What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2 Stand Out?
In a world saturated with tactical gear, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2 carves its own niche. It’s a holster meticulously engineered by Safariland for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts who demand speed, security, and compatibility with red dot sights. The holster boasts Automatic Locking System (ALS) retention and a mid-ride belt loop, making it a strong contender in the duty holster market.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve wrestled with countless holsters, each promising the moon. I specifically sought out a duty-rated holster that accommodated a red dot sight without sacrificing security or draw speed. The need arose when I transitioned from traditional iron sights to a red dot optic on my primary duty pistol, finding existing holsters inadequate or requiring extensive modification.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction and clean lines. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall design screamed quality. The holster felt substantial without being overly bulky, a crucial factor for all-day wear.
Before settling on the Safariland 6390rds, I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse. The Serpa, while popular, lacks the open-top speed I desired, and I’ve never been a fan of the trigger-finger release mechanism. The Blade-Tech, while versatile, didn’t offer the same level of positive retention as the Safariland.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The holster felt like a purpose-built piece of equipment, not a compromise. I was genuinely excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first foray with the Safariland 6390rds was at my local shooting range, under both controlled and rapid-fire scenarios. I focused on drawing, presenting, and re-holstering my pistol repeatedly, concentrating on the smoothness and speed of the draw stroke. The ALS system was intuitive and required minimal adjustment to master.
The holster performed admirably, even when subjected to simulated stress. I subjected it to water, mud, and dust to evaluate its performance under adverse conditions, and it maintained flawless functionality. The draw remained consistent and reliable, regardless of the external elements.
The draw stroke was remarkably smooth and consistent after just a few practice runs. There was a negligible learning curve, and I quickly became confident in my ability to draw my weapon quickly and efficiently. There were no snags, hesitations, or unexpected issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has become an integral part of my duty rig. It continues to perform reliably, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend has proven to be remarkably resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements.
The holster has shown exceptional durability, with no cracks, breaks, or failures in the retention mechanism. The finish remains intact, and the holster retains its original shape and rigidity. Routine cleaning involves wiping down the surface with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism periodically.
Compared to previous nylon holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds significantly outperforms them in terms of both retention and durability. It has surpassed my expectations and solidified its place as my go-to duty holster. This holster offers the peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure, accessible, and ready for use when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. The holster also incorporates a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm close to the body.
The ALS system is the heart of this holster, providing Level I retention with intuitive thumb-operated release. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction offers extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The mid-ride belt loop enhances comfort and concealment while maintaining accessibility.
These specifications are crucial because they address the specific needs of professionals who require a secure, accessible, and red dot-compatible holster. The ALS provides reliable retention without hindering draw speed, while the SafariSeven™ ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments. The mid-ride height enhances both comfort and concealability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds performs its job flawlessly, offering a secure and rapid draw. The ALS retention mechanism is intuitive and provides positive retention without requiring complex manipulations. The holster’s open-top design allows for a smooth and unobstructed draw stroke.
The holster’s primary strengths are its security, speed, and red dot compatibility. The only potential improvement would be offering additional cant adjustment options. It certainly exceeds my expectations in terms of overall performance and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a sleek and functional design. The SafariSeven™ material feels robust yet lightweight. The mid-ride height is comfortable for all-day wear, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.
The holster is exceptionally user-friendly. The ALS release is intuitive and easily mastered with minimal practice. The open-top design allows for a fast and natural draw stroke, making it suitable for both experienced and novice users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster is expected to last for many years.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only periodic cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. There are no complex components or maintenance procedures, ensuring hassle-free ownership.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds itself doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories but its strength lies in its compatibility with Safariland’s vast ecosystem of mounting options. You can easily adapt it to different carry positions using various Safariland belt loops, thigh rigs, and other mounting platforms.
The holster is specifically designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights, making it a versatile platform for various firearms configurations. While it doesn’t offer direct customization of the holster body itself, the multitude of mounting options allows for personalized carry preferences. The ALS mechanism can be adjusted for user preference.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2
Pros
- Exceptional retention with the intuitive ALS system: Provides Level I retention without sacrificing draw speed.
- Durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction: Resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
- Red dot sight compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted optics.
- Comfortable mid-ride belt loop: Enhances concealability and distributes weight evenly.
- Smooth and consistent draw stroke: Facilitates rapid and efficient weapon deployment.
Cons
- Limited cant adjustment options: May not suit all carry preferences without additional adapters.
- Level I retention may not be sufficient for some high-risk environments: Consider Level II or Level III retention holsters for heightened security needs.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize speed, security, and red dot compatibility. It’s also an excellent choice for responsible citizens who carry a firearm for self-defense and want a reliable and comfortable holster.
Individuals requiring maximum retention in high-risk environments might consider a Level II or Level III retention holster instead. This product is not intended for concealed carry without appropriate cover garments.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability. Additionally, consider using a Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) for added versatility and the ability to quickly switch between different carry platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8321-732-2 is a meticulously engineered duty holster that delivers on its promises. It offers a winning combination of speed, security, durability, and red dot compatibility. It’s a significant investment in your safety and peace of mind.
At $198.20, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, robust construction, and reliable performance. It’s a holster that will likely outlast many firearms.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster. If you value speed, security, and red dot compatibility, this is the holster for you. Upgrade your carry rig today and experience the Safariland difference.