Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of duty equipment designed for professionals. Built by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement and military circles, this holster caters specifically to firearms equipped with red dot sights. The promise of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention without cumbersome straps immediately piqued my interest.

My journey to this holster began with the growing popularity of red dot sights on pistols within my own department. We needed a secure and reliable duty holster that could accommodate these optics without sacrificing speed or accessibility. I was searching for a holster that offered a balance of security and rapid deployment, something that wouldn’t slow me down in a critical situation.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the ruggedness of the construction. The material felt incredibly durable, and the stitching was clean and precise, all indicative of Safariland’s commitment to quality. The mid-ride design looked like it would provide a comfortable and stable platform on my duty belt.

I considered several other holsters, including the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D and the Safariland 7TS ALS series. I ultimately chose the 6390RDS due to its reputation for accommodating a wider range of red dot sights and its streamlined profile. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping that the 6390RDS would live up to its reputation and solve our department’s evolving needs.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at our department’s shooting range during a series of drills focused on drawing and firing under pressure. The holster was paired with a Glock 17 MOS equipped with a Trijicon RMR. From the get-go, the ALS system proved to be intuitive and efficient.

Even with gloved hands, the thumb release was easy to manipulate, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke. We also ran the holster through wet and dusty conditions to simulate real-world scenarios. The ALS system continued to function flawlessly, maintaining positive retention without any binding or sticking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6390RDS has proven to be remarkably durable. There are some minor scuff marks from regular use, but no significant wear or tear on the holster body or the ALS mechanism. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.

Compared to some older holsters I’ve used with thumb breaks or multiple retention devices, the 6390RDS is a significant improvement in terms of both speed and security. The single ALS release is far more efficient than manipulating multiple straps, and I have complete confidence in the holster’s ability to retain my firearm under duress. It has exceeded my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. This open-top design allows for a rapid, straight-up draw once the ALS is deactivated.

The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster close to the body, enhancing comfort and concealment. It’s constructed from a durable, proprietary nylon blend, making it resistant to scratches, abrasions, and temperature extremes. The holster offers Level I retention, meaning the firearm is secured primarily by the ALS mechanism.

Performance & Functionality

The 6390RDS excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system is incredibly intuitive; a simple thumb movement deactivates the lock, allowing for a clean draw. The holster’s open-top design ensures that the red dot sight doesn’t interfere with the draw stroke.

One potential area for improvement would be to offer adjustable tension on the ALS system. This would allow users to fine-tune the level of retention based on their individual preferences. Overall, it meets expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390RDS boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for most users, allowing for a comfortable draw without interfering with movement. The holster’s interior is smooth and snag-free, preventing damage to the firearm’s finish.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but most users will become proficient with it after a few practice draws. The overall build quality is exceptional, and the holster feels solid and well-made in the hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The durable nylon construction of the 6390RDS is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. After months of testing, the holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to harsh weather conditions. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. The ALS mechanism is also designed for longevity, with internal components that are resistant to corrosion and wear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390RDS is primarily designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms with mounted red dot sights. While the holster itself doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, Safariland offers a wide selection of compatible belt loops and mounting platforms. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and drop-down adapters.

The open-top design allows for the use of various aftermarket sights without modification. The Safariland mounting pattern is also widely adopted, making it easy to find compatible accessories from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their duty firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s also a good option for competitive shooters who want a holster that offers both speed and retention.

This holster may not be suitable for concealed carry due to its size and mid-ride design. Those requiring a higher level of retention (Level II or III) should explore other Safariland options. A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-561-2 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a duty-grade holster that accommodates red dot sights without sacrificing speed or security. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the holster’s durable construction ensures a long service life. At $165.99, the price is justified considering the holster’s quality, features, and reputation.

I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who relies on their firearm for their profession or for competitive shooting. It provides a secure and efficient platform for carrying and deploying a pistol equipped with a red dot sight. Equip yourself with the Safariland 6390RDS and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is securely retained and readily accessible when you need it most.