What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH Stand Out?
In the world of duty gear, where reliability and speed are paramount, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH emerges as a strong contender. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, is designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights, offering a secure Level I retention system and a mid-ride platform for comfortable carry. Its key feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing instinctive weapon security without compromising draw speed, making it a favored choice among law enforcement and tactical professionals.
For years, I struggled to find a holster that truly balanced retention, speed, and compatibility with my growing collection of red-dot-equipped pistols. Many holsters either sacrificed retention for a faster draw or were simply not designed to accommodate the increasingly popular red dot sights. This led me to search for a dedicated solution that could meet the demands of real-world tactical applications.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and clean design. The holster felt solid in hand, suggesting a high level of durability, and the internal ALS mechanism appeared well-engineered and easy to manipulate. The overall weight felt appropriate for a duty-rated holster, providing a sense of security without being overly cumbersome.
Compared to other holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Serpa or the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland 6390rds offered a more refined retention system and a more comfortable carry position. The Serpa’s push-button release, while fast, felt less secure, and the Blade-Tech’s minimalist design lacked the robust protection and retention I needed for duty use. The Safariland seemed to strike the perfect balance.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to put the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation. The combination of ALS retention and red dot compatibility was particularly appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed, re-holstering efficiency, and overall comfort during extended practice sessions. The weather conditions were relatively mild, with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and clear skies.
The Safariland 6390rds performed admirably, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I became familiar with the ALS release. Re-holstering was equally straightforward, with the firearm securely locking into place with a reassuring click. I appreciated how the mid-ride platform positioned the firearm for a natural and comfortable draw.
Initially, the ALS release required a bit of practice to master, but after a few dozen draws, it became second nature. There were no major issues during the first use, only a slight adjustment period to refine my grip and draw technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, including force-on-force simulations and tactical exercises, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. The holster has withstood exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures without any noticeable degradation in performance.
Aside from minor scuff marks on the exterior, the Safariland 6390rds shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and release even under stressful conditions. The holster is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, requiring minimal maintenance to keep it in optimal working order.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds surpasses them in terms of both durability and retention capability. It has consistently outperformed other Level I and Level II retention holsters in real-world testing scenarios, making it my go-to choice for duty and tactical applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
The ALS mechanism provides Level I retention, offering a balance between security and draw speed. The mid-ride design allows for comfortable carry and minimizes printing, making it suitable for both uniformed duty and plainclothes assignments. The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, providing exceptional resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS system provides reliable retention without hindering draw speed, making it ideal for high-stress situations.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, secure retention, and comfortable carry position. A minor area for improvement might be the addition of adjustable retention screws to fine-tune the draw resistance to individual preferences. Overall, the Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk while maximizing functionality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is both lightweight and durable, contributing to comfortable all-day carry.
The holster is generally user-friendly, with the ALS release becoming instinctive after a short period of practice. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but the benefits of secure retention and fast draw speed outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven™ construction is highly resistant to heat, cold, abrasion, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting durability.
The holster requires minimal maintenance, typically only needing occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The simple design and robust materials make it easy to maintain and repair, further extending its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical mounting systems. The holster is also designed to accommodate most popular red dot sights, offering a high degree of compatibility with various firearm platforms.
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with various Safariland mounting options, allowing users to configure the holster to their specific needs and preferences. This modularity and compatibility with aftermarket accessories enhance the holster’s versatility and value.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH
Pros
- Secure Level I Retention: The ALS system provides reliable weapon retention without sacrificing draw speed, making it ideal for duty use.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications or compromises.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend offers exceptional resistance to heat, cold, abrasion, and chemicals, ensuring long-lasting durability.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Platform: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
- Easy to Maintain: The simple design and robust materials make the holster easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- ALS Learning Curve: The ALS release requires practice to master, which may be a drawback for new users.
- Non-Adjustable Retention: The retention level is not adjustable, which may not suit all users’ preferences.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH is perfect for law enforcement officers, tactical professionals, and competition shooters who require a secure and reliable holster for their red-dot-equipped firearms. It’s also a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality duty holster that offers a balance between retention and draw speed.
Individuals who prefer adjustable retention or who are not comfortable with the ALS system might want to consider other holster options. Additionally, those who do not use red dot sights may find other holsters more suitable for their needs.
A must-have accessory would be a Safariland compatible belt that is rigid and specifically designed for duty use to provide a stable platform. A leg shroud can also be considered for individuals needing to carry additional gear along with the holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-742-NH is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The price is justified by the high-quality construction, reliable retention system, and red dot sight compatibility.
I would personally highly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster for their red-dot-equipped firearm. It’s a reliable and well-designed piece of gear that will serve you well in the field. Invest in your safety and performance – get the Safariland 6390rds today!