First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762
For over a decade, I’ve been deeply immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, and I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. However, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 immediately caught my attention due to its reputation for reliability and specifically, its compatibility with red dot sights. This holster promises a blend of speed, security, and adaptability, making it a potentially essential piece of equipment for law enforcement, security personnel, and even discerning civilian shooters.
My need stemmed from a growing trend in the tactical community: the integration of red dot sights on duty pistols. Standard holsters simply don’t accommodate these optics, forcing users to compromise or find specialized solutions. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762, with its promise of a seamless fit for RDS-equipped firearms and Automatic Locking System (ALS), seemed like the perfect solution.
Unboxing the Safariland holster, my initial impression was one of solid, purposeful design. The holster felt robust and well-constructed, a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality. The materials felt durable, and the overall build inspired confidence that this holster could withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
I considered several other holsters before settling on the Safariland. Specifically, I looked at the Blackhawk! Serpa and some offerings from Alien Gear. The Safariland’s reputation for higher reliability and the superior ALS system tipped the scales.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was excellent, and the ALS system seemed secure. However, I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios, especially in demanding situations where speed and retention are paramount.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 at my local shooting range. The conditions were ideal: sunny, dry, and relatively calm. I ran several drills focusing on drawing, target acquisition, and re-holstering.
The draw stroke with the Safariland was surprisingly intuitive. The ALS system disengaged smoothly with my thumb, allowing for a rapid and consistent draw. No time was needed to become acclimated to using this holster with the ALS retention system.
After my initial range session, I encountered the need to deploy in cold weather. The ALS system continued to function flawlessly, even with gloved hands. This is a crucial factor for anyone working in colder climates.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after daily use and exposure to various environmental conditions. The molded SafariSeven nylon blend continues to resist damage and scuffs.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism continues to operate smoothly without requiring any special lubrication or maintenance.
Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland stands out in terms of both durability and retention. It outperforms many competing models, offering a superior level of security and peace of mind. The ALS system has proven to be significantly more reliable and user-friendly than the retention mechanisms found in some other popular holsters.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 is a duty-rated Level I retention holster designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 is molded from a proprietary nylon blend known as SafariSeven, making it exceptionally durable and resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion. The holster’s open-top design allows for a rapid draw, while the internal locking device provides a secure level of retention.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and reliability in real-world scenarios. The RDS compatibility ensures that users can seamlessly integrate red dot sights into their duty setups. The ALS system provides a crucial level of security without sacrificing speed or ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a secure level of retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The smooth and consistent draw stroke allows for rapid target acquisition.
One of the key strengths of this holster is its reliability. The ALS mechanism operates consistently and predictably, even after extensive use. The mid-ride belt loop provides a comfortable and stable carry, minimizing discomfort and fatigue.
While the holster excels in most areas, there is always room for improvement. Some users may find the ALS release lever slightly stiff initially. However, this typically loosens up with use. Overall, the Safariland holster meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The holster rides comfortably against the body.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice may be required to master the ALS release. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm at an optimal height for a natural and efficient draw stroke. Overall, the Safariland holster offers a comfortable and ergonomic design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to the elements. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster in good working order. The ALS mechanism requires minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. This modularity allows users to customize their holster setup to meet their specific needs. The Safariland holster is also compatible with many popular belt attachment systems from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights, eliminating the need for specialized modifications.
- Durable Construction: Molded from SafariSeven nylon blend, the holster is resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: The ALS system disengages smoothly, allowing for a rapid and consistent draw.
Cons
- Initial Stiffness: The ALS release lever may feel slightly stiff initially.
- Price Point: Slightly more expensive than some competing holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competition shooters who rely on red dot sights and require a secure and reliable holster. This holster provides the professional with the reliability and assurances required to perform under pressure. This holster will offer peace of mind that their firearm is safe and accessible.
This holster may not be ideal for casual shooters who don’t use red dot sights or require a high level of retention. The simpler, less expensive holsters may serve their purposes perfectly well. Furthermore, those who strongly prefer a Level II or Level III retention system should obviously seek out a different Safariland or competitor holster.
A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is rigid enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster. Some users may also benefit from adding a leg strap for added stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 is an exceptional holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and RDS compatibility. While it may be slightly more expensive than some competing models, the investment is well worth it for those who demand the highest level of performance.
The price is justified by the holster’s superior construction, reliable ALS system, and comfortable carry. The price is a reflection of the performance provided by this holster, and therefore it provides excellent value.
I would personally highly recommend the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2702-762 to anyone looking for a top-tier duty holster. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, this holster is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it.
