What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 Stand Out?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 is a purpose-built holster designed for law enforcement and tactical professionals who require a secure and reliable way to carry a sidearm equipped with a red dot sight. From the renowned Safariland brand, this holster incorporates the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I Retention, ensuring the firearm remains securely in place until needed. Its mid-ride design allows for a comfortable carry, and its compatibility with red dot sights makes it a modern solution for today’s duty firearms.
After years of using various holsters in both law enforcement and private security, I consistently found myself modifying or replacing them to accommodate the ever-increasing adoption of red dot sights on pistols. Many older holsters simply couldn’t accommodate the optic, or required cumbersome modifications that compromised retention and draw speed. The promise of a Safariland holster specifically designed for RDS-equipped firearms with the proven ALS system immediately grabbed my attention.
My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 was its solid construction and thoughtfully designed form factor. The Safariland STX finish felt robust and ready to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The overall weight felt substantial without being overly bulky, a critical factor for all-day comfort.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa or the older Safariland SLS models without RDS accommodation, the 6390RDS offers a significant advantage. The Blackhawk! Serpa, while popular, has faced scrutiny regarding its draw technique under stress, and the older SLS models lack the RDS compatibility. This holster provided a noticeably faster and more intuitive draw stroke, especially with a red dot equipped pistol, while still maintaining a secure Level I retention.
My initial excitement upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 was quickly validated by its feel and features. This wasn’t just another holster; it was a specifically engineered solution that promised to enhance both security and operational efficiency.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 took place at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This environment allowed me to evaluate the holster under realistic stress conditions, focusing on draw speed, retention security, and overall comfort. The range session involved rapid draws, re-holstering under pressure, and movement drills while maintaining weapon retention.
The holster performed admirably in varying conditions, including a light drizzle that tested the grip and retention under wet circumstances. The ALS system remained functional and reliable even with moisture present. Acquiring a proper grip and disengaging the ALS became intuitive after only a few repetitions.
The learning curve was minimal; the ALS system is naturally engaged upon holstering, and disengaging it with the thumb during the draw stroke felt smooth and consistent. Initially, I experienced a bit of hesitation during rapid draws, but that quickly dissipated as I built muscle memory. The mid-ride height offered a comfortable draw angle that felt natural and efficient.
The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the ALS release lever, which required a firmer push to disengage than anticipated; however, this issue subsided after a few days of consistent use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use in various training scenarios and daily carry, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 continued to impress. Its durable construction held up well against the wear and tear of regular use, showing no signs of cracking or significant scratching. The STX finish proved resistant to abrasions and maintained its professional appearance.
Maintenance of the holster is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. I applied a small amount of silicone-based lubricant every two weeks to ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 significantly outperforms in both security and accessibility. The combination of ALS retention and the RDS-compatible design makes it a superior choice for professionals who rely on their sidearm in critical situations. The mid-ride height also enhanced comfort during extended periods of wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 is built to meet the demands of duty carry with several key specifications. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. This provides Level I retention, meaning the firearm is locked in place until the ALS is deliberately disengaged.
The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. Its open-top design allows for a clear sight picture and unobstructed draw. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably on the hip, promoting a natural draw stroke.
- Material: Constructed from durable Safariland STX (Tactical) finish, providing resistance to scratches, abrasions, and moisture.
- Retention: Level I Retention via the Automatic Locking System (ALS).
- Ride: Mid-ride belt loop, placing the firearm at a comfortable height for accessibility.
- Compatibility: Designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, security, and comfort. The ALS system ensures the firearm remains secure during strenuous activity. The RDS compatibility allows users to maintain a modern, efficient setup.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and readily deploying a sidearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS system provides a reassuring level of security. The holster is easy to use and becomes second nature with practice.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, smooth draw stroke, and comfortable carry. One area that could see marginal improvement is the initial break-in period for the ALS mechanism, which can feel slightly stiff at first.
Overall, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 exceeds expectations. It addresses the need for a reliable and RDS-compatible duty holster with a well-executed design and robust construction.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both security and user comfort. The holster’s contoured shape conforms comfortably to the hip. The mid-ride height provides a natural draw angle.
The build quality is excellent; the materials feel durable. The weight is balanced, ensuring the holster doesn’t feel cumbersome during extended wear. The ALS release is intuitively placed for easy access during the draw stroke.
The holster’s user-friendly design minimizes the learning curve, making it easy to integrate into existing duty gear setups.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty carry, ensuring long-term reliability. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient for maintenance.
The STX finish is highly resistant to abrasions and environmental factors, extending the holster’s lifespan. With proper care, this holster should provide years of dependable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 offers limited customization options directly. The primary focus is on its specific duty application.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and attachment systems, allowing users to adjust the ride height and cant. It is designed to accommodate a wide range of popular red dot sights from brands like Trijicon, Aimpoint, and Holosun.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781
Pros
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Provides secure Level I Retention.
- Mid-Ride Design: Offers a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
- Durability: Constructed from rugged STX finish for long-lasting performance.
- Reputable Brand: Backed by Safariland’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Cons
- Slightly stiff ALS release initially.
- Limited customization options beyond belt attachment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical operators who utilize red dot sights on their duty firearms. It offers the ideal combination of security, accessibility, and comfort.
Those who prefer a higher level of retention or require extensive customization options might consider other models. Those who do not use a red dot optic should consider non-RDS specific models.
A must-have accessory is a reliable duty belt that can support the weight of the firearm and holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 is an excellent duty holster that addresses the growing need for RDS-compatible carry solutions. Its robust construction, reliable retention, and comfortable design make it a valuable asset for any professional who carries a firearm with a red dot sight.
At $198.20, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, functionality, and long-term durability. This is an investment in safety and operational efficiency.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-781 to anyone seeking a secure, accessible, and RDS-compatible duty holster. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the difference that Safariland quality makes.