Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models

The Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models is a duty holster designed for professionals and serious shooters who utilize red dot sights on their Glock 47 pistols. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster offers a blend of security, accessibility, and comfort, making it a popular choice for law enforcement and military personnel. Its key feature, the Automatic Locking System (ALS), provides Level I retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure while allowing for a swift and natural draw.

I sought out this holster because my department recently authorized the use of red dot sights on our duty weapons. Finding a holster that offered reliable retention, accommodated the optic, and maintained a comfortable carry position was paramount. I needed a holster that would perform under the stress of duty, not just look good in the locker room.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland Model 6390rds was positive. The SafariLaminate material felt robust and durable, and the suede lining exuded quality. The mid-ride height seemed ideal for balancing accessibility and concealment, a crucial factor for my daily carry.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Galco FLETCH holster, both popular options. However, the Safariland’s ALS system and specific compatibility with red dot sights made it the clear winner for my needs. The Serpa’s release mechanism had been a concern for some colleagues, and the Galco didn’t offer the same level of retention or optic accommodation.

I was immediately excited about the potential of this holster. The fit and finish were impressive, and the ALS system instilled confidence that my weapon would remain secure during dynamic situations. My initial hope was that it would live up to Safariland’s reputation for producing high-quality, duty-grade holsters.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to truly test the Safariland Model 6390rds was at the department’s training range. I ran drills involving drawing from the holster, firing on various targets, and re-holstering under time pressure. The Safariland performed flawlessly, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke every time.

The weather during the training was typical for our region: humid and dusty. Even with sweaty hands and dust accumulating on the holster, the ALS system remained reliable and the draw was unhindered. This gave me confidence that the Safariland would perform even in less-than-ideal environmental conditions.

The draw stroke required minimal familiarization. The ALS release is intuitive and easily manipulated with the thumb during the grip acquisition. I quickly developed a consistent and efficient draw stroke that felt both natural and secure.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight rubbing on the red dot sight housing during the draw. This was quickly resolved by slightly loosening the adjustment screw on the holster body, illustrating the importance of proper setup and fitting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland Model 6390rds has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear or tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of daily duty. The SafariLaminate construction has held up well against scuffs and abrasions.

The holster requires minimal maintenance. Occasionally, I wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris, and I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This simple routine keeps the holster functioning optimally.

Compared to my previous duty holster, a traditional leather holster with a thumb break, the Safariland is a significant upgrade. The ALS system offers superior retention, and the mid-ride height is more comfortable for extended wear. The enhanced protection for the red dot sight is a major advantage over open-top designs.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models

Specifications

The Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models is meticulously crafted with several noteworthy specifications:

  • Retention Level: Level I, thanks to the Automatic Locking System (ALS). This ensures a secure hold while allowing for rapid deployment.
  • Material: SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction. The material provides excellent durability and protection for both the firearm and the mounted optic.
  • Carry Position: Mid-ride. This position is designed to provide a balance of accessibility and concealment while maintaining comfort during prolonged wear.
  • Lining: Suede lined interior. The lining protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and abrasions.
  • Compatibility: Specifically designed for Glock 47 pistols with various red dot sights mounted. The listed compatible optics include models from ITI, Streamlight, Vortex, Burris, Inforce, Nightstick, SureFire, Leupold, Trijicon, and Dr. Optic/J Point.

These specifications contribute directly to the holster’s overall performance and user experience. The SafariLaminate and ALS combine for rugged reliability and security, while the mid-ride position enhances comfort for extended duty use. The suede lining is a small touch that prevents cosmetic damage and instills confidence.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for rapid and reliable deployment. The ALS system is intuitive and requires minimal training to master, ensuring a consistent and efficient draw stroke under pressure. Its strength lies in its reliability and straightforward operation.

The holster performs exceptionally well, meeting and exceeding my expectations for a duty-grade holster. The weapon is secure in the holster, and the draw is smooth and consistent. The red dot sight is protected from accidental impacts and debris.

The only minor weakness is that the ALS release requires precise thumb placement. With gloved hands, it may take slightly more effort to disengage the lock, although this is mitigated with practice. Overall, its performance is outstanding.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Model 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The SafariLaminate material is robust yet relatively lightweight, and the mid-ride position distributes the weight of the firearm evenly across the belt line. This contributes to a comfortable carry experience, even during extended periods of wear.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although the initial setup requires some adjustments. Fine-tuning the tension screws ensures a proper fit and smooth draw. Once set up, the holster is intuitive and requires minimal conscious effort to operate.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its SafariLaminate construction and robust design, the Safariland Model 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty. I anticipate this holster will last for several years with proper care and maintenance. So far, there are no signs of structural weakness or degradation.

The holster is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep it functioning optimally. The durable materials resist wear and tear, minimizing the need for repairs or replacements.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 6390rds offers some customization options, primarily related to ride height and belt attachment. While it doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories, its compatibility with various Safariland mounting platforms allows for customization based on individual preferences.

It integrates seamlessly with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), allowing for easy transfer of the holster between different mounting platforms. The holster is specifically designed for use with Glock 47 pistols equipped with red dot sights from various manufacturers. This ensures compatibility and optimal performance.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models

Pros

  • Superior Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides excellent Level I retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure in the holster.
  • Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed for Glock 47 pistols with various red dot sights mounted.
  • Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction offers excellent durability and protection.
  • Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride position provides a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment.
  • Smooth and Consistent Draw: The ALS system allows for a smooth, fast, and consistent draw stroke.

Cons

  • ALS release requires precise thumb placement, which can be difficult with gloved hands without practice.
  • Initial setup requires adjustments to tension screws for optimal fit and draw.


Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models?

The Safariland Model 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who carry a Glock 47 with a red dot sight. It is also suitable for competition shooters and serious firearm enthusiasts who prioritize retention, durability, and a consistent draw. This holster is the perfect solution for any serious professional looking for reliability and security.

Those who prefer simpler, open-top holsters or who do not use red dot sights should skip this product. Also, individuals with smaller hands might find the ALS release mechanism challenging to operate efficiently.

A must-have modification is the addition of a Safariland QLS system, allowing for quick and easy transfer of the holster between different platforms. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models

The Safariland Model 6390rds Als Mid-ride Level I – 1 out of 165 models is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its combination of retention, durability, and red dot sight compatibility makes it an excellent choice for professionals and serious shooters. It is a worthwhile investment for any professional.

The price is justified by the holster’s high-quality construction, reliable performance, and enhanced safety features. The Safariland Model 6390rds is a tool, and it is meant to perform a job; this holster accomplishes that perfectly.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland Model 6390rds to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster for their Glock 47 with a red dot sight. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible.

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