First Impressions of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 is a purpose-built duty holster designed by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement and tactical circles. This specific model is tailored for firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS), a feature increasingly common in modern policing and tactical applications. It boasts the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level I retention, ensuring secure weapon carry while maintaining a smooth, efficient draw.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the moon but often falling short in real-world scenarios. My primary need was a secure, reliable, and RDS-compatible holster for my Glock 17, suitable for both training and potential duty use. I’ve struggled to find a perfect balance of retention and draw speed with other systems, often sacrificing one for the other.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction. The material felt incredibly durable, and the overall build quality exuded confidence. It felt solid and well-made, ready to withstand the rigors of daily use.
I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Galco Fletch, but the Serpa’s trigger-finger release has always given me pause, and the Fletch lacks active retention. The Safariland ALS seemed like a superior system, promising both security and speed. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first serious test of the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 was at a two-day advanced pistol training course. This course involved dynamic movement, shooting from various positions, and stress drills designed to push both the shooter and their gear to the limit. The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions, providing quick and consistent access to my firearm.
During a simulated vehicle extraction exercise, I was impressed by how securely the ALS system retained my pistol while I was moving in awkward positions. The mid-ride height felt natural and didn’t interfere with my range of motion. The draw stroke was consistently smooth and efficient once I got the hang of deactivating the ALS with my thumb.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a few force-on-force training scenarios, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the ALS system continues to function perfectly. It’s clear that this holster is built to last.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous experience with other holsters that required constant adjustments and maintenance, the Safariland 6390rds is a breath of fresh air. It has certainly outperformed all expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 is designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. It incorporates the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), a Level I retention mechanism that secures the weapon without straps or snaps. The holster features a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry close to the body.
The ALS system is crucial for maintaining weapon security in dynamic situations. The mid-ride design enhances comfort and allows for a smoother draw stroke compared to higher-riding holsters. These specifications directly contribute to the holster’s effectiveness as a duty-rated option.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 excels in its primary function: providing secure weapon retention and a smooth, reliable draw. The ALS system is intuitive to use, and with practice, drawing the weapon becomes second nature. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and stable carry.
The only potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. It requires consistent practice to ensure a smooth and efficient draw under stress. Overall, this holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level I retention duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 boasts excellent build quality, utilizing durable materials that provide a robust platform for weapon carry. The holster feels solid and well-balanced, and the mid-ride height distributes the weight of the firearm comfortably. The learning curve associated with the ALS is minimal, and the system quickly becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The durable construction ensures a long service life, even with regular exposure to moisture, dust, and other elements. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 is primarily designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights. While it doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, its compatibility with various Safariland belt mounts and accessories allows for a degree of customization. This modularity enhances its adaptability to individual user preferences and operational requirements. It is compatible with most common RDS units.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The ALS system provides secure Level I retention, minimizing the risk of accidental weapon loss.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights, accommodating a growing trend in law enforcement and tactical applications.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: The ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw once mastered.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and stable carry, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release requires practice to ensure a smooth and efficient draw under stress.
- Price: At $165.99, it’s more expensive than some other Level I retention holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a reliable and secure Level I retention holster for their duty firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who value speed and security.
This product might not be ideal for casual gun owners who prioritize concealment over active retention or those on a very tight budget. A good quality belt is a must-have accessory, as is dedicated practice time to master the ALS release mechanism.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45028-482 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and speed. While the price may be higher than some competitors, the quality of construction and the effectiveness of the ALS system justify the investment. The Safariland 6390rds is an excellent choice for anyone who requires a duty-rated holster for a firearm equipped with a red dot sight.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to professionals who demand the best. Upgrade your gear and experience the confidence that comes with knowing your weapon is secure and readily accessible when you need it most.