Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard

The Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard represents a significant evolution in duty holster design. Offered by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster combines speed, security, and comfort in a package built for professionals. It’s a Level I retention holster, featuring the Automatic Locking System (ALS) paired with a hood guard and ALS guard, creating a secure yet easily accessible platform for your sidearm.

My journey to finding this holster began with a need for enhanced security without sacrificing draw speed. In my line of work, quick access to a firearm can be the difference between life and death. I’d previously been using a Level II holster, but I wanted to see if I could find a Level I that offered sufficient security.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6390 immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The STX finish felt incredibly durable, and the overall design looked both modern and functional. The holster felt solid and well-built, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily duty.

I considered a few other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 and the Galco Cop 3 Slot holster. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6390 for its balance of retention, speed, and mid-ride positioning. The mid-ride height seemed to be perfect for comfort and accessibility while wearing body armor.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to see how this holster would perform in real-world scenarios, and I felt confident that it would be a significant upgrade from my previous setup.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390 at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The exercise simulated high-stress scenarios in both dry and slightly wet conditions, mirroring situations that might happen on the job. This involved drawing and reholstering numerous times.

The ALS system proved intuitive and reliable, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw even with gloved hands. The hood guard and ALS guard added an extra layer of security without hindering my draw stroke. The mid-ride position felt natural, allowing for a comfortable draw while minimizing interference with my duty belt and body armor.

The only initial issue I noticed was the need to adjust the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance between retention and draw speed. Once adjusted, however, the holster performed flawlessly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6390 has proven to be incredibly durable. The STX finish shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after constant contact with clothing and equipment. The Safarisuede lining has also protected my firearm’s finish, preventing scratches and scuffs.

Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly without any need for lubrication or adjustment. Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6390 has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard

Specifications

The Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. This offers Level I retention, meaning the weapon is secure in an open-top design suitable for duty use.

The holster is designed for a straight-up draw once the ALS is deactivated, making it instinctive to use. It features the 6070UBL mid-ride belt loop, allowing the holster to ride close to the body for increased comfort and concealment. The Safarisuede lining protects the firearm’s sights and finish from abrasion.

The durable STX finish provides excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. As a Level I retention holster, it prioritizes speed of draw while maintaining a reasonable level of security. The hood guard offers protection from accidental disengagement, while the ALS guard deters unauthorized access.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The ALS system works flawlessly. Its intuitive thumb-activated release allows for a smooth and consistent draw under pressure. The mid-ride height positions the firearm for optimal access, particularly when wearing body armor or other gear.

The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and ease of use. However, the Level I retention might not be sufficient for all users, particularly those in high-risk environments. For most duty applications, however, it strikes an excellent balance between security and speed.

The Safariland 6390 meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It offers a secure, reliable, and comfortable platform for carrying a firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6390 is exceptional. The materials used are clearly top-notch, and the construction is robust. The holster feels solid and well-balanced, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily use.

The mid-ride design enhances comfort and accessibility, while the Safarisuede lining protects the firearm’s finish. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. It doesn’t take long to master, but it requires some practice to become second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390 is built to last. The STX finish is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. The durable construction ensures that the holster will withstand years of use in demanding environments.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The ALS mechanism is designed to be self-lubricating, minimizing the need for maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. This includes different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. The holster is designed to accommodate various firearms, and can be ordered to fit specific models.

While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of aesthetics, its functionality can be tailored to individual needs through the use of compatible accessories. Its modular design allows users to adapt the holster to different carry positions and equipment setups.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6390 Als Mid-ride Level I Retention Duty Holster – Hood Guard & Als Guard