Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 Review

The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 isn’t just another holster; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of duty gear designed for professionals who demand security, speed, and comfort. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military equipment, this holster boasts a Level III retention system, a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) mount, and a durable nylon look finish. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) is a game-changer, offering intuitive weapon security.

For years, I’ve been piecing together my own duty rigs, always searching for that perfect blend of retention and accessibility. My need for a secure, yet rapidly deployable holster for my Sig Sauer P2022 led me down a rabbit hole of research, ultimately landing me on the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261. I wanted something that would stand up to the rigors of daily carry while offering a dependable draw under pressure.

My first impression upon unboxing was the sheer robustness of the construction; it felt like a tank. The nylon look finish provided a professional aesthetic, while the weight felt substantial without being cumbersome. Compared to my previous Level II holsters, this one felt significantly more secure and well-engineered.

I initially considered a similar Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 holster, and a G-Code SOC holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its proven track record among law enforcement and the perceived superior build quality based on online reviews and colleague recommendations. I was surprised at how quickly I adapted to the ALS system. It was intuitive, secure, and didn’t impede my draw stroke like I had feared.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, where I subjected the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 to a series of rapid draw drills. The holster performed admirably, even in the sweltering summer heat. The ALS system engaged flawlessly every time, and the draw stroke became second nature after just a few repetitions.

I also tested the holster during a rainy outdoor training session. Despite being soaked, the retention system remained secure, and the nylon look finish didn’t become slippery. The drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for a quick and efficient draw, even with bulky gloves. One small issue was that the release lever became slightly harder to depress with thick gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use during training exercises and range sessions, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 has proven its mettle. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the retention system continues to function flawlessly. The nylon look finish has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and abrasions.

The holster requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. I’ve found that a light application of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism every few weeks keeps it operating smoothly. Compared to other holsters I’ve used, the Safariland is remarkably durable and reliable, easily outperforming cheaper options in terms of longevity and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261

Specifications

• Level III Retention: The Level III retention is achieved through a combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood. This provides a secure hold, preventing unauthorized removal while still allowing for a rapid draw when needed.
  This is paramount for professionals who operate in high-risk environments.

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. This intuitive system simplifies the draw process while providing a high level of security.
  The ease of use is critical in stressful situations.

• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): The drop UBL positions the holster lower on the belt, allowing for a more comfortable draw and improved clearance with body armor. The 1.5″ belt drop is ideal for duty belts.
  This enhances accessibility and ergonomics.

• Nylon Look Finish: The nylon look finish provides a professional appearance while offering excellent durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions. It’s easy to clean and maintain.
  The aesthetics are important for maintaining a professional image.

• Right-Hand Configuration: This holster is specifically designed for right-handed shooters, ensuring a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. The hand orientation is crucial for a proper fit and function.

• Fits Sig Sauer P2022: This specific model is designed to perfectly fit the Sig Sauer P2022 pistol, ensuring optimal retention and a smooth draw. A proper fit is essential for reliable performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system is incredibly reliable, engaging automatically upon holstering and releasing smoothly with a natural thumb movement. The drop UBL positions the weapon perfectly for a comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke.

The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The Level III retention provides peace of mind in high-risk environments, while the intuitive ALS system ensures a rapid draw when needed. One area for potential improvement would be to redesign the hood release to be slightly more accessible when wearing thick gloves.

Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 is built with high-quality materials and exhibits excellent build quality. The nylon look finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing, and the holster feels solid and well-constructed. The drop UBL provides a comfortable carry position, and the holster’s design minimizes bulk and maximizes accessibility.

The ALS system is remarkably user-friendly, requiring minimal training to master. The intuitive thumb release becomes second nature after just a few practice draws. There’s a slight learning curve associated with deactivating all retention mechanisms efficiently, but it’s quickly overcome with repetition.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 is built to last. The robust construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regularly wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant will keep it functioning smoothly. There are no user-serviceable parts, but Safariland offers excellent customer support if any issues arise.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. The optional Sentry, for added security, can be installed. The UBL allows the user to cant the holster.

While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with other Safariland products allows users to tailor it to their specific needs. It’s also worth noting that the holster is designed to accommodate the Sig Sauer P2022 with or without a weapon light, depending on the specific model chosen.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261

Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261?

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable holster for their Sig Sauer P2022. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize weapon retention and accessibility. It is also ideal for competition shooters who need a secure but fast drawing holster.

Those who prioritize comfort above all else or are on a tight budget might want to consider other options. Someone who isn’t carrying in a duty capacity might not require the additional security of a Level III retention system. A must-have modification would be adding the optional Safariland Sentry for additional Level III security, along with a quality duty belt for optimal support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. While it may be more expensive than some other options, its superior performance and reliability justify the investment.

The price is justified considering the level of security, durability, and performance that the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Nylon Look, Right Hand 6365-278-261 delivers. I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and secure way to carry their Sig Sauer P2022. If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a rapid draw when needed, look no further; you won’t be disappointed.