Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 Review

Everything You Need to Know About the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 is more than just a holster; it’s a statement of preparedness and a commitment to security. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear excellence, this holster is built for professionals who demand the utmost in weapon retention and accessibility. This left-handed model boasts the ALS (Automatic Locking System), combined with Level III retention, ensuring your firearm stays secure until you need it.

My journey to this specific holster started with a need for a reliable, secure, and accessible duty holster for my off-duty security work. I needed a holster that would stand up to the rigors of daily wear and provide quick access to my weapon in a critical situation. The added security of Level III retention was a significant selling point.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the robust construction and clean lines of the holster. The plain black finish gives it a professional, understated look, and the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) promised a comfortable and secure carry position. The materials felt heavy-duty, suggesting a holster built to last, and the ALS mechanism clicked with reassuring certainty.

I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite. However, I chose the Safariland 6365 due to its reputation for reliability among law enforcement and its proven ALS system. The Safariland name carries weight, and I trusted their commitment to quality.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 exuded confidence and competence. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6365 was at a local shooting range during a defensive pistol training course. I wanted to simulate real-world scenarios to evaluate its draw speed and retention capabilities. The course involved various drills, including drawing from concealment under pressure and shooting on the move.

The holster performed admirably in varied conditions, including the heat of the summer day, and even a brief downpour. Despite getting wet, the ALS mechanism continued to function flawlessly, and the weapon remained secure. The Drop UBL kept the holster stable on my belt, preventing any unwanted movement during dynamic drills.

The draw stroke required some initial practice to master the simultaneous release of the hood and activation of the ALS. However, after a few repetitions, it became smooth and instinctive. There were no malfunctions, and the weapon was consistently presented quickly and efficiently.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, both at the range and during my security duties, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 has proven its reliability. It has held up incredibly well to the daily wear and tear. The holster shows minimal signs of wear, with only minor scuff marks on the plain black finish.

The ALS mechanism continues to operate smoothly and reliably, with no degradation in its locking strength. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts. I’ve used Safariland Break-Free CLP, which is their recommended product.

Compared to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 offers a superior balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. It significantly outperforms holsters with simpler retention mechanisms, providing greater peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations. This holster instills confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users and compatible with Smith & Wesson SW99 and Walther P99 pistols. It features Level III Retention, incorporating the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a Hood Guard for enhanced security. The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, offering high heat and low cold tolerance.

• Category: ALS Holsters. This indicates the holster utilizes Safariland’s proven Automatic Locking System.
• Finish/Color: Plain Black. A professional, low-profile appearance suitable for duty or concealed carry.
• Fits: Smith & Wesson SW99 and Walther P99. Ensures a snug and secure fit for these specific firearm models.
• Type: Left Hand. Designed specifically for left-handed shooters, optimizing draw stroke and accessibility.
• Level III Retention: Provides a high level of security, requiring multiple deliberate actions to release the firearm.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, preventing unauthorized removal.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Offers a comfortable mid-ride carry position and accommodates various belt widths up to 1.5 inches.
• Hood Guard: Further enhances security by protecting the hood release mechanism from accidental activation.
• Material: SafariSeven™ nylon blend. Provides exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions.

These specifications translate directly to a holster that is secure, reliable, and comfortable to wear. The ALS provides peace of mind, knowing your weapon is safe, while the Drop UBL ensures a comfortable carry position throughout the day. The durable construction guarantees the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 excels in its core function: providing secure weapon retention with rapid accessibility. The ALS system functions flawlessly, locking the weapon in place upon holstering and releasing quickly with a simple thumb activation. The Level III retention adds an extra layer of security, making it incredibly difficult for anyone other than the user to remove the weapon.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, intuitive draw stroke, and reliable retention system. The plain black finish is professional and discreet, making it suitable for both duty and concealed carry applications. However, mastering the ALS and hood release requires practice and can initially slow down the draw.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III duty holster. It provides a level of security and accessibility that is unmatched by many other holsters in its class. This holster is a top performer.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The Drop UBL positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, allowing for a natural draw stroke. The holster is made from durable, lightweight materials, ensuring it won’t weigh you down during extended periods of wear.

The holster is user-friendly, but mastering the draw stroke requires dedicated practice. The ALS release is intuitive, but the addition of the hood release adds a slight learning curve. The thumb must reliably depress the ALS lever and rotate the hood simultaneously.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 is built to last, thanks to its durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction. This material is resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions, ensuring the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use in harsh environments. The holster is also easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts.

With proper care, the Safariland 6365 should provide years of reliable service. It is a holster built to withstand the test of time.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 comes standard with the Drop UBL and Hood Guard, there are several accessories and customization options available. The most common addition is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the ALS release. The Sentry adds another step.

The Drop UBL can also be swapped out for other Safariland belt attachments, such as the QLS (Quick Locking System), allowing for rapid holster changes between different platforms. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland tactical accessories, such as magazine pouches and flashlight holders.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who prioritize weapon retention and accessibility. It is also an excellent choice for individuals who frequently carry in open carry environments and require a high level of security. This holster is designed for those who understand the importance of weapon security.

This holster might not be the best choice for those who prioritize speed over security or who are new to firearms and prefer a simpler retention system. Someone who has never carried a firearm before may be overwhelmed.

A must-have accessory for the Safariland 6365 is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security. Regular cleaning and lubrication with Safariland Break-Free CLP are also recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and accessibility. The price of $195.00 is justified by the holster’s robust construction, innovative retention system, and proven track record. It is an investment in personal safety and peace of mind.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6365 to anyone seeking a high-quality Level III duty holster. It is a holster that you can trust your life to.

If you’re serious about weapon retention and accessibility, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6365-84-62 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and experience the Safariland difference!