First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH is a serious piece of kit designed for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts who demand the highest level of security and accessibility. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the duty gear world, and this holster seems to be a worthy addition to their lineup, particularly appealing to those running red dot sights on their pistols. Its focus on Level I retention with the Automatic Locking System (ALS), combined with a mid-ride belt loop, promised a blend of security and quick draw capability that piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve relied on various holsters, often finding myself caught between secure retention and a smooth, fast draw. Many Level II and Level III holsters feel clunky, hindering a natural draw stroke, while simpler holsters offer less security in dynamic situations. My search was for a holster that could bridge this gap, providing reliable retention without sacrificing speed and accessibility, especially now that I’ve transitioned to using a red dot sight on my duty pistol.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH makes a strong first impression. The construction feels robust, with a durable exterior and a smooth interior finish. Compared to some Kydex offerings, this holster’s material exudes a higher level of quality, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability. It felt a step up from a previous holster I used from Blackhawk, and more streamlined than a bulkier model from SERPA.
My initial reaction was excitement. The ALS system seemed intuitive and well-designed, and the mid-ride height appeared to strike a good balance between concealment and accessibility. I was eager to get this holster on the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH was at my local shooting range during a practical pistol competition. I was running drills that involved drawing from concealment, engaging multiple targets, and moving between shooting positions.
The Safariland performed admirably, even in the less-than-ideal, slightly humid weather. The ALS system proved easy to disengage with my thumb, allowing for a quick, smooth draw every time. There was a slight learning curve to the precise thumb placement needed to deactivate the ALS consistently, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.
The only initial hiccup was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance between retention and draw speed. Too tight, and the draw was sluggish; too loose, and I worried about the pistol’s security during movement. After a few minor adjustments, I found the sweet spot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a three-day tactical training course, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are minor scuff marks on the exterior from repeated contact with gear and barricades, but the holster’s structure and retention system remain unaffected.
Maintenance has been minimal. I occasionally wipe down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, and I’ve applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to the leather holsters I used previously, the Safariland requires significantly less care. It outperforms my previous Kydex holster in terms of long-term durability and resistance to cracking under stress.
This holster has exceeded my expectations. It provides a level of security and accessibility that I haven’t experienced with other holsters, making it a valuable asset for both professional and recreational use.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. The holster is made from a proprietary nylon blend, offering exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for optimal draw speed and comfort. It also allows for comfortable wear with body armor or other tactical gear. The holster is compatible with various Safariland mounting options, allowing users to customize their carry setup.
These specifications are critical for ensuring both the security of the firearm and the user’s ability to quickly and efficiently draw their weapon when needed. The material’s durability ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The mid-ride height allows for a more natural draw stroke, particularly when wearing load-bearing equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH performs its primary job exceptionally well: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a confident level of retention without hindering accessibility.
The holster’s strengths lie in its balance of security and speed. The weakness would be that finding the perfect tension adjustment requires patience and experimentation. The Safariland definitely meets my expectations for a duty-rated holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is top-notch. Safariland uses high-quality materials and meticulous construction techniques. The holster’s weight is negligible, and it sits comfortably against the body.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. However, the system becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
This holster is built to last. Its durable construction and robust materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting options. This allows users to customize their carry setup to suit their specific needs.
While the holster itself doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond the standard belt loop, its compatibility with Safariland’s ecosystem of accessories opens up a world of customization possibilities. Users can add leg straps, drop-down platforms, or other mounting solutions to tailor the holster to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a high level of security without compromising draw speed.
- Durable Construction: The holster is made from high-quality materials that can withstand demanding use.
- Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and accessible carry position, especially with tactical gear.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights.
- Customizable: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting options.
Cons
- Tension Adjustment: Requires some experimentation to find the optimal balance between retention and draw speed.
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release takes some practice.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a reliable and secure holster for their duty firearms. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters and firearm enthusiasts who prioritize both safety and speed.
Individuals who prefer simpler, less secure holsters, or those who are unwilling to invest the time to master the ALS release, should skip this product. A quality belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-411-NH is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, accessibility, and durability. At $165.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, innovative design, and overall performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm. If you’re looking for a duty-rated holster that can keep up with your demands, the Safariland 6390rds is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance – get yours today!