First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG arrived, and its purpose was immediately clear: a duty-grade holster designed to securely carry a pistol equipped with a red dot sight, prioritizing both retention and accessibility. This holster hails from Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and tactical gear. This particular model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a mid-ride belt loop, and is explicitly designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights.
I had been searching for a holster that offered a balance between retention and speed for my duty weapon, which now sports a red dot. Many holsters sacrifice one for the other, or simply don’t accommodate the optic. Other options either lacked the robust retention I needed or sat too low, hindering a smooth, consistent draw.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the holster’s solid construction. The materials felt durable and well-assembled, giving the impression that it could withstand the rigors of daily duty. The fit and finish were excellent, and the ALS system engaged smoothly with a reassuring click.
Compared to a Blackhawk! Serpa (which I found lacked sufficient retention for duty use) and a Safariland 7TS (which didn’t accommodate a red dot), the 6390RDS seemed to offer the best combination of security, speed, and optic compatibility. The 6390RDS’s mid-ride height also appealed to me, offering a good balance between concealment and accessibility. My initial impression was one of excitement. This looked like a holster that could solve my needs, offering reliable retention and a fast draw.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG took place at the range during a force-on-force training scenario. The range offered a controlled environment to practice drawing, reholstering, and moving with the holster.
The ALS system proved intuitive and easy to master. Deactivating the lock with my thumb became second nature after a few repetitions. There were no malfunctions or issues with the draw stroke, even when moving from different positions (seated in a vehicle, kneeling, etc.).
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The STX finish has proven surprisingly resistant to scratches and abrasions from rubbing against gear and vehicle interiors.
The ALS system continues to function flawlessly. The retention level remains consistent. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG is a Level I retention holster, meaning it utilizes one active retention device (the ALS) to secure the firearm. It’s designed to accommodate a wide range of pistols, including Glock 17/22 and similar-sized models, provided they are equipped with a red dot sight.
The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary STX material, a durable and impact-resistant polymer blend. The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to sit slightly lower on the hip than a traditional high-ride holster. This facilitates a smoother draw for many users.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS system provides secure retention, preventing the firearm from being dislodged accidentally or by an assailant.
The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, thanks to the open-top design and the optimally positioned thumb release. The holster adequately protects the red dot sight from damage and the mid-ride height positions the weapon for a natural grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG is thoughtfully designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The mid-ride height is comfortable for all-day wear. The holster body is contoured to minimize printing and rubbing.
The ALS thumb release is easily accessible and intuitive to use, even under stress. There is a slight learning curve to deactivating the ALS smoothly while establishing a proper grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG is built to withstand the demands of daily duty use. The STX material is highly resistant to impacts, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep the holster functioning optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
While the holster is designed for use with red dot sights, it’s important to ensure that the sight is compatible with the holster’s internal dimensions and ejection port clearance. Aftermarket modifications like compensators or threaded barrels may require modification of the holster.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG
Pros
- Exceptional Retention:_ The ALS system provides reliable Level I retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Red Dot Compatibility:_ Specifically designed to accommodate pistols with mounted red dot sights, a crucial feature for modern law enforcement and tactical applications.
- Durable Construction:_ The STX material is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Smooth Draw Stroke:_ The open-top design and optimized thumb release facilitate a fast and consistent draw.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height:_ The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable height on the hip, improving all-day wearability.
Cons
- Requires Training:_ Mastering the ALS release requires dedicated practice to ensure a smooth and efficient draw under stress.
- Limited Adjustability:_ While the holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, the holster body itself offers limited adjustability.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure and reliable holster for their red dot-equipped pistols. It is also well suited for competitive shooters who prefer a Level I retention holster that allows for fast draws.
Those who are new to firearms or prefer a simpler retention system might find the ALS system more complex than necessary. Those who need extreme concealment might find the mid-ride height less suitable than a higher-riding holster.
A quality duty belt and potentially a red dot sight that is properly sized for your chosen pistol are must-have accessories for optimal performance with this holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482-AG is an exceptional holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and red dot compatibility. At a price of $164.20, the value is very strong.
The price is justified, considering the holster’s durable construction, reliable retention system, and optimized design. I would recommend it without hesitation. If you are seeking a duty-grade holster for your red dot-equipped pistol, the Safariland 6390RDS should be at the top of your list. Invest in your security and draw with confidence!