Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132
For over 50 years, Safariland has been synonymous with quality, innovation, and reliability in the law enforcement and military communities. Their holsters are considered the gold standard for duty use, and the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132 is no exception. This holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, providing a secure and accessible carry option for officers and professionals who rely on this increasingly popular optic.
My department recently transitioned to allowing the use of pistol-mounted optics, creating an urgent need for duty-rated holsters that could accommodate the change. I was tasked with evaluating several options, and the Safariland 6390rds quickly rose to the top of the list due to its established reputation and specific RDS compatibility. The need was simple: a secure, reliable, and easily accessible holster that wouldn’t compromise the benefits of using a red dot sight.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of rugged durability and thoughtful design. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, with a smooth draw stroke even before any break-in period. The materials appeared to be high-quality, and the mid-ride height seemed ideal for a comfortable and accessible carry.
Compared to other RDS-compatible holsters I evaluated, such as the Blackhawk T-Series and the Galco M5X Matrix, the Safariland 6390rds stood out for its streamlined design and the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS). While the Blackhawk offered similar retention, it felt bulkier. The Galco, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of active retention I required for duty use.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to get the Safariland 6390rds onto the range and see how it performed in a live-fire environment. It appeared to be a well-engineered solution to a critical need in modern law enforcement.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds took place at our department’s shooting range during a standard qualifications course. I ran drills focused on drawing, target acquisition, and re-holstering, simulating the movements required in a real-world encounter. The range conditions were typical for our area: sunny, dry, and slightly dusty.
The holster performed flawlessly under these conditions. The ALS system provided a secure hold on the firearm, even during rapid movements, and the draw stroke was smooth and consistent. The mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable and natural grip, facilitating quick target acquisition.
One minor adjustment I had to make was getting used to the ALS release. It required a deliberate thumb swipe to deactivate, but with a little practice, it became second nature. I experienced no malfunctions or unexpected surprises during the initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I have used it during training exercises, patrol shifts, and even in inclement weather. It has held up remarkably well.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight scuff marks on the exterior. The internal locking mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably. Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
In comparison to previous duty holsters I have used, the Safariland 6390rds surpasses them in both retention and ease of use, especially with the added benefit of RDS compatibility. The peace of mind that comes from knowing my firearm is securely holstered without sacrificing accessibility is invaluable. It’s a clear upgrade from traditional thumb-break designs.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132
Specifications
Product Name: Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132.
Manufacturer: Safariland.
Retention Level: Level I, utilizing the Automatic Locking System (ALS). This internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions, eliminating the need for snaps or straps.
RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights or similar optics.
Material: Constructed from durable Safariland’s SafariSeven™ nylon blend. This material is non-abrasive to firearm finishes and tolerant of extreme temperatures.
Ride Height: Mid-ride belt loop design, positioning the firearm for a comfortable and accessible draw.
Design: Open-top design allows for a quick and unobstructed draw. The ALS is deactivated with the thumb during the draw stroke, allowing for a natural grip.
Finish: Available in various finishes, including plain black.
These specifications are crucial for a duty holster. The Level I retention provided by the ALS offers a balance of security and speed, while the RDS compatibility ensures compatibility with modern firearm setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive to use, and after a short training period, it becomes a seamless part of the draw stroke. Accuracy is not directly impacted by the holster itself, but the secure carry and smooth draw contribute to consistent performance.
The main strength of this holster is its combination of security, speed, and RDS compatibility. It allows officers to confidently carry their firearm with an optic without sacrificing accessibility. The potential weakness is the learning curve associated with the ALS, although this is quickly overcome with practice.
The Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a reliable and secure carry solution that is specifically designed for modern firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds is exceptional. The SafariSeven™ material feels robust and durable, and the overall construction is solid. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear and positions the firearm for an efficient draw.
The holster is generally user-friendly, but there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release. With consistent practice, the thumb swipe becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is designed for long-lasting durability, and the Safariland 6390rds lives up to this expectation. It is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The simplicity of the design contributes to its ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. While the holster itself doesn’t offer direct customization options like adjustable cant or tension, the modular design allows for customization through the use of compatible accessories.
The holster is also generally compatible with most common pistol-mounted red dot sights. Compatibility should always be checked on Safariland’s website or through their customer service to confirm compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132
Pros
- Superior Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides excellent Level I retention, ensuring the firearm stays securely holstered during strenuous activity.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights, making it ideal for officers and professionals using modern optics.
- Durable Construction: Made from rugged SafariSeven™ nylon blend, the holster is built to withstand the rigors of duty use and extreme environments.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a fast and efficient draw.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm for a natural and comfortable grip.
Cons
- ALS Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS release, but becomes intuitive with repetition.
- Price Point: While offering excellent value, the initial investment may be higher than some other holster options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and RDS-compatible duty holster. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prefer a Level I retention system. This holster provides the right mix of security and fast access, making it the holster of choice for those who need it most.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who do not require active retention or who prefer simpler holster designs. Those looking for concealed carry options may also find the Safariland 6390rds too bulky for their needs.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a compatible Safariland belt loop or mounting platform to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Some users may also benefit from using a holster lubricant to ensure a smooth draw stroke.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-132 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and RDS compatibility. Its rugged construction, smooth draw stroke, and intuitive ALS system make it a top choice for professionals who rely on their gear in high-stakes situations.
The price of $165.99 is justified by the quality of materials, the innovative design, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your firearm is securely holstered.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster that can accommodate a red dot sight. If you are looking for a dependable, secure, and efficient holster, the Safariland 6390rds is worth the investment. Equip yourself with confidence, and experience the Safariland difference!