First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 is a name that echoes through the halls of law enforcement and tactical communities. Safariland has long been a standard for duty holsters, offering a blend of security and accessibility that’s hard to beat. The 6390RDS variant, designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights, promised to be a game-changer for those of us who’ve embraced the optic-ready revolution.
As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. My primary need was a reliable duty-rated holster that could securely house my Glock 17 with a Holosun 507C. I was also looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank, but still provided the necessary retention for open carry in a patrol environment.
Unboxing the 6390RDS was a reassuring experience. The first thing I noticed was the sturdy construction and the clean, professional finish. The holster felt substantial without being overly bulky, and the Automatic Locking System (ALS) was immediately apparent and reassuringly solid.
Compared to some of the older Safariland models I’ve used, this one felt more refined. While some polymer holsters felt flimsy, this felt like it could withstand serious abuse. It definitely stood out compared to some cheaper Kydex options I’ve tried, which often lacked the same level of security and durability.
My initial impression was definitely positive. I was excited to get it out on the range and see how it performed under pressure. This felt like a holster built for serious work, and I was eager to confirm that impression.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 was at a local shooting range. I specifically wanted to test the draw stroke and retention system while performing drills involving movement and rapid target acquisition. I also wanted to test the draw in awkward positions while seated and crouched.
The weather was slightly damp, which provided a decent test for grip and the holster’s ability to maintain its form in less-than-ideal conditions. Drawing from the holster was surprisingly intuitive. The ALS release was easily accessible with my thumb, and the straight-up draw was smooth and consistent.
There were no initial issues, and the holster felt very secure. The red dot sight cleared the holster with ease, and the mid-ride position felt natural and comfortable while moving. My initial impression was extremely positive, and the draw stroke was fast and intuitive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 has proven to be a reliable piece of kit. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days at the range to rainy days during training exercises. It has also seen use while hog hunting in thick brush.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some light scuff marks on the exterior. The ALS mechanism still functions flawlessly, and the holster retains its shape and rigidity. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the 6390RDS stands out for its retention and comfort. Older holsters often required more maintenance and showed wear more quickly. This one feels like it’s built to last, even with constant daily use and abuse.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 is designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I Retention. The holster is made from a durable SafariSeven nylon blend material.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm close to the body. This holster is designed for right-handed shooters. It is compatible with a variety of popular firearms, including Glock, Sig Sauer, and Smith & Wesson models, provided they are equipped with a red dot sight.
These specifications are vital because they directly impact the holster’s ability to provide secure retention and ease of access. The ALS ensures the firearm stays in place until deliberately released, while the mid-ride position offers a comfortable and natural draw stroke. The SafariSeven material ensures the holster can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 performs its primary function – securely holding a firearm – exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a confident Level I retention. Releasing the firearm is quick and intuitive with practice.
The main strength of this holster is its balance of security and accessibility. It meets expectations for a duty holster, providing a high level of security without sacrificing speed. A minor weakness is that the ALS release can be a bit stiff initially, requiring a short break-in period.
It exceeds expectations by providing a red-dot-ready platform that is both durable and comfortable. The holster makes carrying a weapon with an optic feasible. It also maintains a professional look.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 is top-notch. The SafariSeven material feels robust and well-molded. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, considering its sturdy construction.
The mid-ride design provides a comfortable carry position. It’s user-friendly and requires minimal learning curve. The ALS release is positioned for easy thumb activation.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven nylon blend material is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and conditions. The holster is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and solvents. It feels like it will last for years, even with heavy use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning can be achieved with soap and water. No specialized tools are needed for upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 comes with a standard mid-ride belt loop. The holster is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for different carry positions and attachments. This allows for customization to fit individual preferences.
It does not come with any other included accessories. You can customize by changing the belt loop attachment. It is compatible with Safariland’s QLS (Quick Locking System) and other popular mounting systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492
Pros
- Provides secure Level I Retention with the Automatic Locking System (ALS).
- Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, accommodating various optic sizes and brands.
- Durable SafariSeven construction ensures longevity and resistance to harsh conditions.
- Mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm close to the body for comfortable carry.
- Compatible with Safariland mounting platforms for customization.
Cons
- The ALS release can be stiff initially and require some break-in.
- Level I retention might not be sufficient for all high-risk environments.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492?
Perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure and reliable holster for their red-dot-equipped firearms. Also ideal for those who prefer a mid-ride carry position for increased comfort and accessibility.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals seeking the highest level of retention (Level II or higher) or those who do not use a red dot sight on their firearm. Those who prefer concealed carry may also find this holster less suitable.
A must-have modification for some users would be the addition of a Safariland QLS adapter for quickly transferring the holster between different mounting platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-492 is a solid and dependable choice for anyone needing a duty-rated holster for a red-dot-equipped firearm. It balances security, accessibility, and durability effectively. The build quality is excellent.
At $168.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the reliable performance of the ALS system. Compared to other high-end holsters, it offers excellent value.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who fits the target demographic. It’s a reliable piece of gear that will serve you well. Invest in your safety and performance. Give the Safariland 6390rds a try – you won’t be disappointed.