Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 Review

Taking the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 for a Spin

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a complete duty-carry solution. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster is designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who needs a secure and accessible way to carry their sidearm. Its defining feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), coupled with Level III retention, providing excellent security without sacrificing a smooth, straight-up draw.

As a left-handed shooter with over a decade in tactical roles, I’ve always struggled to find the perfect holster that balances security, speed, and comfort. My primary concern was finding a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing quick access to my firearm in high-stress situations. I needed a holster that wouldn’t snag, wouldn’t release my weapon accidentally, and would position my firearm for a natural, efficient draw.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62, upon unboxing, immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The plain black finish offered a professional, low-profile appearance. The weight felt substantial, indicating quality materials, yet not so heavy as to be cumbersome on a duty belt.

I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Galco FLETCH High Ride, but neither offered the same combination of active retention and the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) platform. The Blackhawk! relied on a finger-actuated release that, in my experience, can be prone to accidental activation under duress, while the Galco, though excellent for concealed carry, didn’t provide the level of retention I required for duty carry. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland for its proven track record in law enforcement and its reputation for durability and reliability.

My initial excitement upon receiving the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 was palpable. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype surrounding Safariland products.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 took place at the local shooting range during a tactical training session. I subjected it to a series of drills involving rapid draws, re-holstering under pressure, and movement exercises. The weather was typical for a late summer day: humid and dusty.

The ALS system proved intuitive and reliable, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I got the hang of deactivating the release lever with my thumb. The drop UBL placed the firearm perfectly for my hand position, resulting in quicker target acquisition. Even with sweaty hands, the grip remained secure and the release mechanism functioned flawlessly.

Initially, the Level III retention felt slightly stiff, requiring a bit of force to overcome the hood guard. However, after a few repetitions, the motion became fluid and natural. There were no malfunctions or unexpected releases during the entire session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use in my security detail, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 has proven to be exceptionally durable. The SafariSeven nylon blend has resisted scratches and abrasions, even when exposed to rough handling and varied weather conditions. I’ve used it in rain, snow, and extreme heat, and it has consistently performed without issue.

Maintenance 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 lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous experience with leather holsters, which require frequent conditioning and are susceptible to moisture damage, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 is significantly easier to maintain.

This holster has far exceeded my expectations in terms of security, comfort, and durability. It outperforms any other duty holster I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 boasts several key specifications:

• Retention Level: Level III, providing a high degree of security against unauthorized removal of the firearm. This is achieved through the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood guard.
• Material: Constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion. This ensures long-lasting durability and reliability in various environmental conditions.
• Finish/Color: Plain Black, offering a low-profile and professional appearance. The plain black finish is also less reflective, minimizing visibility.
• Hand: Left Hand, specifically designed for left-handed shooters. This caters to the ergonomic needs of left-handed users, providing a more natural and efficient draw.
• Mount: Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), which lowers the holster for a more comfortable and ergonomic draw. The drop UBL also allows for compatibility with a wider range of belt sizes.
• Fits: Sig Sauer P225, ensuring a snug and secure fit for the specified firearm model. The precise fit minimizes movement and reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and usability. The Level III retention is paramount for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm, while the SafariSeven construction ensures durability in demanding environments. The drop UBL enhances comfort and accessibility, and the precise fit for the Sig Sauer P225 guarantees a secure and reliable carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 excels in its primary function: securely carrying a firearm while providing quick and reliable access. The ALS system is remarkably effective; once the firearm is holstered, it is locked in place until the release lever is deliberately activated. The straight-up draw, once the releases are de-activated, is smooth and instinctive.

One of its strengths is the intuitive nature of the release mechanism. With practice, the draw becomes second nature. The durability of the SafariSeven material is another significant advantage, ensuring the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

A minor weakness is that the Level III retention can initially feel stiff, requiring a bit of practice to master. Some users might also find the plain black finish somewhat unremarkable, although it’s perfectly suited for duty applications. However, overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 more than meets expectations, providing a secure, reliable, and comfortable carry solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealment. The weight is well-balanced, and the drop UBL positions the firearm for a natural and ergonomic draw.

The holster is exceptionally user-friendly. The ALS release lever is easily accessible with the thumb, and the straight-up draw is intuitive. While the Level III retention requires some initial training, the overall design is well-thought-out and optimized for ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its SafariSeven construction, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 is built to last. The material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Periodically lubricating the ALS mechanism with silicone lubricant will ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 comes standard with a hood guard, which adds an extra layer of security. An optional Sentry is available for even greater retention. The UBL allows the user to adjust the ride height of the firearm, providing a customized fit.

While the holster itself has limited customization options, its compatibility with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting platforms, enhances its versatility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It’s ideal for individuals who prioritize firearm retention and need quick access to their weapon in high-stress situations. Left-handed shooters will particularly appreciate its ergonomic design.

This holster might not be the best choice for those primarily seeking a concealed carry option or those who prefer simpler retention systems. Individuals looking for a low-profile, minimalist holster should consider alternative options.

A must-have accessory is a Safariland compatible duty belt that fits the UBL system correctly. Consider also the optional Sentry to add an additional layer of security.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and durability. While the initial learning curve with the Level III retention might be a minor drawback, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. The ALS system, SafariSeven construction, and drop UBL combine to create a holster that is both functional and comfortable.

At $195.00, the price is justified given the quality of materials, the level of security, and the proven track record of Safariland products. It’s an investment in a holster that will likely last for years, providing peace of mind and reliable performance.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-79-62 to anyone seeking a high-quality, duty-grade holster. If you value firearm security and reliability, this is the holster for you. Don’t settle for anything less; equip yourself with the best.