Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG

As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising a unique blend of security, accessibility, and comfort. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG piqued my interest due to its reputation within law enforcement circles and its specific design catering to firearms equipped with red dot sights, a growing trend in both professional and civilian applications. Safariland holsters are known for their rugged durability and reliable retention systems. This model claimed to offer a streamlined draw with Level I retention, all while accommodating a red dot optic – a combination I was eager to put to the test.

I was looking for a holster that could securely hold my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR, offering a balance between speed and security for potential duty use. My current holster, a standard Level II retention model, felt bulky and slow, especially when practicing rapid draws. The promise of the Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) and its mid-ride design convinced me to give it a try.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt immediately robust and well-constructed. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG boasts a sleek profile and a clean finish, indicative of the quality craftsmanship Safariland is known for. Its weight felt appropriate for a duty holster, neither too light to feel flimsy nor too heavy to be cumbersome. The materials felt durable and ready to withstand the rigors of daily use.

Compared to a Blackhawk! Serpa holster and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland stood out in its construction quality and retention mechanism. The Blackhawk! Serpa, while offering a similar draw speed, felt less secure. The Blade-Tech, while slim and comfortable, lacked any active retention. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG seemed to offer the best of both worlds.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The design appeared promising, but the true test would be how it performed in real-world scenarios. I was excited to see if the ALS system lived up to the hype and if the mid-ride design offered the comfort and accessibility I was hoping for.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The weather was typical for late spring, alternating between periods of sunshine and light rain.

The holster performed admirably even in the damp conditions. The ALS system functioned flawlessly, providing secure retention even when the holster was wet. Drawing the weapon was intuitive and relatively fast after a few practice repetitions. It took some getting used to deactivating the ALS with my thumb during the draw stroke, but after about an hour of practice, it became second nature.

Initially, I found the mid-ride position slightly different from my usual high-ride holsters, but the comfort level increased significantly after adjusting the belt loop to my preference. There were no significant issues or surprises after the first use, only a growing appreciation for the Safariland‘s design and functionality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a tactical training course, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG has proven its reliability and durability. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some slight scuff marks on the exterior finish, which is to be expected with heavy use.

The ALS system continues to function smoothly and consistently, providing a secure and reliable retention mechanism. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS components with a silicone-based lubricant. This ensures smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland has significantly outperformed them in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall comfort. It has become my go-to duty holster, providing the confidence and reliability I need in high-pressure situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland‘s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), offering Level I retention. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, allowing for comfortable carry closer to the body.

The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions, eliminating the need for straps or snaps. The draw is performed by simply deactivating the ALS with the thumb during the draw stroke. The mid-ride position allows for a comfortable and natural draw.

These specifications are critical for duty use. The ALS provides a reliable level of security, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. The red dot sight compatibility ensures that the holster can accommodate modern firearm setups. The mid-ride position allows for a comfortable and accessible draw, essential in tactical situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG excels in its core function: providing secure retention and a fast, reliable draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, ensuring that the firearm remains securely holstered until intentionally released.

The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, allowing for rapid deployment of the weapon in critical situations. The holster’s design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without any modifications. Its ability to securely retain a weapon with an optic is a significant advantage over many other holsters.

The main strength lies in its balance of speed and security. The ALS system offers Level I retention without sacrificing draw speed. The primary area for improvement might be the initial learning curve. Mastering the ALS activation requires some practice, but once learned, it becomes second nature.

The holster meets and often exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is designed to be a reliable and efficient tool for professionals and armed citizens alike.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend material. This makes the holster resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster’s weight is well-distributed, ensuring comfort during extended periods of carry.

The mid-ride design positions the firearm at an optimal height for a natural and comfortable draw stroke. The ALS lever is ergonomically positioned for easy access and activation.

The holster is generally user-friendly. New users might need some time to master the ALS system. Once familiar, the holster becomes intuitive and easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is built to last. The Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend construction ensures resistance to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, it can withstand years of heavy use.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS components are sufficient. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, facilitating thorough cleaning and maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. Users can customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights without any modifications. It is also compatible with various weapon lights. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG integrates well with other gear.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and armed citizens who prioritize reliable retention and a fast draw. It’s also a great choice for those who use firearms equipped with red dot sights.

Those who should skip this product are individuals on a tight budget or those who prefer simpler retention mechanisms without any learning curve. It may also not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and mid-ride design.

A must-have accessory would be a quality duty belt that provides a stable and secure platform for the holster. A weapon light can also be a valuable addition, enhancing the firearm’s capabilities in low-light situations.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG

In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, accessibility, and durability. The ALS system provides reliable Level I retention. The red dot sight compatibility makes it a valuable asset for modern firearm setups.

The price is justified given the holster’s quality, performance, and features. While the learning curve of the ALS system may be a minor inconvenience, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG to anyone seeking a high-quality duty holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide reliable performance in critical situations. If you’re looking for a holster that combines speed, security, and comfort, this is it. Invest in your safety and gear up with the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-491-AG today!