Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30 is a purpose-built holster designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who require a secure, reliable, and rapidly accessible way to carry their firearm equipped with a red dot sight. This holster promises Level I retention through Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), combined with a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry. It caters specifically to the growing trend of mounting red dot sights on duty pistols, addressing a critical need for a holster that accommodates this setup without sacrificing security or draw speed.

My search for this holster stemmed from a frustrating experience with traditional holsters. I recently upgraded my duty pistol with a red dot sight and found that none of my existing holsters were compatible, presenting a significant problem for both on-duty carry and range training. I needed a holster that could accommodate the optic, provide secure retention, and allow for a quick, intuitive draw.

Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately struck by the robust build quality. The Safariland holster felt solid and well-constructed, with a durable STX finish that seemed ready to withstand the rigors of daily use. The weight was noticeable, a testament to the quality of materials, but not excessive; it felt balanced and purposeful.

I considered several competing holsters, including offerings from Blackhawk and Galco. However, the Safariland holster’s reputation for reliability, the proven track record of the ALS retention system, and the specific design for red dot sights ultimately swayed my decision. Others required clunky adapters or lacked the refined retention Safariland is known for.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a holster that addressed my specific needs, but also mindful of the potential for discomfort or difficulty in mastering the ALS draw. I was hoping for a seamless integration of retention and speed; my initial handling suggested that Safariland might have delivered just that.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds was at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on draw speed and weapon retention drills. I spent several hours practicing various scenarios, including drawing from different positions and re-holstering under pressure. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.

The Safariland 6390rds performed admirably. The ALS retention system provided a secure hold on the firearm, even during rapid movement and simulated struggles. The draw stroke became intuitive after only a short period of practice; the thumb release was easily accessible and required minimal conscious effort.

Initially, the thumb release felt stiff, requiring a firm press to disengage the ALS. However, after several repetitions, the mechanism smoothed out, becoming more responsive and predictable. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the initial testing session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, both on and off duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The STX finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite constant friction against clothing and gear. The Safariland build quality is clear to see.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, requiring only occasional lubrication with a silicone-based product. The holster shows no signs of degradation and remains secure and functional.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed, and compatibility with red dot sights. Previous holsters often felt bulky and cumbersome, hindering my ability to draw quickly and efficiently. The Safariland 6390rds offers a streamlined design and unparalleled security, making it a superior choice for duty carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30 is meticulously engineered for practical application. It is designed for specific firearm models equipped with red dot sights, ensuring a precise and secure fit. This model, 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30, is configured for right-handed users, with a mid-ride belt loop attachment.

The primary material is Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, offering exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture. The holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions. The ALS is deactivated with a simple thumb press during the draw stroke, providing Level I retention without compromising speed.

The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip, enhancing comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor or other tactical gear. The open-top design facilitates a rapid, unobstructed draw. The holster is available in various finishes, including the tested STX plain black, providing a professional and low-profile appearance.

These specifications directly translate to enhanced performance and a superior user experience. The secure retention of the ALS ensures the firearm remains safely holstered until needed. The mid-ride height improves comfort and allows for a more natural draw stroke.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: providing a secure and accessible platform for carrying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS retention system instills confidence, knowing the weapon will not be dislodged unintentionally. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient, allowing for rapid target acquisition.

The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The ALS mechanism is intuitive to use, even under stress. The mid-ride height strikes a good balance between concealment and accessibility.

The main weakness is the initial stiffness of the ALS release, which requires a break-in period to achieve optimal smoothness. The holster can feel somewhat bulky compared to minimalist designs, but this is a trade-off for the added security and durability. Overall, the Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds features a thoughtfully designed ergonomic profile. The holster body is molded to conform to the shape of the firearm, minimizing bulk and maximizing comfort. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal height for drawing and re-holstering.

The materials used in the construction of the holster feel high-quality and durable. The weight is substantial, but not excessive, reflecting the robustness of the design. The holster is generally user-friendly, although mastering the ALS draw stroke requires practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The SafariSeven nylon blend is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and extreme temperatures. The ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability, with minimal maintenance requirements.

With proper care, the Safariland 6390rds should provide years of dependable service. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. No specialized tools or skills are required for maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. The open-top design accommodates most aftermarket red dot sights without modification. Users can customize the holster to suit their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is also compatible with many popular firearm-mounted accessories from other brands, such as Streamlight and SureFire weapon lights. This flexibility allows users to create a complete and customized carry system. The level of customization allows the user to fine tune to their exact needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30

Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who rely on a secure, reliable, and rapidly accessible holster for their duty firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters and serious firearm enthusiasts who prioritize retention and draw speed.

This product might not be ideal for individuals seeking a minimalist or concealed carry holster. Those who prefer a low-profile design or require maximum concealability may find the Safariland 6390rds too bulky.

A must-have accessory for the Safariland 6390rds is a high-quality duty belt that can support the weight of the firearm and holster comfortably. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based product will also help ensure smooth and reliable operation.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-482-MS30 is a well-engineered and meticulously crafted holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and accessibility. While the initial stiffness of the ALS release and the somewhat bulkier design may be minor drawbacks for some, the overall performance and durability of this holster make it an excellent investment. At $181.60, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is securely holstered.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone who requires a duty-rated holster for a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. If you value security, reliability, and a rapid draw stroke, then this holster is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference.