Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92 Review

Breaking Down My First Experience with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention system, providing a high degree of weapon security without sacrificing draw speed. I’ve spent years relying on Level II retention holsters, but a recent close call during a security detail made me re-evaluate my setup and search for something more secure.

My primary concern was preventing unauthorized access to my firearm in crowded or potentially hostile environments. I needed something that offered robust retention without hindering my ability to quickly draw my weapon when necessary. The Safariland 6365, with its ALS and Level III security, seemed like the perfect solution, offering a significant upgrade in peace of mind.

Unboxing the Safariland 6365 revealed a holster that felt solid and well-constructed. The Hi Gloss Black finish gave it a professional, almost intimidating look, and the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the firearm perfectly for my draw. My initial impression was one of confidence; this wasn’t some flimsy piece of gear, but a serious tool for serious situations.

I considered the Safariland 6360, a similar ALS holster without the Level III hood, and the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster. Ultimately, the Safariland 6365 won out due to Safariland’s reputation for quality and the proven reliability of the ALS system. The added Level III retention provided an extra layer of security that gave me the confidence I needed.

I was immediately impressed but also slightly apprehensive. Level III retention systems can sometimes be bulky and slow to operate, potentially hindering a quick draw. I was eager to see if the Safariland 6365 could balance security and accessibility effectively, a crucial factor for any duty holster.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6365 was at the range, running drills designed to simulate real-world scenarios. I wanted to assess the draw speed and retention capabilities under pressure. I spent several hours practicing various draw techniques, focusing on smooth, efficient movements to deactivate the Level III hood and ALS.

The holster performed surprisingly well in the dry, controlled environment of the range. The ALS released smoothly with minimal effort, and the drop UBL made for a natural, ergonomic draw stroke. The Level III hood, while initially requiring a bit of practice, quickly became second nature.

However, my concerns about performance in adverse conditions arose during a simulated rain drill. With wet hands, manipulating the Level III hood became noticeably more difficult, requiring extra focus and grip strength. This highlighted the importance of consistent training to maintain proficiency in all conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The Hi Gloss Black finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated contact with clothing and gear. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, and the Level III hood retains its security without becoming overly stiff.

Cleaning and maintenance are relatively straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6365 offers a significantly enhanced level of security and peace of mind. While the draw stroke requires slightly more deliberate action, the added retention is well worth the trade-off, especially in high-risk environments. It definitely outperforms my previous holster in terms of security and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92 is specifically designed for left-handed users and compatible with the Heckler & Koch P2000. It features a Hi Gloss Black finish for a professional appearance. The holster boasts Level III Retention, offering a high degree of security against unauthorized weapon removal.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The Level III retention is achieved through a rotating hood that must be deactivated before the weapon can be drawn. It incorporates a 1.5″ Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) to lower the holster position for improved draw ergonomics.

These specifications are crucial for law enforcement and security personnel. The Level III retention provides a significant deterrent against weapon theft. The ALS ensures a secure hold while allowing for a fast, intuitive draw once the retention devices are deactivated.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 excels in its primary function: securing and readily presenting a sidearm. The ALS mechanism provides a consistent and reliable lock, offering peace of mind in dynamic situations. The Level III hood adds an additional layer of security, making it extremely difficult for anyone other than the user to draw the weapon.

The draw stroke, while requiring training and practice, is surprisingly smooth and efficient. The drop UBL positions the weapon for a natural grip, minimizing wasted movement. The primary weakness is the added complexity of manipulating the Level III hood, especially in wet or gloved hands.

It meets and, in many ways, exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. The combination of security, accessibility, and durability is truly impressive. The peace of mind that it provides is invaluable.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 boasts a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. This minimizes printing and enhances concealment. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing a solid and confidence-inspiring feel.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although the Level III hood does require some initial practice. The drop UBL design is comfortable and positions the weapon for a natural draw. The learning curve is minimal with proper training.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The robust construction and durable materials ensure a long service life. The Hi Gloss Black finish is surprisingly scratch-resistant.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep the holster functioning optimally. With proper care, it should last for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a hood guard and an optional sentry accessory can be installed for additional security. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. The drop UBL can be replaced with other mounting options to adjust the ride height and angle of the holster.

It is also compatible with various light and laser attachments, provided the appropriate holster model is selected. Aftermarket accessories, such as modified ALS levers and thumb breaks, can further customize the holster to individual preferences. Be sure to use only accessories designed for the Safariland system to ensure proper fit and function.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring a high degree of weapon retention in potentially hostile environments. It’s ideal for those who prioritize security and are willing to invest the time in training to master the Level III retention system. It benefits armed security guards, patrol officers, and anyone working in a high-risk environment.

Who should skip this product? Those seeking the absolute fastest draw speed above all else might find the Level III retention system cumbersome. Those who are not willing to invest time in training to develop a proficient draw stroke. Those who don’t require Level III retention and prefer a simpler, Level II holster should also consider other options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality belt designed for duty use is essential. Training is paramount; practice manipulating the Level III hood and ALS until it becomes second nature. Consider aftermarket ALS levers or thumb breaks to customize the holster to your individual preferences.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Left Hand 6365-97-92 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of enhanced security and reliable performance. While the Level III retention system requires practice and may slightly impact draw speed, the added peace of mind is invaluable, especially in high-risk environments. The price of $212.60 is justified by the quality of construction, the effectiveness of the retention system, and the reputation of Safariland.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who prioritizes weapon security and is willing to invest the time in training. The Safariland 6365 is not just a holster; it’s a critical piece of equipment that can help protect you and those around you. Upgrade your security today and experience the Safariland difference.