What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30 Stand Out?
In the world of duty holsters, where security and speed are paramount, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30 makes a serious claim. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster is designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, and emphasizes a smooth, intuitive draw thanks to its Automatic Locking System (ALS). It offers Level I retention, meaning the weapon is secured without straps or snaps, offering a faster, more streamlined draw compared to higher-level retention holsters.
My journey to this holster started with a growing need for a secure, yet rapidly accessible carry solution for my duty pistol after adding a red dot optic. The traditional hood-and-strap systems felt slow and cumbersome, especially in dynamic training scenarios. I needed something that offered both peace of mind and the ability to quickly acquire my weapon.
Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, my first impression was one of solid construction and professional design. The Safariland holster felt robust, the materials appeared high-quality, and the ALS mechanism clicked reassuringly into place as I holstered my pistol. The mid-ride height seemed perfect for my belt setup, promising a comfortable and natural draw.
I had been considering a Blackhawk! SERPA holster and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, but ultimately chose the Safariland model. The Blackhawk! SERPA, while popular, has faced safety concerns regarding the trigger finger during the draw, and the Blade-Tech, while versatile, didn’t offer the same level of active retention for duty use. The Safariland 6390rds appeared to offer a safer, more reliable solution for my specific needs.
Initially, I was excited by the promise of a fast, secure draw, but also a bit apprehensive about learning a new retention system. I was eager to see if the Safariland 6390rds lived up to its reputation for speed and reliability in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds was at the shooting range, during a force-on-force training session. The day was hot and humid, and the drills were designed to simulate high-stress encounters. I was immediately impressed with how easily the ALS system disengaged with my thumb during the draw stroke.
Even with sweaty hands, the holster provided a secure grip and a consistently smooth draw. I was able to consistently present my weapon faster than with my previous holster system, and the mid-ride height felt very natural. There were no initial issues or surprises; the holster performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has seen action in a variety of conditions, from dusty desert environments to rain-soaked training exercises. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly.
Cleaning the holster is a simple process; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous nylon holsters, the Safariland‘s molded construction is far easier to keep clean and maintain. The Safariland 6390rds has significantly outperformed my expectations, proving to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon without the need for straps or snaps. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, offering excellent durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster close to the body for comfortable carry and a natural draw stroke. It is a Level I retention holster, emphasizing speed and ease of access while still providing a degree of security. These specifications matter because they contribute to the holster’s overall performance in demanding situations. The ALS allows for a fast, intuitive draw, while the SafariSeven construction ensures long-term durability and reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securing a firearm with a red dot sight while providing a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, and is easily disengaged with a simple thumb motion during the draw. This makes it ideal for situations where speed is critical.
While the Level I retention may not be sufficient for all users or environments (higher retention levels are available), it strikes a good balance between security and accessibility. The holster meets and exceeds expectations for speed and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The molded construction provides a secure and comfortable fit for the firearm, and the mid-ride belt loop allows for a natural draw stroke. The holster’s weight is minimal, adding little to the overall load.
There is minimal learning curve; the ALS system is intuitive and easy to master with a few practice draws.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven nylon blend construction of the Safariland 6390rds suggests a long lifespan. The holster has already demonstrated excellent resistance to wear and tear during my testing. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and mounting platforms. While the holster itself does not offer significant customization options, its modular design allows it to be easily adapted to different carry styles and user preferences. It is compatible with most popular red dot sights and weapon lights (check specific model compatibility before purchase).
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30
Pros
- Rapid and intuitive draw thanks to the ALS system. The ALS system is the key to the holster’s speed and ease of use.
- Durable SafariSeven construction for long-lasting performance. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear.
- Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. This holster eliminates the need for modifications or compromises when using a red dot.
- Comfortable mid-ride height. The mid-ride position provides a natural and comfortable draw stroke.
- Level I retention balances security and speed. Level I is a great compromise for those who prioritize draw speed.
Cons
- Level I retention may not be sufficient for all users or environments. Higher-level retention options are available for those needing additional security.
- Price is relatively high compared to some other holsters. The Safariland’s quality and features come at a premium.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure, yet rapidly accessible holster for their duty firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and a consistent draw stroke.
Those who require the highest levels of retention for extreme environments or specific security concerns may want to consider a Safariland holster with Level II or Level III retention. Additionally, budget-conscious buyers may find the price point prohibitive. A must-have accessory is a Safariland compatible belt or mounting platform for optimal stability and performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of speed, security, and durability. The price is justified by the quality of construction, innovative design, and proven performance.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and efficient carry solution for their red dot-equipped firearm. Invest in your safety and performance – get the Safariland 6390rds!