Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482 is a purpose-built duty holster designed to securely carry firearms equipped with red dot sights. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, this holster combines proven retention technology with a design tailored for modern optics. It promises a secure and rapid draw, essential for high-stakes situations where every fraction of a second counts.

As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, many promising the world and delivering little. My main challenge was finding a holster that could reliably secure my duty weapon (a Glock 17 with an RMR) while still allowing for a smooth, instinctive draw. After dealing with frustrating retention straps and cumbersome designs, I was determined to find a solution that didn’t compromise on either security or speed.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and clean lines. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the mid-ride design seemed like a perfect compromise between accessibility and concealment under a duty jacket. The weight felt appropriate for a duty holster, reassuring without being overly bulky.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster, the Safariland 6390rds stood out due to its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and open-top design. The Serpa, while offering good retention, felt slower to draw from, while the Alien Gear holster, though versatile, didn’t feel as purpose-built for duty use. The promise of a Level I retention holster that still offered an incredibly fast draw was what ultimately swayed my decision.

My first impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to test out the ALS system and see if it lived up to the hype, hoping it would provide the perfect balance of security and speed I was looking for in a duty holster.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Safariland 6390rds was at the shooting range, during a day of drills and qualifications. I specifically chose a day with varied weather conditions, including light rain and fluctuating temperatures, to see how the holster performed in less-than-ideal circumstances. The range offered a controlled environment to practice drawing and re-holstering under pressure.

The ALS system proved to be intuitive and easy to master with minimal practice. The thumb release was perfectly positioned for a natural grip, and the draw stroke felt fluid and consistent, even with wet hands. I appreciated that I didn’t have to think about straps or snaps, allowing me to focus solely on my target.

Initially, I experienced a slight learning curve in adjusting to the precise angle needed for re-holstering. However, after a few repetitions, it became second nature. The holster performed flawlessly, retaining the weapon securely during movement and providing a smooth, reliable draw every time, even in the rain.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. Carried daily on duty, it has been subjected to various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and humidity, without any noticeable degradation in performance. The SafariSeven™ material has resisted scratches and abrasions admirably, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, without any binding or sticking. Compared to my previous duty holster, which required frequent adjustments and lubrication, the Safariland 6390rds is remarkably low-maintenance.

In terms of performance, the Safariland 6390rds has exceeded my expectations. The retention is secure, the draw is fast and consistent, and the overall build quality is exceptional. It’s a holster I trust implicitly, knowing it will perform reliably in any situation.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482

Specifications

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is Safariland’s signature retention system. It automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for a quick, straight-up draw.
  • The ALS is the key to the holster’s Level I retention rating, providing a balance of security and speed.
• SafariSeven™ Construction: The holster is molded from Safariland’s proprietary nylon blend. SafariSeven™ is exceptionally durable, resistant to heat, cold, and abrasions, and requires minimal maintenance.
  • This material ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh environments.
• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride design positions the holster lower on the hip. This allows for a comfortable draw and improved concealment under duty jackets or vests.
  • The mid-ride height strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and discretion.
• Open-Top Design: The holster features an open-top design specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This ensures a clear sight picture during the draw.
  • The open-top is essential for seamless operation with optics, a crucial feature for modern duty weapons.
• Duty Rated: Designed and tested to meet the rigorous demands of law enforcement and military use.
  • The duty rating signifies the holster’s reliability and suitability for high-stress situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely carrying and quickly deploying a firearm with a red dot sight. The ALS system provides confident retention without sacrificing draw speed, a critical advantage in dynamic situations. The holster is reliable and consistent, performing flawlessly under various conditions.

A key strength is the intuitive ALS release, which becomes second nature with practice. One area for potential improvement could be a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback when the weapon is fully seated in the holster. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade retention holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is top-notch, with durable materials and precise molding. The Safariland 6390rds feels solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its longevity. The mid-ride design is comfortable for extended wear, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly across the hip.

The holster is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve for mastering the ALS system. Re-holstering becomes intuitive with practice, although it requires a deliberate and consistent motion.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven™ construction is exceptionally durable, withstanding daily wear and tear without significant damage. The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The ALS mechanism is robust and requires minimal lubrication.

Based on my experience, the Safariland 6390rds is built to last, providing years of reliable service with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds comes standard with the mid-ride belt loop, which is adjustable for different belt widths. Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. The holster is designed to accommodate a variety of red dot sights and weapon lights, making it highly versatile.

While the holster itself is not directly customizable in terms of color or finish, the modular design allows for easy swapping of components to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. This compatibility with Safariland’s ecosystem of accessories is a significant advantage.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a reliable and secure duty holster for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters who demand a fast and consistent draw.

Individuals who are primarily focused on concealed carry or those who prefer simpler, non-retention holsters might find the Safariland 6390rds overkill for their needs.

A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is stiff and supportive to ensure proper holster function and weight distribution.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-75227-482 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The price of $165.99 is justified by the exceptional build quality, innovative ALS system, and overall performance. It’s an investment in a reliable piece of gear that can make a real difference in critical situations.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster for their red dot-equipped firearm. It’s a game-changer that provides peace of mind and a significant advantage in terms of weapon deployment. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!