Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models Review

What Makes Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models Stand Out?

In the world of duty holsters, reliability, retention, and speed are paramount. The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster aims to deliver exactly that, offering a blend of secure weapon carry and rapid deployment for law enforcement and security professionals. Specifically designed for the Beretta 92 and finished in STX Flat Dark Earth with a left-hand configuration, this holster promises a precise fit and comfortable carry.

I was looking for a holster that provided a balance between security and quick access for my Beretta 92. Many Level II and Level III holsters are incredibly secure but can slow down the draw stroke significantly, especially under stress. I needed something that offered a good level of retention without sacrificing speed, hence my interest in the Safariland 6390 ALS.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6390 ALS immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean lines. The STX Flat Dark Earth finish gives it a professional and tactical look, while the SafariLaminate material feels incredibly durable. The build quality is exactly what I’ve come to expect from Safariland, a manufacturer known for its high standards and attention to detail.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 Auto Lock Duty Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 Holster before settling on the Safariland 6390 ALS. The Serpa’s trigger finger release felt less intuitive to me, and there were some documented safety concerns. The Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t offer the same level of active retention.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; I was excited to try out the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and see how it performed in real-world scenarios. The holster felt substantial without being overly bulky, and I was eager to test its draw speed and retention capabilities.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390 ALS at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to assess how smoothly the ALS system disengaged and how consistently I could achieve a clean, rapid draw. The weather was slightly damp, which gave me a chance to evaluate the grip and how the holster performed with wet hands.

The holster performed admirably, even with slightly slick hands. The ALS release was intuitive and required minimal effort to disengage, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke. I found the mid-ride position to be comfortable and conducive to a natural draw, and after a few practice draws, my speed significantly improved.

Initially, I experienced a minor issue with the holster rubbing slightly against my side during movement, but this was easily resolved by adjusting the belt loop position. Overall, the first use was a success, and I felt confident in the holster’s ability to provide both security and quick access.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and training exercises, the Safariland 6390 ALS has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The holster continues to perform flawlessly, with no signs of wear and tear. The ALS mechanism remains smooth and consistent, even after repeated use.

The SafariLaminate material has held up remarkably well, showing no scratches or abrasions despite being subjected to regular handling and use. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The holster’s low-maintenance design is a major plus.

In comparison to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390 ALS far surpasses them in terms of both retention and draw speed. It provides a level of confidence that I haven’t experienced with other Level I holsters, and the mid-ride position offers a comfortable and natural carry. This holster has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models

Specifications

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster is specifically designed for the Beretta 92. It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered and offers a simple straight-up draw once the release is deactivated. The holster is constructed from SafariLaminate, a thermoformed material known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.

The holster is designed for left-hand users and features a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry. It is finished in STX Flat Dark Earth, providing a low-profile and tactical appearance. The open-top design without an SLS (Self Locking System) allows for quick retrieval of the weapon, making it ideal for duty use.

These specifications are crucial for optimal performance and user experience. The ALS ensures a secure carry and minimizes the risk of accidental dislodgement. The SafariLaminate construction guarantees durability and longevity, while the mid-ride position and open-top design facilitate a fast and efficient draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for rapid deployment. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock that requires minimal effort to disengage. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, allowing for consistent and accurate target acquisition.

One of the holster’s strengths is its balance between security and accessibility. The Level-I retention offers a good level of security without hindering draw speed. Areas for improvement are minimal, although some users might prefer a slightly lower ride height for enhanced concealment.

The Safariland 6390 ALS meets and exceeds my expectations for a Level-I retention duty holster. Its performance is reliable, its functionality is intuitive, and its design is well-suited for its intended purpose. This is a top-tier holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390 ALS boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both comfort and functionality. The SafariLaminate material is rigid and durable, yet surprisingly lightweight. The mid-ride position provides a comfortable carry that doesn’t impede movement.

The holster is user-friendly and requires minimal adjustment to achieve a proper fit. The ALS release is easily accessible and requires minimal training to master. There is virtually no learning curve associated with this holster.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390 ALS is built to last, thanks to its robust SafariLaminate construction. The holster is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and other forms of wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS mechanism requires occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390 ALS is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and ALS guards. The optional ALS guard increases the level of security by one, effectively turning it into a Level II retention holster. Many users choose to add this guard for enhanced security in high-risk environments.

The holster is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as optic-ready Beretta 92 slides and weapon-mounted lights. While the Safariland 6390 ALS is excellent in its stock configuration, the availability of customization options allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models?

The Safariland 6390 ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and range enthusiasts who prioritize a balance between weapon retention and quick access. It is especially well-suited for individuals who carry a Beretta 92 and require a reliable and durable duty holster.

This product may not be ideal for users who require maximum concealment or those who operate in extremely high-risk environments demanding Level II or Level III retention. Civilians seeking concealed carry options may find this holster too bulky for their needs.

A must-have modification for users in higher-risk situations is the Safariland ALS Guard, which adds an extra layer of security to the holster. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to ensure smooth and consistent operation.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 6 models

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of reliability, retention, and speed. The ALS mechanism, SafariLaminate construction, and ergonomic design make it a standout product in a crowded market. While the Level-I retention may not be sufficient for all users, it strikes a perfect balance for most law enforcement and security professionals.

The price of $123.99 is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. In my experience, the peace of mind and enhanced functionality provided by the Safariland 6390 ALS are well worth the investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS to anyone seeking a dependable and efficient duty holster for their Beretta 92. Invest in the Safariland 6390 ALS and experience the difference that quality craftsmanship and innovative design can make. You won’t be disappointed.