First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent over a decade drawing and re-holstering firearms in countless environments. The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG promises a blend of speed, security, and optic compatibility that I’ve been searching for in a duty-rated holster. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and open-pocket design for red dot sights immediately piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve relied on holsters that either prioritized retention or ease of draw. Now, with the increasing adoption of red dot sights on duty pistols, finding a holster that adequately protects the optic while offering a secure and rapid draw has become paramount. The Safariland 6390rdso appeared to be a potential solution to this problem.
Unboxing the Safariland 6390rdso revealed a holster that felt immediately robust. The Safariland STX finish offered a tactile, yet smooth exterior, and the overall construction appeared solid. The mid-ride belt loop was a welcome sight, suggesting a comfortable and stable carry position.
I’ve used the Blackhawk! Serpa, the Safariland 7TS series, and the Galco Miami Classic in the past. The Serpa, while fast, lacked the robust retention I desired. The 7TS was durable, but not as optic-friendly. The Galco, a shoulder rig, simply wasn’t suited for duty carry. The Safariland 6390rdso seemed like it could offer a better balance.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked like a well-made, thoughtfully designed holster, but the real test would be how it performed under the rigors of field use. I was excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6390rdso was at my local shooting range. I spent several hours running drills, focusing on draw speed, re-holstering, and retention under simulated stress. The holster was paired with a Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR.
The ALS system proved intuitive, requiring only a slight thumb sweep to disengage. Even under rapid draw scenarios, the release was consistent and reliable. The mid-ride height felt natural, allowing for a full firing grip before the pistol cleared the holster.
During a brief rain shower, the holster’s performance remained unaffected. The ALS system didn’t bind or become difficult to operate, and the STX finish provided adequate grip even when wet. There were no immediate issues or surprises, reinforcing my initial positive impression.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Safariland 6390rdso has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve worn it during training exercises in various weather conditions, from scorching summer heat to freezing winter temperatures. It has seen use during tactical scenarios, hiking trips, and even a brief stint in a muddy, wooded environment.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The STX finish has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and abrasions. The ALS system continues to function smoothly, and the holster retains a snug fit on my duty belt.
Cleaning the Safariland 6390rdso is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasionally, I’ll use a silicone-based lubricant on the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rdso outperforms them in both retention and speed. It provides a level of security that inspires confidence while still allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), a Level I retention mechanism. It is constructed from a durable, proprietary nylon blend, offering excellent resistance to impact and abrasion.
The holster features an open-pocket design to accommodate and protect the optic, eliminating the need for a flip-up dust cover. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. It fits belts up to 2.25 inches wide.
The ALS is crucial for retention, automatically engaging when the firearm is holstered. The open pocket design allows for seamless integration with various red dot sight models. The mid-ride height optimizes draw speed and comfort, crucial in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides reliable retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid target acquisition.
The holster’s design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without compromising retention or draw speed. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and stable carry position, minimizing fatigue during extended use. The main strength of the Safariland 6390rdso is its perfect balance between security, speed, and optic compatibility.
The only area for potential improvement would be the addition of an adjustable cant angle. This would allow users to further customize the holster to their preferred carry style. However, the current cant is generally well-suited for most users.
Overall, the Safariland 6390rdso meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of providing a secure, fast, and optic-compatible holster for duty use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rdso boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The holster’s profile is relatively slim, minimizing bulk and preventing snagging on gear. The mid-ride belt loop distributes weight effectively, ensuring a stable and comfortable carry.
The STX finish provides a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The ALS release is intuitively positioned and requires minimal effort to disengage. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the holster.
The Safariland 6390rdso is designed with the end-user in mind. Its ergonomic design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke. It balances security, speed, and comfort perfectly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rdso is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. Its durable nylon blend construction resists impact, abrasion, and extreme temperatures. The ALS system is robust and reliable, ensuring long-term functionality.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Periodically, lubricating the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant will ensure smooth operation.
With proper care, the Safariland 6390rdso should last for many years of reliable service. Its durable construction and simple maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for any professional.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso itself doesn’t come with many included accessories, focusing instead on core functionality. However, Safariland offers a wide range of accessories that can be used to customize the holster to individual preferences. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options.
The Safariland 6390rdso is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the Quick Locking System (QLS). This allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the holster from different platforms. The open-pocket design is inherently compatible with a broad array of red dot sights.
The ability to customize the Safariland 6390rdso with various accessories is a major advantage. It allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences. This makes it a versatile and adaptable piece of gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides reliable Level I retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- Optic Compatibility: The open-pocket design seamlessly integrates with various red dot sights without compromising retention or draw speed.
- Rapid Draw: The mid-ride height and smooth ALS release facilitate a fast and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The proprietary nylon blend construction resists impact, abrasion, and extreme temperatures.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height and slim profile distribute weight effectively, ensuring a comfortable and stable carry.
Cons
- Cant Angle is Not Adjustable: The fixed cant angle may not be ideal for all users.
- Level I Retention Only: While the ALS is effective, some users may prefer a Level II or Level III retention system for higher security needs.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG?
The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure, fast, and optic-compatible holster. Its robust construction and reliable retention make it well-suited for duty use. It is also excellent for anyone carrying a pistol with a red dot sight.
Individuals requiring a Level II or Level III retention system may want to consider alternative options. Also, those who strongly prefer a holster with an adjustable cant angle may find the fixed cant of the Safariland 6390rdso limiting.
A must-have modification or accessory would be the Safariland QLS system. This would allow for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the holster from different platforms. This greatly enhances the holster’s versatility.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-132-AG is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promises. It offers a perfect balance of security, speed, and optic compatibility. Its durable construction and ergonomic design make it a reliable and comfortable piece of gear for daily use.
At $164.20, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. The Safariland 6390rdso is a worthwhile investment for any professional or serious shooter.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rdso to anyone seeking a top-tier duty-rated holster for their red dot sight-equipped pistol. It’s a game-changer. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the Safariland difference.