Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 is a name that commands respect in the law enforcement and tactical communities. Safariland has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, reliable holsters, and the 6390RDS is designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights. This mid-ride holster is built for duty use, offering Level I retention with the Automatic Locking System (ALS), making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize security and accessibility.

My search for a new duty holster began when my department authorized the use of red dot sights on our duty pistols. Existing holsters simply couldn’t accommodate the optic, and I needed a solution that provided both secure retention and a smooth, fast draw. I was looking for something that wouldn’t sacrifice speed for security, a common trade-off in the holster world.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The Safariland 6390RDS felt solid and well-made, with a durable STX finish. The holster’s weight felt appropriate for its size and purpose, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of daily duty.

Compared to other Level I retention holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa (before I knew better) and some older Safariland models without RDS compatibility, the 6390RDS immediately impressed with its refined design and the promise of a smoother draw. I picked this Safariland model specifically for its compatibility with red dot sights, its proven ALS retention system, and the reputation for quality that precedes the Safariland name. It’s also worth noting that many colleagues I deeply trust swear by them.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism mixed with excitement. The design seemed well-thought-out, and the build quality was reassuring, but the true test would come in real-world use. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype and addressed my specific needs for a secure and accessible RDS-compatible duty holster.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 took place at the shooting range during a departmental training session. I used it with my Glock 17 MOS equipped with a Trijicon RMR. The weather was typical for late summer – hot and humid.

The holster performed admirably in the less-than-ideal conditions. The ALS system provided a secure hold on the pistol, even during strenuous movements, while the mid-ride position kept the weapon close to my body without hindering my range of motion. I did need a little time to adjust to the ALS release, but after a few practice draws, it became second nature. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, and the red dot sight cleared the holster without any snagging.

Initially, I had some concern about the holster’s bulk, but that quickly vanished after running drills. There was a bit of audible feedback when the pistol was seated, reassuringly clicking into place.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 has proven to be incredibly reliable. I have experienced no failures or malfunctions of the ALS system. The holster shows only minor signs of wear and tear, primarily some scuff marks on the STX finish from rubbing against my duty belt and gear.

Maintenance has been minimal; occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a bit of silicone lubricant on the ALS mechanism has been sufficient to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous duty holsters, this Safariland model has significantly exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and retention, especially with the added consideration for the RDS.

I even had to wrestle with a suspect on the ground one evening, and the holster held fast. That was a major selling point for me.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It utilizes the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention, providing a secure hold without the need for straps or snaps. This particular model features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm close to the body.

• Retention Level: Level I, utilizing the ALS.
• Material: Primarily constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend for durability and resistance to heat and cold.
• Ride Height: Mid-ride, designed to sit slightly lower on the hip.
• Finish: STX finish, providing a textured, non-slip surface.
• Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights, accommodating various RDS sizes and brands.

These specifications are crucial for duty use. The ALS ensures the firearm remains secure during dynamic situations. The mid-ride height allows for a comfortable draw stroke while keeping the weapon close to the body, and the durable construction guarantees the holster will withstand the daily demands of law enforcement.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and providing rapid access to a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable. Once the weapon is holstered, it locks into place automatically, and the release is easily deactivated with the thumb during the draw stroke.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, smooth draw, and RDS compatibility. A slight weakness is that learning the ALS release takes some practice, but the learning curve isn’t steep. The holster has met and even exceeded my expectations for a duty-grade holster.

The draw is fast and clean, every single time, which is critical.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 features a well-thought-out design focused on both security and user comfort. The SafariSeven nylon blend provides a durable yet lightweight platform. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear and allows for a natural draw stroke.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, but new users should dedicate time to practicing the ALS release to ensure proficiency. The textured STX finish enhances grip and prevents slippage, even in wet conditions. The overall build quality instills confidence, but initially, I thought it was a little bulky.

Despite the initial bulk concern, I’ve since found the 6390rds comfortable enough to wear for 10+ hour shifts.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 is built to last, thanks to its durable SafariSeven nylon blend construction. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, primarily involving regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

Applying a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth operation. The STX finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, further enhancing the holster’s longevity. It’s important to inspect it regularly, like any other piece of critical safety gear.

This thing is built like a tank.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 doesn’t come with many included accessories, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible belt loops, leg shrouds, and other attachments. The holster is designed to accommodate most popular red dot sights. It can be adjusted to fit different firearm models within the same size category.

The holster is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing users to customize the ride height and carry position. Swapping out the belt loop for a different model is relatively straightforward. The compatibility with aftermarket accessories is excellent, increasing its usability.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30?

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who carries a firearm equipped with a red dot sight for duty or personal defense. It’s ideal for those who prioritize retention, durability, and a smooth, fast draw. Anyone requiring a reliable holster for open carry is a perfect fit.

Those who may want to skip this product include individuals who don’t use a red dot sight, those on a very tight budget (although, consider the investment), or those who prefer lower-profile concealed carry options. A must-have accessory would be Safariland’s quick-locking system (QLS) to easily move the holster between different platforms. It may also be worth considering different belt loops depending on your specific needs.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2192-702-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and performance. While the price may seem high, the quality and functionality justify the investment, especially for those who rely on their firearm in high-stress situations.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a dependable RDS-compatible duty holster. It’s a worthwhile investment in your safety and effectiveness. Invest in the Safariland 6390rds and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible.