Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82 Review

The Story Behind the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Made by Safariland, this holster boasts Level III Retention with the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a protective hood. The drop Uniform Belt Loop (UBL) platform allows for comfortable carry and a smooth draw. This holster provides secure retention and quick access for left-handed users carrying a Heckler & Koch P2000.

I needed a holster that provided both security and accessibility for my duty weapon. My previous holster, a simple Level II retention model, felt insufficient in higher-risk environments. I wanted something that inspired confidence without sacrificing speed. The promise of Level III retention and a smoother draw, all while offering a professional look, drew me to this Safariland model.

Unboxing the Safariland 6365, I was immediately impressed with the build quality. The basket weave finish provided a professional aesthetic, and the overall construction felt robust. The weight suggested durability, a key consideration for daily duty use.

I considered a Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 before landing on the Safariland 6365. I ultimately chose the Safariland due to its reputation for reliability and the positive reviews from fellow officers. The ALS system seemed more intuitive than the Serpa’s release mechanism and the Safariland offered a better drop height than the Blade-Tech.

My initial impression was positive. The Safariland 6365 felt substantial and well-made, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of daily use. I was eager to test its performance in real-world scenarios and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6365 at the shooting range during a department-mandated weapons qualification. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills repeatedly to familiarize myself with the ALS system and the drop UBL platform. The weather was clear and dry, perfect for getting a feel for the holster without environmental interference.

The Safariland 6365 proved to be surprisingly intuitive. The ALS release was easy to engage with my thumb during the draw stroke. The drop UBL provided a comfortable carry position that didn’t interfere with my movements.

One minor issue arose initially: the hood guard required a deliberate push to fully disengage. However, after a few practice repetitions, the motion became second nature. Overall, the first range experience was highly positive, instilling confidence in the holster’s capabilities.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve worn it on patrol in various conditions, including rain, extreme heat, and dusty environments. It has consistently performed without fail.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear despite daily use. The basket weave finish has held up well. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a silicone-based protectant to maintain its integrity. Compared to my previous holster, which required frequent adjustments and exhibited noticeable wear, the Safariland 6365 has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and low maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82 is specifically designed for the Heckler & Koch P2000. It features Level III Retention, incorporating both the ALS and a rotating hood. The finish is a professional-looking basket weave black.

It is a left-hand configuration with a 1.5″ drop UBL. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend. The weight is approximately 1 pound, providing a balance between sturdiness and comfort.

• Level III Retention: This is critical for secure weapon retention in dynamic situations, providing peace of mind.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Provides intuitive and rapid weapon deployment once the retention devices are deactivated.
• Drop UBL (Uniform Belt Loop): Offers a comfortable and ergonomic carry position.
• Basket Weave Finish: Presents a professional and durable appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 excels in its primary function: secure and accessible weapon carry. The ALS system provides a fast and intuitive draw stroke, while the Level III Retention ensures the weapon stays secure in various situations. The drop UBL is positioned perfectly.

The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The weaknesses are few, but the hood guard can occasionally require a deliberate push to disengage, slowing down the draw just a fraction of a second. Overall, the holster exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade Level III retention model.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, utilizing durable materials that provide a sense of confidence. The holster’s weight is manageable for all-day carry. The drop UBL provides a comfortable and ergonomic fit.

The holster is designed for intuitive use. The ALS release is easily accessible with the thumb. The drop UBL positions the weapon for a smooth and natural draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture. The holster requires minimal maintenance.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism may be necessary to maintain smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry. This accessory provides an additional level of security. The holster is designed to work with standard 1.5″ duty belts.

While not specifically designed for extensive customization, the drop UBL can be swapped for other Safariland UBL platforms. This allows for adjustments to ride height and carry angle.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone requiring a high-security, duty-grade holster for their Heckler & Koch P2000. It’s ideal for those who prioritize weapon retention and a professional appearance. It’s also great for concealed carry.

This holster might not be the best choice for recreational shooters or those who prefer minimalist holsters with minimal retention. If budget is a primary concern, simpler and less expensive holster options may be more suitable.

A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. The optional Safariland Sentry can provide an additional layer of security.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Basket Black, Left Hand 6365-97-82 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention, quick access, and durable construction. The price is justified. It reflects the quality materials and advanced design.

I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and professional solution for carrying their Heckler & Koch P2000. If you need a Level III retention holster that doesn’t sacrifice speed or comfort, the Safariland 6365 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and peace of mind. Get the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster today.