Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701 Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone who relies on a firearm for duty or personal defense and utilizes a red dot sight. The Safariland name carries significant weight in the law enforcement and military communities, known for its durable and reliable holsters. This particular model caters to the growing trend of pistol-mounted optics, a feature that drastically enhances target acquisition and accuracy.

My journey to finding this holster started when I transitioned to using a red dot sight on my duty weapon. Existing holsters simply couldn’t accommodate the optic, leaving me with limited options. I needed a holster that provided secure retention, a comfortable carry position, and, most importantly, compatibility with my red dot sight.

Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly robust, and the overall design was clean and functional. The mid-ride height seemed like a perfect compromise between accessibility and concealment.

Compared to a few other holsters I’d considered, like the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D RDS or the Galco M5X Matrix, the Safariland stood out due to its renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and its proven track record in demanding environments. While the others offered similar features, Safariland’s reputation for quality and durability ultimately swayed my decision. I was immediately impressed and excited to test how this duty holster would perform in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first live test of the Safariland 6390rds was at the shooting range during a departmental training day. The range environment was perfect for assessing the holster’s draw speed and retention capabilities. It was a sunny day, but the high desert wind kicked up plenty of dust, providing an initial challenge to the holster’s resistance to environmental factors.

Drawing from the holster felt incredibly natural, even with the Level I ALS retention system. The thumb release was intuitive and didn’t require any excessive manipulation to disengage. I was able to consistently achieve fast and smooth draws from various positions. There were no noticeable issues regarding comfort or access to the firearm while wearing the holster during drills.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve worn it during long shifts, foot patrols, and even a few brief foot pursuits. The SafariSeven™ nylon has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of significant wear or scratches.

Cleaning the holster is a breeze, requiring just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime. Compared to my previous leather duty holster, which required regular conditioning and maintenance, the Safariland’s synthetic construction is significantly more user-friendly. The holster has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and overall performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701 is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a Level I retention device that secures the weapon in all directions. The holster’s body is constructed from SafariSeven™, a proprietary nylon blend known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture.

The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm closer to the body than a standard high-ride holster, improving concealability and comfort. This particular model is available in a plain black finish and is designed for right-handed shooters. Compatibility depends on the specific firearm model, so it’s crucial to verify fit before purchasing.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system is highly effective, requiring only a thumb swipe to disengage the lock. The mid-ride height offers a good balance between accessibility and concealment, making it suitable for both uniformed duty and plainclothes assignments.

One minor drawback is that the ALS mechanism can become slightly stiff in extremely cold conditions, requiring slightly more force to disengage. However, this is a minor issue that doesn’t significantly impact overall performance. Ultimately, the holster meets and often exceeds expectations for duty-rated retention and usability.

Design & Ergonomics

The SafariSeven™ construction provides a lightweight yet incredibly durable platform. The mid-ride design distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, minimizing discomfort during extended wear. The internal stand-off surfaces create air space around the weapon, preventing moisture buildup and reducing wear on the firearm’s finish.

The holster’s design is undeniably functional, with no unnecessary frills or embellishments. The thumb release is ergonomically positioned for a natural and intuitive draw stroke. The molded design ensures a secure fit for the specified firearm model, minimizing movement and wobble.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is remarkably resistant to scratches, abrasions, and chemical degradation. The holster’s construction is solid and robust, designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

The ALS mechanism is also designed for long-term reliability, with minimal moving parts that are prone to breakage. With proper care, the Safariland 6390rds should provide years of dependable service. The non-abrasive qualities of the inner material are also kind to your firearm’s finish.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting platforms, including drop-leg platforms, belt slides, and chest harnesses. This modularity allows users to customize the holster’s carry position to suit their individual needs and preferences. Aftermarket accessories like optic covers and retention devices are available to further enhance the holster’s functionality.

While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with various mounting platforms makes it a versatile choice for any law enforcement professional. The ability to swap out the belt loop for different mounting options is a major advantage.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who rely on a firearm for duty and utilize a red dot sight. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who demand a secure and reliable holster with a fast draw.

This holster might not be the best option for casual concealed carry due to its size and Level I retention system. Someone seeking maximum concealability should consider other options. You should also skip this product if you don’t use a red dot sight.

A must-have accessory is a Safariland compatible mounting platform that suits the user’s preferred carry style. A quality optic cover is also recommended to protect the red dot sight from damage and the elements.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701

In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-28392-701 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and reliability. The ALS retention system provides peace of mind without sacrificing draw speed, and the SafariSeven™ construction ensures long-lasting durability. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the proven design, and the peace of mind that comes with carrying a Safariland holster.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or professional who relies on a firearm for duty and utilizes a red dot sight. The Safariland 6390rds is an investment in your safety and effectiveness, and one that you won’t regret. Equip yourself with the best – choose Safariland and experience the difference.