Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster
The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster is a stalwart in the law enforcement and security communities, known for its blend of retention and accessibility. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality duty gear, designed this holster to meet the rigorous demands of professionals who rely on their sidearm every day. Its key feature, the Automatic Locking System (ALS), provides a secure hold while allowing for a quick, intuitive draw.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I needed a duty holster that offered both uncompromising security and rapid deployment for my Smith & Wesson 5943 DAO. The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster appeared to strike that balance, and I wanted to see if it lived up to the hype. Upon receiving it, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and clean, functional design.
Compared to other holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Serpa or the Uncle Mike’s Reflex Holster, the Safariland‘s ALS mechanism felt far more secure and deliberate. The Serpa’s finger release, while fast, can be prone to accidental activation under stress, while the Reflex Holster lacked the positive retention needed for duty use. My first impression of the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the shooting range, simulating scenarios involving drawing under pressure. The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster performed admirably, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw stroke with minimal fumbling. The ALS system became intuitive after only a few repetitions, and the holster retained the weapon securely even during rapid movement drills.
I tested the holster in various conditions, including a simulated downpour and dusty environment. The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster continued to function flawlessly, proving its resilience to the elements. There was a brief adjustment period to become accustomed to the ALS release, but the learning curve was minimal. After the first range session, I was confident in the holster’s functionality and retention capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear, with only slight scuff marks on the STX Plain Black finish. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth keeps the holster in top condition, and the ALS mechanism continues to operate smoothly without any need for lubrication.
Compared to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster far outperforms them in terms of both retention and ease of draw. It provides a level of confidence that is essential in high-stress situations, making it an indispensable piece of equipment. I can confidently say that this holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster
Specifications
- The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson 5943 DAO without rails and a 4″ barrel. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing movement and maximizing retention.
- The STX Plain Black finish offers a low-profile, professional appearance. The finish is also resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring longevity even with heavy use.
- The holster is designed for right-handed users. This provides a natural and intuitive draw stroke for those who primarily use their right hand.
- Constructed from Plastic, the holster is both lightweight and durable. The Plastic material is resistant to impact and environmental factors, ensuring reliability in various conditions.
- The holster has a Base 4 curve. This helps to conform to the body, enhancing comfort and concealment.
These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the holster’s fit, function, and durability. The precise fit ensures proper retention, while the durable materials guarantee long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster excels in its primary function: secure weapon retention with a rapid, reliable draw. The ALS system provides Level I Retention, requiring only the thumb to release the locking mechanism during the draw stroke. This ensures a fast and intuitive draw under pressure.
The primary strength of this holster is its balance of retention and accessibility. However, one potential weakness is that the ALS mechanism requires practice to master. Overall, the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster boasts a robust build quality, utilizing durable Plastic materials. Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit against the body, even during extended wear. The holster’s weight is well-balanced, preventing unnecessary strain on the wearer.
The ALS release is intuitively placed for easy access with the thumb. There is a slight learning curve, but the design is user-friendly overall.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster is built to last, thanks to its durable Plastic construction. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, it is compatible with Safariland‘s extensive line of mounting platforms. This allows users to customize the holster’s ride height and cant angle to suit their individual preferences. The holster also accepts various Safariland belt loops and leg shrouds, offering further customization options.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The ALS system provides secure weapon retention, preventing accidental dislodgement.
- Rapid Draw: The ALS system allows for a quick and intuitive draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The Plastic material ensures long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Design: The Base 4 curve and ergonomic design provide a comfortable fit.
- Customizable: Compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms and accessories.
Cons
- ALS learning curve.
- Specific fit to Smith & Wesson 5943 DAO.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster?
The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster for their Smith & Wesson 5943 DAO. Its rugged construction and intuitive ALS system make it an excellent choice for those who demand the best in performance and durability.
Those who own different handguns or prefer a different retention system may want to skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a Safariland mounting platform to adjust the holster’s ride height and cant angle.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster
The Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention and rapid accessibility. Its durable construction, comfortable design, and customizable options make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their sidearm.
The price of $143.99 is justified by the holster’s superior performance and long-lasting durability. I would personally recommend the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure duty holster for their Smith & Wesson 5943 DAO. Invest in your safety and performance – get the Safariland 6390 Als Duty Holster today.