Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782

For over a decade, I’ve relied on holsters as essential tools, not just accessories. The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782 promises a blend of speed, security, and compatibility with red dot sights, making it a compelling option for duty and tactical use.

I was looking for a holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR. Many Level I retention holsters sacrifice speed for security, but the Safariland reputation for quality and innovation piqued my interest. Upon unboxing, the holster felt robust and well-made. The materials felt durable, and the finish was clean.

Compared to my previous Safariland ALS holster (without RDS compatibility) and a generic Level II retention holster, the 6390RDS offered a seemingly superior balance. The generic holster felt cheap and clunky, while the older Safariland needed modification to work with my optic. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see how the Automatic Locking System (ALS) performed with a red dot equipped pistol during live fire.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390RDS at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training session. The weather was slightly humid, with temperatures in the mid-70s. Drawing from the holster felt natural after a few practice runs.

The ALS released smoothly with a simple thumb press. Re-holstering was just as intuitive, the gun locking into place with an audible “click”. After about an hour of drills, I experienced no issues with the holster. The mid-ride height felt comfortable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various training scenarios and daily carry, the Safariland 6390RDS has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are only minor signs of wear on the exterior finish. The holster still functions as smoothly as it did on day one.

I’ve cleaned the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally applied a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism. Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Compared to other retention holsters I’ve used, the 6390RDS excels in both speed and security. It consistently outperforms my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782

Specifications

The Safariland 6390RDS is a Level I retention holster specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS). The holster is duty-rated and designed for mid-ride carry.

  • Retention Level: Level I (ALS). This provides a secure hold with a straightforward release.
  • Material: Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend. This material is non-abrasive to firearm finishes.
  • Ride Height: Mid-ride. The mid-ride position offers a balance of comfort and accessibility.
  • Compatibility: Designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This eliminates the need for custom modifications.
  • Construction: Injection-molded construction. The construction ensures durability and consistent performance.

These specifications are vital for several reasons. The ALS ensures the weapon remains secure during rigorous activity. The SafariSeven™ material minimizes wear on the firearm. The mid-ride height makes drawing and re-holstering efficient.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390RDS performs exceptionally well. It balances security and speed with ease. The ALS is intuitive to use, allowing for a fast, clean draw.

The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The only area for potential improvement is the cant adjustment, which could offer a wider range. Overall, the holster meets and even exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The 6390RDS boasts a thoughtfully designed ergonomic profile. The SafariSeven™ material feels comfortable against the body, even during extended wear. The holster’s weight is negligible.

The ALS is easily accessible with the thumb. The mid-ride height places the firearm in an optimal position for drawing. The holster required minimal adjustment before feeling natural.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven™ nylon blend used in the Safariland 6390RDS is exceptionally durable. After months of heavy use, there are only minor cosmetic blemishes. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning involves simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation. This level of maintenance is both minimal and manageable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390RDS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. These include various belt loops and leg straps. It readily accepts different mounting platforms.

While no optics are included, the holster is specifically designed to accommodate most popular red dot sights. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is generally good, especially those designed for Safariland‘s mounting system. The ability to customize ride height and carry angle significantly enhances the user experience.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782

Pros

  • Exceptional Retention with ALS: The Automatic Locking System provides Level I retention, offering a secure hold and quick, intuitive release.
  • RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications.
  • Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend provides excellent resistance to wear, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
  • Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.
  • Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance.

Cons

  • Cant adjustment could offer a wider range of customization.
  • The initial price point might be a barrier for some users.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782?

The Safariland 6390RDS is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a reliable and secure holster for their duty weapon. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and retention. Anyone using a pistol with a red dot sight will appreciate the custom fit and secure carry this holster provides.

Those who primarily carry concealed and prioritize minimal bulk may find the 6390RDS to be too large. Individuals on a very tight budget may also want to consider less expensive options, though compromising on quality and retention is not advisable for duty use.

A quality belt designed for duty carry is a must-have accessory. Red dot sight models may also require higher suppressor height sights.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-45029-782 is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure, reliable, and fast draw for firearms equipped with red dot sights. Its durable construction and comfortable design make it an excellent choice for duty and tactical applications.

The price is justified by the quality, features, and long-term reliability. I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390RDS to anyone seeking a top-tier Level I retention holster. Invest in your safety and performance; you won’t be disappointed.

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