What Makes Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and tactical professionals who demand both security and rapid access to their firearm. Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, has built this holster with their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS), offering a streamlined Level I retention that prioritizes speed without sacrificing safety. The mid-ride design positions the firearm for a comfortable draw, making it a popular choice for uniformed officers and those operating in dynamic environments.
For years, I’ve wrestled with the balance between holster security and draw speed. I needed a holster that allowed for a lightning-fast presentation in high-pressure situations, but also provided enough retention to prevent unauthorized access. The Safariland 6390 ALS promised to strike that perfect balance, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Upon unboxing, the holster exuded quality. The SafariLaminate thermoformed construction felt robust and well-made. The mid-ride height was immediately appealing, suggesting a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 and a Galco open-top, the Safariland 6390 ALS stood out due to its ALS system and mid-ride design. The Serpa, while secure, felt clunky. The Galco, while fast, lacked sufficient retention for my needs.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Safariland 6390 ALS felt like a serious piece of kit designed for serious professionals. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could truly deliver on its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6390 ALS at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and re-holstering efficiency. I ran drills simulating various scenarios, including drawing from seated, standing, and awkward positions. The weather was typical for Texas, hot and humid, presenting a good test for grip and holster retention in less-than-ideal conditions.
The ALS system proved to be incredibly intuitive. Once you deactivate the release with your thumb during the draw, the firearm clears the holster smoothly and quickly. I noticed a significant improvement in my draw speed compared to my previous Level 2 retention holster.
There were no initial issues or surprises. The Safariland 6390 ALS performed exactly as advertised, offering a secure and rapid draw. The mid-ride height was comfortable and allowed for a natural grip on the firearm during the draw stroke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390 ALS has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in various training scenarios, including force-on-force simulations and low-light drills. The SafariLaminate construction shows minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to its durability.
The holster has proven to be surprisingly easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I periodically apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6390 ALS is a clear winner. It offers a superior balance of security, speed, and comfort. It has become my go-to duty holster for both on-duty and off-duty carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models is a duty-grade holster with several key specifications. It features Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention. The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, providing excellent protection for the firearm.
The specific model I tested is designed for a Glock 17/22, but Safariland offers this holster for a wide variety of firearms. It is a Level I Retention holster, though an optional ALS Guard can increase the security to Level II. The open-top design facilitates a fast and unobstructed draw.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and reliability. The ALS system ensures that the firearm remains secure until intentionally released. The SafariLaminate construction provides excellent durability, even under harsh conditions. The open-top design allows for a rapid draw, which is crucial in high-pressure situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390 ALS performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a secure and reliable retention mechanism. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, allowing for a fast and efficient presentation of the firearm.
The holster’s main strength is its balance of speed and security. It provides a Level I retention, which is sufficient for most duty applications, while still allowing for a rapid draw. One area for potential improvement would be the addition of a secondary retention device for higher-risk scenarios.
Overall, the Safariland 6390 ALS exceeds my expectations. It has proven to be a reliable and effective duty holster. Its performance has consistently met my needs in various training scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390 ALS is excellent. The SafariLaminate construction feels solid and well-made. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The holster’s design is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release is easy to locate and operate, even under stress. The mid-ride height positions the firearm for a natural and comfortable draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390 ALS is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and other forms of wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A regular wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean. Periodically lubricating the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390 ALS is compatible with a wide range of accessories. Safariland offers various mounting options, including belt loops, paddle attachments, and MOLLE adapters. The holster can also be fitted with an optional ALS Guard to increase the level of retention.
The holster is compatible with many popular firearm accessories, such as weapon lights and red dot sights. The open-top design allows for easy access to the firearm, even with these accessories installed. Be sure to select the correct model for your specific firearm and accessory configuration.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models
Pros
- Excellent balance of speed and security. The ALS system provides reliable retention without hindering draw speed.
- Durable SafariLaminate construction. The holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- Comfortable mid-ride height. The design positions the firearm for a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.
- Intuitive ALS release. The ALS system is easy to learn and operate, even under stress.
- Wide compatibility with accessories. The holster can accommodate various firearm accessories, such as weapon lights and red dot sights.
Cons
- Level I retention may not be sufficient for all applications. Consider the optional ALS Guard for increased security in high-risk environments.
- The holster can be somewhat bulky. The SafariLaminate construction adds some size and weight.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models?
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a secure and fast duty holster. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize a balance of retention and rapid firearm access. This holster is also a solid choice for concealed carriers who prefer OWB carry and a high degree of weapon security.
Those who should skip this product include individuals operating in extremely high-risk environments who require a Level III or higher retention holster. Also, users who prioritize maximum concealability may find the Safariland 6390 ALS too bulky for their needs.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland ALS Guard if you desire Level II retention. Also, consider a quality gun belt to properly support the holster and firearm.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 39 models is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. The price is justified given the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. It offers an excellent balance of speed, security, and comfort, making it a valuable asset for any professional who carries a firearm.
I personally recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS without hesitation. It has become my go-to duty holster, and I am confident that it will serve you well. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective duty holster, look no further than the Safariland 6390 ALS. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.