First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 is a name synonymous with duty-grade gear, and for good reason. Safariland has been a cornerstone of law enforcement and military equipment for decades, consistently delivering reliable and innovative products. This particular model caught my eye because of its red dot sight (RDS) compatibility and mid-ride height, a combination that promises both enhanced performance and comfort. This holster offers the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a critical feature for secure weapon retention in dynamic situations.
For years, I’ve relied on various holsters, some good, some… less so. I needed a holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR, while providing a secure and comfortable carry for both range use and potential tactical scenarios. Existing holsters were either too bulky, offered inadequate retention, or weren’t designed for RDS pistols. The 6390RDS seemed like the ideal solution to marry security, speed, and optic compatibility.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131, my first impression was one of robust quality. The Safariland holster felt substantial without being overly heavy, clearly built to withstand the rigors of daily duty. The finish was clean and professional, and the ALS lever moved with a smooth, positive click.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 immediately stood out. The Blackhawk felt flimsy in comparison, and the Blade-Tech, while offering good concealment, lacked the active retention I was seeking for open carry and duty-oriented applications. Safariland’s reputation for rock-solid reliability and the ALS retention system ultimately swayed my decision.
My initial feeling was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. While I was eager to test its performance, I’ve learned from experience that not all gear lives up to the hype. I was hoping the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 would prove its worth in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 was at an outdoor shooting range. The environment was slightly dusty, as it often is in the high desert. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, working on speed and consistency.
The holster performed flawlessly in these conditions. The ALS system was easy to disengage with my thumb, allowing for a smooth and natural draw stroke. The mid-ride height felt comfortable, placing the pistol in a position that was both accessible and secure. I also practiced shooting from various positions, including kneeling and prone, and the holster never interfered with my movements.
There were no immediate issues after the first use. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 felt secure and reliable, and the ALS retention system gave me confidence that my weapon was safe. The only adjustment I needed to make was fine-tuning the tension screw to achieve the perfect draw resistance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The Safariland holster has been exposed to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures, and it continues to function flawlessly.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to keep it operating smoothly.
Compared to other duty-style holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 significantly outperforms them in terms of both security and ease of use. The ALS retention system provides a higher level of security than friction-based holsters, and the mid-ride height is more comfortable for extended wear than a traditional high-ride holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 is designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm close to the body.
Automatic Locking System (ALS): This provides Level I Retention. The ALS is intuitive and requires only a thumb release for a smooth, fast draw.
Red Dot Sight (RDS) Compatibility: The holster is specifically molded to accommodate pistols with mounted red dot sights. This eliminates the need for modifications or compromises.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Offers a comfortable and stable carry position. The mid-ride height allows for a full firing grip before drawing the weapon.
Durable Construction: Built from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion.
These specifications contribute directly to the holster’s performance and usability. The ALS ensures a secure carry, while the RDS compatibility allows for the use of modern optics. The mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock on the weapon until the release lever is deliberately activated.
The holster’s strengths include its secure retention, comfortable carry, and RDS compatibility. Its weakness could be considered that it is a Level I retention holster, and might not be suitable for situations requiring higher levels of security.
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 easily meets expectations. It is a high-quality, well-designed holster that delivers on its promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 is expertly designed with user comfort and functionality in mind. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials and feels solid and durable. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a comfortable and accessible location.
The holster is user-friendly, but requires some familiarization to master the ALS release. With a bit of practice, the draw stroke becomes smooth and natural.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 is built to last, and I expect it to provide many years of reliable service. The SafariSeven nylon blend is exceptionally durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep it functioning smoothly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 can be used with a variety of Safariland belt attachments. The holster is also compatible with various other belt attachments.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131
Pros
- Rock-solid retention provided by the Automatic Locking System (ALS). This gives peace of mind in dynamic situations.
- Red Dot Sight (RDS) compatibility allows seamless integration with modern optics. This is a must-have for many shooters.
- Comfortable mid-ride height for extended wear and easy access. This is a significant improvement over traditional high-ride holsters.
- Durable construction from Safariland’s SafariSeven nylon blend. This ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Smooth and fast draw stroke after minimal practice with the ALS system. Speed is key in critical situations.
Cons
- Learning curve associated with the Automatic Locking System (ALS). It takes some practice to master the draw stroke.
- Level I retention might not be sufficient for all security needs. Users in high-risk environments may prefer a higher level of retention.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a reliable and secure holster for their RDS-equipped pistols. It is also a good choice for anyone who carries a firearm for personal defense and wants a high-quality holster that offers both security and comfort.
This holster might not be the best choice for those who prioritize maximum concealment. A smaller, inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster may be more suitable for concealed carry applications.
A sturdy duty belt and appropriate belt attachments are must-have accessories for the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 is an exceptional holster that lives up to Safariland’s reputation for quality and reliability. The ALS retention system provides a high level of security, while the mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility. The RDS compatibility is a welcome feature for those who use modern optics.
At $165.99, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. This is an investment in your safety and peace of mind.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 to anyone looking for a high-quality, duty-grade holster. If you value security, reliability, and comfort, this is the holster for you. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – get the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-131 today!