First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482 is a name that commands respect in the law enforcement and tactical communities, and for good reason. Safariland is synonymous with quality, durability, and most importantly, retention. This particular model, designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, promises a secure and reliable carry, combined with a rapid draw – a critical balance for professionals in high-pressure situations.
My own journey to finding this holster stemmed from a need to upgrade my duty rig. I recently transitioned to running a Glock 17 with a Trijicon RMR, and my old holster simply couldn’t accommodate the optic. I needed a solution that offered both secure Level I retention and a smooth, consistent draw under stress.
The Safariland 6390rds arrived in a no-frills package, typical of Safariland’s professional-grade gear. The immediate impression was one of robust construction. The weight felt reassuring, indicative of the quality materials used, and the overall fit and finish were excellent. Compared to some of the cheaper, generic holsters I’ve used in the past, the difference was night and day. I had been considering a Blackhawk! T-Series L3D RDS holster and a Comp-Tac International, but Safariland’s reputation and the specific ALS (Automatic Locking System) swayed me.
My first thought was excitement coupled with a healthy dose of expectation. Safariland has a legacy to uphold, and I was eager to see if the 6390rds lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, simulating a variety of scenarios. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills, focusing on speed and consistency. The holster performed flawlessly, with the ALS system engaging smoothly and the draw stroke feeling natural and intuitive. The mid-ride belt loop positioned the firearm perfectly for my hand, facilitating a clean and efficient presentation.
During a simulated rain drill, the textured STX finish provided a secure grip even with wet hands. The retention remained consistent, and the draw was unaffected. There were no initial surprises or issues; the holster performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The STX finish is remarkably resistant to scratches and scuffs.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. I did apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, especially after exposure to dusty conditions. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and reliability. The ALS system provides far more confidence than friction-fit holsters, and the mid-ride position is more comfortable for extended wear than higher-riding models.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482 is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS). The holster features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. It is a Level I retention holster.
The mid-ride belt loop is designed to position the firearm close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealability. It’s built with a durable Safariland STX finish, known for its resistance to scratches, abrasions, and moisture. It’s compatible with a variety of firearms; specifically, the one cited in the product details is for a Glock.
The ALS system is the heart of this holster, providing secure retention while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The mid-ride height is ideal for duty use, allowing for comfortable carry and easy access while wearing body armor or other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a fast and reliable draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, providing an audible and tactile confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The release is intuitive: a simple thumb swipe deactivates the lock, allowing for a straight-up draw.
The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and reliability. However, it offers only Level I retention. Adding additional retention measures might enhance security for certain users.
It meets and exceeds expectations for a Level I retention duty holster, providing both security and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds is excellent. The materials are durable, and the construction is solid. The mid-ride belt loop is comfortable and distributes the weight of the firearm evenly.
The holster is remarkably user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release becomes second nature after only a few practice sessions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The durable STX finish resists scratches and abrasions, and the overall construction is robust. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and mounting platforms. While not explicitly designed for accessories beyond those offered by Safariland, the modular design allows for some degree of customization with third-party components, particularly regarding mounting solutions. The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications to accommodate those optics.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides secure Level I retention, giving peace of mind in demanding situations.
- Rapid Draw: The ALS system allows for a fast and intuitive draw, crucial for tactical applications.
- Durable Construction: The STX finish and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably and securely against the body.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modification.
Cons
- Level I Retention: May not be sufficient for all users, especially those requiring higher levels of security.
- Limited Customization: While compatible with some Safariland accessories, the customization options are not as extensive as some other holster systems.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who require a reliable and secure Level I retention holster for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who value a fast and consistent draw.
This product might not be the best choice for users who require higher levels of retention (Level II or Level III). Individuals seeking extensive customization options may also find the Safariland system somewhat limiting.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to maximize the holster’s comfort and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28328-482 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS system provides secure Level I retention and a rapid draw, while the durable construction and comfortable carry make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious shooters.
At $165.99, the price is justified by the quality, reliability, and performance of the product. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a Level I retention duty holster for a red-dot-equipped firearm. Invest in your safety and performance. Get yourself a Safariland 6390rds and experience the peace of mind that comes with carrying your firearm in a holster you can trust.