Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131 Review

Field Notes on the Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Safariland is a well-respected name in the industry, known for producing durable and reliable holsters. This particular model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level II Plus retention, providing excellent weapon security while still allowing for a smooth, fast draw. It also incorporates a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry.

I was searching for a holster that offered both high security and a natural draw for my duty weapon. My previous holster, a simple Level I retention model, felt inadequate for the higher-risk environments I was increasingly finding myself in. I needed something that could withstand a potential weapon takeaway attempt without sacrificing my ability to quickly deploy my firearm when necessary.

The holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging: a simple cardboard box containing the holster itself, along with mounting hardware and instructions. The STX TAC Black finish has a rugged, matte texture that seemed durable and non-reflective. The initial impression was of a well-built, serious piece of equipment.

I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 and the Galco SLS before ultimately choosing the Safariland 6365. The SERPA’s trigger finger release worried me due to potential for negligent discharges under stress, while the Galco SLS felt a bit too bulky for my liking. The Safariland’s ALS system seemed like the best balance of security and speed.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of intimidation. It looked and felt like a significant upgrade, but I knew I’d need to put in the practice time to master the ALS release under pressure.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my department’s firearms range during our weekly qualification session. I ran several drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering, both from standing and kneeling positions. The range provided a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the ALS release mechanism and adjust the holster’s position on my duty belt.

The holster performed well in the dry conditions of the range. The ALS system engaged positively every time I re-holstered, and the release was relatively smooth after a few practice repetitions. Drawing under simulated stress (timed drills) showed a marked improvement in speed compared to my old holster, once I was comfortable with the ALS.

The only minor issue I encountered was a slight bit of rubbing on my outer thigh from the holster body during movement. This was easily remedied by adjusting the position of the UBL on my belt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the holster body or the ALS mechanism. The STX TAC Black finish has held up well against scuffs and scrapes.

Maintenance has been minimal. I clean the holster every few weeks with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I also apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

The Safariland 6365 has significantly outperformed my previous holsters in terms of weapon security and draw speed. It gives me confidence knowing that my firearm is secure, yet readily accessible when needed. It is a game-changer.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131

Specifications

• Retention Level: Level II Plus (can be upgraded to Level III Plus with optional Sentry). This provides a high degree of security against unauthorized weapon removal.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. This allows for intuitive and reliable retention without the need for manual straps or levers.

• Hood Guard: Standard on the 6365, offering additional protection against unauthorized access to the weapon. It also aids in preventing accidental disengagement of the ALS.

• Slim, Compact Design: Allows the weapon to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. This is particularly important for all-day wear.

• Simple Straight Up Draw: Once the ALS is deactivated, the draw is a natural and intuitive straight-up motion. This facilitates a fast and efficient deployment of the firearm.

• 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Provides a 1.5-inch drop from the belt line for comfortable carry and accessibility. This drop is ideal for users with longer torsos or those who wear body armor.

• Material: STX Tactical finish providing a durable and non-reflective exterior. This rugged material stands up to harsh conditions and resists scratching and abrasion.

• Fits: Sig Sauer LAS-TAC 2, P220R, P226R W/ ITI M3 Light W/ Accessory Rails, SureFire X200, TLR-1. This holster is designed to accommodate these specific firearm and light combinations.

• Hand: Right Hand. This holster is specifically molded for right-handed shooters.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and functionality. The ALS system, combined with the Level II Plus retention, provides peace of mind knowing your weapon is secure. The UBL and slim design enhance comfort and accessibility for all-day carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 excels at its primary function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable. Once mastered, it allows for a draw that is as fast, if not faster, than holsters with less retention.

The holster’s strengths lie in its security and ease of use. The ALS provides a positive lock on the firearm, preventing unauthorized removal. The straight-up draw is natural and requires minimal training to master.

One potential weakness is the ALS release lever, which requires a specific thumb placement. Users with smaller hands might find it slightly more challenging to disengage under stress. Also, the addition of the Sentry for Level III retention can increase the time it takes to draw.

The Safariland 6365 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides excellent security, a smooth draw, and comfortable all-day carry.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s build quality is excellent. The materials used are durable and well-constructed. The STX Tactical finish provides a rugged and professional look.

The holster is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The UBL positions the firearm in a way that minimizes discomfort and maximizes accessibility.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. However, with practice, the draw becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The durable materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and weapon lights. The optional Sentry can be added to increase the retention level to Level III Plus.

The holster is designed to accommodate specific weapon light models, such as the SureFire X200 and TLR-1. It is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs. The ability to add the Safariland 6001 Sentry is a great add-on that increases the security level for higher threat environments.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high-security holster with a fast draw. It is well-suited for duty carry, tactical operations, and range use.

This holster might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize absolute minimal retention over security. The ALS system requires practice and familiarity, which may not be appealing to those who only occasionally carry a firearm.

A must-have accessory is a training firearm of the same model to drill the drawing motion repeatedly until muscle memory is achieved. Also, regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are essential for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level II Plus w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6365-7742-131 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and comfort. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the innovative ALS system, and the enhanced peace of mind it provides.

I would personally recommend this holster to any professional who relies on a firearm for their safety and the safety of others. It’s an investment in quality and reliability that will pay dividends in the long run.

If you’re looking for a duty holster that offers the best combination of security and speed, look no further than the Safariland 6365. Train with it, trust it, and it will serve you well. Add to cart now!