Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701 is a purpose-built holster designed for law enforcement, military, and private security professionals who rely on red dot sights (RDS) on their duty pistols. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, offers a blend of secure Level I retention and rapid accessibility, making it a trusted choice for those who need a reliable and efficient carry solution. It’s a piece of gear where functionality meets the practical needs of daily duty.

My journey to this specific holster began with a growing reliance on pistol-mounted red dot sights. Traditional holsters often require modification or simply don’t accommodate an RDS effectively, leading to a compromised draw or lack of retention. I needed a duty-rated holster that could securely house my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR while allowing for a smooth, instinctive draw under pressure.

Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately struck by the robust construction and attention to detail. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, promising resilience against the rigors of daily use. The mid-ride height seemed perfect for a comfortable balance between accessibility and concealment under a duty jacket.

I considered several other RDS-compatible holsters, including offerings from Blackhawk and G-Code. However, the Safariland‘s reputation for superior retention and the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) swayed my decision. The Safariland simply felt like the gold standard in duty holsters, a step above the competition in terms of both security and draw speed.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. I was excited about the potential for a faster, more consistent draw with my RDS-equipped pistol, but also aware that mastering the ALS system would require dedicated practice. Ultimately, I felt confident that the Safariland 6390rds would be a significant upgrade to my duty setup.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, simulating various scenarios I might encounter on duty. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, emphasizing speed and accuracy. The Safariland holster performed admirably, allowing for a consistent, clean draw stroke every time.

I also subjected the holster to different environmental conditions. During a particularly rainy range day, the SafariSeven™ material proved to be highly water-resistant, maintaining its shape and function without becoming slippery. The ALS system continued to function flawlessly, even when wet and slightly muddy.

The learning curve for the ALS system was minimal. After a few hours of practice, the thumb release became second nature, allowing for a natural and intuitive draw. The mid-ride height positioned the firearm perfectly for my body type, minimizing any awkward movements.

After my first range session, I was impressed with the holster’s overall performance. However, I noticed a slight bit of friction when re-holstering initially. This was easily remedied by adjusting the internal tensioning device, showcasing the adjustability Safariland offers.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use on duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. The SafariSeven™ material shows minimal signs of wear, resisting scratches and abrasions from daily contact with gear and clothing. The holster has maintained its shape and retention capabilities without any noticeable degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The ALS system requires minimal lubrication, ensuring smooth and consistent operation over time.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6390rds outperforms them in several key areas. The combination of secure retention, rapid accessibility, and RDS compatibility sets it apart from traditional duty holsters. It provides a level of confidence and performance that I haven’t experienced with other brands.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701 is designed for specific firearm models with red dot sights. It’s made from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend, offering extreme temperature tolerance and low maintenance. This particular model features a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry.

The core specification is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing Level I retention. This secures the weapon until the ALS is intentionally deactivated by the user’s thumb during the draw stroke. This contributes directly to firearm security and officer safety.

The choice of SafariSeven™ material is significant because it’s non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish. Moreover, it stands up to harsh environmental conditions better than traditional leather or kydex. The mid-ride design allows the firearm to sit slightly lower on the hip, enhancing comfort and concealability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while providing rapid access when needed. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw with minimal training. The open-top design facilitates a fast draw, crucial in high-stress situations.

A significant strength is its RDS compatibility. The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights without compromising retention or draw speed. A minor weakness could be the initial learning curve for users unfamiliar with the ALS system, although practice quickly overcomes this.

The holster meets and often exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. Its robust construction, secure retention, and RDS compatibility provide a level of performance and reliability that is essential for law enforcement and military professionals.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both functionality and user comfort. The SafariSeven™ material offers a comfortable feel against the body, while the mid-ride belt loop distributes weight evenly. The build quality is exceptional, reflecting Safariland’s commitment to durability and craftsmanship.

The holster is generally user-friendly, though mastering the ALS system requires some practice. The thumb release is strategically placed for intuitive operation during the draw stroke. The open-top design offers unrestricted access to the firearm, streamlining the drawing process.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6390rds is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ material is incredibly durable, resisting scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The ALS system requires minimal lubrication, ensuring smooth and consistent operation over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rds itself doesn’t come with many accessories directly included, focusing primarily on the core holster function. However, it integrates seamlessly with Safariland’s extensive line of belt loops and attachment systems. This allows users to customize the ride height and cant angle to their personal preferences.

The holster is also compatible with various weapon lights mounted to the firearm. This is achieved through slightly different models or modifications to ensure ample clearance. The modularity and compatibility with other Safariland products make it a versatile choice.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701

Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701?

The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who carry firearms with red dot sights as part of their duty gear. Its secure retention, RDS compatibility, and durable construction make it a reliable and effective choice for those who need a holster they can depend on.

Individuals who prefer simpler, less secure holsters or those who do not use red dot sights on their firearms may find this holster unnecessary. Those who prioritize extreme concealment over rapid access may also want to explore other options.

A must-have modification, if not already included, is a compatible Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) fork. This will allow for easy transfer of the holster between different platforms like vests, drop-leg panels, and other belt setups. This dramatically increases the versatility of the holster system.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701

The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8182-701 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of secure retention, rapid accessibility, and RDS compatibility. Its robust construction and well-thought-out design make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their firearms in high-stress situations.

At $198.20, the price is justified given the holster’s durability, features, and overall performance. It’s an investment in both safety and efficiency.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a reliable, duty-grade holster for their RDS-equipped firearm. It has become an indispensable part of my daily carry setup, providing the peace of mind that comes with knowing my firearm is secure and readily accessible. If you’re serious about your gear, this holster should be at the top of your list.