Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster is a renowned piece of kit in law enforcement and tactical circles, and for good reason. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in holsters, this holster offers a blend of security, accessibility, and comfort that’s hard to beat. It’s designed for professionals who depend on quick and reliable access to their sidearm without sacrificing retention.

I’d been searching for a duty holster that provided a balance between security and a fast draw. Many holsters I tried were either too bulky or lacked sufficient retention for peace of mind during active duty. The Safariland 6390 seemed to offer that sweet spot, blending proven retention technology with a streamlined design.

Unboxing the Safariland 6390 was a reassuring experience. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, the SafariLaminate material giving off an impression of rugged durability. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) was smooth and intuitive right out of the box, promising a secure hold on my Smith & Wesson duty weapon.

Compared to some level II and III retention holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390 stood out for its simplicity. It didn’t require multiple steps or complicated maneuvers to draw, unlike some of the competition. I had considered a Blackhawk! Serpa holster, but I was turned off by its Level II SERPA release mechanism and concerns about accidental discharges. I also looked at a Galco leather holster, but for duty use, I needed the durability and active retention of the Safariland.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. I was eager to see if the ALS system lived up to the hype and if the mid-ride design would indeed offer a more comfortable carry. The initial feel of the holster suggested it would, but real-world use would be the ultimate test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at the shooting range, where I ran drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering my Smith & Wesson. I wanted to get a feel for the ALS system under controlled conditions. I also needed to ensure I could quickly and efficiently access my weapon.

The Safariland 6390 performed admirably in these controlled conditions. The ALS released smoothly with a natural thumb movement, and the mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. It performed well in both dry and humid conditions, and I did not experience any malfunctions related to retention.

The draw stroke felt intuitive after only a few repetitions, and the holster retained the pistol securely during movement. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I adapted to the ALS system. It required minimal adjustment to my existing draw technique.

Extended Use & Reliability

After months of regular use, the Safariland 6390 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has seen action in various environments, from routine patrols to training exercises in adverse weather conditions. The Safariland 6390 has consistently maintained its performance.

The SafariLaminate material has held up remarkably well to the daily wear and tear of duty use. There are some minor scuffs, but no significant signs of damage or degradation. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably.

Maintenance is minimal. I occasionally wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of lubricant to the ALS mechanism to keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to the leather holsters I used to carry, maintenance is significantly easier. The Safariland 6390 definitely outperforms them in terms of durability and ease of care.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster

Specifications

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster is designed specifically for Smith & Wesson duty weapons. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering and releases with a simple thumb swipe. The holster is constructed from SafariLaminate, a durable and weather-resistant material.

The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height for a natural draw. This design enhances accessibility and reduces interference with other gear. The holster is a Level I retention holster, but can be upgraded to Level II retention with the addition of an optional ALS Guard.

These specifications translate to enhanced security, accessibility, and durability for the user. The ALS provides a secure hold on the weapon, while the mid-ride height ensures a comfortable and efficient draw. The SafariLaminate construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of duty use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390 excels in providing a secure and accessible platform for a duty weapon. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a reassuring level of retention without hindering the draw stroke. The holster is easy to use and requires minimal training to master.

The strengths of the holster lie in its simplicity, durability, and reliability. The ALS system is intuitive and effective, while the SafariLaminate construction ensures the holster can withstand harsh conditions. One potential area for improvement would be the addition of a cant adjustment feature to allow users to fine-tune the holster’s angle.

Overall, the Safariland 6390 meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a secure, comfortable, and accessible platform for a duty weapon, making it an ideal choice for law enforcement and tactical professionals.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390 boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes user comfort and efficiency. The SafariLaminate material is lightweight yet durable, and the mid-ride height positions the firearm at an optimal draw angle. The holster’s contoured shape ensures a comfortable fit against the body.

The holster is incredibly user-friendly. The ALS system is easy to learn and operate, and the mid-ride height allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390 is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required to keep the holster functioning smoothly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390 does not come with many accessories, focusing on its core functionality. However, an optional ALS Guard can be purchased to increase the retention level from Level I to Level II. This provides an added layer of security for users who require it.

The Safariland 6390 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. Many users also add weapon lights, which often require specific holster models.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster?

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a secure, accessible, and durable holster. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who prioritizes a balance between retention and a fast draw.

Individuals requiring Level II or Level III retention should consider alternative holsters or purchase the optional ALS Guard. Those who prefer a different carry position or cant angle may also want to explore other options.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster function and comfort. Depending on the specific weapon and user preferences, a weapon light or optic may also necessitate a different holster model.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster

The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. It offers a winning combination of security, accessibility, and durability, making it an ideal choice for professionals who depend on their sidearm.

At $143.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the effectiveness of the ALS system, and the overall reliability of the holster. It’s an investment that will pay off in terms of performance and peace of mind.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390 to anyone seeking a high-quality duty holster. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and it provides a level of performance and reliability that’s hard to match. Invest in a Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Smith & Wesson Duty Holster today and experience the difference a quality holster can make!