Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481 isn’t just another piece of kit; it’s a statement of preparedness and trust in a brand synonymous with law enforcement and tactical excellence. The model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a game-changer for retention, and caters specifically to firearms equipped with red dot sights. As someone who’s spent over a decade working with outdoor and tactical gear, I know that a holster is more than just a carry method – it’s a critical component of a shooter’s system, impacting everything from draw speed to overall safety.

My search for this particular holster started with a need for enhanced retention and compatibility with my increasingly common red dot sight. Many holsters simply aren’t designed to accommodate the bulk of an optic, forcing compromises in security or draw speed. The Safariland 6390rds promised to solve that problem.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the Safariland build quality. The rugged SafariSeven nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall construction seemed top-notch. Compared to a Kydex holster I’d been using, this felt more substantial, yet surprisingly comfortable against my body. Other holsters I considered lacked the red dot sight compatibility or didn’t offer the same level of active retention.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for a faster, more secure draw with my red dot-equipped pistol, but also wary of whether the ALS system would be intuitive and reliable under pressure. Time and real-world testing would be the true judge.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6390rds was at an outdoor shooting range during a moderately humid day. I ran drills involving rapid draws, re-holstering under time constraints, and movement between firing positions. The mid-ride height felt immediately comfortable, allowing for a natural draw stroke without snagging on my vest or belt.

The ALS system took a little getting used to initially. It requires a deliberate thumb sweep to disengage the lock, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. I noticed that even with sweaty hands, the SafariSeven material provided a secure grip on the holster during the draw. There was one slight issue; the initial “click” of the ALS engaging was a bit quieter than I expected, requiring a conscious check to ensure the weapon was fully secured.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including training sessions in both dry and slightly rainy conditions, the Safariland 6390rds has proven remarkably reliable. The holster shows no signs of significant wear and tear, despite constant friction from drawing and re-holstering. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime.

Compared to a previous leather duty holster, the Safariland 6390rds is a significant upgrade in terms of both retention and durability. The ALS provides a much more secure hold, and the SafariSeven material doesn’t require the same level of maintenance as leather. It has definitely exceeded my expectations for a duty-rated holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481

Specifications

• The Safariland 6390rds is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This ensures proper fit and prevents damage to the optic.
• It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that provides Level I Retention. This means the firearm is secured without the need for straps or snaps, offering both security and a fast draw.
• The holster has a mid-ride belt loop. This positions the firearm closer to the body for enhanced concealment and a more comfortable carry.
• Constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is non-abrasive to firearm finishes, incredibly durable, and resistant to extreme temperatures.
• The holster body is designed with an open-top configuration. This allows for a quick and unobstructed draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely holding a firearm equipped with a red dot sight while providing a fast and reliable draw. The ALS system provides excellent retention without hindering speed, and the mid-ride height enhances comfort and concealability. While the ALS takes some practice to master, it becomes intuitive with repetition.

One minor weakness is the audible feedback of the ALS engaging. It could be slightly louder to provide more confident confirmation that the weapon is secure. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a Level I Retention duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design. The SafariSeven material is both durable and comfortable against the body. The mid-ride height strikes a good balance between accessibility and concealment.

There’s a slight learning curve to the ALS, but the overall design is user-friendly and promotes a natural draw stroke. The smooth interior of the holster protects the firearm’s finish, and the open-top design allows for easy re-holstering.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven material is incredibly resistant to wear and tear. Minimal maintenance is required; simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth is typically sufficient.

Given the robust construction and quality materials, this holster should provide years of reliable service. The durability justifies the investment for professionals and serious shooters alike.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds itself doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, focusing instead on its core function. However, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible belt loops and mounting options. Compatibility with various belt widths is crucial for customizing the fit to individual preferences.

While the holster is primarily designed for firearms with red dot sights, it’s worth noting that the specific optic cut may limit compatibility with extremely large or unconventional red dot models. Checking compatibility with your specific optic is recommended.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and serious competitive shooters who rely on a secure and reliable holster for their red dot-equipped firearms. It’s also a great choice for anyone who values a high level of retention and durability in their everyday carry setup.

Those who should skip this product might include individuals who prefer simpler, non-retention holsters or those who do not use red dot sights on their firearms. A sturdy duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster function and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-481 is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional holster that delivers on its promises. It offers exceptional retention, red dot sight compatibility, and a comfortable carry, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious shooters.

The price of $165.99 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. I would definitely recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure way to carry their red dot-equipped firearm. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with a Safariland holster.