What Makes Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models isn’t just another holster; it’s a testament to Safariland’s dedication to duty-grade gear. This holster combines speed, security, and comfort in a package designed for professionals who demand the best. Its defining feature, the Automatic Locking System (ALS), provides confident weapon retention without sacrificing a smooth, rapid draw.
For years, I struggled with holsters that were either too slow or too insecure. I needed a holster that would reliably retain my sidearm during dynamic movements and potential altercations, while still allowing for a fast and intuitive draw. The Safariland 6390 ALS promised exactly that balance.
Upon unboxing, the holster exuded quality. The SafariLaminate construction felt robust and well-formed, promising years of reliable service. The suede lining was a thoughtful touch, indicating attention to detail in protecting the firearm’s finish.
Compared to my old Level II retention holster (a Blackhawk! Serpa), the Safariland offered a much more natural draw stroke, without the need for an awkward finger placement on a release button. It also felt more secure than my Uncle Mike’s Kydex holster, which provided minimal retention. The Safariland 6390 ALS felt like a significant upgrade in both security and speed.
My initial impression was one of excitement and cautious optimism. I was eager to put the ALS system through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype. The fit and finish were excellent, and the mid-ride height felt comfortable and natural.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 6390 ALS was at an all-day shooting range session. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills repeatedly, focusing on speed and consistency. The holster performed flawlessly.
Even in the hot, dusty conditions of the range, the ALS system remained reliable and smooth. The draw stroke became incredibly intuitive after just a few repetitions, and the weapon locked securely back into place every time. The mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable and natural draw, even while wearing a tactical vest.
There were no issues whatsoever during this first outing. The Safariland 6390 ALS performed exactly as advertised, providing secure retention and a rapid, consistent draw stroke. I was immediately impressed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including training exercises and outdoor activities, the Safariland 6390 ALS continues to impress. The holster has proven to be incredibly durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to harsh conditions. The SafariLaminate has resisted scratches and abrasions effectively.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning smoothly. The ALS mechanism still operates flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6390 ALS is in a completely different league. It offers a superior combination of speed, security, and comfort that I haven’t found in any other holster. It has exceeded my expectations in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models boasts several key specifications that contribute to its outstanding performance. The core of its retention system is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device activated upon holstering. This allows for Level I retention without straps or snaps.
The holster is constructed from SafariLaminate, a proprietary thermoformed material known for its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. It features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the handgun close to the body for comfortable carry and concealment. A suede lining protects the firearm’s sights and finish.
These specifications translate to a holster that is both incredibly secure and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The SafariLaminate ensures long-lasting durability, while the suede lining protects the firearm from unnecessary wear and tear. The ALS system provides confident retention without hindering a fast and natural draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining a handgun while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system locks the weapon in place automatically upon holstering, providing peace of mind in dynamic situations. Deactivation of the ALS is simple and requires only a thumb swipe during the draw stroke.
The holster’s strength lies in its balance of speed and security. The Level I retention is sufficient for most duty applications, while the open-top design allows for a very quick draw. The only potential weakness is that Level I retention may not be sufficient for extreme environments or high-risk situations where a Level II or Level III holster would be more appropriate.
Overall, the Safariland 6390 ALS meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of secure retention and a smooth, rapid draw. It’s a top-performing holster that inspires confidence in its user.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390 ALS is intelligently designed with both functionality and ergonomics in mind. The SafariLaminate construction feels solid and durable, while remaining relatively lightweight. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably on the hip, promoting a natural and efficient draw stroke.
The holster is remarkably user-friendly. The ALS system is intuitive to operate, and requires minimal training to master. There’s no complicated release mechanism to fumble with under pressure.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390 ALS is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster in good working order. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism may be necessary to maintain smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6390 ALS is excellent in its stock configuration, there are a few accessories that can enhance its performance. Safariland offers an optional ALS Guard that increases the retention level to Level II. This guard provides an additional layer of security by preventing unauthorized access to the ALS release.
The holster is also compatible with a wide range of Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms, allowing for customization of ride height and carry angle. It’s designed to work seamlessly with other Safariland accessories.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS provides secure Level I retention, ensuring the weapon stays holstered during dynamic movement.
- Rapid Draw Stroke: The open-top design allows for a very fast and intuitive draw.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is incredibly robust and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height and lightweight design make it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- User-Friendly Design: The ALS system is intuitive to operate, requiring minimal training.
Cons
- Level I retention might not be sufficient for all environments.
- Price may be a barrier for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models?
The Safariland 6390 ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize a balance of speed and security. It’s ideal for those who require a reliable holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use. This holster is a must-have for anyone needing a dependable duty holster.
This product may not be suitable for individuals who require the highest level of retention (Level II or III). It also might not be the best choice for those on a very tight budget, as there are cheaper holsters available.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability. The optional ALS Guard provides an extra layer of security for those who need it.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 97 models is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention and a rapid draw. It’s a durable, comfortable, and user-friendly holster that inspires confidence in its user. The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS to anyone looking for a top-performing duty holster. If you value speed, security, and reliability, this holster is an excellent investment. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.