Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131 is a purpose-built holster designed to meet the demands of law enforcement, military personnel, and serious firearms enthusiasts who utilize red dot sights on their pistols. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this model offers a blend of speed, security, and compatibility.

My journey to finding the 6390RDS began with a specific need: a reliable and secure duty holster capable of accommodating my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. Existing holsters felt either too bulky, lacking in retention, or incompatible with the optic.

Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The materials felt durable, the molding precise, and the overall construction inspires confidence. Compared to some cheaper, generic holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland’s fit and finish are in a different league altogether. I had been considering a Blackhawk Serpa holster, and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, but the Safariland offered a superior blend of retention and accessibility tailored for red-dot-equipped firearms. My initial reaction was definitely excitement; I knew this was a serious piece of kit.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Safariland 6390rds took place at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The weather was moderately humid, typical for a summer day in my region.

Drawing and re-holstering drills revealed the intuitive nature of the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The ALS disengaged smoothly with a natural thumb sweep, allowing for a quick and efficient draw. There were no hiccups or fumbling, even under the stress of simulated combat scenarios.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a multi-day tactical training course, the Safariland 6390rds has proven exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly minor scuff marks on the exterior surface from rubbing against gear. The holster maintains a tight grip on the firearm, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.

Compared to my previous experience with another brand’s open-top holster, the Safariland’s retention system offers a noticeable increase in security and peace of mind without sacrificing speed. It undoubtedly outperforms my previous solutions and meets my stringent requirements.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131

Specifications

• The Safariland 6390rds is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This ensures a proper fit and prevents damage to the optic.
• It utilizes the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I Retention. The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon until intentionally released.
• The holster features a mid-ride belt loop. This positions the firearm lower on the hip for increased comfort and concealment.
• The construction is primarily Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. SafariSeven is non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish and highly resistant to heat and cold.
• It’s duty rated, built to withstand the rigors of law enforcement and military use. This means increased durability and reliability in demanding situations.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the holster’s performance in real-world scenarios. The red dot compatibility is critical for users who rely on optics for faster target acquisition. The ALS provides a necessary level of security, while the mid-ride height enhances comfort and concealability. SafariSeven provides protection for your firearm finish.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely and reliably retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw when needed. The ALS system is remarkably intuitive. Once mastered, the draw stroke becomes second nature.

The holster’s open-top design facilitates a smooth and unhindered draw. The red dot sight doesn’t snag or interfere with the draw stroke, which can be a problem with some other holsters. The only potential downside is that the Level I retention means that with enough force, the firearm could be removed without disengaging the ALS; however, this is the tradeoff for increased speed of draw.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds is exceptional. The SafariSeven material feels robust and well-molded. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealability. The holster’s ergonomic design minimizes printing and prevents discomfort during extended periods of wear. The ALS lever is strategically placed for easy access with the thumb during the draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its duty-rated construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6390rds is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple. Most dirt and debris can be removed with a damp cloth and mild soap. The ALS mechanism benefits from occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6390rds doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, its modular design allows for customization. The mid-ride belt loop can be replaced with other Safariland mounting options, such as a paddle or drop leg platform. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These include magazine pouches and other tactical gear.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a reliable and secure duty holster for their red-dot-equipped pistols. It’s also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.

This holster might not be the best choice for individuals seeking maximum concealment or those who require a higher level of retention. Users with very small frames might find the mid-ride height less comfortable.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-131 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises. The price of $165.99 is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and exceptional performance.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their red-dot-equipped pistol. If you value speed, security, and durability, the Safariland 6390rds is an excellent investment. Don’t settle for second best; equip yourself with a holster that can keep up with your demands.