Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH is a specialized piece of equipment designed to meet the evolving needs of law enforcement and tactical professionals. It is crafted by Safariland, a company synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry. This holster distinguishes itself with its compatibility with red dot sights, its mid-ride height for comfortable carry, and its Level I retention provided by the Automatic Locking System (ALS).

As a seasoned gear specialist, I constantly seek reliable and adaptable equipment that can withstand the rigors of daily duty. The increasing prevalence of red dot sights on duty pistols made finding a secure and accessible holster a necessity. I was looking for a holster that offered both speed of draw and uncompromising retention, especially considering the higher risk environments I sometimes operate in.

Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and clean design. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall weight suggested a solid build without being overly bulky. It felt like a serious piece of kit, purpose-built for demanding use.

Compared to other red dot-compatible holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Omnivore or the older Safariland 6354DO, the 6390rds struck me as a more refined and dedicated solution. The Blackhawk! Omnivore, while versatile, lacks the specific molded fit and inherent security of the Safariland. My older 6354DO required significant modification to accommodate certain red dots. The 6390rds felt like it was designed from the ground up with red dot sights in mind.

My first impression was one of cautious excitement. I was eager to test its functionality under real-world conditions but also had high expectations given Safariland‘s reputation. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another piece of gear that promised more than it delivered?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I ran various drills simulating common law enforcement scenarios. I practiced drawing from different positions, including seated in a vehicle and while moving. The weather was moderately warm and dry, typical for a summer day.

The Safariland 6390rds performed admirably. The ALS system engaged smoothly and positively, providing a reassuring click upon holstering. Drawing was intuitive and fast; once the ALS was deactivated with my thumb, the pistol cleared the holster cleanly with no snagging. I did need a few draws to fully adjust to the ALS release, but after that, it became second nature.

There were no immediate issues, although I did notice the mid-ride belt loop positioned the holster slightly lower than some of my other setups. This wasn’t a problem, but it required adjusting my vest and duty belt layout for optimal comfort and accessibility. I also performed some basic retention tests, trying to dislodge the firearm with various pulling and twisting motions, all of which failed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It’s seen action in various training exercises, patrol duties, and even a few outdoor events in less-than-ideal weather. I’ve encountered rain, mud, and dusty conditions, and the holster has held up without complaint.

Durability has been excellent. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite constant use and occasional bumps and scrapes. The SafariSeven™ material appears to be incredibly resistant to abrasion and impacts. The only maintenance I’ve performed is wiping it down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove dirt and grime.

Compared to my previous duty holster, a level II retention holster from a different manufacturer, the Safariland 6390rds offers a superior balance of security and speed. The ALS system is faster and more intuitive to disengage than the older hood-and-strap design, and I feel more confident in its ability to retain the weapon in a struggle. The mid-ride height is also more comfortable for extended wear, especially when seated in a vehicle.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Safariland. A leading name in law enforcement and military gear.
• Model: 6390RDS-7502-132-NH. This denotes a specific configuration within the 6390RDS series.
• Retention Level: Level I. This indicates a single active retention mechanism: the ALS.
• Retention System: Automatic Locking System (ALS). An internal locking device activated upon holstering.
• Material: SafariSeven™. A proprietary nylon blend offering high heat and chemical resistance.
• Ride Height: Mid-ride. Positions the holster lower on the hip for comfortable carry.
• Compatibility: Designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. Accommodates various RDS sizes and brands.
• Construction: Injection-molded. Provides precise fit and consistent quality.
• Finish: Plain Black. A professional, low-profile appearance.

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The Level I retention provides a good balance between security and ease of draw, suitable for most duty applications. The SafariSeven™ construction ensures the holster can withstand harsh environments without degrading or losing its shape. The mid-ride height enhances comfort during extended wear, especially when seated in a vehicle or wearing body armor.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely and reliably retaining a firearm equipped with a red dot sight while allowing for a fast and intuitive draw. The ALS system is remarkably effective; once the weapon is holstered, it locks into place with a positive click. The thumb release is easy to actuate and doesn’t require excessive force or unnatural hand movements.

The holster’s design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without modification. I have tested it with Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, and Aimpoint Micro patterns without any fitment issues. The open-top design also allows for a clear sight picture during the draw stroke, minimizing the risk of snagging or interference.

One minor weakness is that the ALS release can be slightly stiff when the holster is brand new. However, this typically loosens up with use. Some users might also find the mid-ride height less ideal if they prefer a higher or lower holster position.

Overall, the Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides excellent retention, a fast draw, and robust durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds is designed with both functionality and ergonomics in mind. The injection-molded construction provides a precise fit for the firearm, minimizing movement and reducing wear. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight and surprisingly comfortable against the body.

The mid-ride height positions the holster at a natural position on the hip, allowing for a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. The holster’s profile is relatively slim, minimizing bulk and preventing snagging on clothing or equipment.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release. After a few practice draws, the motion becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly resistant to abrasion, impacts, and extreme temperatures. I’ve subjected the holster to harsh conditions without any signs of degradation or damage.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply wiping the holster down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism may occasionally require lubrication with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Given its robust construction and durable materials, I expect the Safariland 6390rds to last for many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6390rds doesn’t come with a ton of accessories, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for a high degree of customization. This includes belt loops, drop legs, and MOLLE adapters.

The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for quick and easy holster changes. Aftermarket modifications are generally limited, but some users may choose to adjust the tension of the ALS mechanism or add a suppressor height front sight. The holster readily accepts firearms with threaded barrels and raised sights common on suppressor-ready pistols.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for:

• Law enforcement officers who require a secure and reliable duty holster.
• Tactical professionals who demand a fast and efficient draw stroke.
• Firearms instructors who need a holster that can withstand heavy use.
• Competitive shooters who want a holster that provides both retention and speed.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Concealed carry users due to its size and open-top design.
• Individuals who prefer a higher or lower holster position.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for quick and easy holster changes. A good quality duty belt is also essential for providing a stable and comfortable platform for the holster.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-7502-132-NH is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. Its combination of secure retention, fast draw, and durable construction makes it an excellent choice for law enforcement and tactical professionals.

At $165.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and the level of performance. This is an investment in safety and efficiency that will pay dividends over time.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile duty holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. It’s a solid piece of kit that will serve you well in any situation. Upgrade your gear and experience the difference!