Let’s Dive into Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701 is designed for professionals and serious shooters who demand both speed and security when carrying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a mid-ride configuration for comfortable all-day carry. It’s a purpose-built piece of kit that promises quick access and reliable retention in demanding situations.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. I needed a duty-rated holster that could securely accommodate my sidearm with a mounted red dot sight, without sacrificing draw speed. The Safariland 6390rds seemed to be the answer.
Unboxing the holster, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The materials felt durable, the construction appeared solid, and the overall weight felt appropriate for a duty holster. This wasn’t some flimsy, cheap imitation; it felt like a professional-grade tool designed to withstand serious use.
Compared to other Level I retention holsters I’ve used from brands like Blackhawk and Uncle Mike’s, the Safariland 6390rds stood out due to its specific design for red dot sights and the proven ALS system. Many competing holsters either lack a secure retention mechanism or aren’t designed to accommodate red dots, making the Safariland a clear winner for my specific needs. I was immediately excited to test its draw speed and retention capabilities in a real-world setting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. The weather was typical for a spring day – intermittently sunny with periods of light rain. I ran several drills involving drawing and firing from various positions, including seated in a vehicle and while moving.
The Safariland 6390rds performed flawlessly. The ALS system allowed for a smooth and intuitive draw stroke, even with wet hands, and the mid-ride height provided a comfortable and natural grip. There was a slight learning curve in mastering the ALS release, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.
The only minor issue I encountered was related to re-holstering. Because the red dot sight adds bulk, it required a slightly more deliberate action to ensure the firearm was properly seated in the holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from dusty training environments to humid coastal areas, and it has consistently performed without issue. There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuff marks on the outer surface.
Maintaining the holster is simple; I periodically wipe it down with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. This keeps the system operating smoothly and prevents any potential corrosion. Compared to some other holsters I’ve owned that require constant tightening and adjustment, the Safariland 6390rds is remarkably low-maintenance. It significantly outperforms some of the cheaper, polymer holsters that I’ve used in the past, particularly in terms of retention and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701
Specifications
Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is Safariland’s signature retention system. It secures the firearm in all directions without the need for straps or snaps, providing Level I retention with a thumb-activated release.
The ALS is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm and ensuring it remains secure during strenuous activity.
Red Dot Sight Compatibility: The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. This allows for a clean draw and prevents any interference between the sight and the holster body.
The ability to use a red dot sight is a significant advantage for enhanced accuracy and target acquisition speed.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride design positions the holster slightly lower on the belt. This provides a more comfortable and natural draw stroke while also allowing for greater freedom of movement.
The mid-ride height balances accessibility and concealment effectively, making it ideal for duty or concealed carry.
Durable Construction: The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion, ensuring long-lasting durability in demanding environments.
The robust construction ensures the holster can withstand years of heavy use and exposure to harsh conditions.
Level I Retention: This holster offers Level I retention. It balances security and ease of access, making it suitable for duty use where quick draws are essential.
Level I retention is often preferred for law enforcement and security personnel who need to be able to rapidly deploy their firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm with a red dot sight while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive to use and provides a positive, tactile confirmation that the firearm is locked in place. The mid-ride height promotes a comfortable and natural grip, making it easy to achieve a consistent draw stroke.
One potential weakness is that the ALS release can be slightly more difficult to activate with gloved hands, requiring some additional training to overcome. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated retention holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel robust and the overall construction is solid and well-engineered. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the mid-ride height and contoured design.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but once mastered, it becomes a natural and fluid motion.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. I expect this holster to provide many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and mounting platforms. It can also be used with various aftermarket red dot sights, provided they are of a standard size and configuration.
While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its modular design allows it to be adapted to different carry preferences and operational requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701
Pros
- Superior Retention: The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention without sacrificing draw speed.
Cons
- ALS Release with Gloves: The ALS release can be slightly difficult to activate with gloved hands.
Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
Durable Construction: Made from Safariland’s robust SafariSeven nylon blend for long-lasting performance.
Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride height promotes a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
Modular Design: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories and mounting platforms.
Re-Holstering Requires Deliberate Action: Due to the red dot sight, re-holstering requires a slightly more deliberate action.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and serious shooters who require a reliable and secure holster for their firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It is also a good choice for those who prefer a mid-ride holster for comfortable all-day carry.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealment over retention and speed. A good must-have accessory is a Safariland Drop Flex Adapter to provide even more flexibility in mounting the holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701
In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8314-701 is an exceptional duty-rated holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS system provides excellent retention, the red dot sight compatibility is a significant advantage, and the durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. At $198.20, the price is justified given the quality and features offered.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm with a red dot sight. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, the Safariland 6390rds is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!