First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG is a serious piece of kit designed for professionals who need a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm, especially those with red dot sights. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster promises Level I retention with its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a mid-ride height for comfortable carry. It’s built for duty use and, as someone who has spent years working with tactical gear, I was eager to see how it performs in the real world.
My agency recently authorized red dot sights on our duty pistols, creating a scramble to find suitable holsters. I needed a holster that could accommodate the optic, provide secure retention, and allow for a smooth, fast draw under pressure. The Safariland 6390rds seemed like the perfect solution, offering compatibility with RDS-equipped firearms and the renowned Safariland ALS system.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6390rds feels solid and well-constructed. The STX finish looks durable, and the overall design is clean and functional. Compared to some other open-top holsters I’ve used, the 6390rds feels more robust and purpose-built. It definitely stands out against the cheaper, less refined options I’ve encountered.
Initially, I was impressed with the build quality and the promise of the ALS system, but a little apprehensive about the mid-ride height – I’ve always preferred a higher carry. However, the need for RDS compatibility outweighed my usual preferences, making the Safariland 6390rds a worthy contender. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, ready to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Safariland 6390rds was at our department’s qualification range. I ran several drills focusing on drawing, target acquisition, and re-holstering, paying close attention to the feel and functionality of the ALS system. The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions.
The draw was smooth and intuitive after just a few practice runs; the thumb release for the ALS became second nature quickly. However, it wasn’t until the afternoon, when a sudden downpour soaked the range, that I truly appreciated the design. Even with wet hands and a slick firearm, the ALS provided confident retention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no visible signs of wear or tear beyond the normal scuff marks you’d expect from daily duty. The holster has retained its shape and functionality, even after repeated exposure to rain, sweat, and the general rigors of law enforcement work.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it clean. Compared to some older holsters I’ve used, this Safariland model requires significantly less attention to stay in top condition. The Safariland 6390rds has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster closer to the body.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): An internal locking device activated upon holstering, providing Level I retention. This ensures the firearm remains secure without the need for additional straps.
- Red Dot Sight (RDS) Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate pistols with mounted red dot sights. The open-top design allows for unobstructed use of the optic.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Positions the holster at a mid-ride height on the belt. This offers a balance of accessibility and concealment.
- Durable Construction: Constructed from Safariland’s proprietary materials for long-lasting durability. This will withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
- STX Finish: Provides a non-reflective, textured surface for enhanced grip and durability. This will resist scratches and abrasions.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, security, and comfort. The ALS provides peace of mind, while the RDS compatibility ensures the holster will work with modern optics. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable carry position.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing positive retention without hindering the draw stroke. Usability is excellent; drawing and re-holstering become second nature with practice.
The holster performs admirably in varied conditions, maintaining its integrity even when wet or exposed to dust. The only minor weakness is the potential for debris to accumulate around the ALS mechanism, though regular cleaning mitigates this issue. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds is exceptional, reflecting Safariland’s commitment to quality. The materials are robust and durable, able to withstand the daily wear and tear of duty use. The mid-ride height is surprisingly comfortable.
The holster is designed with the user in mind, featuring a thumb release that is easily accessible and intuitive. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS system. However, with a few hours of practice, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that resist wear and tear. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The robust construction and durable finish contribute to the holster’s longevity. There are no known issues with premature wear or breakage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds itself doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing instead on core functionality. However, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible belt mounts and attachments, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs. The 6390rds is compatible with most Safariland belt loops and leg shrouds.
This allows for various carry configurations and levels of adjustability. The holster is also designed to accommodate a wide variety of pistol lights, adding to its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The ALS system provides reliable Level I retention, keeping the firearm secure. This ensures peace of mind in dynamic situations.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights, ensuring proper fit and function. This accommodates the growing trend of optics-ready pistols.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of daily duty use. This provides long-lasting reliability.
- Smooth Draw: The ALS system allows for a smooth, fast draw stroke once mastered. This enables rapid target acquisition.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and stable carry position. This is great for extended periods of wear.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS system requires some practice to master. This may slow down initial deployment speed.
- Potential for Debris Accumulation: The ALS mechanism can accumulate debris in dusty or dirty environments. This necessitates regular cleaning.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable way to carry their firearm with a red dot sight. It’s also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize retention and speed.
This holster might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and duty-oriented design. It also may not be ideal for those unfamiliar with retention holsters. A good belt is a must-have accessory for the Safariland 6390rds, ensuring stability and proper weight distribution.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-481-AG is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and RDS compatibility. The price of $164.20 is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind provided by the ALS retention system.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and secure way to carry their firearm with a red dot sight. If you’re looking for a duty-rated holster that will stand up to the test, the Safariland 6390rds is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance; choose the Safariland 6390rds.