Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. But the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG, particularly designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights, immediately caught my eye. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, promises a blend of security and rapid accessibility, critical features in any duty or tactical scenario.
My department was transitioning to red dot sights on our duty pistols, creating an immediate need for compatible holsters. The Safariland name carries a reputation for reliability, and the promise of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) piqued my interest. It offered a streamlined retention system, eliminating cumbersome straps and snaps.
Unboxing the 6390RDS, the immediate impression was one of rugged durability. The materials felt robust, and the build quality was reassuringly solid. The mid-ride height seemed ideal for comfortable all-day carry.
I considered other options, including the Blackhawk T-Series L3D RDS holster and the Galco M5X Matrix Open Top Holster. However, the Safariland 6390RDS’s ALS system and proven track record swayed my decision. I valued the simplicity and speed of drawing with ALS, compared to the multiple steps required by some other holsters.
Initially, I was excited about the potential for a secure and efficient draw, but also slightly apprehensive about the ALS system’s learning curve. Would it be intuitive under pressure? Only real-world testing would reveal the truth.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG at our department’s shooting range during a training session. The weather was typical for our area, dry with a slight breeze. I spent several hours running drills, focusing on drawing and re-holstering my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR.
The draw stroke felt natural after only a few practice repetitions. The ALS system disengaged smoothly with my thumb, allowing for a clean and unobstructed draw. Even with gloves on, the ALS release was easily accessible and manipulated.
After the first few draws, I noticed a slight drag as the pistol cleared the holster, but this quickly diminished as the holster broke in. There were no major issues, but the initial resistance was something to consider.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The holster has seen its fair share of rain, dust, and general wear and tear, but it has held up admirably. There are only minor scuff marks on the outer shell, with no functional degradation.
Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism keeps it running smoothly. This is essential for duty gear that needs to perform consistently in all conditions.
Compared to my previous Level II retention holster (a Safariland 6280), the 6390RDS offers a noticeably faster and more intuitive draw. While both provide excellent security, the 6390RDS’s ALS system streamlines the process, especially when drawing under stress. The mid-ride height is also more comfortable for extended periods of wear compared to higher-riding holsters.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The open-top design allows for quick and unhindered access to the weapon.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. The ALS is deactivated with a simple thumb movement during the draw stroke.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: This positions the holster lower on the hip for enhanced comfort and concealment. It also helps distribute the weight of the firearm more evenly.
- Duty Rated Level I Retention: This denotes a Level I retention rating, meaning it relies on the ALS for primary retention. This provides a balance of security and speed.
- Material: Constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This provides exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture.
- Compatibility: Designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms with red dot sights. It is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for customization.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The ALS ensures secure retention, while the mid-ride height offers comfort and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG excels at its primary function: securely retaining and providing rapid access to a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock on the weapon until deliberately released.
The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, requiring minimal training to master. The open-top design allows for an unobstructed draw, eliminating the need to fumble with straps or snaps. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster.
One minor weakness is the initial break-in period. As mentioned, there is some drag on the draw until the holster conforms to the firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both security and comfort. The SafariSeven nylon blend is lightweight yet incredibly durable, minimizing bulk without sacrificing protection.
The mid-ride height positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, preventing it from digging into the wearer’s side during movement. The holster is remarkably user-friendly. The ALS system is intuitive to operate, and the overall design is streamlined and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its SafariSeven construction, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG is built to withstand years of hard use. The material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The simple design minimizes the risk of parts breaking or malfunctioning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and mounting platforms. This allows users to customize the holster’s ride height and carry angle to their personal preferences.
It is also compatible with other Safariland attachments such as the QLS (Quick Locking System) and the MLS (Molle Locking System), enabling easy transfer between different platforms. While it doesn’t directly offer optics customization (it’s designed for red-dot-equipped pistols), its compatibility with various mounting platforms enables diverse configurations.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure and reliable Level I retention.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a fast and efficient draw.
- Durability: The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly rugged and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height provides enhanced comfort for all-day use.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights.
Cons
- Initial Break-in: There may be some drag on the draw until the holster conforms to the firearm.
- Level I Retention: While secure, Level I retention might not be sufficient for all operational environments.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who rely on red dot sights on their duty firearms. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters seeking a fast and reliable holster.
Those who require a higher level of retention (Level II or III) for specific operational needs should skip this product. Anyone working in environments where weapons are highly susceptible to being taken would benefit from the additional security.
A must-have modification, although not essential, would be the addition of a Safariland QLS system. This allows for rapid detachment and re-attachment of the holster from the belt, useful for transferring the holster to different platforms or storing the weapon securely.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-481-AG is an exceptional holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. At $164.20, the price is justified given the quality of materials and the effectiveness of the ALS system.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient duty holster for a red-dot-equipped firearm. It offers a perfect balance of security and accessibility, making it a valuable asset for any professional. Invest in the Safariland 6390rds and experience the difference a quality holster can make!