My Experience with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92: Here’s the Truth
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel. This holster combines Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with Level III retention, offering a high degree of security while maintaining a smooth and efficient draw. I’ve spent years searching for the perfect balance of retention and accessibility.
My quest for a reliable duty holster stemmed from a near-miss incident on patrol. I needed a holster that wouldn’t release my firearm to anyone but me. The Level III security and the Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) promised exactly what I was looking for.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The hi-gloss black finish gave it a professional appearance. The holster felt substantial and well-made.
Compared to similar holsters from Blackhawk and Bianchi, the Safariland stood out due to its ALS system. It felt more intuitive and secure than the Serpa lock or thumb break options. The Drop UBL also seemed more stable than some competitors’ belt attachment systems.
My initial excitement was tempered by the realization that the hi-gloss finish might attract attention. However, the added security and potential for a smooth draw outweighed this concern. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 at the shooting range during a department training session. We ran drills involving drawing and re-holstering under simulated stress. The conditions were dry, with a slight breeze.
The ALS system required some familiarization, but it quickly became second nature. Deactivating the release and drawing the weapon was surprisingly smooth. The Drop UBL kept the holster secure and stable, even during rapid movements.
The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the ALS release lever. However, after a few dozen draws, it loosened up. There were no other significant surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use on patrol, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 has proven incredibly reliable. It has withstood daily wear and tear without any significant issues. The holster still looks almost new.
The finish has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scuffs. The ALS system continues to function smoothly and securely. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous duty holster, which was a standard Level II retention model, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 offers a significant improvement in security and peace of mind. The higher level of retention has proven invaluable in crowded environments.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 boasts several key specifications. It features Level III Retention, ensuring a high degree of weapon security. The holster also incorporates the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering.
The product includes a Hood Guard as standard, enhancing protection against unauthorized access. Its slim, compact design allows the weapon to ride close to the body, improving concealment and comfort. The simple, straight-up draw, once releases are deactivated, allows for fast and efficient weapon deployment.
The holster features a 1.5″ Belt Drop UBL, providing a comfortable and accessible carry position. It comes in a Hi-Gloss Black finish, offering a professional appearance. This model is specifically designed for left-handed users.
This particular model (6365-84-92) is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson SW99 and Walther P99 pistols. The “Level III Retention” ensures a higher level of security compared to Level I or Level II holsters. The ALS system’s automatic locking provides immediate retention upon holstering, making it incredibly reliable.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a sidearm. The ALS system is incredibly reliable, providing a positive lock that gives me confidence in any situation. Drawing the weapon is smooth and intuitive after minimal training.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable carry position. The high level of security is reassuring in high-risk environments. The only potential weakness is the slight learning curve associated with the ALS release.
The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It provides the security and accessibility I need in a demanding professional environment. It’s a truly valuable tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 exhibits excellent build quality. The materials are durable and well-constructed, ensuring longevity. The Drop UBL provides a comfortable carry position, preventing the holster from digging into my side.
The ALS release is ergonomically positioned for easy access. The overall design is user-friendly, though it requires some initial practice to master the ALS release.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 is built to last. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
I expect this holster to last for many years with proper care. The quality of materials and construction inspires confidence in its long-term durability. It’s a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 includes a standard Hood Guard. Safariland offers optional accessories like the Sentry, which further enhances security. The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms.
While the holster itself has limited customization options, the compatibility with various Safariland accessories allows for personalized configuration. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for different users and environments.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92
Pros
- High Level III Retention provides excellent weapon security.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System) offers reliable retention and a smooth draw.
- The Drop UBL provides a comfortable and accessible carry position.
- The holster has durable construction and finish.
- It is easy to maintain and clean.
Cons
- The hi-gloss finish may attract unwanted attention.
- There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high level of weapon retention. It is ideal for those who prioritize security and accessibility in their duty gear. Left-handed shooters using a Smith & Wesson SW99 or Walther P99 will find this holster particularly well-suited.
Those prioritizing extreme concealment or those unfamiliar with Level III retention systems may want to consider other options. The hi-gloss finish may not be suitable for covert operations. A low-profile, Level I or II retention holster might be preferable for casual concealed carry.
A flashlight mount or additional magazine carrier could complement the holster. Regular practice with the ALS system is essential to ensure proficiency and quick weapon deployment.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers exceptional security and reliable performance. The price is justified by its quality construction, innovative retention system, and comfortable carry. It is well worth the investment.
I personally recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional seeking a dependable and secure weapon carry solution. The peace of mind and accessibility it provides are invaluable. Equip yourself with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-84-92 and experience the difference.