Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP is a holster designed for duty use with firearms equipped with red dot sights. Safariland is known for its robust and reliable holsters, widely used by law enforcement and military personnel. This particular model stands out with its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and mid-ride belt loop, promising both security and comfort.

As a gear specialist, I’ve encountered numerous holsters over the years. However, the rising popularity of red dot sights on pistols demanded a holster solution that could accommodate them securely without compromising draw speed. I needed a duty-grade holster that could retain my firearm reliably while also allowing for a quick and efficient draw in high-stress situations. The Safariland 6390rds seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Unboxing the holster, the first thing I noticed was its solid construction. The Safariland holster felt rugged and durable, crafted from what appears to be high-quality materials. The finish was clean, and the ALS mechanism felt smooth and positive.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa (which I found lacking in adjustability) and some generic Kydex holsters (which offered minimal retention), the Safariland 6390rds immediately impressed with its professional appearance and clearly superior retention system. I chose this particular Safariland model because of its proven track record and the need for a reliable red-dot-compatible holster. My initial impression was one of excitement; this felt like a piece of kit that would perform exceptionally well.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390rds at a local shooting range during a training session that involved rapid target acquisition and transitions. I was specifically focused on assessing the ease and speed of drawing and re-holstering with my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. The weather was dry and temperate, providing ideal conditions for testing.

The draw felt surprisingly intuitive, with the ALS release easily accessible with my thumb. The mid-ride position kept the firearm close to my body, improving concealment and comfort. There were no immediate issues, though I did spend a few minutes adjusting the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance between retention and draw speed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and some force-on-force training, the Safariland 6390rds has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite the rigorous use. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.

Cleaning the holster is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Compared to some of the Kydex holsters I’ve used, which often required disassembly for thorough cleaning, the Safariland 6390rds is remarkably low-maintenance. It has significantly outperformed my previous holsters in terms of both retention and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This open-top holster features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS). The holster also includes a mid-ride belt loop that positions the firearm close to the body.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device retains the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. Once the weapon is holstered, it automatically locks into place.

• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: This feature positions the holster lower on the belt, providing enhanced comfort and concealment. This is particularly useful for users wearing body armor or other gear that can interfere with a higher-riding holster.

• Level I Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention, meaning the firearm is locked in place until the ALS is deliberately deactivated. This offers a balance between security and ease of draw.

These specifications contribute significantly to the holster’s overall performance. The ALS ensures that the firearm remains securely holstered, providing peace of mind during dynamic activities. The mid-ride position improves comfort and concealment, making it suitable for both duty and concealed carry applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm equipped with a red dot sight while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock that inspires confidence. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, requiring only a simple thumb release to deactivate the locking mechanism.

One of its key strengths is the combination of security and accessibility. While the ALS provides excellent retention, the draw is still incredibly fast, especially after some practice. One area for potential improvement might be the addition of an adjustable cant, to allow for more customized draw angles. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds is built with durability in mind. The materials feel robust, and the construction is solid. The mid-ride position keeps the firearm close to the body, enhancing comfort and concealability.

The design is relatively user-friendly. However, achieving the optimal tension requires some fine-tuning with the tension screw.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction, the Safariland 6390rds is expected to last for many years of regular use. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These include different belt loops and mounting options. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the Safariland ecosystem provides ample opportunity to tailor the setup to individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-731-NP