Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG

For over a decade, I’ve relied on my gear to perform, and a holster is arguably the most critical piece of kit for anyone carrying a firearm daily. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG promises a blend of speed, security, and compatibility with red dot sights, features increasingly vital in modern law enforcement and tactical environments. Given Safariland’s reputation, I was eager to see if this holster lived up to the hype and if it could improve my draw speed and weapon security while accommodating a pistol with an optic.

My primary reason for seeking a new holster centered around upgrading to a pistol with a red dot sight. My old holster simply wasn’t compatible, and I needed a duty-rated option that provided both Level I retention and a comfortable, accessible carry position. I wanted something that would stand up to the rigors of daily carry, offer a secure hold, and facilitate a smooth, rapid draw when needed.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately impressed by the build quality and robust construction. The holster felt solid and well-made, and the SafariSeven™ nylon blend material had a reassuringly tough texture. Its mid-ride design seemed like it would sit perfectly on my duty belt, not too high, not too low, but just right.

I considered several other holsters before settling on the Safariland 6390rds, including models from Blackhawk and G-Code. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland due to its proven Automatic Locking System (ALS), the mid-ride belt loop, and Safariland’s unparalleled reputation for quality and reliability within the law enforcement community. The Blackhawk models seemed less refined, and the G-Code options, while excellent, didn’t offer the same level of readily available duty-rated certifications.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Safariland 6390rds appeared to be a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed holster, but the true test would come in its real-world performance. I was both excited to see how it performed under pressure and slightly apprehensive about whether the ALS system would be as intuitive and reliable as advertised.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6390rds was at a local shooting range during a law enforcement qualifications drill. The range environment provided a controlled setting to practice drawing and re-holstering the firearm under timed conditions. I also spent time practicing dry-fire drills at home, getting familiar with the ALS release mechanism.

The holster performed exceptionally well in dry and warm conditions. The draw stroke felt natural and fluid after only a short period of familiarization, and the ALS provided a reassuring level of retention without hindering speed. I also intentionally exposed the holster to some dust, and the retention mechanism continued to operate flawlessly.

Initially, the draw required a bit of conscious effort to ensure a proper grip and thumb placement to disengage the ALS. However, after only a few repetitions, the motion became almost instinctive. There were no malfunctions or issues related to the holster’s performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Safariland 6390rds in my daily duty assignments and various training scenarios, I can confidently attest to its long-term reliability. The holster has been exposed to a wide range of environmental conditions, including rain, snow, extreme heat, and humidity, without any degradation in performance.

The SafariSeven™ nylon blend material has proven to be incredibly durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite constant use. I’ve worn this holster on duty, during firearms training courses, and even on several backcountry hikes while carrying a sidearm for bear protection.

Maintaining the Safariland 6390rds is remarkably simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I’ve also occasionally used a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation of the ALS mechanism, but this is only necessary every few months. This holster surpasses my previous experiences with other duty holsters in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds is a duty-rated Level I retention holster specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a mid-ride belt loop, and is constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend. The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to ride close to the body, providing a comfortable and concealable carry position.

The choice of SafariSeven™ nylon blend is significant, offering high heat and low cold tolerance, ensuring the holster maintains its structural integrity in extreme environments. The mid-ride positioning is also crucial as it allows for a more natural and efficient draw stroke while minimizing printing under clothing. The ALS retention system offers a balance of security and speed, allowing for a quick draw while providing a deterrent against unauthorized access to the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds performs its primary function – securing and rapidly deploying a firearm – exceptionally well. The ALS provides a secure Level I retention, preventing the weapon from being easily dislodged while still allowing for a swift and intuitive draw. The holster’s design also allows for one-handed re-holstering.

A significant strength is the compatibility with red dot sights. The cutaway design accommodates various optic sizes without hindering the draw stroke or re-holstering. The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated holster, balancing security, accessibility, and comfort.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and user comfort. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction provides a lightweight yet incredibly durable platform. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm in an optimal location for both accessibility and concealment.

The holster’s design is inherently user-friendly, with the ALS release mechanism requiring only a slight thumb depression during the draw stroke. While there may be a slight learning curve for users unfamiliar with ALS systems, the motion quickly becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. The design is simple and robust, minimizing potential failure points.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The materials and construction suggest that the holster will provide years of reliable service with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds itself doesn’t come with many accessories beyond the standard hardware for attaching it to a duty belt. However, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options.

The holster is also compatible with various firearm lights, though specific compatibility depends on the firearm and light combination. The Safariland 6390rds benefits from Safariland’s extensive ecosystem of accessories, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a duty-rated holster that offers both security and rapid access to their firearm. It is also an excellent choice for competitive shooters who use red dot sights and demand a holster that can keep up with their pace.

Individuals who prioritize concealability above all else or who are on a very tight budget might want to explore other options. Also, those who are completely new to firearms may find the ALS system intimidating at first.

A must-have accessory is a good quality duty belt that provides a stable platform for the holster. Also, consider Safariland’s range of compatible belt loops and leg shrouds to customize the carry position to your specific needs.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75228-131-AG is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and compatibility with red dot sights. The ALS system provides a reassuring level of retention without hindering draw speed, and the SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction ensures long-lasting durability.

At $164.20, the price is justified considering the quality, features, and reputation of Safariland. This isn’t just a holster; it’s an investment in your safety and readiness.

I would personally highly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone who requires a reliable and high-performing duty holster. If you carry a firearm with a red dot sight and demand the best in retention and accessibility, then look no further. Equip yourself with the Safariland 6390rds and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and ready when you need it most.