First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that you take your firearm seriously, and you demand reliability and speed. This holster, designed by Safariland, answers the call for those running red dot sights on their duty pistols, offering a secure Level I retention with the signature Automatic Locking System (ALS) in a mid-ride configuration.
My journey to finding this holster began with a simple, yet frustrating, problem. I recently transitioned to using a red dot sight on my Glock 17, and my old holster simply wouldn’t cut it anymore. It was either too tight, wouldn’t accommodate the optic at all, or offered subpar retention. I needed something robust, duty-rated, and specifically designed for an optic-equipped pistol.
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 arrived in a standard Safariland box, but the moment I held it, I knew this was different. The construction felt solid, the materials top-notch, and the overall design spoke of quality and purpose. Compared to some universal holsters I had considered, like some offerings from Blackhawk or cheaper molded polymer models, the Safariland felt significantly more refined.
I chose this Safariland over those competitors because of its proven track record within law enforcement and military communities. Many swear by the ALS system and its ruggedness. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype, though a little apprehensive about the price point; good gear isn’t cheap, but I wanted to make sure the investment was worthwhile.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 was at an outdoor shooting range. I subjected it to a variety of drills, including rapid draws, re-holstering under pressure, and movement exercises. The weather was mildly humid, offering a hint of real-world conditions.
Initially, the ALS system took a bit of getting used to. I’m accustomed to thumb-break holsters. Once I internalized the straight-up draw after disengaging the ALS with my thumb, the holster proved to be incredibly fast and intuitive. There were no malfunctions or hiccups, even when performing drills under simulated stress.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 has proven itself to be a dependable piece of kit. It rides comfortably during extended periods of wear. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear beyond minor scuff marks on the Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous kydex holsters, which would often collect debris and require disassembly for thorough cleaning, the Safariland is a breeze to maintain. It noticeably outperforms other retention holsters I’ve used in terms of both speed and security.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention. This particular model is designed for a variety of firearms, mostly full sized handguns.
The holster utilizes a mid-ride belt loop. This positions the firearm for a comfortable draw while maintaining a secure fit close to the body. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend material provides exceptional durability and resistance to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 performs its core function flawlessly: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for rapid deployment. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock that instills confidence. The mid-ride height positions the pistol perfectly for a natural draw stroke.
The only minor weakness is the learning curve associated with the ALS. This requires some initial practice to master the thumb release. However, once learned, the speed and security benefits are undeniable. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated holster designed for optic-equipped pistols.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 is built with a clear emphasis on functionality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend provides a tough, yet comfortable, platform. The mid-ride design is ergonomically sound.
The holster is surprisingly lightweight, considering its robust construction. The draw is very natural. The ALS lever is readily accessible.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 suggests exceptional longevity. The holster feels virtually indestructible. I anticipate it lasting for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient. The ALS mechanism may benefit from occasional lubrication. However, overall, this holster is designed for low maintenance and high reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 itself doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting platforms. This includes drop legs, quick-release systems, and various belt attachments. The holster is also designed to accommodate a wide variety of red dot sights.
The Safariland mounting system offers a great degree of customization. It allows the user to tailor the holster to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention that inspires confidence.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, eliminating compatibility issues.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance, even under harsh conditions.
- Mid-Ride Design: Offers a comfortable draw stroke and a secure fit close to the body.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple cleaning process, requiring minimal effort to keep the holster in top condition.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS system requires some initial practice to master the thumb release.
- Price: The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 is a premium product. This means a higher upfront cost compared to some other holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who rely on a secure and reliable holster for their optic-equipped firearms. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who demand speed and precision. Any responsible firearm owner looking for a high-quality, duty-rated holster for their red dot equipped pistol will also benefit from this holster.
Those on a very tight budget or who are new to firearms might want to consider less expensive alternatives initially. These individuals may want to familiarize themselves with basic holster designs before investing in a premium retention system. A quality belt is a must-have accessory to maximize comfort and stability when using the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises. It offers exceptional retention, red dot sight compatibility, and rugged durability. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified by the peace of mind and performance it provides.
I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable, duty-rated solution for their optic-equipped firearm. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to securing your weapon. Invest in the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-701-MS30 and experience the difference that quality makes.