First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP
For years, I’ve relied on Safariland holsters for duty and competition. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP specifically caught my eye because of its compatibility with red dot sights, a growing trend in law enforcement and tactical circles. The promise of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) coupled with a mid-ride platform made it a potential upgrade for my existing setup.
My aging duty holster wasn’t designed for optics and felt unnecessarily bulky. I needed a secure, reliable, and streamlined holster that could accommodate my pistol with a mounted red dot, offering a faster, more intuitive draw in high-pressure situations.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the Safariland quality. The holster felt solid, well-constructed, and the materials appeared durable enough to withstand daily use. The fit and finish were excellent, and the ALS lever moved smoothly with a reassuring click. Compared to some cheaper, polymer-only holsters I’ve used, the Safariland exuded confidence.
I also considered the Blackhawk T-Series L3D and the Streamlight TLR-7/8 compatible models, but opted for the Safariland due to its reputation for superior retention and the mid-ride platform, which sits lower on the belt for a more comfortable and natural draw. I was excited to see if the ALS would live up to its reputation and provide the secure retention I needed without sacrificing speed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6390rds at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. I ran drills involving drawing and re-holstering while moving, simulating real-world scenarios. The ALS retention system took a few repetitions to become second nature, but after about 30 minutes, the draw became smooth and intuitive.
The holster performed well even in slightly damp conditions after an unexpected rain shower. The grip remained secure, and the ALS lever didn’t become slippery. The mid-ride height felt comfortable and allowed for a natural draw without interfering with my body armor or other gear. The only initial issue was adjusting the tension screw to my preference; it required a few adjustments to find the sweet spot between retention and ease of draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, even with daily use during training and occasional outdoor scenarios.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous holster, which often required disassembly and meticulous cleaning, the Safariland is a breeze to maintain. It significantly outperforms my previous holsters in terms of retention, comfort, and speed, especially when drawing with a red dot equipped pistol.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP is 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 lacks snaps or straps requiring manipulation, and the weapon locks into place upon holstering. It uses a mid-ride belt loop that positions the firearm close to the body. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a high-strength, lightweight material.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodgement of the weapon during strenuous activity. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and natural draw stroke, minimizing unnecessary movement and maximizing speed.
The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS system. However, with practice, the draw becomes second nature. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated holster designed for red dot equipped firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the SafariSeven™ nylon blend providing a lightweight yet durable platform. The mid-ride design distributes weight comfortably, even with a fully loaded firearm. The ALS lever is easily accessible and intuitive to operate with the thumb.
The design is incredibly user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustments for different body types and firearm sizes. The holster’s open-top design allows for quick and easy re-holstering, even under pressure.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, ensuring a long service life. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, making it a reliable choice for law enforcement and tactical professionals.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and optic protectors. It’s designed to accommodate various red dot sights without modification. While the holster is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it’s often compatible with other popular brands as long as they adhere to standard mounting patterns. The holster tension can also be adjusted using a simple tension screw.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides outstanding weapon retention, giving you confidence in any situation.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with mounted optics, offering a seamless and secure fit.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride height allows for a natural and comfortable draw stroke, minimizing fatigue during extended wear.
- Easy to Use: Once mastered, the ALS system becomes intuitive and provides a smooth, rapid draw.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: The ALS system requires practice to master, which may be a drawback for new users.
- Price: The holster is relatively expensive compared to some other options, but the quality and features justify the cost.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure and reliable holster for their red dot equipped firearms. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who demand a fast and consistent draw.
Those who are new to firearms or prefer simpler retention systems might find the ALS system overwhelming. Individuals on a tight budget may want to explore less expensive alternatives. A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28327-492-AG-NP is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional retention, durability, and comfort. The $181.80 price tag is justified by the quality of materials, innovative design, and reliable performance.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and dependable platform for their red dot equipped firearm. If you’re looking for a duty-rated holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a fast, intuitive draw, the Safariland 6390rds is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.