Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a testament to Safariland’s commitment to blending security and accessibility. Specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, this holster promises a seamless draw while maintaining a high level of retention, crucial for law enforcement and tactical professionals. At a price point of $165.99, it enters a competitive market, and the question isn’t just whether it’s good, but whether it’s the right fit for your needs.

My search for a holster that could accommodate my Glock 19 with a mounted Trijicon RMR led me to the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132. I was tired of modifying existing holsters or settling for universal fits that compromised on retention and draw speed. I needed something purpose-built and duty-ready, and Safariland has a reputation for delivering exactly that.

Out of the box, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 felt solid and well-constructed. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt robust, and the mid-ride height seemed ideal for balancing comfort and accessibility. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) engaged smoothly, giving me immediate confidence in its retention capabilities.

I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA Level 3 and the Galco M5X Matrix, but ultimately, the Safariland’s reputation for reliability and the specific RDS compatibility sealed the deal. The SERPA, while popular, had some reported issues with its release mechanism in high-stress situations, and the Galco lacked the same level of positive retention. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 seemed like the more refined and field-tested option.

My initial reaction was definitely excitement, tinged with a bit of anticipation. I’ve used Safariland products before, but this was my first experience with their ALS system on an RDS-equipped firearm. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, or if it would just be another holster gathering dust in my gear closet.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 was at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training day. The weather was typical for late summer – hot, humid, and dusty. I ran drills involving drawing from concealment, target acquisition, and rapid re-holstering.

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 performed admirably in these conditions. The ALS system provided secure retention, even during dynamic movements, and the draw stroke was surprisingly smooth and consistent. The mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable and natural draw, clearing my body armor without issue.

It took a few practice runs to get completely comfortable with the ALS release. Initially, I was slightly fumbling with the thumb lever, but after about 30-40 draws, it became second nature. I noticed that the dust and grit from the range didn’t seem to affect the ALS mechanism, which was a definite plus.

The only minor issue I encountered was some initial chafing on my hip from the holster body. This was easily resolved by adjusting the belt loop position and wearing a slightly thicker undershirt. Overall, the initial experience was overwhelmingly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve used it during numerous training sessions, a week-long wilderness survival course, and even a few off-duty concealed carry days.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some minor scuff marks on the SafariSeven™ nylon blend. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw. The holster has held up well to exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures, with no noticeable degradation in performance.

Maintenance is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 clean and functioning properly. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 outperforms them in several key areas. The RDS compatibility is a game-changer, and the ALS system provides a level of security that other retention mechanisms struggle to match. The mid-ride height is also a significant improvement over traditional high-ride holsters, offering a more comfortable and ergonomic draw.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132

Specifications

• Model Number: 6390RDS-75029-132
• Material: SafariSeven™ nylon blend
• Retention Level: Level I
• Retention System: Automatic Locking System (ALS)
• Ride Height: Mid-ride
• Compatibility: Designed for firearms with red dot sights
• Color: Black
• Handedness: (Usually available in Right or Left hand configurations, specify when ordering)

These specifications are important for several reasons. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is extremely durable and resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions, ensuring the holster can withstand harsh environments. Level I retention provides a balance between security and accessibility, allowing for a quick draw while still preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a rapid and consistent draw. The ALS system engages automatically when the firearm is holstered, providing immediate retention without requiring any additional steps. The thumb-activated release lever is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress.

One of the biggest strengths of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 is its RDS compatibility. The open-top design allows for a clear sight picture and prevents any interference with the red dot optic. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and natural draw stroke, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.

A potential weakness is the Level I retention, which may not be sufficient for all users. While the ALS system provides a good level of security, it can be defeated with enough force or knowledge. Users who require a higher level of retention may want to consider a Level II or Level III holster.

Overall, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 meets and even exceeds expectations. It provides a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm with a red dot sight, and the ALS system ensures a consistent and rapid draw.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 features a simple and functional design. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is lightweight yet durable, and the holster body is contoured for a comfortable fit against the body. The mid-ride height positions the firearm at an optimal level for drawing, and the open-top design allows for a clear sight picture.

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 is relatively user-friendly, but there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. It takes some practice to become proficient at disengaging the thumb lever and drawing the firearm smoothly. However, once mastered, the ALS system becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to heat, cold, abrasions, and chemicals. The ALS system is also well-engineered and designed for long-term reliability.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 clean and functioning properly. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including belt loops, leg straps, and other mounting options. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is also designed to accommodate various red dot sights, but it’s important to ensure that the specific optic is compatible with the holster’s dimensions. Some larger or taller optics may require modifications to the holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who rely on red dot sights and require a secure and reliable duty holster. Its durable construction, RDS compatibility, and ALS retention system make it a great choice for anyone who needs a holster that can withstand harsh conditions and provide a consistent and rapid draw.

This product might not be the best fit for concealed carry enthusiasts who prioritize minimal bulk and maximum concealment. The mid-ride height, while comfortable for duty use, can make it more challenging to conceal under clothing. Additionally, users who require a higher level of retention may want to consider a Level II or Level III holster.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a good quality duty belt. A stiff and supportive belt is essential for maintaining the holster’s position and preventing it from sagging or shifting during movement. I would also recommend investing in some practice time to become proficient with the ALS system.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 is a well-designed and expertly crafted duty holster that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm with a red dot sight, and the ALS system ensures a consistent and rapid draw. While it may not be perfect for everyone, it’s an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who demand the best.

At $165.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials, the innovative ALS system, and the RDS compatibility. Cheaper holsters might save you a few bucks upfront, but they often compromise on durability, retention, and overall performance.

I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-132 to anyone looking for a top-tier duty holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. If you prioritize security, reliability, and a smooth draw stroke, this holster is definitely worth the investment. Gear up, train hard, and stay safe!