What Makes Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a carefully crafted tool designed for professionals who demand reliability and speed. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality in the law enforcement and tactical communities, and this holster aims to continue that legacy.
After years of dealing with subpar holsters that compromised on either retention or speed, I was on the hunt for a duty holster that truly delivered on both fronts. I needed something secure enough to prevent unauthorized access but also allow for a lightning-fast draw when seconds mattered. The Safariland 6390 ALS seemed to promise that perfect balance.
The initial impression was solid. The SafariLaminate construction felt robust, reassuring me of its durability. It felt lighter than I expected, which is a huge plus for all-day wear.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the Serpa’s trigger finger release raised safety concerns for me, and the Bianchi lacked the active retention I desired. Safariland‘s ALS system seemed like a smarter, safer approach. It had the right balance of security and ease of use.
I was immediately impressed and eager to get it on my duty belt and see how it performed in the field. It definitely felt like a professional piece of kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first live fire experience with the Safariland 6390 ALS was at the local range during a law enforcement training day. We were running drills that focused on rapid deployment and target acquisition. The holster was tested with simulated stress scenarios.
In dry and sunny conditions, the 6390 ALS performed flawlessly. The draw was smooth and consistent, and the ALS system intuitively disengaged with minimal effort. No malfunctions were observed.
The initial learning curve was minimal; it took only a few practice draws to become comfortable with the ALS release. I encountered no issues or surprises, which is always a good sign when dealing with critical equipment. The draw felt significantly faster and more natural than with previous passive retention holsters I had used.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use during weekly qualifications and daily patrols, the Safariland 6390 ALS has proven to be an exceptionally reliable piece of equipment. The SafariLaminate has held up well, showing no signs of significant wear or degradation, even after exposure to rain and the inevitable bumps and scrapes of police work. The thermoformed construction shows no sign of wear.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all it takes to keep it functioning smoothly. This simple routine keeps everything running smoothly.
Compared to my previous holsters, the 6390 ALS represents a significant upgrade in both security and performance. The draw is consistently faster and more reliable, and the peace of mind knowing my firearm is securely retained is invaluable. This outperforms every other duty holster I have used.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models
Specifications
- Model: 6390 ALS Duty Holster. This is part of a larger Safariland lineup.
- Hand: Left Hand. Specifically designed for left-handed users.
- Retention Level: Level I with ALS (Automatic Locking System). Provides a secure hold with an intuitive release.
- Finish: STX Tactical. Offers a durable and professional-looking matte black finish.
- Material: SafariLaminate. Safariland‘s proprietary thermoformed nylon blend.
- Mount: Hi-Ride. Positions the firearm high on the hip for a comfortable and accessible carry.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit specific firearm models. Check compatibility charts to ensure a proper fit.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The ALS system provides an active retention mechanism that keeps the firearm secure, while the SafariLaminate construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The high ride position allows for easy access to the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and consistent draw. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the holster’s design promotes a natural grip during the draw stroke. It performs reliably under pressure.
The primary strength of this holster is its balance of retention and speed. The ALS system is secure, and provides a quick draw. One minor improvement would be to further refine the internal molding to minimize any potential friction during the draw.
The Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level I retention duty holster. Its robust construction, secure retention system, and comfortable carry position make it a top performer in its class.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster features a user-centric design. The materials used are high quality. The holster’s ergonomic shape contours comfortably to the body, minimizing discomfort during extended wear.
The ALS release lever is intuitively positioned for easy access with the thumb, and the high-ride design allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke. A short learning curve is involved. The system quickly becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate construction of the Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster is incredibly durable. It is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of law enforcement and tactical operations. With proper care, it will likely last for many years.
Maintaining the holster is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep it in optimal condition. This routine ensures smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, Safariland offers a range of compatible options, including the ALS Guard which increases the retention level to Level II. It’s compatible with a wide range of Safariland belt mounts and leg shrouds.
It’s worth noting that the Safariland mounting system is virtually an industry standard, allowing for easy integration with other brands of duty gear. This makes it easy to adapt to your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides a secure hold on the firearm, minimizing the risk of accidental or unauthorized removal.
- Fast and Consistent Draw: The ALS system disengages smoothly, allowing for a rapid and consistent draw stroke under pressure.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is incredibly durable and can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable Carry: The high-ride design positions the firearm comfortably on the hip for all-day wear.
- Industry Standard Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland and other brands’ mounting systems and accessories.
Cons
- Potential for Initial Learning Curve: While intuitive, the ALS system may require some initial practice to master.
- Limited Color Options: The holster is primarily available in black, which may not suit all users’ preferences.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models?
The Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster is perfect for left-handed law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a secure, reliable, and fast duty holster. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters. This provides a distinct advantage.
This holster may not be the best choice for casual firearm owners who prioritize concealment over retention and speed. Civilians with no real need for that level of security might find other options more convenient.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a compatible Safariland belt mount. This allows for optimal positioning and stability on the duty belt.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models
The Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster, Black, Left Hand – 1 out of 39 models is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. Its intuitive ALS system, robust construction, and comfortable carry position make it an excellent choice for professionals who rely on their firearms in high-stakes situations.
At $137.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, the level of security, and the holster’s long-term reliability. It’s an investment in peace of mind and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS Duty Holster to any left-handed professional seeking a duty holster that can stand up to the demands of the job. If you value reliability, speed, and security, this holster is a must-have. Upgrade your gear and experience the difference a quality holster can make.