First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 is a purpose-built holster for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts demanding a secure and accessible carry system. Specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS), this holster promises a blend of rapid deployment and robust retention. I was keen to evaluate how this holster stacks up against the competition in real-world duty and tactical scenarios.
For years, I’ve struggled finding a duty holster that adequately accommodates red dot sights without sacrificing security or draw speed. Many generic holsters offer minimal retention, while others designed for RDS-equipped firearms feel bulky and slow. My search for a reliable solution that bridges this gap led me to the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701.
Out of the box, the Safariland holster exudes quality. The rugged construction and precise molding instantly impressed me, signaling durability and a secure fit. Compared to similar holsters like the Blackhawk! Omnivore or the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster, the Safariland immediately felt more refined and purpose-built.
My initial excitement was palpable. The promise of a Level I retention holster that accommodates RDS optics and offers the renowned Safariland quality was highly appealing. The mid-ride design also hinted at a comfortable and accessible carry position.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first live test of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 took place at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training day. I ran various drills, including drawing from concealment under a jacket, rapid target acquisition, and movement exercises. The weather conditions were mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with clear skies.
The holster performed admirably. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provided confident retention during movement, but the release was intuitive and didn’t impede my draw stroke. Even with gloves on, the ALS lever was easy to manipulate.
The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the ideal balance between retention and draw speed. It required a few adjustments to find the sweet spot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 has proven to be exceptionally durable. I’ve worn it during numerous range sessions, tactical training exercises, and even a weekend-long wilderness survival course. Despite exposure to rain, mud, and dust, the holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear.
The Safariland holster’s finish has held up remarkably well. Cleaning is simple; I usually wipe it down with a damp cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous experience with leather holsters, the Safariland’s synthetic construction requires far less maintenance.
This holster outperforms anything I’ve used before in terms of combining security, accessibility, and RDS compatibility. The peace of mind knowing my firearm is secure yet readily available is invaluable.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 is a Level I retention holster designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm for a comfortable and accessible draw. It is designed to fit 2.25-inch duty belts, which is a standard size for law enforcement and military personnel. The holster’s open-top design allows for a rapid and unobstructed draw, essential in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides a secure hold on the firearm, preventing accidental dislodgment. The release mechanism is intuitive, allowing for a fast and efficient draw with minimal training.
The primary strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The open top allows for quick target acquisition, while the ALS ensures the firearm remains secure during dynamic movement. One minor weakness is the potential for debris to accumulate in the open-top design, requiring occasional cleaning.
The holster meets and exceeds my expectations. The design demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of law enforcement officers and other professionals who rely on their firearms in demanding environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 boasts a well-thought-out design. The SafariSeven nylon blend is both lightweight and durable. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.
The holster is exceptionally user-friendly. The ALS release lever is easily accessible with the thumb, and the open-top design eliminates any unnecessary steps during the draw. The adjustable tension screw allows for fine-tuning the retention to match personal preference.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The SafariSeven nylon blend is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep the holster functioning smoothly. The SafariSeven material is also resistant to most common solvents, making cleaning easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. This includes various belt mounts, leg shrouds, and other attachment options. The ability to customize the carry position and configuration enhances the versatility of this holster.
Safariland holsters are also known for their compatibility with a variety of firearms and red dot sight configurations. This ensures that the holster can adapt to changes in gear or mission requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides secure Level I retention, preventing accidental dislodgment.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a fast and efficient draw.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip.
Cons
- Potential for debris accumulation in the open-top design.
- Price point is higher compared to some other duty holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and accessible carry system for their RDS-equipped firearms. Competitive shooters who prioritize speed and security will also find this holster to be a valuable asset. Anyone who carries a firearm regularly and demands the highest levels of reliability and retention would also benefit from this holster.
This holster might not be the best choice for casual shooters or individuals who primarily carry concealed. Its duty-oriented design prioritizes security and accessibility over concealability.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory for the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701. A sturdy belt will provide a stable platform for the holster and ensure a comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701
In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises. The combination of secure retention, rapid accessibility, and RDS compatibility makes it a top choice for professionals who rely on their firearms in demanding environments. The durable construction and comfortable carry further enhance its value.
The price of $194.56 is justified by the quality of materials, superior design, and performance of this holster. It is an investment in safety and reliability.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-701 to anyone seeking a high-quality, dependable duty holster for their RDS-equipped firearm. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with using a Safariland holster.