Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481 is a purpose-built duty holster designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) promises secure retention, while the mid-ride belt loop aims for a comfortable and accessible carry. I’ve spent over a decade working with various holsters, both in professional capacities and recreational shooting, so I was eager to see how this Safariland offering stacked up against the competition.

For years, I’ve grappled with finding the optimal balance between retention and draw speed, especially with the increasing prevalence of red dot sights on duty weapons. Traditional holsters often required significant modification or simply didn’t accommodate the optic, leading to compromised retention or awkward draw strokes. The Safariland 6390rds seemed like a potential solution, directly addressing this issue with its RDS-specific design and ALS retention.

The unboxing experience was straightforward, nothing fancy, but professional. The holster itself felt robust, constructed from what appeared to be a high-quality polymer. The finish was clean, and the internal molding looked precise, suggesting a good fit for the intended firearm.

Compared to some other duty holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa (which I’ve since moved away from due to safety concerns) and the older Safariland SLS models, the 6390rds appears less bulky. The mid-ride height felt immediately comfortable, promising a natural draw stroke. I chose this over other brands because of Safariland‘s reputation for durability and proven track record in law enforcement and military applications; other brands felt flimsy or untested.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality seemed excellent, and the ALS system felt secure. I was eager to get it onto the range and see how it performed under real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6390rds was at my local shooting range. I was running drills with my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. The weather was typical for the area: slightly humid and dusty.

The draw stroke felt remarkably natural right from the start. The ALS system disengaged smoothly with a thumb press, and the mid-ride height positioned the firearm perfectly for a consistent grip. Even with sweaty hands, I had no trouble establishing a solid purchase and drawing the weapon cleanly. There were no issues regarding the optic interfering with the draw; the holster’s design clearly accommodated the RMR without any snags.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a tactical pistol course, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. It shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight scuff marks on the exterior finish. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention.

Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This is a welcome change from some of my older holsters, which required frequent cleaning and lubrication to prevent binding. Compared to my previous duty holster (a Safariland SLS model without RDS compatibility), the 6390rds is a significant upgrade in terms of both functionality and ease of use. The ALS system provides faster access to the firearm, and the RDS-specific design eliminates any compatibility issues.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481 is designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms with red dot sights. It features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend, which is non-abrasive to firearm finishes.

The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to ride closer to the body for increased comfort and concealability. It is a Level I Retention holster, meaning it has a single retention device (the ALS). The model number 6390RDS-2712-481 specifically fits Glock 17/22 with a red dot sight and Streamlight TLR-1/2 weapon light.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The ALS provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The SafariSeven material offers excellent durability and protects the firearm from scratches and abrasions. The mid-ride height optimizes the draw stroke and enhances comfort, particularly during extended periods of wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress. The firearm locks into place automatically upon holstering, and the thumb release is easily accessible and doesn’t require excessive force to disengage.

The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. It performs consistently well in various conditions, from dry range environments to wet and muddy training scenarios. The only potential weakness is that the Level I retention might not be sufficient for all users or environments; some may prefer a Level II or Level III holster for added security. It absolutely meets my expectations and even exceeds them in some ways due to the comfort provided by the mid-ride position.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, given its robust construction. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a natural and accessible location.

The holster is user-friendly and requires minimal training to master. The ALS release is intuitive, and the draw stroke is smooth and consistent. The internal molding prevents the firearm from snagging or binding during the draw.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should last for many years.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting platforms. The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications. It also comes in different versions to accommodate different weapon lights.

This holster is also compatible with Safariland‘s QLS (Quick Locking System), allowing for rapid attachment and detachment from different platforms. This system is highly recommended for anyone who needs to switch their holster between different belts or vests quickly.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and comfortable duty holster for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It is also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.

This product may not be ideal for users who require a higher level of retention (Level II or Level III). Civilians who primarily carry concealed may also find the mid-ride height less suitable for concealment.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland QLS system, which allows for rapid holster swaps between different platforms. Also, a good quality duty belt is essential for optimal comfort and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-481 is an excellent duty holster that delivers on its promises. It provides secure retention, accommodates red dot sights, and offers a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. While the price may be slightly higher than some other options, the quality and performance justify the investment.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and durable duty holster for a firearm with a red dot sight. The Safariland 6390rds is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of dependable service. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, don’t hesitate to give this holster a try!