It’s Time to Talk About the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement gear, this holster combines their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a Level III retention design for enhanced security.
My journey to finding this specific holster was driven by a need for a reliable and secure carry system for my duty weapon. I had been using a Level II holster, but increasing concerns about weapon retention in potentially hostile environments prompted me to seek a higher level of security. The Safariland 6365 seemed to offer the perfect balance of retention, speed, and comfort.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid construction and robust materials of the holster. The plain black finish is professional and understated, while the overall build quality exudes confidence. The weight felt substantial, indicative of the durable materials used, but not excessively heavy, which is crucial for all-day carry.
Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve examined from Blackhawk and Bianchi, the Safariland 6365 stood out due to its streamlined design and the intuitive operation of its ALS retention system. Some competing holsters felt bulky and awkward, requiring excessive movement to draw the weapon. The Safariland promised a smoother, more natural draw stroke.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster looked and felt like a high-quality piece of equipment, but the true test would be its performance in real-world scenarios. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range that allows for practical holster drills. I focused on drawing and re-holstering the weapon under various simulated stress conditions. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for familiarization.
The Safariland 6365 proved remarkably easy to use right out of the box. The ALS system disengaged smoothly with a natural thumb movement, and the weapon cleared the holster cleanly and efficiently. I experienced no initial issues with the draw stroke, and re-holstering was equally intuitive.
After approximately one hundred draw-and-fire repetitions, I noted that the ALS system remained consistently reliable. There were no unexpected snags or malfunctions. The Drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positioned the weapon perfectly for me, allowing for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use during training and patrol duties, the Safariland 6365 has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable piece of gear. It has withstood exposure to rain, dust, and the general wear and tear of daily law enforcement activities.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear, with only minor scuff marks on the exterior finish. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, and the retention remains secure. The UBL attachment is rock solid.
Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism periodically. Comparing it to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6365 clearly outperforms it in terms of retention, durability, and overall peace of mind. The enhanced security is invaluable.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61 is specifically designed to fit the Smith & Wesson SW99 and Walther P99 pistols. It is a right-hand holster, finished in plain black, and categorized as an ALS (Automatic Locking System) holster. This holster provides Level III Retention.
The holster incorporates the ALS Automatic Locking System, which secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth draw. The inclusion of a Hood Guard as standard adds another layer of security, protecting the ALS release. The slim and compact design keeps the weapon close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
The 1.5″ Belt Drop version allows for comfortable carry on standard duty belts. The optional Sentry accessory (not included) can be installed to further increase the retention level. It also features a simple straight-up draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 performs exceptionally well in its primary role: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system provides a positive lock on the weapon, preventing accidental dislodgement. The Level III retention ensures that the weapon remains secure even during strenuous activity or attempted weapon takeaways.
The draw stroke is smooth and natural, requiring minimal training to master. The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. However, some users might find the Level III retention a bit more involved compared to Level II holsters, requiring slightly more practice to achieve consistent draw times.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 boasts a robust and well-thought-out design. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing excellent protection for the firearm. The weight is manageable, even with the added retention features.
The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the Drop UBL, which positions the weapon at an optimal height and angle. The design is user-friendly, with the ALS release positioned for easy access and intuitive operation. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the Level III retention, but the design facilitates rapid acquisition of the technique.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 is built to last. The durable construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. With proper care and maintenance, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland, ensuring long-term support for the product.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 comes standard with a Hood Guard for added security. Safariland offers an optional Sentry accessory, which further increases the retention level to Level III. This is a very useful addon for users who want the highest level of weapon security.
While the holster itself offers limited customization, the Drop UBL allows for adjustments in ride height. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as magazine pouches and flashlight holders, allowing users to create a complete and customized duty rig.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61
Pros
- Exceptional weapon retention due to the ALS and Level III design.
- Durable construction and high-quality materials ensure longevity.
- Smooth and efficient draw stroke for rapid weapon deployment.
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods thanks to the Drop UBL.
- Trusted Safariland reputation for quality and reliability.
Cons
- Level III retention requires more training and practice than Level II holsters.
- The plain black finish may not appeal to users seeking more aesthetic options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and security. It is particularly well-suited for individuals working in potentially hostile environments or those who prioritize weapon retention above all else.
This product may not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals who prioritize speed over security. These users might find the Level III retention system overly cumbersome. A must-have accessory for this holster is the optional Sentry, which further enhances the retention level for added security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6365-84-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon retention, durability, and functionality. While the Level III retention system requires a bit more training to master, the added security and peace of mind are well worth the effort.
At a price of $195.00, the holster represents a solid value proposition, given its quality construction and enhanced features. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure carry system for their duty weapon. Invest in your safety and choose the Safariland 6365. You won’t regret it.