First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a crucial part of a professional’s kit, especially in law enforcement and tactical operations. From the renowned manufacturer Safariland, this holster promises a blend of speed, security, and adaptability for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s designed for those who demand rapid access without compromising weapon retention, a balance often sought but rarely perfectly achieved.
As a seasoned professional, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the world, but few delivering on all fronts. I was looking for a duty holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR, offering both speed and a reliable retention system. Tired of bulky Level II and Level III options that slowed down my draw, I sought a Level I holster prioritizing speed and streamlined operation.
My initial unboxing was telling; the Safariland 6390rds exudes quality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt robust, the molding was precise, and the mid-ride belt loop looked sturdy and well-placed. The finish was clean, with no rough edges or obvious points of weakness, a welcome change from some cheaper, injection-molded alternatives.
Compared to my older Safariland ALS holster (pre-RDS cut) and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the 6390rds stood out due to its specific design for red dot sights and its streamlined profile. I picked it over the Blade-Tech because of Safariland’s proven track record in duty-grade holsters, prioritizing reliability and retention over pure concealment. The older Safariland holster simply wasn’t compatible with the RDS, necessitating an upgrade.
Honestly, my first impression was cautiously optimistic. I’ve been burned before by holsters that looked great on paper but failed in real-world application. However, the Safariland 6390rds felt right, inspiring confidence that it could live up to its promises of speed and security in demanding situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rds occurred at the police academy’s shooting range, simulating real-world duty scenarios. This included timed drills, movement exercises, and stress tests under varying weather conditions, including light rain. The primary focus was evaluating the holster’s draw speed, weapon retention, and overall comfort during extended wear.
The holster performed admirably, even in the light rain. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) released smoothly with a natural thumb motion, allowing for a consistently fast and clean draw. There was no fumbling or hesitation, even when wearing gloves, and the weapon remained securely in place during dynamic movement, a major concern with Level I holsters.
Initially, the draw stroke felt slightly different compared to my old holster, requiring minor adjustments to my grip and technique. However, this learning curve was minimal, and after a few hours of practice, the draw became second nature. There were no immediate issues or surprises, apart from a satisfying “click” upon re-holstering, confirming secure retention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, including daily wear on duty and multiple training sessions, the Safariland 6390rds has proven its durability and reliability. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, the SafariSeven™ material resisting scratches and abrasions remarkably well. The retention mechanism remains crisp and consistent, demonstrating the quality of its internal components.
Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth removes dirt and grime effectively. The holster has maintained its shape and integrity, even after being subjected to sweat, rain, and the general abuse of daily duty. The Safariland 6390rds significantly outperforms my previous holster, offering superior weapon security and a faster, more intuitive draw stroke.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland.
- Model: 6390RDS-27027-702.
- Retention Level: Level I (ALS – Automatic Locking System).
- Material: SafariSeven™ nylon blend.
- Ride: Mid-ride belt loop.
- Compatibility: Firearms with red dot sights.
- Draw: Straight-up draw.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The SafariSeven™ material ensures durability and resistance to the elements, while the ALS system provides secure retention with a quick, intuitive release. The mid-ride position offers a balance between concealment and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, requiring only a natural thumb movement to disengage. The holster’s design prevents accidental disengagement.
Its strengths lie in its speed, security, and ease of use. A potential weakness could be perceived as the Level I retention, which, while fast, offers less resistance to weapon grabs than Level II or Level III holsters. However, for those prioritizing speed and relying on situational awareness, the 6390rds exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds features a well-thought-out design. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight yet durable, and the mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip. There’s minimal printing under clothing, even with a full-sized pistol.
The holster is user-friendly, requiring minimal training to master the draw stroke. The ergonomics are excellent, with the thumb release falling naturally under the thumb during the draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly durable and resistant to wear, scratches, and extreme temperatures. The holster is built to last through years of rigorous use.
Maintenance is simple: wipe it down with a damp cloth when dirty. The smooth interior prevents abrasion on the firearm’s finish, and there are no small parts that require specialized cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds, allowing for personalized carry options. While it primarily caters to firearms with red dot sights, it can also be used with standard iron-sighted pistols.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, such as the Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for rapid holster swapping between different carry positions. Many users find that adding a QLS fork to the holster and a QLS receiver to their tactical vest or other gear significantly increases the versatility of the Safariland 6390rds.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702
Pros
- Extremely fast draw stroke due to Level I retention and intuitive ALS system.
- Durable SafariSeven™ construction for long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
- Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, providing optimal clearance and accessibility.
- Comfortable mid-ride position for extended wear and balanced weight distribution.
- Excellent weapon retention despite being a Level I holster, thanks to the reliable ALS system.
Cons
- Level I retention might not be sufficient for all users, particularly those requiring maximum weapon security.
- Price point is higher than some other duty holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who prioritize speed and ease of access to their firearm, especially when equipped with a red dot sight. It’s also a great choice for competition shooters needing a fast and reliable holster.
This holster might not be the best option for individuals working in environments where weapon retention is the absolute top priority, such as correctional officers or those in very high-crime areas where weapon grabs are a significant threat. In those situations, a Level II or Level III holster may be more appropriate. A must-have accessory is the Safariland QLS system for modularity and quick holster swaps.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-27027-702 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises of speed, security, and durability. While the price point is higher than some competitors, the quality of construction, reliable ALS system, and specific design for red dot sights justify the investment. The Safariland 6390rds has earned its place as my primary duty holster, and I highly recommend it to any professional seeking a top-tier Level I retention option.
For those seeking the best balance of speed and security for their red-dot-equipped pistol, look no further. Upgrade your carry, enhance your response time, and invest in the Safariland 6390rds today!