Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a crucial extension of a law enforcement officer’s or security professional’s readiness. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the world of duty holsters. This particular model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a mid-ride belt loop, and is explicitly designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS).
My search for this holster started when our department mandated the use of red dot sights on our duty pistols. Many of us were struggling to find a secure, reliable, and fast-drawing holster that could accommodate the optic. The market was flooded with options, but I needed something that would stand up to the daily rigors of patrol and provide Level I retention without sacrificing speed.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately impressed with its robust construction. The holster felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the demands of duty use. The smooth finish and clean lines spoke of Safariland’s attention to detail.
Compared to my old Safariland SLS holster and a competing Blackhawk! Serpa model, the 6390rds felt like a significant upgrade. The SLS system, while secure, was slower on the draw, and the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt less intuitive and potentially unsafe under stress. The 6390rds ALS promised a balance of security and speed that I was eager to test.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. Could this holster truly live up to the Safariland name and solve our red dot sight carry dilemma? I was ready to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6390rds was the department’s shooting range. We spent the day running drills that simulated real-world scenarios, focusing on drawing and re-holstering under pressure. I also tested the holster in various weather conditions, from a light drizzle to the intense heat of a sunny afternoon.
The ALS system was surprisingly intuitive. After a few practice draws, the motion became fluid and natural. The mid-ride height positioned the pistol perfectly for a quick and comfortable draw. The holster performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions, with no noticeable impact on retention or draw speed.
The only initial issue was a slight tightness when re-holstering with the red dot sight. A minor adjustment to the tension screw quickly resolved this. Otherwise, the first day of testing was a resounding success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily duty use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily cosmetic scuffs from rubbing against vehicle seats and other gear. The holster has maintained its shape and retention even under constant use.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to my previous holsters, the 6390rds requires significantly less maintenance. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing a secure, fast, and reliable platform for carrying my duty pistol with a red dot sight.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701 is designed to accommodate a wide range of popular duty pistols equipped with red dot sights. It is constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, a proprietary material known for its exceptional strength and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. The holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. It keeps the firearm close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing concealment under a jacket or vest. Level I retention provides a good balance between security and speed. This is ideal for officers and security personnel who require quick access to their weapon in dynamic situations.
These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the holster’s reliability, durability, and overall performance. The SafariSeven™ material ensures that the holster can withstand the harsh conditions of duty use, while the ALS provides secure retention without sacrificing draw speed. The mid-ride height optimizes comfort and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely carrying a duty pistol with a red dot sight while providing a fast and reliable draw. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress. It provides positive retention, giving the user confidence that the weapon will remain secure until needed.
The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and effectiveness. Its streamlined design minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort. One area for potential improvement would be the addition of a secondary retention device for situations requiring an even higher level of security. Overall, the 6390rds meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rds is exceptional. The SafariSeven™ material feels robust and durable, and the holster is well-constructed with tight seams and reinforced stress points. The mid-ride design positions the pistol comfortably on the hip, minimizing fatigue during extended wear.
The holster is designed to be user-friendly, with minimal learning curve. The ALS system is intuitive, and the draw stroke feels natural and efficient. The smooth inner lining prevents damage to the firearm’s finish.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the holster is well-constructed with durable hardware. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical weapon lights. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. The holster is also designed to accommodate various red dot sight models from different manufacturers.
While the 6390rds does not come with many accessories out of the box, its modular design allows for extensive customization with readily available Safariland components. This adaptability makes it a versatile platform for duty carry.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701
Pros
- Secure ALS Retention: The Automatic Locking System provides excellent weapon retention without sacrificing draw speed.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, solving a common carry problem.
- Durable SafariSeven™ Construction: The proprietary nylon blend ensures long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the pistol for a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Modular Design: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories for customization.
Cons
- Slightly higher price point than some competing holsters, but the quality justifies the cost.
- Level I retention may not be sufficient for all security environments; consider models with higher retention levels if needed.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private citizens who carry a handgun with a red dot sight and require a secure, reliable, and fast-drawing holster. It’s also a great choice for tactical shooters who value durability, comfort, and customization options.
This holster might not be the best choice for those who prioritize maximum concealment or those who need the highest level of retention for extreme environments. In those cases, a different holster style or retention level might be more appropriate.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a quality belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster. Consider a Safariland brand belt or a similar duty-rated belt for optimal comfort and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-701 is an exceptional holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. While the price may be slightly higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance justify the investment. It solves the specific challenge of carrying a red dot sight equipped handgun safely and efficiently.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable duty holster. It’s a well-designed and well-built piece of gear that will provide years of dependable service. If you’re ready to upgrade your carry system, give the Safariland 6390rds a try – you won’t be disappointed.