What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH Stand Out?
In the world of duty holsters, reliability and retention are paramount. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH aims to deliver just that, especially for officers and professionals utilizing red dot sights on their sidearms. Its open-top design coupled with Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) promises a secure yet rapid draw, a balance often sought but rarely perfectly achieved.
After years spent working security details and consulting with law enforcement, I’ve come to appreciate a holster that doesn’t compromise speed for security, or vice versa. I specifically sought out a holster compatible with red dot sights, as more agencies are adopting them for enhanced target acquisition. The Safariland 6390rds seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the holster felt robust and well-constructed. The STX finish had a nice tactile feel and the overall design was streamlined. Initial manipulation of the ALS system felt intuitive and the mid-ride height seemed comfortable and practical.
Compared to my older Safariland 6360, this model offers the red dot sight compatibility which the 6360 lacked. I also considered a Blackhawk! Serpa holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its proven track record and the ALS system. The Serpa’s trigger finger release has always been a concern for me.
My first impression was definitely positive. The Safariland 6390rds felt like a professional-grade piece of kit, and I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test was at the range during a firearms training session. The Safariland 6390rds was paired with my Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. The weather was sunny, but a slight breeze kicked up some dust.
The draw was surprisingly smooth and fast, even with the ALS engaged. The thumb release became second nature after only a few repetitions. Holstering was equally seamless, with a positive “click” indicating the weapon was securely locked.
There were no initial issues. The holster rode comfortably and didn’t interfere with my movement. The Safariland 6390rds immediately felt like an extension of my body, which is precisely what you want in a duty holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly range trips and drills, the Safariland 6390rds has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The STX finish has proven to be surprisingly durable, resisting scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, even after repeated use in dusty environments.
Compared to my previous nylon duty holster, the Safariland 6390rds is a significant upgrade in terms of durability and security. The rigid construction provides excellent weapon retention. It instills a level of confidence that my previous holster simply couldn’t match.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. This ensures proper clearance and a smooth draw without obstruction.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. This provides Level I Retention, offering a balance of security and accessibility.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster closer to the body. This enhances comfort and concealment, making it suitable for both uniformed and plainclothes duty.
The open-top design facilitates a rapid draw. This is crucial in high-stress situations where every fraction of a second counts.
It is duty rated, meaning it’s constructed to withstand the rigors of law enforcement and security work. This ensures long-term reliability and performance.
These specifications are essential for duty use because they prioritize security, speed, and comfort. The red dot sight compatibility is a modern necessity, while the ALS provides a reliable layer of retention. The mid-ride height allows for comfortable carry and easier access under tactical vests.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a sidearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock and a smooth release.
The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The only real weakness I’ve found is that some larger red dot sights may require minor adjustments to the holster body.
The holster exceeds my expectations. Its retention is solid, the draw is fast, and it’s comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a robust and well-thought-out design. The STX finish provides a secure grip and resists wear.
The holster is surprisingly comfortable, even when worn for 12-hour shifts. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but it becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. Its durable construction and high-quality materials ensure it can withstand the demands of daily duty use.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster is designed for long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows for customization to suit individual preferences and mission requirements.
It also works well with common belt widths and MOLLE attachments. While no optics come with the holster, it is specifically designed to accommodate most popular red dot sights. This is a significant advantage for users transitioning to or already using red dot equipped pistols.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH
Pros
- Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, ensuring a proper fit and draw.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides excellent Level I Retention while allowing for a fast and smooth draw. This balances security and speed effectively.
- Mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and concealable carry position. This makes it suitable for various duty assignments.
- Durable construction and STX finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories for customization.
Cons
- May require minor adjustments for optimal fit with some larger red dot sights.
- The ALS release mechanism requires practice to master. New users may experience a slight learning curve.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who use red dot sights on their pistols. It’s also well-suited for anyone who prioritizes security, speed, and durability in a duty holster.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer simpler, non-retention holsters, or those who don’t use red dot sights. Users on a very tight budget may find cheaper options, although they would likely compromise on quality and security.
A must-have accessory would be a compatible Safariland belt loop that fits the user’s belt width. Also consider adding a Safariland leg shroud if a lower ride height is desired.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8329-132-NH is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. Its red dot sight compatibility and ALS retention system make it a standout choice for modern law enforcement and security professionals.
At $165.99, the price is justified by the quality of construction, the reliability of the ALS system, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your sidearm is securely retained. This is an investment in your safety and effectiveness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a professional-grade duty holster. If you carry a red dot equipped pistol, this is the holster you need. Secure your sidearm, enhance your draw speed, and experience the Safariland difference. Order yours today!