First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL is a name that screams reliability and professional-grade performance. From the renowned Safariland brand, this holster is designed for duty use, specifically tailored for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure retention, a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry, and a robust build intended to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
My need for this holster stemmed from a recent upgrade to a pistol equipped with a red dot sight. Existing holsters were simply not compatible, rendering them useless for duty carry. I needed a secure, reliable, and comfortable holster that could accommodate the optic without compromising retention or draw speed.
Upon receiving the holster, my first impression was of its solid, no-nonsense construction. The materials felt durable and the fit and finish were excellent. The holster had a reassuring weight to it without being overly bulky.
I had been considering a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse OWB holster and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 Tactical Holster, but neither seemed quite right. The Blade-Tech lacked the active retention I desired for duty use. The Blackhawk! system, while popular, has a reputation for being less intuitive than Safariland’s ALS. The Safariland appeared to offer the best balance of security, accessibility, and optic compatibility.
Initially, I was impressed with the holster’s rugged construction and the smooth operation of the ALS system. It gave me the confidence that my firearm would be secure yet readily accessible when needed. I was excited to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL took place at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I also used it during a force-on-force training scenario. The range offered a controlled environment to assess its performance and usability.
The holster performed exceptionally well in both dry and wet conditions. The ALS system remained functional even with sweaty hands, and the mid-ride height provided a comfortable and natural draw stroke. Acquiring a solid grip before disengaging the ALS was intuitive.
The learning curve was minimal. After a few practice draws, the ALS became second nature. The only initial issue was remembering to fully depress the release lever when re-holstering under stress, but a little focused practice quickly resolved that.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL has proven to be incredibly durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to harsh weather conditions and rigorous use. The Safariland holster has seen rain, snow, mud, and dust, and it has continued to function flawlessly.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster’s construction and materials make it easy to keep clean and in good working order. The Safariland holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
I previously used a Safariland SLS (Self Locking System) holster, which I found to be reliable but slightly slower to draw from due to the hood. The 6390rds outperforms the SLS holster in draw speed and ease of use while maintaining a high level of security. The lower Level I retention system, when paired with the ALS, works perfectly for fast deployment.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL
Specifications
Designed for Firearms with Red Dot Sights: The holster is specifically molded to accommodate pistols equipped with red dot sights. This eliminates the need for modifications or compromises in retention.
Automatic Locking System (ALS): The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. It provides Level I Retention without sacrificing draw speed.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster close to the body for comfortable and discreet carry. This height is ideal for accessing the firearm while seated or wearing body armor.
Durable Construction: The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, which is resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions. This ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
These specifications are crucial for duty use as they provide a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS ensures weapon retention, while the mid-ride height and durable construction contribute to comfort and longevity. The optic-specific design means no modification is needed; it works right out of the box.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL performs its job exceptionally well, offering a secure and reliable platform for duty carry. The ALS system provides excellent retention, and the draw stroke is smooth and natural.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and optic compatibility. The ALS system is intuitive to use, the construction is robust, and the holster accommodates red dot sights without issue. One minor area for improvement would be the addition of an adjustable tension screw for fine-tuning the draw.
The Safariland holster meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a secure, comfortable, and reliable method of carrying my duty firearm, and the optic compatibility is a significant advantage. It does exactly what I need it to do, day in and day out.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL features a clean, functional design focused on performance and durability. The materials are high-quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The holster has a reassuring weight to it, instilling confidence in its build quality.
The holster is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve associated with the ALS system. After a few practice draws, the ALS becomes second nature. The mid-ride height positions the firearm comfortably for easy access.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL is built to last, constructed from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of duty use. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland should they ever be needed. The Safariland system is designed to be easily maintained and, if necessary, repaired by the end-user.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and quick-release systems. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
The holster is also compatible with various aftermarket red dot sights, provided they fit within the holster’s molded profile. Some users may choose to add a Safariland holster light or a tactical thigh strap for added functionality and security. The adaptability of the system is part of what makes it great.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The ALS system provides secure Level I retention, ensuring the firearm stays in place during rigorous activity.
- Optic Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials built to withstand the demands of duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster close to the body for comfortable and discreet carry.
- Intuitive Draw: The ALS system allows for a smooth and natural draw stroke once mastered.
Cons
- Price: The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL is more expensive than some other holster options.
- ALS Learning Curve: While generally intuitive, mastering the ALS requires practice and familiarization.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and comfortable holster for their duty firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who prioritizes weapon retention and accessibility.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or concealed carry permit holders who are not comfortable with active retention systems. There are simpler and more streamlined options available for those needs. The ALS is a serious piece of equipment for serious applications.
A must-have accessory is a proper duty belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster. A Safariland quick-release system can also be beneficial for quickly attaching and detaching the holster. Practice is also essential, as consistent drawing and re-holstering drills are crucial for mastering the ALS system.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and comfort. The ALS system provides excellent retention, and the optic-specific design is a significant advantage for those using red dot sights.
The price is justified by the holster’s exceptional build quality, durability, and performance. It’s an investment in a piece of equipment that can be trusted to perform in demanding situations.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-CUBL to any professional who requires a secure and reliable holster for their duty firearm. If you need a duty-rated holster for a red-dot equipped pistol, look no further. Take the plunge and experience the Safariland difference.