First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30
For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of tactical gear, and a reliable holster is paramount. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30 immediately caught my attention with its promise of accommodating red dot sights, a necessity in modern tactical scenarios. It’s a holster built for duty, promising both security and a fast draw.
I’ve been searching for a duty holster that securely retains my firearm, even during dynamic movements, while still allowing for rapid target acquisition. The rise of red dot sights on pistols made finding a compatible holster a challenge. Many older models simply don’t accommodate the optic without modification.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster exuded quality. The materials felt robust, the build was solid, and the mid-ride design suggested a comfortable carry. Comparing it to my older Safariland ALS holster (without RDS capability) and a Kydex retention holster, the 6390RDS stood out due to its specifically molded design for red dot sight compatibility and the proven ALS system.
I chose this holster over others because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and its specific design for red dot sights. My first impression was excitement. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of secure retention and rapid deployment, all while accommodating my red dot equipped pistol.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the holster at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on drawing and firing drills. I tested it under varied movement, simulating scenarios a law enforcement officer or security professional might encounter. The temperature hovered around 70 degrees with moderate humidity.
The holster performed admirably; the ALS system provided solid retention during sprints and simulated struggles. Drawing felt natural and intuitive with the thumb release becoming second nature after a few repetitions. There were no immediate issues, but the draw felt slightly tighter than my older ALS holster, something that would likely improve with break-in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use during training sessions and range days, the Safariland 6390rds has proven its reliability. It consistently retains the firearm securely without hindering a smooth draw. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly minor scuffs on the exterior finish.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to other holsters I’ve used, the Safariland outperforms them in both retention and draw speed, particularly with the red dot sight. Its rugged construction gives me confidence that it will withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30 is designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without straps or snaps. The holster is specifically designed for pistols equipped with red dot sights.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides Level I retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure until intentionally drawn. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster closer to the body for improved comfort and concealment. This holster’s ALS mechanism retains the weapon until the release lever is deliberately depressed with the thumb during the draw stroke.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and smooth draw. The ALS system provides excellent retention, instilling confidence that the firearm won’t be dislodged accidentally. Drawing is intuitive; a natural thumb movement deactivates the ALS, allowing for a straight upward draw.
The only potential improvement would be a slightly smoother initial draw, which improves with break-in. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade retention holster. Its design makes the draw fast and reliable, essential in high-stress situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a durable construction, utilizing a blend of proprietary materials to ensure longevity. The holster feels robust, yet the mid-ride design distributes weight effectively for comfortable all-day carry. It has a user-friendly design, but some practice is required to master the ALS release.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Safariland 6390rds suggests it will withstand years of use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is sufficient for maintenance. The holster is designed for durability, showing minimal wear even after extensive use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing users to adjust ride height and cant. While the holster itself doesn’t include accessories, it seamlessly integrates with other Safariland products. It also accommodates a variety of red dot sights, making it a versatile option for different firearms setups.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30Pros
- Secure ALS Retention: Provides Level I retention, offering excellent security without hindering draw speed.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting reliability.
- Mid-Ride Design: Positions the holster closer to the body for comfort and concealment.
- Easy to Learn Draw Stroke: The ALS release becomes intuitive with practice.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release for a smooth draw.
- Price: The cost may be prohibitive for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30?
Pros
- Secure ALS Retention: Provides Level I retention, offering excellent security without hindering draw speed.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting reliability.
- Mid-Ride Design: Positions the holster closer to the body for comfort and concealment.
- Easy to Learn Draw Stroke: The ALS release becomes intuitive with practice.
Cons
- Slight Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the ALS release for a smooth draw.
- Price: The cost may be prohibitive for some users.
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a reliable and secure holster that accommodates red dot sights. Anyone who needs a duty-grade holster that provides excellent retention and a fast draw will benefit from the Safariland 6390rds. It’s ideal for those prioritizing both security and accessibility.
Someone primarily concerned with open carry or those who do not use red dot sights might find other, less expensive holsters suitable. A must-have modification would be adding a Safariland drop leg platform for those needing a lower ride height. For optimal performance, regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is essential.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-2832-781-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its secure ALS retention, red dot sight compatibility, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts. The price is justified by the quality and performance it offers.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a reliable, duty-grade holster for their red dot equipped pistol. Invest in your safety and efficiency; get the Safariland 6390rds and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible. It’s a holster that earns its keep, time and time again.
