Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412

As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising speed, security, and comfort. The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412, however, caught my eye with its specific design for firearms equipped with red dot sights, a growing trend in both law enforcement and civilian tactical circles. I was intrigued by the promise of an open pocket protecting the optic without the need for a flip-up dust cover, a feature that often proves cumbersome in high-stress situations.

My department recently transitioned to RDS-equipped pistols, and the challenge became finding a duty holster that offered both reliable retention and seamless draw. We were facing issues with bulkier holsters interfering with our draw stroke, and slower target acquisition times. The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 seemed like it might just solve these problems.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction and familiar Safariland quality. The holster felt solid in hand, a reassuring sign considering the daily wear and tear a duty holster endures. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) was smooth and intuitive, clicking securely into place with a positive engagement.

I considered the Safariland 6360RDS and the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D Duty Holster before settling on the 6390RDSO. I chose it because the open pocket design seemed more streamlined and offered faster access compared to the 6360RDS’s hood, and it had a lower profile than the Blackhawk. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – it looked and felt like a quality piece of kit, but the real test would be in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 at our department’s shooting range during a week-long training session. The range offered a variety of scenarios, from close-quarters drills to simulated active shooter situations. The holster was put through its paces in both dry and slightly damp conditions.

The draw was noticeably smoother and faster compared to my previous holster. The ALS disengaged cleanly with a natural thumb sweep, and the mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable grip during the draw stroke. There were no hiccups or snags, even during rapid-fire drills.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily duty carry, the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 has proven its reliability. I’ve worn it in everything from scorching summer heat to freezing winter conditions without any degradation in performance. The Safariland finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor scuff marks appearing after consistent contact with gear and clothing.

Maintenance is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism keeps it functioning smoothly. Comparing it to my previous Level II retention holster, the 6390RDSO offers comparable security with significantly improved speed and ease of use. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 is specifically designed for handguns equipped with red dot sights. It features Safariland‘s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which provides Level I Retention. The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop and has an open pocket designed to protect the optic without requiring a flip-up dust cover.

These specs are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s speed, security, and compatibility with modern firearms. The ALS provides a balance of retention and draw speed, essential for duty carry. The mid-ride height allows for a more natural draw stroke, and the open pocket ensures the red dot sight is protected and readily accessible.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 performs its job exceptionally well. The retention is secure, giving me confidence that my firearm is safe, while the draw is fast and fluid, allowing for quick target acquisition. The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability.

The ALS is intuitive to use, and the open pocket design eliminates any interference with the red dot sight. One area that could be improved is the audible feedback of the ALS engagement, which could be louder to provide more assurance. Overall, the holster meets and even exceeds expectations for a Level I retention duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 boasts excellent build quality. It is constructed from durable Safariland materials and feels robust without being overly bulky. The mid-ride design positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.

The holster is user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve. The ALS is easily disengaged with a natural thumb sweep, making it intuitive even under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Safariland‘s reputation, I expect the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 to last for years with proper care. The durable construction and high-quality materials contribute to its longevity. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. While it doesn’t come with any specific accessories included, the modular design allows for easy customization to suit individual preferences. The holster is also compatible with various red dot sights, making it a versatile option for users who prefer different optics.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-412