Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492 is a purpose-built holster designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who run red dot sights on their duty or carry firearms. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster aims to provide a secure and accessible carry solution without compromising on speed. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) offers Level I retention, a balance of security and swift draw, while the mid-ride belt loop ensures comfortable all-day carry.

For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that properly accommodated a red dot sight without sacrificing retention or a smooth draw. Many holsters felt bulky or insecure, especially during dynamic training scenarios. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing a consistent and reliable draw stroke under pressure, and most importantly, accommodate my Glock 17 with its Holosun optic.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of robust construction and thoughtful design. The Safariland holster felt solid in hand, with a durable STX finish that appeared ready for hard use. The ALS lever was intuitively positioned and moved smoothly, giving me confidence in its functionality.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa holster and a generic nylon holster, the Safariland 6390rds felt significantly more secure and refined. The Blackhawk, while popular, lacked the precise fit and optic accommodation, while the nylon holster offered minimal retention. The Safariland holster’s ALS and custom molded design clearly outshone the competition.

I was immediately impressed and cautiously optimistic about the Safariland 6390rds. I anticipated a significant improvement in both security and draw speed compared to my previous holsters, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390rds at my local shooting range during a dynamic drills session. The range offered a variety of targets and movement scenarios, perfect for evaluating the holster’s performance under stress. I specifically wanted to assess its draw speed, retention, and comfort during movement.

The Safariland 6390rds performed admirably in both wet and dusty conditions. A light rain didn’t affect the ALS mechanism, and dust didn’t impede the draw stroke. The holster felt secure and stable even during rapid movements, providing confidence in its retention capabilities.

The draw stroke with the Safariland 6390rds felt natural and intuitive after only a few practice repetitions. The ALS lever disengaged smoothly with my thumb, allowing for a clean, straight draw. I experienced no snags or hitches, and the red dot sight cleared the holster with ease.

After the first range session, I noticed the ALS lever could benefit from a slightly more aggressive texture for gloved use. Otherwise, I was impressed with the holster’s performance and its immediate improvement over my previous carry setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it in a variety of training courses, including force-on-force scenarios and low-light drills. Its performance has remained consistent.

The STX finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite daily use and exposure to the elements. The holster still feels as solid and secure as it did on day one. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably, without any signs of degradation.

Maintenance of the Safariland 6390rds is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required to keep it in top condition. The durable materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand long-term use with minimal upkeep.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds stands out for its combination of security, speed, and optic compatibility. It outperforms previous holsters in terms of retention reliability and overall comfort. It has become my preferred duty holster for any firearm equipped with a red dot sight.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure Level I retention. The holster body is constructed from a durable thermal-molded SafariSeven nylon blend.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions upon holstering. It’s released with a simple thumb swipe, facilitating a fast, natural draw. This is vital for maintaining weapon security in high-risk environments while still allowing for rapid deployment.

• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride position allows the firearm to sit comfortably on the hip, providing easy access without interfering with movement. It allows for a comfortable carry and reduces printing under clothing. The belt loop accommodates belts up to 2.25 inches wide.

• STX Finish: Safariland’s STX finish offers a durable, non-abrasive surface that protects both the firearm and the holster from wear and tear. It resists scratches, moisture, and extreme temperatures. The STX finish ensures longevity and professional appearance.

• Open-Top Design: The open-top design allows for a rapid, unrestricted draw. It facilitates quick target acquisition and follow-up shots. The open-top also provides easy visual confirmation of the weapon’s condition.

These specifications are significant because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and speed. The ALS system provides reliable retention without compromising draw speed. The mid-ride position enhances comfort and accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in providing a secure and accessible carry platform for duty firearms. Its primary function is to retain the weapon securely while enabling a rapid draw when needed. It achieves this through the ALS system and its optimized design.

• Retention: The ALS system provides excellent Level I retention, securing the firearm from unauthorized removal. It also allowing for a smooth and efficient draw when the lever is activated. This ensures the firearm remains secure during physical activity and potential confrontations.

• Draw Speed: The open-top design and intuitive ALS lever allow for a fast and natural draw stroke. The firearm clears the holster smoothly and consistently, minimizing draw time. This is critical in high-stress situations where fractions of a second can make a difference.

• Red Dot Compatibility: The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. This feature eliminates the need for cumbersome modifications. It allows for seamless integration with popular optic setups.

The Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster with red dot compatibility. Its retention system is reliable, its draw is fast and smooth, and its build quality is exceptional. A minor improvement would be adding a more aggressive texture to the ALS lever.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds features a streamlined and functional design that prioritizes comfort and accessibility. Its mid-ride belt loop places the firearm at an optimal position on the hip for easy reach. The holster’s profile is relatively slim, minimizing bulk and maximizing comfort.

The Safariland holster’s build quality is top-notch, utilizing durable materials and precise molding. It feels solid and well-constructed in hand, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand rigorous use. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, given its robust construction.

The learning curve for the Safariland 6390rds is minimal. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to master with a few practice repetitions. The draw stroke feels natural and consistent, even for users new to retention holsters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last, utilizing high-quality materials and robust construction techniques. Its STX finish is resistant to scratches, moisture, and extreme temperatures. The holster is designed to withstand the demands of daily duty and harsh environments.

Maintaining the Safariland holster is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth and reliable operation.

The durable materials and simple design suggest that the Safariland 6390rds will provide years of reliable service. Its robust construction and minimal maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds itself does not come with a plethora of accessories, as it’s primarily a holster. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories such as different belt loops and leg straps. It can be adapted to suit various carry preferences.

The Safariland 6390rds is also compatible with a variety of firearm lights. Its open-top design allows for the use of weapon-mounted lights without modification. This further enhances the holster’s versatility.

Users can customize the ride height and cant of the holster by using different belt loops and mounting options. This allows for a personalized carry experience. Be sure to use Safariland branded products for compatibility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and accessible duty holster for their red-dot-equipped firearms. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and consistency. Those who value the added security of a Level I retention system, coupled with a fast and natural draw stroke, will find this holster invaluable.

This product may not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals who primarily carry concealed. The Safariland 6390rds is designed for open carry and duty use, so those prioritizing concealment might prefer a smaller, more streamlined holster. Individuals on a very tight budget may also find the price point a barrier to entry.

A must-have accessory is a good quality duty belt. A quality belt will ensure the holster sits securely and comfortably on the hip.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-68314-492 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and optic compatibility. Its robust construction, intuitive design, and reliable retention system make it a top choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the value proposition is clear.

The Safariland 6390rds is an investment in quality and performance that will pay dividends in the long run. Given my experience with the holster, I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and effective duty carry solution for their red-dot-equipped firearm. If you’re running an optic on your duty weapon, this holster is a game-changer.