Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 Review

What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 Stand Out?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 is a purpose-built holster designed to meet the demands of law enforcement, security professionals, and discerning firearm enthusiasts. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this holster prioritizes weapon retention, accessibility, and compatibility with red dot sights (RDS). Its mid-ride configuration offers a balance of comfort and concealability, making it a versatile option for various applications.

I’ve been working in tactical gear for over a decade, and the recurring issue I see is the compromise between security and speed of draw, especially with the increasing adoption of red dot sights on duty pistols. Many holsters either lacked sufficient retention or weren’t properly designed to accommodate the larger footprint of an RDS. The Safariland 6390rds appeared to be a solution that didn’t force that compromise, which is why I was drawn to it.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction of the holster. The Safariland STX finish felt incredibly durable, and the overall design exuded a sense of quality. Its mid-ride height seemed ideal for a comfortable and efficient draw, even when wearing body armor.

Compared to my older Safariland 6378USN and a competing Blackhawk Serpa holster, the 6390rds offers a noticeably smoother draw and a more secure retention system thanks to the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The Blackhawk, while offering Level II retention, felt clunky and less intuitive. The older Safariland model lacked RDS compatibility.

My initial excitement was high. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 appeared to be precisely what I needed: a reliable, secure, and RDS-compatible duty holster. Now it was time to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Safariland 6390rds took place at a local shooting range during a training session. I ran drills involving drawing and firing from various positions, including seated and prone. The weather was slightly overcast with a light drizzle, providing a mildly challenging environment.

The holster performed flawlessly even with wet hands. The ALS system released smoothly and consistently with each draw. Reholstering was equally intuitive, with the ALS automatically engaging and securing the weapon.

The only minor adjustment I had to make was getting accustomed to the exact thumb placement required to disengage the ALS. After a few repetitions, the motion became second nature. Overall, the first use was extremely positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various environments, including range sessions, tactical training courses, and even a few backcountry hikes (for open carry legal states of course), the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The STX finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The holster maintains its structural integrity even after being subjected to bumps, scrapes, and temperature fluctuations.

Maintaining the holster is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6390rds stands out for its superior retention, comfortable mid-ride height, and RDS compatibility. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 is designed with specific parameters in mind. It’s built for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is the core of its Level I retention.

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device automatically secures the weapon upon holstering. It releases with a simple thumb swipe, providing a fast and intuitive draw.
• Red Dot Sight (RDS) Compatibility: The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted RDS. This allows for co-witnessing with iron sights or using the RDS as the primary sighting system.
• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable height on the user’s hip. This allows for a balance between accessibility and concealability, even when wearing body armor.
• STX Finish: The Safariland STX finish offers excellent durability and resistance to scratches, abrasions, and moisture. This ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.
• Level I Retention: While the ALS provides a secure retention mechanism, the 6390rds is classified as a Level I retention holster. It prioritizes speed and ease of draw over more complex retention systems.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the holster’s performance, reliability, and overall user experience. The ALS provides a secure hold on the weapon, while the RDS compatibility allows for modern sighting options. The mid-ride height ensures comfort and accessibility. The STX finish guarantees durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a confident sense of security without hindering accessibility. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear and doesn’t interfere with movement.

The main strength of the holster is its balance between retention and speed. The ALS is easy to disengage with practice, allowing for a draw that is nearly as fast as an open-top holster, but much more secure. One potential area for improvement might be the addition of an optional hood or secondary retention device for users who require a higher level of security.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations. I’d argue the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 is a gold standard in duty holsters.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and ergonomics. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials that feel durable and substantial without being overly bulky. The mid-ride height is comfortable and doesn’t cause discomfort or chafing, even after hours of wear.

The holster is designed to be user-friendly. The ALS is intuitive to operate, and the overall design allows for a smooth and efficient draw. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but after a short period of practice, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The robust construction and durable STX finish ensure that it can withstand the demands of daily use in challenging environments. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep the holster in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms. The holster can also be customized with different finishes and colors to match the user’s preferences.

The 6390rds is designed to accommodate a wide variety of red dot sights, including models from Trijicon, Aimpoint, and Leupold. It is also compatible with most common weapon-mounted lights. This flexibility makes the Safariland 6390rds a versatile platform that can be adapted to meet the specific needs of the user.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competition shooters who prioritize a balance of weapon retention, accessibility, and RDS compatibility. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who carries a firearm equipped with a red dot sight and needs a reliable and durable duty holster.

This product may not be the best choice for individuals who require the highest level of weapon retention (Level II or higher) or who prefer a minimalist holster design. Those looking for maximum concealability might find a different holster more suitable.

A must-have accessory would be a compatible Safariland belt loop or mounting platform to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to maintain smooth operation.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482

In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-482 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and durability. Its ALS system provides a secure hold on the firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The RDS compatibility makes it a modern and versatile option for a wide range of users.

At a price of $165.99, the Safariland 6390rds represents an excellent value proposition. While it may not be the cheapest holster on the market, its superior quality and performance justify the investment.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a reliable, secure, and RDS-compatible duty holster. It is a well-designed and expertly crafted product that will provide years of dependable service. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the difference a quality holster can make!