What Makes Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 4 models Stand Out?
In the realm of duty holsters, Safariland has long been a trusted name, and the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster is a testament to their commitment to quality and functionality. Designed for the Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails, this holster offers a blend of speed, security, and comfort, making it a popular choice for law enforcement and security professionals. Its defining feature, the Automatic Locking System (ALS), provides Level-I retention, allowing for a swift, straight-up draw while ensuring the weapon remains secure during dynamic situations.
After years of relying on Level II and Level III retention holsters, I found myself increasingly drawn to the simplicity and speed of a Level I system, especially for roles where quick weapon access is paramount. I was looking for a duty holster that wouldn’t compromise security while allowing me to draw my Sig Sauer quickly and efficiently. The allure of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the ALS system’s promise of intuitive operation sealed the deal.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6390 ALS immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The SafariLaminate thermoformed material felt incredibly durable, and the STX Black Hi-Gloss finish gave it a professional appearance. The mid-ride height felt comfortable and familiar, promising a natural draw stroke.
Compared to my older Safariland SLS (Self Locking System) Level II holster and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level II holster, the 6390 ALS stood out due to its streamlined design. The Safariland 6390 ALS offered a simpler, more intuitive draw compared to the SLS, while also feeling significantly more secure than the Serpa, which has faced safety concerns over the years. Initial handling instilled confidence that this holster would be a valuable addition to my gear.
I was excited to experience the speed and ease of use promised by the ALS system while also maintaining a sufficient level of security for duty carry. The balance between speed and security is a constant trade-off in the tactical world, and the Safariland 6390 ALS seemed poised to strike the right balance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 4 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6390 ALS was at an outdoor shooting range, where I ran drills focusing on drawing and engaging targets at varying distances. The weather was typical for early spring – cool and slightly damp, providing a realistic test for the holster’s functionality in less-than-ideal conditions. Drawing from the 6390 ALS was surprisingly intuitive; the ALS disengaged smoothly with my thumb as I established my grip, allowing for a clean, straight-up draw.
The holster performed flawlessly in the damp conditions. The weapon was always secured, and the draw remained consistent, even with slightly wet hands. The mid-ride height proved comfortable for extended periods of practice, preventing the holster from digging into my side during movement.
There was a slight learning curve in consistently deactivating the ALS during the draw stroke without thinking. But after a few hours of practice, the motion became second nature, proving the system’s design facilitated efficient training. I experienced no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the initial range session, reinforcing my positive first impression.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in both training scenarios and real-world duty applications, the Safariland 6390 ALS has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has seen use in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and high heat, without any degradation in performance. The SafariLaminate material has held up well, showing only minor scuff marks from regular use.
The holster requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, and the retention remains consistent, even after thousands of draws. The overall construction demonstrates the high-quality standards I have come to expect from Safariland.
Compared to my previous Level II retention holsters, the 6390 ALS offers a noticeable improvement in draw speed without sacrificing a reasonable degree of security. While it may not offer the same level of protection against deliberate attempts to disarm the weapon as a Level II or Level III system, the Level I retention is adequate for most duty applications, providing a good balance between safety and accessibility.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 4 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer 220/226 pistols without rails. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered, allowing for a straight-up draw after deactivation. It is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, a thermoformed nylon composite material, known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear.
The finish is STX Black Hi-Gloss, providing a professional and clean appearance. It is a right-hand configuration. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable height on the hip. The Level-I retention, achieved solely through the ALS, offers a balance between speed and security.
These specifications directly impact the holster’s performance and user experience. The ALS provides intuitive and reliable weapon retention, while the SafariLaminate construction ensures long-term durability. The mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility, making it suitable for all-day wear and rapid deployment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while enabling a fast and efficient draw. The ALS mechanism is intuitive to operate, and the straight-up draw is natural and fluid. The holster’s open-top design allows for a full firing grip on the weapon before drawing, further enhancing speed and accuracy.
The primary strength of the 6390 ALS is its balance between speed and security. The ALS provides adequate retention for most duty applications, while the open-top design and straight-up draw facilitate rapid deployment. However, its Level I retention might not be sufficient for high-risk environments or situations requiring maximum weapon security. An optional ALS Guard can be purchased to increase the retention to Level II.
The holster meets and even exceeds expectations for a Level I retention duty holster. Its reliable ALS mechanism, durable construction, and comfortable mid-ride height make it a valuable addition to any law enforcement or security professional’s gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390 ALS features a functional and ergonomic design that prioritizes user comfort and accessibility. The SafariLaminate material is lightweight yet incredibly durable, ensuring it does not add unnecessary bulk or weight to the duty belt. The mid-ride height positions the holster at a comfortable and natural level on the hip, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
The holster is user-friendly and requires minimal adjustment or modification. The ALS mechanism is intuitive to operate, and the open-top design allows for a full firing grip before drawing. There is a slight learning curve associated with consistently deactivating the ALS during the draw stroke, but the motion quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390 ALS is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, thanks to its durable SafariLaminate construction and robust design. The holster is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and other forms of wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability. With proper care and maintenance, this holster can be expected to last for many years.
Maintaining the 6390 ALS is relatively straightforward, involving periodic cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may benefit from occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation. No special tools or expertise are required for maintenance, making it easy to keep the holster in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390 ALS is designed to be compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. The optional ALS Guard can be added to increase the retention level to Level II. While designed specifically for the Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails, some users have reported compatibility with similar-sized firearms, though this may require modifications to the holster.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 4 models
Pros
- Fast and Intuitive Draw: The ALS system allows for a rapid and natural draw stroke, ideal for situations requiring quick weapon deployment.
- Reliable Weapon Retention: The ALS provides secure Level-I retention, ensuring the weapon remains in place during dynamic movements.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is rugged and resistant to wear and tear, providing long-lasting durability.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at a comfortable level on the hip, suitable for all-day wear.
- Professional Appearance: The STX Black Hi-Gloss finish provides a clean and professional look.
Cons
- Level I Retention: The Level I retention may not be sufficient for high-risk environments where maximum weapon security is needed (though this can be mitigated with the purchase of an additional ALS guard).
- Specific Firearm Fit: Designed specifically for the Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails, limiting its compatibility with other firearms.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 4 models?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private citizens who prioritize a balance between speed and security in their duty carry setup. It is also suitable for individuals who appreciate the quality and reliability of Safariland products and are looking for a durable and comfortable holster for their Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails.
Individuals who require a higher level of weapon retention (Level II or Level III) or need a holster compatible with a wider range of firearms should skip this product.
Must-have accessories for this holster include a high-quality duty belt that can support the weight of the firearm and holster, as well as the optional ALS Guard for added security. Regular practice and training with the holster are essential to develop proficiency in drawing and reholstering the weapon.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, – 1 out of 4 models
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster is a well-designed and reliable duty holster that offers a compelling blend of speed, security, and comfort. Its intuitive ALS mechanism, durable SafariLaminate construction, and comfortable mid-ride height make it a valuable addition to any law enforcement or security professional’s gear.
At a price point of $139.99, the Safariland 6390 ALS represents a solid value for the money, given its quality construction and performance. While the Level I retention may not be suitable for all situations, it provides a good balance between accessibility and safety for most duty applications.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster to anyone seeking a high-quality and reliable duty holster for their Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails. Invest in your safety and efficiency – experience the Safariland difference today!