Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2

In the world of duty holsters, Safariland stands as a giant, a name synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation. Today, we’re diving deep into the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2, a holster specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. Its open-top design, coupled with the Automatic Locking System (ALS), promises a secure yet readily accessible carry, making it a popular choice for law enforcement and security professionals.

For years, I’d been searching for a duty holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR without sacrificing retention or draw speed. Most holsters either felt flimsy or required complex manipulations to release the firearm. The Safariland 6390rds appeared to be the perfect solution, offering both a secure Level I retention and a streamlined draw.

Upon receiving the holster, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and clean design. The Safariland 6390rds felt solid, with no play or looseness in the components. The mid-ride belt loop positioned the firearm perfectly on my hip, allowing for a comfortable and natural draw stroke.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa and the Galco M5X Matrix, the Safariland 6390rds stood out for its simplicity and effectiveness. While the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt unnatural, and the Galco’s active retention required excessive force, the Safariland’s ALS system felt intuitive and secure. I chose this holster for its reputation, for its adaptability with an optic, and for the level of security it provided without complicated releases.

My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. Could this holster finally be the one to bridge the gap between security and speed? Only time and rigorous testing would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds was at an outdoor shooting range, during a law enforcement training day. I ran several drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering under various simulated stress conditions.

The holster performed admirably in these controlled conditions. The ALS system engaged smoothly and reliably, and the draw stroke felt natural and consistent. I also exposed the holster to some light rain, and it didn’t seem to affect the performance of the locking mechanism.

There was a slight learning curve in mastering the ALS release. Initially, I occasionally fumbled with the lever, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has been subjected to various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme heat, without any noticeable degradation in performance.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being used daily during patrol duties. The Safariland SafariLaminate material has proven to be exceptionally resistant to scratches and abrasions. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, the Safariland 6390rds far exceeds them in terms of both reliability and ease of use. The ALS system is far more secure than friction-based retention systems, and the mid-ride platform provides a comfortable and stable carry. It has exceeded my expectations in pretty much every measurable way.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention, ensuring the weapon remains secure without straps or snaps. The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate and includes a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry close to the body.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is the core of the holster’s retention. The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw. This provides a reliable hold that is easy to overcome with practice.

• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride platform positions the firearm at an optimal height for a comfortable and efficient draw. This placement also allows for greater freedom of movement compared to higher-riding holsters. This is an outstanding feature as it promotes both comfort and fast access to the sidearm.

• Open-Top Design: This design allows for quick and unobstructed access to the firearm, especially crucial when using a red dot sight. The open top ensures the optic doesn’t interfere with the draw stroke. It is also a must-have given that this holster is specifically intended for firearms with mounted optics.

• SafariLaminate Construction: Safariland’s proprietary SafariLaminate provides exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. This material is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, ensuring the holster remains functional and reliable for years to come. The strength and durability of the material give real peace of mind.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in both performance and functionality. The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention without hindering draw speed. The holster is designed for intuitive use, allowing for a quick and efficient draw stroke with minimal training.

The primary strength lies in its simple, effective retention system. The ALS mechanism provides a positive lock on the firearm, preventing accidental dislodgement while allowing for a fast, clean draw when needed. The only area for possible improvement would be a slightly more aggressive texture on the ALS release lever for enhanced grip in wet conditions.

The Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of secure retention, quick draw speed, and comfortable carry.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds boasts a simple, functional design that prioritizes user comfort and ease of use. The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, which provides a lightweight yet robust platform. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.

The holster’s design is incredibly user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release lever is easily accessible with the thumb, and the draw stroke feels smooth and natural.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last, thanks to its SafariLaminate construction and robust design. The holster is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism may be necessary to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. These accessories allow users to customize the holster to suit their specific needs and preferences.

While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with Safariland accessories provides ample opportunity to tailor the carry to individual needs. The optic cut allows for use with a wide variety of red dot sights.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who carry a firearm with a red dot sight and require a secure and reliable duty holster. Its Level I retention and fast draw speed make it an excellent choice for those who need to be able to quickly access their firearm in a high-stress situation.

This holster may not be ideal for individuals who prefer a higher level of retention or those who do not carry a firearm with a red dot sight. For those individuals, Safariland offers other holsters with different retention levels and designs.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a quality duty belt that is rigid enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster. Also, regular practice with the ALS release is essential to ensure a smooth and efficient draw.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-131-2 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention, fast draw speed, and comfortable carry. Its compatibility with red dot sights makes it an excellent choice for modern firearms setups.

At a price of $165.99, the Safariland 6390rds represents a solid value proposition. The quality of materials, the durability of construction, and the effectiveness of the ALS system justify the investment.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing duty holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. If you’re looking for a holster that can stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide a secure, comfortable, and efficient carry, look no further. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!