Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a crucial extension of a professional’s duty rig, especially for those relying on red dot sights. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and dependability in the law enforcement and military communities. This holster promises rapid access, secure retention, and comfortable carry, all while accommodating a pistol equipped with a red dot sight.
I needed a holster that could securely hold my duty weapon, equipped with a red dot sight, while allowing for a quick and natural draw. My existing holsters, designed for pistols without optics, were simply no longer viable. The ability to mount a red dot on duty pistols has revolutionized target acquisition, and I needed a holster to keep pace.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6390rds exuded quality. The robust construction, using what appears to be a high-density polymer, felt substantial and ready for demanding use. Its weight struck a good balance between security and comfort.
Compared to a standard Safariland 6378 (without RDS compatibility) and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3, the 6390rds clearly addressed the red dot sight issue. The 6378 simply wouldn’t work, and the Serpa, while offering retention, didn’t have the same level of refined design or RDS accommodation as the Safariland. The Safariland offered a more professional look and a retention system I trusted more.
My initial impression was one of relief and anticipation. Finally, a duty-rated holster that took red dot sights seriously! I was eager to see how it would perform on the range and in day-to-day carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6390rds was at the police academy’s shooting range during a mandated quarterly firearms qualification. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke under pressure. The weather was typical for the area: humid with a light drizzle.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) proved intuitive; the thumb release was natural and didn’t interfere with my grip. The draw was smooth and consistent, even with wet hands. No hiccups or fumbles, just a clean, rapid presentation of the firearm.
No significant issues arose during that initial range session. The mid-ride height felt comfortable and provided a good balance of accessibility and concealment under a jacket. My only initial thought was needing to fine-tune the tension adjustment screw for optimal draw resistance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven its worth. It’s been subjected to the rigors of patrol: vehicle pursuits, foot pursuits, and countless hours of standing post in varying weather conditions. The holster shows minimal signs of wear.
The polymer construction has held up remarkably well, with no cracks or significant scratches. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water keeps it looking professional. I’ve found that lubricating the ALS mechanism every few weeks ensures smooth operation.
Compared to previous level I and level II retention holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds stands out for its consistent performance and accommodating design for red dot sights. Its reliability has instilled confidence in its function. It outperforms in speed and secure weapon retention.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds is designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing Level I Retention. The holster’s construction utilizes a proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, offering high heat and low cold tolerance.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for a comfortable draw and allows for wearing with body armor. The exact weight varies slightly depending on the specific firearm model it is molded for. However, it generally falls around 0.75 lbs to 1 lb, balancing security with manageable weight.
The holster is molded to fit specific handgun models, ensuring optimal retention and a smooth draw. This specificity enhances both security and ease of use for law enforcement personnel. The ALS system is entirely thumb-activated. This offers a simple and intuitive release, improving draw speed compared to more complex retention mechanisms.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary job: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system is fast and intuitive, even under stress. The holster’s design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without issue.
A major strength is the holster’s simplicity and reliability. The thumb release is natural, and the draw stroke is consistent. A slight weakness could be the Level I Retention. This might be insufficient for some users in high-risk environments.
The 6390rds far exceeds expectations. Its balance of speed, security, and RDS compatibility make it a top contender in the duty holster market. The robust construction also instilled a higher degree of confidence over previous models I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds features a streamlined and professional design. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is durable and provides a smooth, low-friction surface for the draw. The mid-ride height positions the firearm for comfortable access.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The ALS system is intuitive and quickly becomes second nature with practice. The ability to adjust the tension screw allows for fine-tuning the draw resistance to personal preference.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The robust polymer construction can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by lubrication of the ALS mechanism. No specialized tools are required. With this simple upkeep, this duty holster should be expected to last for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and attachment systems. This allows users to customize the holster’s ride height and carry angle. It also works with a range of optic sizes.
While the holster itself is not explicitly customizable beyond belt loop options, its compatibility with various firearm models and red dot sights offers significant flexibility. The ALS system can be upgraded with optional SLS (Self Locking System) hood. This provides additional retention for increased security.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30
Pros
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with red dot sights. This is a game-changer for modern law enforcement.
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Provides secure Level I Retention with a simple, intuitive thumb release, maximizing draw speed.
- Durability: Constructed from robust SafariSeven™ nylon blend for long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Carry: Mid-ride belt loop offers a comfortable and stable carry position, ideal for extended duty use.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent draw stroke and secure retention inspire confidence in critical situations.
Cons
- Level I Retention: May not be sufficient for users requiring higher levels of retention in high-risk environments.
- Firearm Specific Molding: Requires purchasing a holster specifically molded for your firearm model. It doesn’t offer universal fit, thus limiting cross-compatibility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who rely on red dot sights and require a durable, reliable, and fast duty holster. It is also a great choice for competitive shooters seeking a secure and efficient holster for practical shooting competitions.
Those requiring a higher level of retention (Level II or Level III) or seeking a more budget-friendly option may want to skip this product. Individuals who frequently switch between different firearm models might also find the firearm-specific molding limiting.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory. A thigh strap would provide additional stability during strenuous activity. Regular lubrication is also recommended for the ALS system to ensure smooth and consistent operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-6832-732-MS30 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. It is a well-designed, robust, and reliable piece of equipment that significantly enhances the performance of any professional carrying a red-dot-equipped firearm.
The price of $229.40 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. It’s an investment in safety and efficiency.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to any professional seeking a duty-rated holster that can keep pace with the demands of modern law enforcement and tactical operations. Equip yourself with confidence and experience the Safariland difference.