First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone who depends on their firearm daily. Designed by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical equipment, this holster prioritizes speed, security, and compatibility with red dot sights. Its core feature, the Automatic Locking System (ALS), offers Level I retention without cumbersome straps or snaps, promising a swift, clean draw when seconds count.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. I was specifically looking for a duty-rated holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR, offering both a secure hold and rapid access in dynamic situations.
Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The holster felt solid, well-constructed, and the materials seemed durable enough to withstand the rigors of daily carry and demanding environments. Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa (known for its controversial release mechanism) and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse (a simpler, OWB option), the Safariland 6390rds appeared to strike a balance between active retention and ease of use.
I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that it would live up to Safariland’s reputation for reliability and performance, addressing my needs for a secure, red-dot-compatible duty holster with a smooth draw.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 6390rds was at the shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The range environment provided a realistic simulation of high-stress situations, testing the holster’s draw speed and retention under pressure. The holster performed exceptionally well, retaining the firearm securely during dynamic movements, while allowing for a smooth, consistent draw with minimal effort once the ALS was disengaged.
Despite a light drizzle, the holster’s grip remained secure, and the ALS mechanism didn’t falter. Learning the thumb sweep to deactivate the ALS took a few practice draws, but it quickly became intuitive. The only initial issue was adjusting the tension screw to find the optimal balance between retention strength and draw speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and dry-fire practice, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are only slight scuff marks on the outer surface from rubbing against gear, but the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. The holster’s construction exhibits no signs of cracking, loosening, or deformation.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a periodic wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous holster, a Level II retention model with a thumb break, the Safariland 6390rds offers a significantly faster and more natural draw stroke, enhancing my response time in critical scenarios. The Safariland holster definitely outperforms in retention and draw speed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention and includes a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. This is crucial for weapon retention.
- Open-Top Design: Allows for a rapid and unencumbered draw. This feature enhances speed.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Positions the firearm close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort. This feature allows for more comfortable carry.
- Durable Construction: Constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, offering exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. This material is designed to be virtually impervious to moisture and temperature changes.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. This is a primary selling point of this model.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The ALS ensures the firearm remains secure during dynamic activities, while the open-top design enables a fast and efficient draw. The mid-ride belt loop enhances comfort and concealability, and the durable construction guarantees long-term reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system provides a positive lock on the weapon, preventing accidental dislodgement, while the open-top design facilitates a smooth, unobstructed draw stroke. The mid-ride positioning enhances comfort and allows for a more natural grip during the draw.
The holster’s strengths lie in its intuitive design, robust construction, and reliable retention mechanism. A minor area for improvement would be the audible click of the ALS mechanism; while reassuring, it could be slightly quieter for covert operations. Overall, the Safariland 6390rds exceeds expectations, providing a secure and efficient carry solution for duty and tactical use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and ergonomics. The SafariSeven nylon blend is lightweight yet incredibly durable, and the holster’s contours conform comfortably to the body. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm at an optimal height for drawing, minimizing unnecessary movement and enhancing draw speed.
The holster is user-friendly, requiring minimal training to master the ALS release. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure grip during the draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. Constructed from Safariland’s SafariSeven nylon blend, the holster is exceptionally resistant to wear, abrasion, and environmental factors. It shows no signs of degradation after months of heavy use.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a periodic wipe-down with a damp cloth. The robust construction and simple design ensure long-term reliability and minimal need for repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with various mounting systems allows users to tailor its configuration to their specific needs.
The Safariland 6390rds seamlessly integrates with various Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms. This compatibility provides users with the flexibility to configure the holster to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention without compromising draw speed.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: Built from Safariland’s SafariSeven nylon blend for long-lasting reliability.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop enhances comfort and concealability.
- Fast Draw: The open-top design allows for a rapid and unencumbered draw.
Cons
- ALS Mechanism Sound: The audible click of the ALS mechanism could be a concern in covert situations.
- Price: At $164.20, it’s a higher price point than some other Level I retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a secure, reliable, and red-dot-compatible holster for duty or tactical use. It’s also well-suited for competition shooters seeking a Level I retention holster that allows for a fast and consistent draw.
Those prioritizing ultimate concealment and minimal bulk might find the mid-ride profile less suitable, potentially preferring an inside-the-waistband (IWB) option. A weapon light attachment may require a different holster model.
A quality duty belt and compatible mounting platform are must-have accessories to maximize the Safariland 6390rds’s performance and versatility.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2712-132-AG is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and durability. Its ALS retention system, red dot sight compatibility, and comfortable mid-ride design make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious shooters.
While the price is higher than some competitors, the Safariland 6390rds offers a compelling value proposition. The holster justifies the expense, providing a long-lasting and dependable carry solution.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a high-quality, red-dot-compatible duty holster. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your carry today.