What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG Stand Out?
In the realm of duty holsters, where retention, speed, and reliability are paramount, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG emerges as a strong contender. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, this holster is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, addressing a growing need in the tactical community. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS), combined with a mid-ride belt loop, promises a secure and comfortable carry while enabling a lightning-fast draw.
My search for this particular holster stemmed from a very specific need. I recently upgraded my duty pistol with a red dot sight, rendering my previous holster incompatible. I needed a holster that not only accommodated the optic but also provided a secure Level I retention suitable for law enforcement duty, while maintaining a comfortable and accessible draw.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG, my initial impression was one of rugged durability. The materials felt robust, and the build quality was unmistakably Safariland – precise and dependable. Its weight felt balanced; substantial enough to convey durability, yet not cumbersome.
I considered several other holsters before settling on the 6390RDS. The Blackhawk T-Series L3D RDS was a contender, but I found the ALS system in the Safariland to be simpler and more intuitive. I also looked at some offerings from G-Code, but Safariland’s reputation for duty-grade durability ultimately swayed my decision.
Honestly, I was both excited and a little apprehensive. I’ve trusted Safariland products for years, but I was eager to see if the ALS system lived up to its claims, and if the mid-ride design would offer the comfort and accessibility I was hoping for with my red dot equipped pistol.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG took place at the shooting range. The weather was typical for my region – humid and around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. I ran several drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering, paying close attention to the speed and security of the ALS system.
The holster performed admirably under these conditions. The draw was consistently smooth and fast, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the ALS. Even with sweaty hands, the retention remained solid, and the pistol locked securely into place upon re-holstering.
One minor issue arose during the first few draws: the positioning of the red dot sight caused a slight snag on my cover garment. However, after a few adjustments to my draw stroke, this issue was resolved, and the process became seamless.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, both on the range and during duty, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG continues to impress. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The SafariSeven nylon blend material still looks like new, even after exposure to rain, mud, and general on-duty grime.
Maintenance is remarkably simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Periodically, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, but that’s the extent of the required maintenance. The 6390RDS has significantly outperformed my previous duty holsters in both comfort and speed. The mid-ride height positions the weapon perfectly for a natural draw, and the ALS offers a level of security that gives me real peace of mind on the job.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. It features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), which provides Level I Retention. This means the firearm is secured until the ALS is deliberately deactivated by the user’s thumb during the draw stroke.
The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable and easily accessible height. It is constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend, known for its exceptional durability, heat resistance, and low maintenance requirements. The holster is available in various finishes, including plain black, basket weave, and STX Tactical.
These specifications directly influence the holster’s performance and user experience. The ALS provides a balance between security and speed. The mid-ride height offers improved comfort and accessibility compared to higher-riding holsters. Finally, the SafariSeven construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a consistently fast and smooth draw. The Level I retention provides adequate security for most duty applications, while still allowing for a rapid response when needed.
However, Level I retention might not be sufficient for high-risk environments where a higher level of security is required. The draw stroke requires some initial familiarization to avoid snagging on cover garments. Overall, this holster meets and often exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The 6390RDS is well-designed with duty use in mind. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, and the mid-ride height positions the firearm for optimal comfort and accessibility. The holster is also relatively slim, minimizing bulk and preventing interference with other gear.
The ALS lever is intuitively positioned and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the draw stroke, it quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven construction of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG is exceptionally durable, resisting scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. The low-maintenance design requires minimal upkeep, making it ideal for demanding duty environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting platforms. While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, the ability to integrate it with other Safariland gear allows users to tailor their carry system to their specific needs.
The holster is also compatible with most popular red dot sights, although some larger optics may require slight modifications or adjustments. Safariland’s open-top design accommodates various barrel lengths and slide configurations.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG
Pros
- Fast and smooth draw facilitated by the intuitive ALS system.
- Secure Level I Retention provides peace of mind during duty use.
- Durable SafariSeven construction withstands harsh conditions and minimizes maintenance.
- Mid-ride height offers comfortable and accessible carry.
- Compatibility with red dot sights accommodates a growing trend in tactical firearms.
Cons
- Level I retention might not be sufficient for high-risk environments.
- Initial learning curve required to master the draw stroke without snagging.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a reliable and accessible holster for their red-dot-equipped firearms. It’s an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing a fast draw and comfortable carry with Level I retention.
This product might not be ideal for individuals operating in extremely high-risk environments where Level II or Level III retention is mandated. Civilians seeking a concealed carry holster might also find the 6390RDS too bulky and duty-oriented.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory for this holster to ensure stable and secure carry. A compatible Safariland Drop Flex Adapter (DFA) can also enhance comfort and accessibility, particularly when wearing body armor.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-481-AG is a well-designed and expertly crafted duty holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS system provides a secure and intuitive Level I retention, while the mid-ride height offers a comfortable and accessible carry. The durable SafariSeven construction ensures years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on their gear.
At $164.20, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the reliability of the ALS system, and the proven track record of Safariland products. I would absolutely recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional seeking a dependable and efficient solution for carrying their red-dot-equipped duty firearm. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, the 6390RDS is a holster you can trust.