Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is a duty-grade holster designed for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts who demand secure retention, a smooth draw, and all-day comfort. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and military communities, this holster boasts the proven ALS (Automatic Locking System) for Level I Retention and a mid-ride belt loop for a comfortable carry. Its STX plain black finish provides a professional, low-profile look. This isn’t just a holster; it’s a piece of essential gear that could make all the difference in a critical situation.
For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that balanced retention, speed, and comfort. My old Kydex holster was fast, but lacked sufficient retention, and I didn’t feel safe running or doing obstacle courses with it. My search led me to the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster.
The holster arrived in a simple cardboard box, adequately protected. My initial impression was one of quality and durability. The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster felt solid and well-made, with no obvious flaws in the molding or finish.
Compared to a Blackhawk! Serpa and a Safariland 7378RDS, I chose the 6390 for its balance of Level 1 retention and speed. The Serpa’s trigger finger release felt unnatural, and the 7378RDS, while offering Level III retention, was slower to draw from. I was excited by the potential of the 6390 to be the perfect middle ground.
My first impression was positive. The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster felt robust and secure. I hoped it would live up to the Safariland name and improve my overall carry experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster at my local shooting range during a dynamic shooting drill session. The weather was typical for spring: slightly damp with a bit of wind. I ran several drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering under time pressure.
The ALS system was easy to learn, allowing for a fast and intuitive draw with minimal practice. Even with wet hands, the release lever was easily accessible and provided positive feedback. I experienced no issues with the holster, and the mid-ride position felt comfortable while moving.
There were no real surprises during my first use; the holster performed as advertised. The draw was smooth and consistent, and the ALS retention provided peace of mind. I only needed a few minutes to become familiar with the draw stroke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster has held up remarkably well. The STX finish shows minimal wear, even after being subjected to scrapes and bumps against barricades and vehicles. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw.
The holster shows no signs of cracking or deformation. The SafariLaminate material has proven to be extremely durable. Routine cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the holster in good condition.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and retention. Its design ensures both security and ease of access, making it a reliable piece of equipment in demanding situations. It outperforms everything I have used previously by a wide margin.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster
Specifications
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is a Level I Retention Holster featuring the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System). It is designed for right-handed users and comes in a plain black STX finish. The holster is a belt holster designed for duty applications.
The ALS system secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release for a straight-up draw. The hood guard protects the release mechanism, and the open-top design allows for a quick retrieval. The SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction provides exceptional protection for the handgun and its sights. These features contribute to a holster that balances security, speed, and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its Level I retention provides adequate security without compromising the speed of the draw. The smooth lining minimizes wear on the firearm’s finish.
The ALS system is a strength, offering a reliable and intuitive retention mechanism. A potential weakness is that some users may prefer a higher level of retention for certain environments. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level I retention duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster features a durable and well-designed construction using SafariLaminate. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and natural draw stroke. The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
The thumb release for the ALS system is well-positioned and easy to operate. There is minimal learning curve, making it easy to adapt to the holster. The design considers the user’s need for both security and speed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is built to last, thanks to its SafariLaminate construction. With proper care, the holster will endure years of service. Simple cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required.
Given its robust construction and minimal maintenance requirements, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster offers excellent long-term value. It is designed for durability and longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. Many users add red dot sight protectors or weapon light attachments using Safariland’s mounting systems.
The holster is also compatible with various aftermarket belt systems and mounting platforms. This high degree of modularity allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs. This customization is valuable for professionals with unique requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster’s SafariLaminate construction is built to withstand heavy use and harsh environments.
- Reliable ALS Retention: The Automatic Locking System provides secure Level I retention, giving peace of mind without sacrificing draw speed.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride position offers a natural and comfortable draw stroke for all-day carry.
- Smooth and Consistent Draw: The internal lining and ALS mechanism work together to provide a snag-free and reliable draw.
- Compatibility with Accessories: The holster is compatible with various Safariland and aftermarket accessories, allowing for customization.
Cons
- Level I Retention: While suitable for many situations, some users may prefer a higher level of retention for maximum security.
- Price Point: The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is more expensive than some basic Kydex holsters, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster?
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and serious firearm enthusiasts who prioritize secure retention, a fast draw, and all-day comfort. It’s also a great choice for tactical training courses or competitive shooting events where a reliable and consistent holster is essential.
This holster might not be ideal for casual shooters who only occasionally visit the range and don’t require a high level of retention or durability. Those looking for maximum concealment may find the mid-ride design less suitable than a higher-riding or IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster.
A must-have accessory would be a quality duty belt that provides a stable platform for the holster. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism will also ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster
The Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. Its ALS retention system provides peace of mind, while its mid-ride design ensures a comfortable and natural draw. The rugged SafariLaminate construction guarantees years of reliable service.
While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster’s performance, durability, and customization options justify the investment. It’s a worthwhile upgrade for anyone who relies on their firearm for professional or personal defense.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS Mid-Ride, RH, STX Plain Black Holster to anyone seeking a top-quality duty holster. Invest in your safety and performance; you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your carry experience today and feel the difference!