The Road Test: Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a statement. It speaks to a commitment to security, accessibility, and a professional demeanor, essential for law enforcement, security personnel, and responsibly armed citizens alike. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the duty gear arena, this holster promises Level III retention, a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for comfortable carry, and a sleek STX Tactical Black finish – all tailored for left-handed users wielding a Sig Sauer P228 or P229.
My journey to find the perfect holster for my Sig Sauer P229 has been a long and winding one. I needed a holster that offered not only superior retention for open carry during tactical training scenarios but also a comfortable and accessible draw. I’ve tried several Level II holsters from other manufacturers, but they always seemed to compromise on either security or ease of access.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster arrived packaged in a sturdy cardboard box, ensuring it was well-protected during shipping. My initial impression was positive; the holster felt solid and well-constructed, with a reassuring weight to it. The STX Tactical Black finish looked professional and seemed resistant to scratches and wear.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, both popular choices. However, the Safariland’s ALS (Automatic Locking System) stood out as a more intuitive and reliable retention mechanism compared to the Serpa’s trigger finger release. The Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the same level of active retention I was looking for.
From the moment I held the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster, I was impressed. This holster felt like it was built to last, offering the perfect blend of security and accessibility. It was exactly what I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster was at a local shooting range during a tactical training session. The weather was typical for the area – hot and humid, with a chance of afternoon showers. I was running drills that involved drawing and re-holstering frequently, as well as moving and shooting from various positions.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster performed admirably in the challenging conditions. The ALS system provided a secure lock on my Sig Sauer P229, even during rigorous movement, and the straight-up draw felt natural and fast once I got used to deactivating the releases. The drop UBL positioned the firearm perfectly for me, allowing for a comfortable and consistent grip.
Initially, I fumbled a few times with the release mechanisms, as the Level III retention requires a specific sequence of actions. However, after a few practice draws, it became second nature. I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the pistol drew from the holster, despite the high level of retention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster continues to impress me with its durability and reliability. I’ve used it in a variety of environments, from the range to outdoor training scenarios in varying weather conditions. It has proven to be a trustworthy and dependable piece of gear.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster, even after heavy use. The STX Tactical Black finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and scuffs. The holster still feels as solid and secure as it did on day one.
Maintaining the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Having used a variety of duty holsters over the years, I can confidently say that the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is among the best. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster outperforms many others in terms of retention, accessibility, and overall build quality. It instills confidence knowing my firearm is secure, yet readily available when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132 is specifically designed for left-handed users carrying a Sig Sauer P228 or P229. Its key specifications include Level III retention, the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), and a durable STX Tactical Black finish. The holster also features a drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) that positions the firearm lower on the hip for enhanced comfort and accessibility.
Level III retention is paramount for security. It requires the user to deactivate multiple retention mechanisms before drawing the weapon. This ensures that the firearm remains secure, even during strenuous activity or a physical altercation.
The ALS system automatically locks the weapon in place upon holstering. To release, the user simply deactivates the thumb lever while establishing a proper grip. This provides a fast, fluid, and intuitive draw.
The drop UBL lowers the holster, which enhances comfort, especially when wearing body armor or other bulky gear. The position allows for a more natural and ergonomic draw stroke. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional appearance, and it is resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring the holster maintains its appearance over time.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster excels in its primary function: securely holding and readily deploying a firearm. Its combination of Level III retention and the ALS system provides exceptional security without sacrificing speed or ease of access. The drop UBL enhances comfort and ensures a consistent draw stroke.
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster has a couple of strengths. The ALS system is reliable and intuitive, and the drop UBL makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, mastering the Level III retention system requires practice and familiarization.
Overall, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster exceeds expectations. It provides a level of security and accessibility that is unmatched by many other duty holsters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the holster feels solid and well-constructed. The drop UBL allows the holster to sit comfortably on the hip, even during prolonged use.
The holster is user-friendly, but mastering the Level III retention system requires some practice. The intuitive design of the ALS, however, makes it easy to learn and operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. With proper care, it will provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the holster is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. This includes various belt loops and mounting options. The holster itself comes standard with a hood guard.
The optional Safariland Sentry can be installed for an even higher level of security. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is designed to work seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132
Pros
- Exceptional Level III retention that provides peace of mind in demanding situations.
- Intuitive ALS system allows for a fast and fluid draw once mastered.
- Comfortable drop UBL design, ideal for extended wear and compatibility with body armor.
- Durable STX Tactical Black finish resists scratches and abrasions.
- High-quality construction ensures years of reliable service.
Cons
- Learning curve associated with mastering the Level III retention system.
- Higher price point compared to Level I or Level II holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132?
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsibly armed citizens who prioritize security and accessibility. It’s also a good fit for those who regularly train in tactical environments.
Those who prefer simpler, Level I or Level II retention systems, or those on a tight budget, might want to consider other options. Anyone who isn’t willing to invest the time to master the Level III retention system should also look elsewhere.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for this holster. This will ensure a stable and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6365-74-132 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, accessibility, and durability. While it requires some practice to master the Level III retention system, the benefits are well worth the effort. The intuitive ALS system and comfortable drop UBL make it a pleasure to use.
The price is justified given the quality of construction and the level of security it provides. This holster is an investment in peace of mind.
I highly recommend the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster. If you value security, accessibility, and durability, this holster is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with the best.