Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 Review

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 and What It Taught Me

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 represents a pinnacle in duty holster design, offering a blend of secure weapon retention and rapid accessibility. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical tool for law enforcement and security professionals demanding the highest level of performance. Its Level III retention, combined with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a user-friendly design, sets a high standard in the industry.

For years, I’ve struggled with holsters that either lacked sufficient retention or were too cumbersome for practical use in dynamic scenarios. I needed a holster that offered uncompromised security without sacrificing draw speed, especially given my background working in high-risk environments. The need for a reliable Level III holster that could accommodate my Heckler & Koch P2000 became paramount.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and the tactile feel of the STX TAC Black finish. It felt solid and well-made, a testament to Safariland’s reputation for quality. Compared to the older Safariland SLS models I’ve used in the past, the ALS system seemed far more intuitive and quicker to disengage.

Initially, I considered a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 or a similar model from another manufacturer. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 because of its proven track record, the adjustability offered by the UBL (Universal Belt Loop), and Safariland’s established reputation for providing duty-grade gear. I was excited, and perhaps a little relieved, that I had finally found a holster that could meet my stringent requirements.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first live-fire test with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 took place at an outdoor shooting range, simulating various scenarios including drawing under pressure and rapid re-holstering. The range was dusty and dry, typical of the local climate, providing a good initial test of the holster’s resistance to environmental factors. I wore it during force-on-force training evolutions as well.

The ALS system proved incredibly intuitive, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I got the hang of deactivating the release. Even with gloved hands, the release was easily accessible and operable. The holster performed admirably in the dusty conditions, with no noticeable impact on the locking mechanism or draw speed.

There were a couple of minor adjustments I needed to make, specifically tightening the tension screw to achieve the desired level of firearm retention. I also spent a few minutes practicing the draw stroke to build muscle memory and ensure a smooth and efficient presentation. Overall, the first use was overwhelmingly positive, confirming my initial impressions of its quality and functionality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 has held up exceptionally well. It has been subjected to a variety of conditions, including rain, mud, and extreme temperatures, without any degradation in performance. I wore it on long details during patrol and conducted hundreds of presentations from the holster.

The STX TAC Black finish shows minimal signs of wear, attesting to its durability and resistance to abrasion. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and debris, maintaining the holster’s smooth operation. Compared to previous nylon holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 significantly outperforms them in terms of both durability and retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131

Specifications

• Retention Level: Level III, offering three points of retention for enhanced security. This ensures that the firearm remains securely holstered, even during strenuous activity or physical altercations.

• Locking System: ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered. The ALS allows for an intuitive draw, only requiring the thumb to deactivate the lock while establishing a firing grip.

• Material: STX TAC Black, a durable, non-reflective finish. This material provides excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors, ensuring the holster maintains its professional appearance over time.

• Mount: Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), providing a 1.5″ drop from the belt line. The Drop UBL positions the holster for a more natural draw stroke and greater comfort, especially when wearing body armor or other tactical gear.

• Hand Orientation: Right Hand, designed specifically for right-handed shooters. The ergonomic design ensures a secure and comfortable grip during both the draw and re-holstering process.

• Compatibility: Heckler & Koch P2000, ensuring a snug and secure fit for the specified firearm. Proper fitment is crucial for both retention and a smooth, consistent draw.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and overall user experience. The Level III retention and ALS system provide peace of mind, while the durable materials and comfortable design ensure long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 excels in its primary function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is particularly noteworthy, providing a tactile and audible confirmation of the weapon being locked in place. The holster’s design allows for a full firing grip to be established during the draw stroke.

The primary strength is its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS release is intuitive and easy to operate with practice. A potential weakness could be the reliance on fine motor skills under extreme stress to disengage the ALS and SLS mechanisms simultaneously, if the optional Sentry is installed.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade Level III retention holster, offering a robust and reliable platform for carrying a firearm. Its consistent performance and durable construction make it an excellent choice for law enforcement and security professionals.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The STX TAC Black finish not only provides a professional appearance but also enhances durability. The weight is well-distributed, and the holster sits comfortably on the belt.

The holster is designed to be user-friendly. However, there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. With consistent practice, the draw stroke becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest that the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 will last for years with proper care. Simple cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to maintain its optimal performance.

Repairing the holster is relatively straightforward, with replacement parts readily available from Safariland. This ensures that minor damage or wear and tear can be easily addressed, extending the holster’s lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and the optional Sentry. The Sentry enhances security by adding an additional layer of retention.

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 is also compatible with various MOLLE attachment systems, allowing it to be mounted on tactical vests and other gear. The ability to customize the holster with different accessories and mounting options makes it a versatile and adaptable choice for various operational needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high level of weapon security and a reliable, rapid draw. It is also well-suited for competition shooters who participate in tactical shooting disciplines.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who prioritize extreme concealment or prefer simpler, lower-retention holsters for recreational shooting. A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which adds an extra layer of security for those operating in high-risk environments.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. The price is justified given its robust construction, advanced retention system, and overall reliability.

I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a Level III retention holster. It represents a significant investment in personal safety and operational effectiveness. If you’re looking for a holster that can withstand the rigors of duty and provide a consistent, reliable draw, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-97-131 is an excellent choice.