Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91 Review

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91 and What It Taught Me

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement about preparedness and trust in your equipment. From Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical excellence, this holster promised a blend of security, accessibility, and a professional aesthetic. I’d spent years relying on various holsters, but the allure of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and the added security of a Level III retention system drew me in.

Years on patrol had taught me the critical importance of a reliable and secure holster. My previous holsters, while functional, lacked the peace of mind offered by multiple layers of retention, especially in close-quarters situations. Unboxing the Safariland 6365, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and the sleek, almost intimidating, hi-gloss black finish. It felt like a serious piece of kit, built for serious situations.

Compared to a basic Level II retention holster I previously used and a more minimalist open-top Kydex holster, the Safariland 6365 offered a significant step up in security. While Kydex provided speed, it lacked retention; the Level II holster was better, but not as reassuring as the ALS system. I chose the Safariland 6365 for its balance of active retention and a relatively smooth draw. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was the shooting range, a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the ALS and Level III retention mechanisms. I specifically focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, simulating scenarios where speed and security were paramount. The Safariland 6365 performed flawlessly in dry conditions.

However, I also wanted to test it in less-than-ideal circumstances. I subjected the holster to wet conditions by spraying it down with water and even simulating a dusty environment with some loose dirt and sand. The ALS mechanism still functioned, though the draw required a slightly firmer grip to overcome the added friction. After some dedicated practice, the draw stroke became natural and intuitive, even with gloved hands. I found the draw to be smooth and consistent, and I experienced no issues with accidental releases or failures to lock.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in training scenarios and field exercises, the Safariland 6365 has proven its durability and reliability. The hi-gloss finish, while initially pristine, has inevitably accumulated some minor scratches from everyday wear and tear. However, these cosmetic blemishes haven’t affected the holster’s functionality or structural integrity. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) has remained securely attached to my duty belt, and the Level III retention mechanisms continue to operate smoothly.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of wiping down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure consistent operation. Compared to my previous experiences with leather holsters requiring regular cleaning and conditioning, the Safariland 6365 has been remarkably low-maintenance. It significantly outperforms my older Level II holster in terms of long-term durability and ease of care.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering. This particular model is finished in a hi-gloss black and is designed for right-handed users.

It also features Level III Retention, which adds another layer of security to prevent unauthorized removal. The holster comes with a Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop), lowering the holster slightly for easier access, especially when wearing body armor. It is specifically molded to fit the Heckler & Koch P2000. The slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 excels in providing a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and provides positive retention, giving confidence that the weapon will remain in place during strenuous activity. The Level III retention mechanism requires a deliberate motion to defeat, adding an extra layer of security against unauthorized access.

The holster performs exceptionally well in retention, however it sacrifices slightly in draw speed for the added security. The finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to scratches, but does not effect its ability to function. The holster meets and exceeds expectations for security and retention.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 is constructed from a durable, synthetic material that provides excellent resistance to wear and tear. The hi-gloss black finish gives it a professional appearance. The UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height for drawing, even when wearing body armor.

The design is user-friendly, with the ALS release lever easily accessible with the thumb. The learning curve is minimal, especially for those familiar with Safariland holsters.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust construction, the Safariland 6365 is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s typically required. The synthetic material is resistant to most chemicals and solvents, making maintenance relatively easy.

The holster’s durable construction should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are the only maintenance requirements.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 comes standard with the UBL and a hood guard. An optional Sentry is also available for even greater security. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical weapon lights.

The Safariland 6365 offers customization through various accessories and mounting options. It is compatible with many popular brands within the Safariland ecosystem.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-97-91