First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG
In the world of duty holsters, few names command the respect and trust earned by Safariland. When my department finally authorized red dot sights (RDS) on our duty pistols, I knew I needed a holster solution that could provide the same level of security and accessibility I was accustomed to. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG promised just that: a duty-rated holster specifically designed for RDS-equipped firearms, featuring their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS).
My primary concern was maintaining a high level of weapon retention while allowing for a smooth, quick draw, especially under stress. For years, I’d relied on Safariland’s Level III retention holsters, but the shift to RDS optics required a change. The promise of ALS, with its intuitive thumb release and inherent security, felt like the natural evolution.
The holster arrived in Safariland‘s standard packaging – functional and no-nonsense. Upon opening the box, my initial impression was one of solid, professional quality. The holster felt robust in hand, the molded construction exhibiting a clean, precise fit and finish. Compared to some of the other RDS-compatible holsters I considered, like the Blackhawk! T-Series L3D RDS or the Galco M5X Matrix, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG struck me as a more streamlined and purpose-built design.
The Blackhawk! offering, while feature-rich, seemed bulkier, and the Galco, while more affordable, didn’t inspire the same confidence in long-term durability. What immediately excited me was the mid-ride height. I’ve always preferred this carry position for its balance of accessibility and comfort, especially when seated in a patrol vehicle. My first impression was a mix of anticipation and relief; I was hopeful this holster would live up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG was the shooting range. I wanted to familiarize myself with the draw stroke and retention system in a controlled environment before trusting it on duty. The weather was typical for late summer – humid and slightly dusty, conditions that can quickly reveal flaws in gear.
The ALS system proved intuitive from the start. With minimal practice, I was able to reliably deactivate the lock with my thumb while establishing a solid grip on the pistol. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, the mid-ride height allowing for a natural presentation of the weapon. After several hours of drills, I experienced no issues with the holster’s functionality, even with sweaty hands and accumulated dust. There were no surprises, just the reliable performance I expected from Safariland.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG has proven to be a dependable piece of kit. I’ve encountered rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, and the holster has performed flawlessly. The molded construction shows minimal signs of wear, with only slight scuffing on the exterior finish.
Maintenance has been straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the holster clean, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation. Compared to my previous Level III holsters, the 6390RDS offers similar levels of security but with a significantly faster and more intuitive draw. This holster has not disappointed; in fact, it’s exceeded my initial expectations with its consistent reliability and comfortable carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG is a duty-rated, open-top holster designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland’s patented Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention. The holster is constructed from a durable SafariSeven nylon blend, offering exceptional resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is the core of the holster’s retention. An internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth draw.
- SafariSeven Construction: This proprietary nylon blend provides excellent durability and resistance to the elements. It ensures the holster maintains its shape and functionality in extreme conditions.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip. This provides a comfortable carry and easier access, especially when wearing body armor or seated.
- Open-Top Design: Facilitates rapid draw, essential for duty use. The open-top design caters specifically to RDS-equipped firearms.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The ALS ensures weapon security, the SafariSeven construction guarantees longevity, and the mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and consistent draw. The ALS system provides a positive lock that inspires confidence, yet it disengages with minimal effort. The open-top design accommodates various RDS sizes and mounting heights without hindering the draw stroke.
The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and intuitive operation. The thumb release is easily accessible and requires minimal training to master. One potential weakness is the Level I retention. While sufficient for most duty applications, some users may prefer a Level II or Level III system for added security in high-risk environments.
Overall, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty holster in its class. It strikes a perfect balance between security, accessibility, and comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG features a functional, no-frills design that prioritizes performance and durability. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, providing excellent resistance to impact and abrasion. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable carry, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly across the hip.
The holster is exceptionally user-friendly. The ALS thumb release is intuitively located and requires minimal force to disengage. There is virtually no learning curve; even new users can quickly adapt to the system.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its SafariSeven construction, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG is built to withstand years of hard use. The material is resistant to scratches, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The holster is designed for long-term reliability, a crucial factor for duty gear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of dependable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG is primarily designed for use with RDS-equipped firearms. As such, its key customization lies in its compatibility with various RDS models. The open-top design generally accommodates most popular red dot sights without modification.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms. This allows users to customize the carry height and angle to their personal preferences. While the holster itself doesn’t come with many accessories, its compatibility with the Safariland ecosystem allows for extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG
Pros
- Reliable ALS Retention: The Automatic Locking System provides secure Level I retention with an intuitive thumb release, balancing security and speed.
- Durable SafariSeven Construction: The holster is constructed from a robust nylon blend that resists heat, cold, chemicals, and abrasion, ensuring long-term reliability.
- RDS Compatibility: The open-top design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without hindering the draw stroke.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Carry: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip, enhancing comfort and accessibility, particularly when seated or wearing body armor.
- Minimal Learning Curve: The ALS system is easy to learn and master, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw with minimal training.
Cons
- Level I Retention: While sufficient for many applications, Level I retention may not be enough for high-risk environments where Level II or Level III retention is preferred.
- Price: The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG can be more expensive than some competing RDS-compatible holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and other professionals who require a reliable and accessible duty holster for their RDS-equipped firearms. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize a fast and consistent draw.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals who require a higher level of retention (Level II or III) or those on a very tight budget. A good duty belt is a must-have accessory, as the holster’s performance is heavily reliant on a stable and secure mounting platform.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45027-481-AG is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. The combination of the ALS retention system, SafariSeven construction, and RDS compatibility makes it a standout choice for professionals who rely on their firearms. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified by the holster’s performance, durability, and long-term reliability.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a secure, accessible, and comfortable carry solution for their RDS-equipped duty pistol. Upgrade your carry today, and experience the Safariland difference!