Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552 is a name that resonates with law enforcement and security professionals alike. Safariland is a well-known and trusted manufacturer. This holster specifically caters to firearms equipped with red dot sights, a growing trend in both professional and civilian shooting. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) coupled with the mid-ride belt loop caught my attention because I was seeking a secure and comfortable way to carry a pistol with an optic while maintaining a quick draw capability.

My search stemmed from a need to replace an older, less secure holster that didn’t accommodate a recently installed red dot sight on my duty pistol. I’d been experiencing difficulty finding a holster that offered both excellent retention and allowed for a smooth, unobstructed draw with the optic. I was looking for a solution that would not only be reliable in the field, but also offer a comfortable carry position for extended periods of time.

The Safariland 6390rds arrived in typical Safariland packaging, a simple cardboard box. Upon opening, the holster felt robust and well-constructed; the materials felt high quality, and the overall design appeared functional and streamlined. The holster felt surprisingly lightweight considering its duty-rated designation and felt noticeably lighter than some of my previous Safariland models.

Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Safariland 7378RDS, the 6390RDS stood out due to its combination of the ALS system and the mid-ride height, which seemed to offer a superior balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. I chose the Safariland 6390rds over other options primarily because of the proven reliability of the ALS system and Safariland’s reputation for producing durable, duty-grade holsters. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the holster appeared to be well-designed and built, but I needed to put it through its paces to truly assess its worth.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6390rds was at an outdoor shooting range and during several days of tactical training exercises. The exercises included simulated building entry, vehicle stops, and active shooter scenarios. Testing was done in varying conditions, including bright sunlight, light rain, and dusty environments.

The holster performed exceptionally well right from the start. Drawing from the holster was intuitive after a short period of familiarization, and the ALS system disengaged smoothly with consistent thumb pressure. The mid-ride height proved to be comfortable, allowing for a natural and unencumbered draw stroke. There were no issues with the red dot sight snagging or interfering with the draw, even in awkward shooting positions.

The only minor issue I encountered was a slight initial stiffness in the ALS mechanism, which resolved itself after several draws and re-holstering cycles. I also needed to make a minor adjustment to the tensioning screw to get the perfect balance of retention and ease of draw for my specific pistol.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear despite consistent use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven nylon blend material has held up remarkably well against abrasions and impacts.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime. I have occasionally used Safariland’s silicone-based holster lubricant to ensure the ALS mechanism operates smoothly. Compared to my previous leather holsters, the 6390rds requires significantly less maintenance and doesn’t suffer from the same issues with moisture absorption and cracking. It has definitely outperformed my expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and suitability for duty use. The primary feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without the need for snaps or straps. It is designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. The holster also features a mid-ride belt loop.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is the cornerstone of the holster’s retention capability. The ALS system automatically engages when the firearm is holstered and is deactivated by a simple thumb swipe during the draw stroke.
• Red Dot Sight Compatibility: The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. The cut allows for a clear and unobstructed draw without interfering with the optic.
• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride design positions the holster lower on the belt compared to a high-ride holster, providing a comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke. It also keeps the firearm close to the body for better concealment and reduced printing.
• SafariSeven Nylon Blend Construction: The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, a non-abrasive material that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and moisture. This makes the holster exceptionally durable and suitable for use in a wide range of environmental conditions.
• Level I Retention: Level I retention indicates that the holster utilizes a single retention mechanism (the ALS) to secure the firearm.
• Duty Rated: Designed and tested to withstand the rigors of daily duty use by law enforcement and security professionals.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s security, reliability, and user comfort. The ALS system provides a high level of retention, while the mid-ride height and SafariSeven construction contribute to a comfortable and durable carry experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive and audible click when the firearm is holstered, ensuring that it is securely locked in place. Drawing the firearm is a simple, one-handed operation that requires minimal training.

The strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS system offers excellent retention without sacrificing speed or ease of draw. The only potential weakness is that the ALS system requires a specific technique to disengage, which could be challenging for someone unfamiliar with it. However, with a little practice, the draw stroke becomes second nature. The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds features a streamlined and functional design that prioritizes user comfort and accessibility. The SafariSeven material provides a smooth and non-abrasive surface against the body. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a comfortable and natural drawing position.

The holster is relatively lightweight considering its duty-rated construction and feels well-balanced on the belt. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but the design is otherwise intuitive and user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last, thanks to its SafariSeven nylon blend construction. The material is highly resistant to abrasions, impacts, and environmental factors. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is recommended to ensure smooth operation. The holster is easy to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning and maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is also compatible with various red dot sights from different manufacturers, provided they are within the size and shape parameters for which the holster was designed. Many users also modify the holster by adding a weapon-mounted light. These lights typically require a different model of Safariland holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and reliable holster for a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It is also well-suited for individuals who prioritize durability, comfort, and ease of use in a duty-grade holster.

Individuals who should skip this product include those on a very tight budget or those who do not use a red dot sight on their firearm. Also, users who prefer simpler retention systems might find the ALS unnecessary.

A must-have accessory for this holster is Safariland’s silicone-based holster lubricant to ensure smooth operation of the ALS mechanism. A leg shroud can also be added for increased stability and comfort during extended periods of wear.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-552 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and comfort. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides excellent retention, while the SafariSeven construction ensures long-lasting durability. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and ergonomic carry position.

At $165.99, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, performance, and duty-rated construction. I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry a firearm with a red dot sight.

If you are looking for a duty-grade holster that will stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide a safe and secure carry for your firearm, the Safariland 6390rds is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed.