Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562 is a purpose-built holster designed to meet the demands of law enforcement and tactical professionals who utilize red dot sights on their duty weapons. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, promises a secure Level I retention system, a mid-ride height for comfortable carry, and compatibility with a wide array of firearms equipped with red dot sights. Its design eliminates traditional straps and snaps, relying instead on the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for quick and intuitive weapon access.
My search for this holster began with a very specific need: a reliable and secure way to carry my Glock 17 with a Trijicon RMR, while still maintaining a fast draw speed during training and potential real-world scenarios. Existing holsters either didn’t accommodate the red dot optic or offered subpar retention, which was unacceptable. I needed a holster that could provide both security and accessibility without compromising either.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of ruggedness and quality. The Safariland SafariSeven™ material felt incredibly durable, and the overall construction seemed robust enough to withstand the rigors of daily duty. The holster felt surprisingly lightweight despite its sturdy build, suggesting well-chosen materials and thoughtful design.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Safariland 6390rds. The Blackhawk! T-Series L3D ALS was a contender, but its bulkier design and Level 3 retention system felt like overkill for my needs. Similarly, the Streamlight TLR-7/8 weapon light compatibility of some other holsters was not a priority, as I preferred a dedicated handheld light for my duty setup. The Safariland 6390rds struck the right balance of retention, accessibility, and streamlined design.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Safariland 6390rds appeared to be exactly what I was looking for. I was excited to test its performance in real-world scenarios and see if it lived up to its promise of providing a secure and accessible carry solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds took place at an outdoor shooting range, where I ran drills focused on drawing and re-holstering under various time constraints. The weather conditions were relatively mild, with temperatures in the mid-70s and a slight breeze, providing a comfortable environment for testing. The primary focus was to assess the holster’s retention capabilities and the speed of draw under simulated stress.
The ALS system proved to be remarkably intuitive; after a few practice draws, the release became second nature. The holster performed flawlessly in terms of retention, securely holding the firearm in place even during rapid movements. The mid-ride height felt comfortable, allowing for a natural draw stroke without any awkward positioning.
There were no immediate issues or surprises after the initial range session. The Safariland 6390rds performed exactly as advertised, providing a secure and accessible carry solution.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has accompanied me on numerous range sessions, training exercises, and even a few backcountry hikes, exposing it to a variety of conditions. The holster has held up exceptionally well to regular wear and tear.
Despite being exposed to sweat, dirt, and occasional rain, the SafariSeven™ material shows minimal signs of wear. Cleaning and maintenance have been straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove any accumulated grime. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably, without any noticeable degradation.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, comfort, and overall durability. It has exceeded my initial expectations and solidified itself as my go-to duty holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and suitability for duty use.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): An internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. This allows for a fast, intuitive draw while maintaining Level I retention.
- SafariSeven™ Construction: A proprietary nylon blend that is highly durable, non-abrasive, and resistant to extreme temperatures. This ensures that the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, optimizing draw speed and minimizing interference with other gear. The close-to-body design enhances concealability under a jacket or vest.
- RDS (Red Dot Sight) Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, without compromising retention or draw speed. This is crucial for officers and tactical professionals who rely on optics for enhanced accuracy.
- Open-Top Design: Facilitates a rapid and unobstructed draw stroke, enabling quick target acquisition and engagement. This design eliminates the need for flaps or other obstructions that can slow down the draw.
These specifications are paramount because they directly influence the holster’s performance in critical situations. The ALS system ensures that the firearm remains securely holstered until needed, while the SafariSeven™ construction guarantees durability and longevity. The mid-ride height and RDS compatibility enhance comfort, accessibility, and overall user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely and reliably carrying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS system provides a confident Level I retention without sacrificing draw speed. The system’s intuitive design allows for a natural and consistent draw stroke, even under stress.
The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and compatibility with red dot optics. The ALS mechanism functions flawlessly, and the SafariSeven™ material withstands harsh conditions without showing signs of wear. There is very little to improve upon, although some users may prefer a higher level of retention, which would come at the expense of draw speed.
The Safariland 6390rds easily meets my expectations, delivering exceptional performance in every aspect of its design and functionality. It provides the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds is exceptional; the SafariSeven™ material feels both rugged and comfortable against the body. The holster’s weight is minimal, preventing discomfort during extended wear. The mid-ride height ensures a natural draw stroke and minimizes interference with other gear.
The holster is incredibly user-friendly; the ALS system requires minimal training to master, and the open-top design allows for a smooth, unobstructed draw. The intuitive design eliminates any learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring that the holster will withstand years of hard use.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. There are no intricate parts or components that require specialized maintenance or repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds itself comes with a standard mid-ride belt loop, which can be easily replaced with other Safariland attachments to adjust the ride height and cant.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of firearms equipped with red dot sights, making it a versatile choice for law enforcement and tactical professionals. Its modular design allows for easy integration with other Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and quick-release systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides secure Level I retention without sacrificing draw speed. It keeps the firearm secure under duress.
- Unmatched Durability: The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. It can withstand harsh conditions.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights. It is a must-have for optic users.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop ensures a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
- Intuitive Design: The ALS system is easy to learn and use, even under stress.
Cons
- Non-adjustable Retention: The ALS system offers a fixed level of retention, which may not be ideal for users who prefer adjustable tension.
- Limited Customization: While the belt loop can be swapped, there are relatively few other customization options available for the holster itself.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a secure, reliable, and accessible holster for their duty weapons equipped with red dot sights. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.
This product is not ideal for individuals seeking maximum concealability, as the mid-ride height and open-top design may make it difficult to conceal under light clothing. It’s also not the best choice for users who prefer a higher level of retention than Level I, as the ALS system provides a fixed level of security.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster stability and weight distribution. Additionally, consider investing in training to master the ALS system and optimize draw speed.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-562 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance in terms of retention, durability, and accessibility. Its ALS system, SafariSeven™ construction, and RDS compatibility make it a standout choice for law enforcement, security professionals, and tactical shooters.
The price of $165.99 is certainly justified given the holster’s superior quality, reliability, and long-term value. It’s an investment in your safety and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a secure and accessible duty holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a fast, reliable draw when it matters most, look no further. Upgrade your carry setup today!