Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412

For over 50 years, Safariland has been synonymous with quality, durability, and innovation in the law enforcement and military equipment arena. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412 continues this legacy, offering a secure and reliable method of carrying a sidearm, particularly those equipped with red dot sights. This holster utilizes the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a feature designed to provide Level I Retention without compromising speed or ease of draw.

My journey to this holster stemmed from a growing need for a secure duty holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. Existing holsters either didn’t fit properly with the optic or lacked the necessary retention for active duty. The need for a mid-ride platform was also paramount, offering a balance between comfort and accessibility when worn with body armor and other gear.

Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of rugged quality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt exceptionally durable, and the overall construction appeared robust and well-engineered. The holster felt surprisingly lightweight despite its reinforced build, a crucial factor for all-day duty carry.

I considered the Safariland 7378RDS and the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Light Bearing Holster before settling on the 6390rds. The 7378RDS offered similar RDS compatibility but lacked the mid-ride height I desired, and the Blackhawk! system, while popular, didn’t provide the same level of positive retention as the Safariland ALS. The choice came down to a preference for Safariland‘s reputation for reliability and the simplicity of the ALS mechanism.

My first impression was extremely positive. The holster felt solid, secure, and purpose-built. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6390rds was a three-day tactical training course focused on dynamic entry and vehicle extractions. The course simulated real-world scenarios, pushing both my skills and equipment to their limits. I ran drills in both dry and wet conditions, experiencing the holster’s performance under stress.

The holster performed admirably in all conditions. The ALS retention system remained secure even during rigorous movement, and the draw stroke felt consistently smooth and intuitive. Rain and mud had no noticeable impact on the functionality of the locking mechanism or the holster’s overall performance.

The transition from my previous duty holster to the Safariland 6390rds was surprisingly seamless. The mid-ride height placed the firearm in a comfortable and easily accessible position, and the ALS release became second nature after only a few practice draws. There were no issues or malfunctions during the entire course.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. It’s been subjected to countless draws, re-holstering, and general wear and tear, and it still looks and functions as new. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend has held up remarkably well against scratches and abrasions, maintaining its structural integrity.

I’ve noticed only minor signs of wear on the interior of the holster, where the firearm contacts the material during draws. The SafariSeven™ has proven to be resistant to the elements, requiring minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

In comparison to previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6390rds far exceeds my expectations in terms of both security and durability. The ALS retention system provides a superior level of protection against unauthorized removal, and the robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily duty. It is a significant upgrade from previous kydex and leather models I’ve used.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412

Specifications

  • Model Number: 6390RDS-75029-412
  • Retention Level: Level I, utilizing the Automatic Locking System (ALS). This provides excellent security with a simple, thumb-activated release.
  • Material: SafariSeven™ nylon blend. This proprietary material is incredibly durable, non-abrasive, and resistant to extreme temperatures and solvents.
  • Ride Height: Mid-ride belt loop. Offers a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment, especially when wearing body armor.
  • Compatibility: Designed for firearms with red dot sights (RDS) mounted. Accommodates a wide range of popular RDS models.
  • Design: Open-top design for a fast and efficient draw stroke.

These specifications are essential for a duty holster because they prioritize security, durability, and accessibility. The ALS system ensures the firearm remains secure until needed, while the SafariSeven™ construction guarantees long-lasting performance in demanding environments. The mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility for law enforcement and military personnel who often wear heavy gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely carrying and quickly deploying a sidearm with a red dot sight. The ALS system provides a positive and audible click when the firearm is holstered, assuring the user that the weapon is secure. Releasing the ALS with the thumb is intuitive and requires minimal training.

One of the major strengths of this holster is its reliable retention. It allows for a smooth, straight-up draw, crucial in high-stress situations. A minor weakness could be that some may prefer a higher level of retention, but the ALS system offers a good balance between security and speed for most users.

The Safariland 6390rds meets and even exceeds my expectations. The robust construction, combined with the secure ALS retention, makes it an ideal choice for law enforcement and military personnel. The red dot sight compatibility is a crucial feature for modern tactical applications.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds is constructed from high-quality materials and is designed for all-day comfort and functionality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is lightweight yet exceptionally strong, and the mid-ride height provides a comfortable carry position. The weight distribution feels balanced, and the holster sits securely on the belt.

There is a minimal learning curve associated with the ALS system. The release mechanism is straightforward and becomes intuitive with practice. The open-top design allows for a quick and unobstructed draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. This holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

The holster requires minimal maintenance. The SafariSeven™ material is non-porous and easy to clean with a damp cloth. Periodic inspections to ensure the ALS mechanism is functioning correctly are recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a variety of Safariland belt mounts and accessories. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. Popular accessories include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and quick-release systems.

The holster is designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights and is compatible with most popular firearm models. Users can also customize the holster with aftermarket parts such as different trigger guards and slide protectors. The ability to tailor the holster to individual needs is a significant advantage.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412

Pros

  • Exceptional Durability: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Secure ALS Retention: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides a secure Level I retention, preventing unauthorized removal while allowing for a fast and efficient draw.
  • RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, accommodating a wide range of popular RDS models.
  • Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and accessible carry position, especially when wearing body armor.
  • Easy to Use: The ALS release is intuitive and requires minimal training, allowing for a smooth and natural draw stroke.

Cons

  • Some may desire higher retention level options.
  • The SafariSeven™ material can be somewhat rigid, requiring a break-in period for optimal comfort.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure, durable, and reliable holster for their sidearm equipped with a red dot sight. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who prefer concealed carry or require a low-profile holster. Those seeking the absolute highest level of retention (Level II or III) might also want to consider other options.

A must-have accessory would be a Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) fork and receiver plate. This allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the holster from the belt, offering greater flexibility in gear configuration.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412

In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75029-412 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and functionality. The ALS system provides a reliable level of retention, while the SafariSeven™ construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments. The red dot sight compatibility is a crucial feature for modern tactical applications.

At a price of $165.99, the Safariland 6390rds offers excellent value for its features and performance. The cost is justified by its superior construction, reliable retention, and red dot sight compatibility.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a high-quality duty holster for their sidearm with a red dot sight. It is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of reliable service. If you need a duty-rated holster that will withstand the test of time and keep your firearm secure, look no further. Upgrade your carry system today with the Safariland 6390rds!

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