Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP is a name that commands respect in the law enforcement and tactical communities. As an experienced gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, but Safariland always manages to set a high bar for quality and innovation. This particular model, designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, caught my eye because of its seemingly perfect blend of security, speed, and comfort – a trifecta often difficult to achieve in a duty holster.

I needed a reliable and secure holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 Gen 5 with a Trijicon RMR, without sacrificing draw speed. Open carry at the range and in some training scenarios required a level of retention beyond what my usual competition holster offered. The appeal of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the mid-ride design promised both security and a comfortable carry.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The Safariland holster felt solid and well-made, a testament to their reputation for durability. The materials appeared to be high-quality, and the fit and finish were excellent. The mid-ride belt loop seemed sturdy, and the overall design inspired confidence.

I considered other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Comp-Tac International, both popular options in the duty holster market. However, I ultimately chose the Safariland 6390rds because of its reputation for superior retention and the proven track record of the ALS system. The mid-ride height was also a significant factor, offering a good balance between accessibility and concealment under a jacket or vest.

My initial impression was definitely excitement tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was eager to see if the Safariland 6390rds lived up to the hype and delivered on its promises of secure retention and a fast, smooth draw.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390rds at my local outdoor shooting range, running drills that focused on drawing and re-holstering under pressure. I also wore it during a force-on-force training scenario to assess its real-world usability.

The holster performed admirably in dry conditions. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent once I became accustomed to the ALS release. Re-holstering was equally effortless, with the ALS engaging automatically to secure the firearm.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to the elements.

Cleaning the holster is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS mechanism requires occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation. This holster definitely outperforms cheaper, less robust options I’ve used in the past, providing a noticeable increase in peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP is specifically designed for firearms equipped with 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 crafted from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, making it impervious to moisture and temperature extremes. It features a mid-ride belt loop that positions the holster close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in both retention and speed. The ALS provides a secure hold on the firearm, preventing accidental dislodgement while still allowing for a rapid draw with a simple thumb release. The mid-ride height positions the firearm for a natural and efficient draw stroke.

The primary strength of this holster is its balance of security and accessibility. However, some users may find the ALS release requires some practice to master. Overall, the Safariland 6390rds significantly exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort. The mid-ride belt loop distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, reducing strain on the user’s back and hips.

The holster is designed to be user-friendly, with the ALS release positioned for easy access. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, most users will quickly become proficient with the draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon, the Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. This material is resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring that the holster will provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The simple design of the holster makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for thorough cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6390rds doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories, it is compatible with a variety of Safariland mounting platforms and accessories. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is primarily designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, and is compatible with most popular models. Some users may also choose to add a leg strap for increased stability and security.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP

Pros

  • Superior Retention: The ALS system provides a secure hold on the firearm, preventing accidental dislodgement.
  • Fast Draw: The mid-ride height and ALS release allow for a rapid and efficient draw stroke.
  • Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
  • Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on the user.
  • Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights.

Cons

  • Learning Curve: The ALS release requires some practice to master.
  • Level I Retention Only: Some users may prefer a higher level of retention for certain applications.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competition shooters who prioritize a secure and accessible holster for their red dot-equipped firearms. It is also an excellent choice for anyone who open carries and desires a reliable retention system.

Individuals who require a higher level of retention (Level II or III) or prefer a different carry position (e.g., appendix carry) should skip this product.

A must-have accessory is a compatible Safariland mounting platform to optimize the holster for specific applications. Also consider using dry lubricant for the ALS mechanism and a leg strap for increased stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-131-CUBL-NP is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and comfort. The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and proven performance of the ALS system.

I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t be disappointed.

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