First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH is a purpose-built piece of kit from Safariland, designed to securely carry a duty weapon equipped with a red dot sight. Its open-top design, combined with the Automatic Locking System (ALS), promises a blend of speed and retention that’s critical in high-stakes situations. I’ve spent years trusting my life to different holster systems, and my first impression of this one centered around how it balances accessibility with security.
I’ve always been on the lookout for a duty holster that truly understands the modern pistol landscape. With the increasing adoption of red dot sights on duty weapons, finding a holster that accommodates these optics without sacrificing retention or draw speed has been a persistent challenge. My old holster was simply not cut out for a pistol with an optic, so I went in search of a system specifically built to accommodate a red dot.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and the tactile feel of its molded polymer. The mid-ride belt loop looked sturdy and well-positioned for a comfortable and efficient draw. Comparing it to my previous Safariland SLS holster and a kydex option from a smaller manufacturer, the 6390rds seemed to offer a superior blend of active retention and intuitive operation, specifically tailored for red dot equipped pistols. I ultimately chose this over others because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the ALS system’s proven track record.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster felt solid and well-designed, but I knew the real test would come in putting it through its paces on the range and in simulated scenarios. I was excited to see if it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390rds at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session, designed to mimic real-world engagement scenarios. This involved a lot of movement, drawing and re-holstering under pressure, and engaging targets from various positions. The Safariland performed admirably, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw, even with adrenaline pumping.
The Safariland 6390rds was exposed to varying conditions during testing; from the dry, dusty range environment to a deliberately wet test simulating rain. Even when wet, the holster retained positive retention and didn’t compromise the speed or ease of draw. I did not require time to get used to it; the ALS system was intuitive and required minimal practice to master. The only minor issue was adapting to the slightly higher ride position compared to my previous holster, but this proved to be an advantage in terms of concealment and comfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training and simulated field operations, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuff marks on the outer shell, which is expected from heavy use. The holster is surprisingly easy to maintain; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dust and grime.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6390rds offers a superior combination of retention, speed, and comfort, especially when using a pistol with a red dot sight. It has definitely outperformed my expectations and become my go-to holster for duty and tactical applications. The holster’s ability to reliably secure my firearm while allowing for a quick and natural draw has significantly improved my confidence and response time in simulated critical situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH is designed to accommodate various full-size pistols equipped with red dot sights. Its Level I retention is achieved through the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The holster body is constructed from a proprietary Safariland nylon blend.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions upon holstering. The Mid-Ride Belt Loop positions the holster for a comfortable draw while keeping the weapon close to the body. The open-top design facilitates a fast draw, while the RDS (Red Dot Sight) compatibility ensures the optic isn’t obstructed. These specifications are critical for duty use, providing a balance of security, speed, and comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a pistol while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. Its accuracy and reliability are top-notch, thanks to the consistent draw stroke facilitated by the ALS system. The holster’s usability is enhanced by its intuitive design, requiring minimal training to master.
The strengths of the holster lie in its robust retention, fast draw, and comfortable carry. A minor weakness could be the Level I retention, as some users might prefer a higher level of security depending on their specific needs. However, the speed and ease of draw that Level I retention provides makes it a worthy trade-off. The holster meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, providing a reliable and efficient platform for carrying a duty weapon.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a robust build quality, utilizing durable materials that can withstand the rigors of duty use. Its weight is well-balanced, contributing to a comfortable carry experience. The holster is designed with ergonomics in mind, promoting a natural and efficient draw stroke.
The Safariland 6390rds is incredibly user-friendly, with its ALS system requiring minimal learning curve. The open-top design allows for a clear and unobstructed draw, further enhancing its usability. Its mid-ride height also contributes to a more comfortable and concealable carry.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation for quality, the 6390rds is expected to last for years under normal duty conditions. The durable materials and robust construction contribute to its longevity. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap.
The design is relatively simple, and repairs are usually straightforward if needed, thanks to Safariland’s excellent customer support and readily available replacement parts. This holster is clearly designed for the long haul.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds itself doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing on its core function of secure and accessible carry. However, Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other attachment options. The holster is compatible with most popular pistol lights and red dot sights, allowing for significant customization.
The ability to customize the holster with different mounting options and accessories makes it a versatile platform that can be adapted to various mission requirements and personal preferences. Its compatibility with aftermarket lights and optics ensures that it can accommodate a wide range of duty weapons.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH
Pros
- Reliable ALS Retention: The Automatic Locking System provides secure Level I retention, ensuring the weapon stays in place during rigorous activity.
- Fast and Smooth Draw: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate pistols with red dot sights, without hindering draw or re-holstering.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, the holster is built to withstand the demands of duty use.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for a comfortable carry and efficient draw.
Cons
- Level I Retention: Some users may prefer a higher level of retention for increased security, especially in high-risk environments.
- Price: The Safariland 6390rds is priced higher than some other holsters on the market, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize a fast draw and reliable retention for their red dot sight equipped pistols. It’s also a great choice for anyone who carries a firearm as part of their job or for self-defense and needs a holster that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Those who prioritize maximum retention above all else might want to consider a holster with a higher level of security, such as Level II or Level III. Someone on a very tight budget may also need to explore cheaper alternatives, though they may sacrifice quality and reliability. A weapon mounted light (WML) will not work in conjunction with this holster; a different, similar Safariland model will need to be used.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-4502-491-NH is an excellent holster that delivers on its promises of secure retention, fast draw, and red dot sight compatibility. Its robust construction and comfortable carry make it a valuable asset for anyone who relies on a firearm for their profession or personal protection.
While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the Safariland’s quality, reliability, and performance justify the investment. I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone looking for a top-tier duty holster for their red dot equipped pistol. If you need a holster you can depend on, the Safariland 6390rds is a solid choice.