First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30
In the world of tactical gear, few names carry the weight and reputation of Safariland. Their holsters are ubiquitous among law enforcement and military personnel, and for good reason: they’re built to last, and they’re designed to perform under pressure. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 aims to deliver that reliability with an added twist – compatibility with red dot sights.
As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the world but often falling short when the rubber meets the road. My primary need was a secure, duty-rated holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted red dot. It needed to be fast on the draw and offer solid retention, without sacrificing comfort during extended wear.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality and ruggedness. The holster felt substantial without being overly heavy. The Safariland STX finish gave it a professional look and felt durable to the touch. It was clearly built with serious use in mind.
Compared to other red dot-compatible holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk T-Series L3D RDS or the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse 2.0, the Safariland felt more robust and specifically designed for duty use. I chose the Safariland because of its proven track record and the perceived security of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) retention. The Blackhawk felt bulky and the Blade-Tech, while versatile, seemed better suited for concealed carry than open duty carry.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland name. I was hoping the ALS system was as intuitive as it sounds.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 at an outdoor shooting range, simulating a duty environment. I ran drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering under time pressure. The weather was sunny and dry.
The ALS system took a few repetitions to get used to, but once I internalized the motion, drawing became smooth and efficient. The mid-ride height felt comfortable, allowing for a natural draw stroke without excessive reaching. There were no immediate issues, although I noticed the holster retained some dust.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including range sessions, tactical training scenarios, and even a few days of light hiking, the Safariland 6390rds has held up admirably. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The finish is still intact.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism requires occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous Level II retention holster, the Safariland 6390rds offers a similar level of security with a faster and more intuitive draw. The red dot compatibility is a major upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 is designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention. The “Mid-ride” designation indicates the belt loop sits lower on the waist than a high-ride holster, offering a balance of concealment and accessibility.
The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, known for its durability and resistance to heat, cold, and chemicals. It is compatible with a 2.25-inch belt. The “2832-551-MS30” part of the model number signifies specific firearm compatibility (likely a Glock 17/22/31/37 with red dot) and the color (likely black). The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and comfort. The red dot compatibility is crucial for users who rely on optics. The Level I retention provides a balance between speed and security. The material ensures longevity and resilience in various environmental conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely holding a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS is intuitive to operate once mastered, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the lock. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
One strength is the simplicity and reliability of the ALS system. The holster is secure, even during dynamic movements. One area for potential improvement is the smoothness of the ALS release under extreme conditions, such as with very thick gloves.
Overall, the holster meets and slightly exceeds expectations. It provides a high level of security and accessibility in a robust package.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend provides a durable and lightweight construction. The mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. With practice, the draw becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation and the materials used, the 6390rds is expected to last for years with proper care. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 itself doesn’t come with extensive accessories, focusing on its core function. However, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options.
The holster is designed to be compatible with most common red dot sights and weapon lights. Be sure to consult Safariland’s compatibility chart to ensure proper fit with your specific firearm and accessories.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30
Pros
- Exceptional retention with the ALS system: Provides Level I retention without sacrificing draw speed.
- Red dot sight compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with mounted optics.
- Durable construction: Made from SafariSeven™ nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable mid-ride height: Allows for a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Proven Safariland quality: A trusted brand among law enforcement and military professionals.
Cons
- ALS learning curve: Requires practice to master the draw stroke.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some competing holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and reliable holster for their firearm with a red dot sight. It’s also well-suited for anyone who values durability and proven performance.
Those who prioritize extreme ease of use above all else or who are on a very tight budget might want to consider alternative options.
A must-have modification might include upgrading the belt loop for enhanced stability or adding a leg shroud for increased comfort during extended wear.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-551-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS system provides excellent retention, while the red dot compatibility and mid-ride height enhance usability and comfort.
The price of $181.60 is justified by the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the proven track record of Safariland products.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure option for their duty or competition firearm. If you are serious about your gear and demand the best, the Safariland 6390rds is a worthy investment. Upgrade your setup today!