First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551 isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a statement of preparedness and professional-grade reliability. From Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade holsters, this particular model is designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, a feature that’s increasingly crucial in modern tactical scenarios. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) promises Level I Retention without compromising speed, and the mid-ride belt loop caters to those who prefer a balance between accessibility and comfort.
My quest for this holster stemmed from a very real need. I was looking for a duty-rated holster that could securely accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR, while also offering a smooth and intuitive draw. My previous holster, a generic nylon model, lacked the necessary retention and felt flimsy, making it unsuitable for serious use.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6390rds immediately exuded quality. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt robust and durable, and the overall construction was incredibly solid. The weight felt substantial, but not cumbersome, suggesting a good balance between strength and comfort.
Compared to other holsters I considered, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland 6390rds stood out due to its superior retention system and purpose-built design for red dot sights. The Serpa’s finger-actuated release felt less intuitive, and the Blade-Tech lacked the same level of robust construction. The Safariland felt like a more serious, professional piece of kit.
My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a bit of apprehension. The ALS system seemed incredibly secure, but I wondered if it would be as easy to disengage under pressure as Safariland claimed. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland 6390rds took place at a local shooting range, where I spent several hours running drills and practicing my draw stroke. The weather was sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for familiarizing myself with the holster.
The initial draws felt a little stiff, as expected with a new holster. However, the ALS system proved surprisingly intuitive. With a natural thumb movement during the grip, the locking mechanism disengaged smoothly, allowing for a quick and clean draw.
I did notice a slight learning curve in mastering the precise thumb placement for consistent releases. But after a few repetitions, it became second nature. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including training scenarios in varying weather conditions, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be incredibly reliable. Even in wet and humid conditions, the ALS system continued to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw.
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend has shown no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to dirt, mud, and abrasion from gear. Cleaning the holster is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous holster experiences, the Safariland 6390rds is in a different league. Its robust construction, secure retention system, and comfortable mid-ride design far exceed the performance of any other holster I’ve used. It inspires confidence knowing my firearm is securely in place, yet readily accessible when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance.
Automatic Locking System (ALS): An internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions, offering Level I Retention without straps or snaps. This allows for a fast, intuitive draw while maintaining a high level of security.
SafariSeven™ Nylon Blend Construction: A proprietary nylon blend that is highly durable, non-abrasive to firearm finishes, and resistant to extreme temperatures and moisture. This ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Positions the holster lower on the belt for improved comfort and accessibility, especially when wearing body armor or other tactical gear. This height also aids in a smoother draw stroke.
Open-Top Design: Facilitates rapid target acquisition and a natural draw stroke, essential in high-stress situations. The open top is particularly beneficial with the use of a red dot sight, providing unobstructed access.
Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, ensuring a secure fit without interference. This is a critical feature for modern tactical applications.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The ALS provides peace of mind knowing the firearm is secure, while the SafariSeven™ nylon blend ensures longevity. The mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility, and the open-top design promotes speed. Red dot sight compatibility is crucial for modern tactical platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock that requires minimal effort to disengage.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The ALS gives you the peace of mind of level 1 retention without the encumbrance of a thumb break. The system works smoothly and reliably. The mid-ride position enhances the natural feel of the draw.
One area for potential improvement is the initial stiffness of the ALS mechanism. It required a break-in period and focused practice to achieve consistently smooth releases.
Overall, the Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster. Its performance is exceptional, offering a perfect balance of security, speed, and comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend feels robust and durable. The weight is manageable and doesn’t cause discomfort during extended wear.
The holster’s design is incredibly user-friendly, with a natural and intuitive draw stroke. The ALS release is easily accessible and requires minimal effort to operate. There’s a slight learning curve to master the precise thumb placement.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. With proper care, the Safariland 6390rds should last for years.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may benefit from periodic lubrication to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms. This allows for customization to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.
While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with Safariland‘s ecosystem allows for significant personalization. It is designed to accommodate various red dot sights, providing flexibility in optics selection.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I Retention, keeping the firearm firmly in place.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a fast and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: Positions the holster for improved comfort and accessibility, especially with gear.
Cons
- Initial Stiffness: The ALS mechanism may require a break-in period.
- Price: At $165.99, it’s more expensive than some other duty holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for:
- Law enforcement officers who require a secure and reliable duty holster.
- Military personnel seeking a holster that can withstand demanding environments.
- Tactical shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.
- Individuals who carry firearms with red dot sights.
Who should skip this product?
- Those on a very tight budget may find cheaper alternatives, though at a significant sacrifice in quality and security.
- Those who do not use a red dot sight may find other Safariland options more suitable.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Consider a Safariland leg shroud for added stability and comfort during extended wear.
- Experiment with different belt loops to find the optimal ride height and angle for your body type and gear.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28321-551 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security. While it may come with a higher price tag than some alternatives, its superior construction and features justify the investment.
The value proposition is clear: you’re paying for a holster that will reliably perform in critical situations, offering peace of mind and enhancing your overall tactical readiness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a professional-grade holster for a firearm with a red dot sight. If you value security, speed, and durability, this is an investment you won’t regret. Take your readiness to the next level. Choose the Safariland 6390rds and experience the difference quality makes.