security against weapon takeaways. This is crucial for law enforcement and security personnel who operate in high-risk environments.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This is faster and more intuitive than traditional thumb break systems.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The drop UBL lowers the holster from the belt line, providing a more comfortable and accessible draw. This is especially beneficial for individuals wearing body armor or other bulky gear.
• Hood Guard: Standard on the 6365, the hood guard enhances the holster’s security by protecting the hood release mechanism. This adds another layer of defense against unauthorized access to the firearm.
• Slim, compact design: The holster’s design allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This enhances comfort and concealment.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and usability. The Level III retention and ALS system ensure that the weapon is securely retained until needed, while the Drop UBL provides a comfortable and accessible draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The draw is smooth and consistent, even under stress, and the re-holstering process is equally seamless. The retention system is reliable and provides peace of mind knowing that the weapon is secure.

The holster’s strengths include its high level of retention, its intuitive draw stroke, and its comfortable carry position. One area for potential improvement is the initial stiffness of the leather, which can require a break-in period. Overall, the Safariland 6365 exceeds expectations, providing a level of security and performance that is unmatched by other holsters in its class.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The materials are high-quality and durable, and the holster feels solid and well-constructed. The drop UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height, allowing for a natural and efficient draw stroke.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the Level III retention system does require some practice to master. Once the draw stroke is learned, it becomes intuitive and seamless.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The durable construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of use. Regular maintenance involves simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally applying leather conditioner.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry. The Sentry provides an additional layer of security by preventing the ALS from being disengaged without first releasing the sentry mechanism. The holster is also compatible with a variety of belt widths, allowing for customization to individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-774-61