First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30 is a holster designed with the modern law enforcement officer and tactical shooter in mind. Specifically, this holster addresses the growing prevalence of red dot sights on duty pistols, offering a secure and accessible platform for those firearms.
I’ve spent years struggling to find a duty holster that properly accommodates my Glock 17 equipped with a red dot. Many older holsters simply weren’t designed with optics in mind, leading to fitment issues and compromised retention. The promise of a Safariland holster, known for its quality and reliability, designed specifically for red dot equipped pistols, was exactly what I was looking for.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression is one of robust build quality. The Safariland 6390rds feels solid and well-constructed, using durable materials that inspire confidence. Compared to some of the cheaper, injection-molded holsters I’ve used, this is a clear step up in terms of fit and finish.
I considered options from Blackhawk and G-Code, but Safariland‘s reputation for duty-grade equipment ultimately swayed my decision. Blackhawk often feels less refined, and while G-Code offers modularity, the Safariland‘s simple, proven design was more appealing for my needs. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to finally have a secure, reliable, and purpose-built holster for my red-dot equipped duty pistol.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds was at the local shooting range. I spent several hours practicing draws, re-holstering, and various shooting drills to get a feel for the system. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) was immediately impressive.
The retention was secure, yet the draw was incredibly smooth and natural with practice. I also tested it during a light rain shower to simulate real-world conditions. Even with wet hands, the grip and draw remained consistent and reliable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear, even with daily use and exposure to various weather conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous holster, a generic nylon model, the Safariland 6390rds is a significant improvement in terms of both security and accessibility. The ALS retention system provides a level of confidence that my previous holster simply couldn’t match. It definitely outperforms my previous experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30 is designed for specific firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps.
The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop for close-to-body carry. It is constructed from Safariland‘s durable SafariSeven nylon blend. This provides excellent resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion.
The ALS system’s importance cannot be overstated; it offers Level I Retention, providing a crucial balance between security and rapid access to the firearm. The mid-ride height offers a good compromise between concealment and ease of draw, especially under stress. The material choice ensures the holster holds its shape and protects the firearm even in harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds performs its job admirably, providing secure retention and a smooth, consistent draw. The ALS system is intuitive to use, requiring only a simple thumb release to deactivate. The mid-ride height allows for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
One strength is the positive lockup and the audible “click” when the firearm is properly holstered. A minor weakness might be the learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release under pressure, although it quickly becomes second nature with practice. It absolutely meets my expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts excellent build quality, using high-strength materials that inspire confidence. Its weight is moderate, adding minimal bulk to the duty belt. The holster is designed for a comfortable and secure fit against the body.
It is very user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive ALS release mechanism. There is a minimal learning curve associated with mastering the draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last, with its durable SafariSeven construction designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The ALS mechanism may benefit from periodic lubrication with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds comes standard with a mid-ride belt loop attachment. Many users choose to customize their setup with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops or leg shrouds.
The holster is also compatible with a wide range of red dot sights, making it a versatile choice for users with different optic setups. Some users may also choose to add a Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) receiver plate to allow for rapid holster swapping between different platforms. This is very beneficial for those who want modularity.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30
Pros
- Secure Retention: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides excellent Level I Retention, ensuring the firearm stays securely in place.
- Red Dot Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, eliminating fitment issues.
- Durable Construction: Made from Safariland‘s SafariSeven material, offering exceptional resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: The ALS system allows for a quick, smooth, and consistent draw once mastered.
- Duty-Grade Reliability: Trusted by law enforcement and military professionals worldwide for its proven performance.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release mechanism may require some initial practice.
- Price Point: At $229.40, it’s more expensive than some other holster options on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who rely on red dot equipped pistols. It’s also a great option for anyone seeking a secure and reliable duty holster with Level I Retention.
Those who prioritize concealability over retention, or those on a very tight budget, might want to skip this product. A must-have modification is a Safariland QLS system for quick holster swapping.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-741-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, security, and durability. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the peace of mind and reliability it offers are well worth the investment.
I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone seeking a purpose-built platform for their red dot equipped duty pistol. If you need a holster that you can trust your life with, pull the trigger on the Safariland 6390rds.