First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG
For over a decade, I’ve trusted my life to my gear, both in the field and on the range. A reliable holster isn’t just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of equipment, especially when optics are involved. That’s why the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG immediately piqued my interest.
I needed a duty-rated holster that could accommodate my red dot sight without compromising retention or draw speed. My old holster, a generic Level II, simply wasn’t cutting it anymore with the addition of my optic. I was searching for a holster that offered a balance of security and accessibility for my firearm.
Unboxing the Safariland 6390rdso, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The materials felt durable, and the fit and finish were what I’ve come to expect from Safariland. It felt noticeably lighter than my previous Level II holster, which was a welcome surprise.
Compared to a similar offering from Blackhawk, the Safariland‘s build quality seemed superior. And while Blade-Tech makes a fine holster, I’ve always found Safariland‘s retention system to be more intuitive. The Safariland won out due to its reputation, superior retention design, and the promise of a seamless red dot integration.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster looked and felt right, but the true test would be in real-world application. I was excited to see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation for quality and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6390rdso was at my local shooting range during a tactical training session. I ran drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering in various positions. The weather was hot and humid, a typical summer day where sweat becomes a factor.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) was incredibly intuitive, allowing for a smooth and natural draw. Re-holstering was equally seamless, with a satisfying click indicating secure retention. There were no issues with the red dot sight interfering with the draw or re-holstering process.
After the first few draws, I noticed the holster’s mid-ride design kept the firearm close to my body, improving concealment and comfort. However, I did experience a slight initial stiffness in the ALS release lever. This was easily remedied after about an hour of consistent use, though.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use in various scenarios, including range sessions and field exercises, the Safariland 6390rdso has proven its worth. The holster has retained its shape and rigidity, showing no signs of wear and tear beyond superficial scuffs. The ALS continues to function flawlessly, providing reliable retention and a smooth draw every time.
Maintaining the holster is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure optimal performance.
Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland 6390rdso outperforms it in every aspect. The retention is more secure, the draw is faster, and the mid-ride design is more comfortable. It has quickly become my go-to holster for duty and tactical applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso is a Level I retention holster designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland‘s proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure retention. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop that positions the firearm close to the body for improved concealment and comfort.
The RDSO design incorporates an open pocket that protects the optic without the need for a flip-up dust cover, ensuring quick access. The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend material for enhanced weather resistance and longevity. It accommodates a wide range of firearm models, ensuring compatibility for many users.
These specifications are vital because they guarantee the holster’s ability to securely hold a firearm with a red dot sight, while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The mid-ride height is beneficial for comfort and concealment, and the open pocket design simplifies optic access. The holster’s durability is essential for withstanding the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing audible confirmation when the firearm is properly secured.
The mid-ride height of the holster offers a good balance of concealment and accessibility. The open pocket design for the red dot sight is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for a cumbersome dust cover that could slow down the draw.
However, the initial stiffness of the ALS release lever might require a brief break-in period. Despite this minor issue, the holster performs exceptionally well and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rdso is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The use of Safariland‘s SafariSeven nylon blend results in a lightweight yet durable holster. The mid-ride design distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, reducing strain and improving comfort.
The holster’s ergonomic design allows for a natural and intuitive draw stroke. The ALS release lever is easily accessible with the thumb, promoting a smooth and efficient draw. The holster has a user-friendly design with a minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rdso is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven nylon blend material is highly resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. This ensures the holster’s longevity and reliability.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required. With proper care, the Safariland 6390rdso should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows users to customize the holster to suit their specific needs and preferences.
While the 6390rdso itself does not offer extensive customization beyond mounting options, its compatibility with various firearm models and red dot sights makes it a versatile platform. The user can also easily swap out the belt loop for different ride heights or attachment methods. Consider mounting to a thigh rig for an even more custom setup.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG
Pros
- Secure Level I Retention: The ALS provides reliable retention without compromising draw speed.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: The open pocket design allows for seamless integration with red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend material is built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride height improves concealment and reduces strain.
- Intuitive Draw Stroke: The ergonomic design promotes a smooth and efficient draw.
Cons
- Initial Stiffness: The ALS release lever may require a brief break-in period.
- Limited Customization: Fewer options for customization compared to some other holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG?
The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a reliable and secure duty holster. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters and tactical enthusiasts who use red dot sights. Individuals wanting a holster they can trust their life to will benefit the most from the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG.
Those who prefer a Level II or Level III retention holster might want to skip this product. Individuals prioritizing maximum customization options should explore alternatives.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-482-AG is a well-designed, durable, and reliable holster that excels at its intended purpose. It provides secure retention, a smooth draw, and comfortable carry, making it an excellent choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
At a price of $164.20, the Safariland 6390rdso offers excellent value for the money, especially considering its quality and performance. Yes, I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a duty-rated holster that can accommodate a red dot sight. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – invest in the Safariland 6390rdso and experience the difference!