Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention Review

What Makes Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention Stand Out?

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention holster is a duty-grade piece designed for professionals who require a secure and rapidly accessible sidearm. Safariland has built a reputation on providing reliable and durable holsters for law enforcement, military, and security personnel, and the 6390 continues that tradition. This particular model is configured for the Springfield Armory XDM .40 with an M3 Tactical Illuminator light attached, making it a specialized option for those with specific equipment needs.

I needed a holster that balanced retention and speed for duty carry. I was constantly worried about weapon security without sacrificing a quick draw. The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention appeared to be the perfect solution, promising both.

The unboxing experience was straightforward. The holster felt solid and well-made; the SafariLaminate construction was visibly robust. It felt like a serious piece of gear, ready for serious use.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco leather holster I’ve used previously, the Safariland felt more secure and more purpose-built. While the Serpa offers similar speed, its release mechanism has faced criticism. The Galco, while comfortable, lacks the active retention I now require.

My first impression was excitement. This felt like a significant upgrade in terms of both security and professionalism. I was eager to put it to the test on the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was hot and dusty, creating a demanding environment for both me and the equipment. I practiced drawing and re-holstering repeatedly, focusing on speed and consistency.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) worked flawlessly in all conditions. Even with sweaty hands and dust accumulating on the holster, the release remained smooth and reliable. It took a few repetitions to become truly comfortable with the straight-up draw motion, but it quickly became intuitive.

There were no significant issues after the first use. The holster performed exactly as advertised. I was impressed by the positive retention and the ease of releasing the weapon.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuff marks on the SafariLaminate. It remains structurally sound and the ALS mechanism continues to function perfectly.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean. I occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, durability, and ease of use under pressure. It gives me a higher level of confidence when carrying on duty. It’s a true step up in performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention

Specifications

• Product Name: Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention Duty Holster. This designates the model and its primary retention feature.
• Manufacturer: Safariland. A well-known and trusted manufacturer of law enforcement and military holsters.
• Configuration: Springfield Armory XDM .40 w/M3 Tactical Illuminator Light. This means it is specifically molded for that particular firearm and light combination.
• Material: SafariLaminate. A proprietary Safariland material offering excellent durability and protection.
• Retention Level: Level I. Meaning it has one active retention device, the ALS.
• Hand Orientation: Right Hand. Indicates it is designed for right-handed shooters.
• Finish: STX Tactical Black. A textured finish for durability and low visibility.
• Ride: Mid-Ride. Positions the holster lower on the hip for a comfortable draw.

These specifications matter because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, durability, and security level. The specific firearm and light compatibility ensure a snug and secure fit. The SafariLaminate material provides robust protection against the elements and daily wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention while still allowing for a rapid and smooth draw. It strikes a great balance between security and accessibility.

The primary strength is the ALS system’s reliability. The straight-up draw is fast and efficient once mastered. A potential weakness is that some users may prefer a higher level of retention for extreme environments or specific tactical situations.

It exceeds expectations. I was initially concerned about the draw speed with an active retention system, but the ALS is surprisingly intuitive and quick to disengage. I’m very impressed.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The SafariLaminate feels robust and well-formed. The mid-ride position is comfortable for extended wear and allows for a natural draw stroke.

The holster is user-friendly, but it requires some practice to become proficient with the ALS. The straight-up draw is different from traditional thumb-break holsters, so there’s a slight learning curve. Once mastered, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. This holster should withstand years of heavy use.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes with a standard belt loop attachment. Safariland offers a wide range of accessories that are compatible with the 6390, including different belt mounts, leg shrouds, and ALS guards.

The ALS guard can be added to increase the retention level to Level II. Many aftermarket accessories, like drop leg platforms and MOLLE attachments, are compatible with the Safariland mounting system.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competition shooters who require a balance of security and speed. It’s ideal for those who carry a Springfield Armory XDM .40 with an M3 Tactical Illuminator light.

Who should skip this product? Those who prefer a simpler, passive retention holster or those who require a higher level of retention for extreme environments. Anyone without the specified firearm and light combination should look at other models.

Must-have accessories or modifications? An ALS guard for increased security is recommended for certain environments. A drop leg platform may be useful for tactical applications.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. It provides excellent weapon retention, a smooth and rapid draw, and exceptional durability. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to learn, and the mid-ride position is comfortable for extended wear.

The price is justified for the level of quality and performance offered. This isn’t a cheap holster, but it’s an investment in your safety and effectiveness. It’s built to last and perform under pressure.

I would personally recommend it to anyone who needs a reliable and secure duty holster. If you carry a Springfield Armory XDM .40 with an M3 light, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is an excellent choice. Step up your carry game and experience the Safariland difference.