First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762 arrives promising secure weapon retention and rapid deployment, specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve handled countless holsters, but the combination of Safariland’s reputation and the RDS compatibility immediately piqued my interest. This holster aims to bridge the gap between Level I retention and the growing popularity of optic-equipped pistols in both law enforcement and civilian applications.
My need stemmed from a department-wide shift towards red dot sights on our duty weapons, rendering many existing holsters obsolete. I was seeking a reliable and adaptable holster that could accommodate this transition without compromising officer safety or response time.
Upon unboxing, the holster exudes quality. The materials feel robust, and the build quality is what I’ve come to expect from Safariland: clean lines and meticulous attention to detail. It felt substantial without being overly bulky, a promising start. The mid-ride platform immediately felt like a good compromise between concealment and accessibility.
Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa (Level II retention) and the Galco FLETCH (open-top leather), the Safariland offered a more secure retention mechanism without the cumbersome button press of the Serpa, and a more robust build than the Galco. The Safariland also has the RDS-specific design. I chose this holster primarily for its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and RDS compatibility, features crucial for modern duty carry.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The reputation of Safariland products precedes them, but the true test lies in real-world application. I was eager to put the ALS retention and mid-ride platform to the test under the demanding conditions of patrol duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were the shooting range and subsequent patrol shifts. I tested the Safariland 6390rds during various drills, including drawing under stress, transitioning between targets, and weapon retention scenarios. The weather during these initial tests ranged from dry and sunny to light rain. The holster performed admirably in both conditions.
Drawing from the holster became intuitive within a short period. The ALS release is easily accessed with the thumb during the grip acquisition, allowing for a smooth and natural draw stroke. The mid-ride height positioned the weapon perfectly for my reach, reducing unnecessary movement. There were no immediate issues or surprises, only a growing confidence in the holster’s performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a dependable piece of gear. The kydex-like material shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to the rigors of daily duty. I haven’t observed any cracks, splits, or loosening of the mounting hardware.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism requires occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation. It significantly outperforms my previous duty holster, a leather model that stretched and lost retention over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762 is specifically designed for pistols with mounted red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing Level I retention without requiring straps or snaps. This model uses a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm closer to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
The ALS locks the weapon securely in place once holstered, and is deactivated with a simple thumb release during the draw stroke. The holster is constructed from a proprietary nylon blend, offering durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions. The mid-ride belt loop is compatible with 2.25-inch duty belts.
These specifications are crucial for duty carry. The RDS compatibility ensures that officers can utilize their optic-equipped pistols without needing specialized holsters. The ALS offers a balance between security and rapid access, vital in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a firearm with an RDS. The ALS mechanism provides a confident level of retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, minimizing the risk of fumbling.
The primary strength is its intuitive ALS system and rugged construction. A minor weakness might be the limited adjustability of the retention force; some users might prefer a more customizable setting. It exceeded my expectations by providing a secure, reliable, and RDS-compatible duty holster at a reasonable price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, as expected from Safariland. The materials feel premium, and the holster is well-balanced. The mid-ride platform enhances comfort by distributing the weight of the weapon more evenly across the belt line.
The holster is user-friendly. The ALS release becomes second nature after a few practice draws. The only learning curve involves familiarizing oneself with the location and actuation of the ALS lever.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the demands of daily duty carry. The robust construction and scratch-resistant materials ensure a long service life. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS will further extend its lifespan.
Repairing the holster, if necessary, may require specialized tools and knowledge. The ALS mechanism is relatively complex.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is primarily designed as a standalone holster. However, it is compatible with various Safariland belt mounts and accessories. There are no direct customizations for the holster body itself.
It is compatible with various Safariland leg shrouds, drop-leg platforms, and other mounting options. This enhances its versatility for different operational needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762
Pros
- Excellent retention thanks to the ALS system, providing peace of mind in dynamic situations.
- RDS compatibility allows for seamless integration of optic-equipped pistols without modification.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, even under demanding conditions.
- Mid-ride platform offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
- Smooth and consistent draw stroke promotes speed and efficiency.
Cons
- Limited retention force adjustability may not suit all user preferences.
- Repairs may require specialized tools and knowledge.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who prioritize weapon retention and rapid deployment with RDS-equipped pistols. It’s also well-suited for anyone who prefers a mid-ride carry position for enhanced comfort and accessibility.
Those who prefer a Level II or Level III retention holster may want to skip this product. Also, individuals with small hands may find the ALS lever slightly difficult to reach initially. A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster stability and weight distribution.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-762 is a well-designed, durable, and reliable holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and rapid deployment for RDS-equipped pistols. At $165.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and performance.
I would confidently recommend this holster to anyone seeking a Level I retention option for their duty or competition pistol with a red dot sight. It provides a balance of security, accessibility, and comfort that is hard to beat. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the difference the Safariland 6390rds can make!