Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61 Review

The Real Deal Behind the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61 represents a cornerstone in law enforcement and tactical communities for secure firearm carry. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this model delivers Level III retention with the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a comfortable drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop). Its plain black finish provides a professional appearance, making it a popular choice for uniformed officers and security personnel alike.

I needed a holster that provided both unparalleled security and reliable access to my sidearm. I was tired of holsters that felt flimsy or didn’t offer adequate retention in demanding situations. The Safariland 6365 promised both, and its reputation preceded it.

Out of the box, the holster exudes quality. The STX finish is durable and provides a secure grip, while the construction feels solid and well-thought-out. The ALS mechanism is intuitive, and the drop UBL positions the firearm perfectly for a smooth draw.

Compared to some of my older Level II holsters, the Safariland 6365 offers a noticeable step up in security without sacrificing accessibility. I considered other Level III options from different manufacturers, but the Safariland name and the proven ALS system ultimately won me over. Its slim, compact design also made it more appealing than bulkier alternatives.

My first impression was one of confidence. This isn’t just a holster; it’s a piece of equipment designed to perform under pressure. The initial feel of the ALS engaging and disengaging was reassuring, and the overall build quality suggested this holster would be a reliable companion for years to come.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6365 at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This allowed me to simulate real-world scenarios where rapid weapon deployment and secure retention are paramount. The holster performed flawlessly.

The draw was consistently smooth and efficient, even under stress. The ALS released cleanly with minimal effort once I developed the proper thumb placement. The drop UBL kept the firearm at a comfortable height for quick access.

I also wore the holster during a week-long outdoor training course with mixed weather conditions. This included rain, mud, and exposure to dust. The holster continued to function perfectly, with no noticeable impact on the ALS mechanism or overall retention.

There were no major issues during my first use. I did notice a slight break-in period required for the ALS to operate smoothly, but this was easily remedied with a few practice draws. The holster felt secure and comfortable throughout the training.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the STX finish, and the ALS mechanism continues to operate smoothly and reliably. The holster still locks up tight.

I’ve used the holster in a variety of environments, from the shooting range to patrol duty, and it has consistently performed well. Even after being exposed to rain, sweat, and dust, the holster maintains its integrity and functionality.

Maintaining the Safariland 6365 is straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism. This keeps the holster clean and functioning optimally.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6365 far exceeds them in terms of retention, durability, and overall performance. It provides a level of security and peace of mind that I haven’t experienced with other holsters.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61 is specifically designed for right-handed users and fits Colt Government 1911 pistols. It features Level III retention, incorporating both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and a rotating hood. The holster is finished in plain black and includes a drop UBL for comfortable belt placement.

• Level III Retention: This provides three distinct levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon automatically upon holstering. The ALS release is intuitive and allows for a smooth, straight-up draw.
• Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop): Positions the holster lower on the hip for enhanced comfort and accessibility. This is particularly beneficial when wearing body armor or other gear that might interfere with a higher-riding holster.
• Rotating Hood: Adds another layer of security, preventing the weapon from being drawn directly upwards. The hood is easily deactivated with the thumb during the draw stroke.
• Plain Black Finish: Offers a professional and discreet appearance, suitable for duty use. The STX finish is durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s security, accessibility, and overall usability. The Level III retention provides a high degree of confidence in preventing unauthorized access, while the drop UBL enhances comfort and allows for a faster draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6365 excels in its primary function: securely holding and allowing for rapid deployment of a firearm. The ALS and rotating hood work in conjunction to provide excellent retention, while the drop UBL ensures a comfortable and accessible draw stroke. The holster is very reliable.

The strengths of the Safariland 6365 lie in its robust construction, intuitive design, and effective retention system. The ALS is easy to learn and operate, and the drop UBL provides a comfortable and natural draw. One minor improvement could be to offer adjustable tension on the rotating hood.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations. I’ve yet to experience any issues with retention or accessibility, even under demanding conditions. It performs as advertised and provides a high level of confidence in its ability to protect my firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6365 is designed with both security and user comfort in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable, while the overall design is slim and compact. The holster’s weight is minimal.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. Once the proper technique is learned, the draw stroke becomes fluid and natural. The holster is ergonomic and comfortable to wear.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. This is thanks to the Safariland reputation.

Maintaining the Safariland 6365 is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required to keep it functioning optimally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6365 can be further customized with the optional Sentry installed to offer enhanced hood lock capabilities. It is also compatible with a variety of Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms. This provides flexibility in how the holster is worn and positioned.

The holster is also compatible with various firearm accessories, such as lights and lasers, as long as they don’t interfere with the holster’s retention mechanism. Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories for its holsters.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-53-61