First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481 arrived, and even through the packaging, it screamed professional-grade duty gear. Designed by Safariland, this holster promised a seamless blend of security, speed, and compatibility with red dot sights – a necessity for modern law enforcement and tactical applications. It’s designed for those who demand the best in retention without sacrificing a smooth, natural draw.
My department recently transitioned to pistol-mounted red dots, and the standard holsters weren’t cutting it. I needed a holster that could accommodate the optic, offer reliable retention, and sit comfortably during long shifts. I was hoping this Safariland model would be the solution.
Unboxing the 6390RDSO, I was immediately impressed with the solid construction. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt robust, and the finish was clean and professional. It wasn’t overly bulky and the mid-ride belt loop seemed like it would provide a comfortable carry position.
I considered the Blackhawk T-Series L3D and the Streamlight TLR-7/8 Series holsters before settling on the Safariland. While the Blackhawk offered Level 3 retention, it felt overly complicated for everyday duty use. The Streamlight option was specifically for weapon lights, and I wanted a red-dot-focused solution. My first impression was excitement – this appeared to be a well-designed piece of kit ready for serious use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390RDSO at the department’s training range and during a patrol shift. At the range, I focused on draw speed and re-holstering drills. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) was intuitive, disengaging smoothly with a natural thumb movement.
The holster performed well in both dry and humid conditions. The textured interior of the holster helped maintain grip even when wet. I didn’t need much time to adjust to it, as the draw stroke felt natural after just a few practice repetitions. The open pocket protecting the optic was a smart design choice.
The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the tension screw to my specific pistol and optic combination; I needed to ensure a secure fit without excessive drag.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Safariland 6390RDSO has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven™ material despite consistent contact with duty belts and other gear. The holster remains stiff and maintains its shape, ensuring a consistent draw.
Maintenance involves occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris, which is simple and quick. Compared to the previous leather holster I used, the Safariland’s synthetic construction is far easier to maintain and resists moisture and mildew. The 6390RDSO outperforms my previous holster in terms of retention, durability, and compatibility with my red dot optic.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The holster employs Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing Level I retention. It features a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry.
The key specification is the ALS retention system, which automatically secures the firearm upon holstering and is released with a simple thumb swipe. The SafariSeven™ construction provides extreme temperature tolerance and maintains structural integrity. The open pocket design accommodates and protects various red dot optics without requiring a cumbersome flip-up dust cover.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the user’s ability to quickly and safely access their firearm while maintaining a secure carry. The mid-ride height ensures the weapon sits comfortably on the hip and allows for a smoother draw stroke. The optic protection keeps the sight clean and functional in harsh environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390RDSO excels in its primary function: secure and rapid firearm deployment. The ALS system is both intuitive and reliable, providing a high degree of security without hindering draw speed. It performs flawlessly, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw under pressure.
The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, but some users may prefer a higher level of retention. The 6390RDSO meets and exceeds expectations for a Level I retention holster designed for red dot-equipped firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390RDSO boasts a sleek and functional design. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight yet remarkably durable. The mid-ride height positions the firearm for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
The holster is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve. The ALS system is easily mastered, and the overall design promotes a consistent and efficient draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ construction of the 6390RDSO ensures exceptional durability. This holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use and exposure to harsh environments. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390RDSO is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and mounting platforms. It can be easily adapted for different carry positions and preferences. The open pocket design accommodates a vast array of red dot sights.
This holster is designed to integrate seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear. The ALS system is a Safariland proprietary technology that is not available from other brands. The ability to tailor the holster to individual needs is a significant advantage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481
Pros
- Secure ALS Retention: The Automatic Locking System provides reliable Level I retention, ensuring the firearm stays securely holstered until needed.
- Red Dot Optic Compatibility: The open pocket design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without requiring modifications.
- Durable SafariSeven™ Construction: The SafariSeven™ material offers extreme temperature tolerance, structural integrity, and resistance to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the holster in optimal condition.
Cons
- Level I Retention Only: Some users may prefer a holster with higher levels of retention, particularly in high-risk environments.
- Initial Tension Adjustment Required: The tension screw may require adjustment to achieve a perfect fit with specific pistol and optic combinations.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481?
The Safariland 6390RDSO is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who require a reliable, durable, and red-dot-compatible holster. It is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth, fast draw while maintaining a secure level of retention. This holster benefits individuals who use red dot sights on their duty pistols and demand professional-grade equipment.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals requiring Level II or Level III retention, or those who do not use red dot sights. Must-have modifications include ensuring the tension screw is properly adjusted for the specific firearm and optic. Also consider using a compatible Safariland duty belt for optimal stability and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-481 is an exceptional piece of duty gear that delivers on its promises. It combines secure retention, red dot optic compatibility, and durable construction in a user-friendly design. The $165.99 price tag is justified considering the quality, reliability, and performance it offers.
I highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a professional-grade solution for carrying a red dot-equipped firearm. Upgrade your carry system with the Safariland 6390RDSO and experience the difference a quality holster can make.