First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30
For over a decade, I’ve been waist-deep in the world of tactical gear, and a good holster is more than just an accessory – it’s a critical piece of life-saving equipment. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30 immediately piqued my interest because it promises a balance of speed, security, and compatibility with red dot sights, a growing necessity in the tactical landscape. It seemed like a solution tailored for the evolving demands of modern law enforcement and responsible armed citizens.
My quest for the perfect holster stemmed from a very real issue: sluggish draw times during force-on-force training scenarios. I needed a holster that wouldn’t just hold my sidearm securely but would also allow for a lightning-fast, instinctive draw, especially with the increasing adoption of red dot sights on duty weapons. Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster exuded quality; the sturdy construction and precisely molded design were immediately apparent.
Compared to other Level I retention holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Serpa and some offerings from Alien Gear, the Safariland stood out due to its smoother, more intuitive Automatic Locking System (ALS). I chose it over those options primarily for its reputation for reliability and the specific compatibility with firearms equipped with red dot sights. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism.
I was genuinely excited to field-test this holster. I hoped it would live up to the Safariland name and solve my speed and security conundrum, streamlining my draw stroke and providing confidence in high-stress situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds was at the local shooting range during a dynamic drills session. The controlled environment allowed me to focus solely on the holster’s functionality and draw speed. I ran various drills, including drawing from concealment and firing on the move.
The holster performed admirably in the dry, temperate conditions of the range. The ALS system proved to be exceptionally intuitive, allowing for a quick and clean draw after only a few practice repetitions. There were no unexpected snags or issues during the initial drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use in varied environments, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. During a week-long tactical training course in a humid, dusty environment, the holster continued to function smoothly. I noticed minimal wear and tear, primarily some minor scuff marks on the exterior.
Maintenance has been straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous holster experiences, the Safariland significantly outperforms in terms of draw speed and retention confidence. This holster gives me much more assurance than my previous Blackhawk! Serpa.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without requiring straps or snaps. Once holstered, the weapon locks securely, and the holster is designed to be operated solely with the thumb for a straight-up draw. The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to ride close to the body.
These specifications translate directly into increased efficiency and security in real-world scenarios. The ALS ensures the firearm remains secure even during strenuous activity, while the red dot sight compatibility caters to the growing trend of optic-equipped duty weapons. The mid-ride height also strikes a balance between accessibility and concealment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to a sidearm. The ALS retention system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a consistent draw stroke with minimal training. While it is only a Level I retention holster, it provides adequate security for most duty applications.
The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve for deactivating the ALS under pressure, but this can be mitigated with focused practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations, providing a secure and efficient platform for carrying a duty weapon.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a robust construction using high-quality materials. The weight is balanced, providing a stable platform without being overly cumbersome. The mid-ride design sits comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural and ergonomic draw.
The design is user-friendly, and the ALS is easily accessible with the thumb. There is a short learning curve, but the intuitive design makes it easy to master with a bit of practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The rugged construction can withstand daily wear and tear, even in demanding environments. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a bit of silicone-based lubricant on the ALS mechanism.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with the mid-ride belt loop. Safariland offers a wide array of compatible accessories, including various leg straps, chest harnesses, and mounting platforms. The holster is designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights and weapon lights, making it highly customizable to individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30
Pros
- Rapid and intuitive draw: The ALS system allows for a lightning-fast draw, crucial in high-stress situations.
- Secure retention: The ALS provides excellent weapon retention without sacrificing speed or accessibility.
- Red dot sight compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, catering to the modern tactical landscape.
- Durable construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand daily wear and tear in demanding environments.
- Comfortable mid-ride design: Sits comfortably on the hip, promoting a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.
Cons
- Initial learning curve: Mastering the ALS deactivation requires focused practice.
- Level I retention: While adequate for most duty applications, it may not be sufficient for specialized roles requiring higher levels of retention.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize speed, security, and compatibility with red dot sights. It is also a great choice for competitive shooters who want a reliable and fast holster for practical shooting competitions.
Those who require Level II or Level III retention holsters, such as individuals working in high-risk environments, should consider other options. A must-have accessory is a good quality duty belt that can handle the weight of the firearm and the holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-562-MS30 is a well-designed and reliable holster that delivers on its promises. The price of $181.60 is justified by the quality of materials, the innovative ALS retention system, and the red dot sight compatibility.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone looking for a secure, fast, and ergonomic platform for carrying a duty weapon. Invest in your safety and efficiency – get the Safariland 6390rds.
