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 duty holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement about prioritizing security and speed. Designed for professionals who need quick access to their sidearm without sacrificing retention, this holster has become a staple in law enforcement and tactical communities. The Safariland name itself carries weight, synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster world.

I needed a holster that offered a balance between security and a lightning-fast draw. My previous holster, a Level II retention model, felt sluggish when seconds mattered. I wanted something that wouldn’t compromise my reaction time but still provided adequate protection against unauthorized access.

Unboxing the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention, the first thing that struck me was the robust build. The SafariLaminate material felt incredibly durable, and the thermoformed design provided a snug, custom fit for my Springfield Armory 1911. It felt like a serious piece of equipment, ready for hard use.

I considered the Blackhawk Serpa and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse. However, the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt unnatural to me, and I had concerns about its reliability in high-stress situations. The Blade-Tech, while offering excellent concealment, didn’t provide the same level of retention as the Safariland.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for a faster draw, but also a little concerned about whether Level-I retention would be sufficient for my needs. Only time and testing would tell.

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

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range. I ran various drills, focusing on speed draws and re-holstering under pressure. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) proved intuitive; deactivating the release with my thumb felt natural and fluid.

I subjected the holster to a variety of conditions, from dry and sunny to a light rain shower. The SafariLaminate material held up well, showing no signs of slippage or degradation. The mid-ride height positioned the firearm perfectly for a smooth, consistent draw, even with gloves.

There was a slight learning curve in consistently hitting the ALS release at the correct angle. However, after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. I initially worried about the open-top design collecting debris, but it proved to be a non-issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention has become my go-to duty holster. It has held up remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic wear around the edges. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing reliable retention every time.

Despite being subjected to mud, dust, and sweat during various training exercises, the holster has remained remarkably durable. The SafariLaminate material has resisted scratches and abrasions, maintaining its structural integrity. The finish has also held up well, showing no signs of fading or peeling.

Maintenance is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland requires significantly less maintenance.

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

Specifications

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This secures the weapon automatically upon holstering and requires a simple straight-up draw once deactivated. This provides a confident Level-I Retention.
• Optional ALS Guard: This increases security to Level II Retention. This is an available aftermarket upgrade.
• Open-Top Design: This facilitates rapid weapon retrieval. It eliminates the need for a SLS (Self Locking System).
• SafariLaminate Construction: The thermoformed construction protects the handgun and sights. It provides durability and ensures a custom fit.

These specifications matter because they directly translate to real-world performance. The ALS ensures the weapon stays put during dynamic movements, while the open-top design allows for a blazing-fast draw. The SafariLaminate provides a robust shield against the elements, protecting both the firearm and the holster itself.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention excels at its primary job: providing secure retention and a rapid draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, offering a satisfying “click” when the weapon is holstered, assuring positive engagement. The mid-ride height positions the firearm perfectly for a natural and efficient draw stroke.

The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The ALS system is intuitive to use, and the open-top design eliminates any unnecessary steps in the draw process. However, the Level-I retention may not be sufficient for individuals working in high-risk environments who require a higher level of security.

The holster exceeds expectations in terms of speed and comfort. The draw is noticeably faster than with my previous Level II retention holster, and the mid-ride height feels more natural and ergonomic. It’s a clear improvement.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention features a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic build. The SafariLaminate material provides a rigid and durable shell, while the thermoformed design ensures a snug and secure fit for the firearm. The mid-ride height positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, minimizing printing and maximizing concealability.

The holster is remarkably user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or customization. The ALS release is intuitively placed and easily accessible with the thumb. The holster rides comfortably against the body, even during extended periods of wear.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The SafariLaminate material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The ALS mechanism is robust and reliable, designed for long-term performance.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The holster can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning, and replacement parts are readily available if needed. With proper care, this holster should provide years of dependable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various mounting platforms and belt loops. The holster can be easily adapted to different carry styles and preferences.

The optional ALS Guard provides an additional level of security, increasing the retention level to Level II. The holster is also compatible with various weapon lights and lasers, allowing for further customization. It’s also worth noting that because of the 1911 platform many accessories will work with this holster 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?

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency. This holster is ideal for individuals who require a fast draw without sacrificing security.

This product might not be the best choice for individuals working in high-risk environments who require a higher level of security, such as those in close protection details or tactical teams. Those individuals might prefer a Level II or Level III retention holster.

A must-have accessory is the ALS Guard, which increases the retention level to Level II. Also, consider a Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) fork and receiver to easily swap the holster between different platforms, such as a belt and a thigh rig.

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

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention is a well-designed and expertly crafted duty holster that delivers on its promise of speed and security. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, and the SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting durability.

The price is definitely justified considering the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the proven performance. This is an investment in your safety and efficiency.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level-I Retention to anyone looking for a high-quality, dependable duty holster. If you need a balance between retention and a fast draw, this holster is a winner. It’s time to upgrade your carry system and experience the Safariland difference!