What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH Stand Out?
In the world of duty-rated holsters, where security and rapid access are paramount, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH emerges as a strong contender. Designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights, this holster boasts the renowned Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), offering Level I Retention without compromising speed. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm close to the body, enhancing comfort and concealment while maintaining accessibility.
After years of relying on various holsters, I found myself searching for a solution that offered both secure retention and compatibility with the increasingly common red dot sights on duty pistols. Many holsters either lacked sufficient retention or required cumbersome modifications to accommodate optics. The Safariland 6390rds seemed to offer a balance of security, speed, and optic compatibility that I hadn’t found elsewhere.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, with the familiar Safariland finish promising durability. The ALS lever moved smoothly, and the overall design appeared both functional and streamlined.
Compared to other Level I retention holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Serpa (which I found occasionally prone to accidental release under stress) and the older Safariland SLS models (which lacked red dot compatibility), the 6390rds offered a more refined and arguably safer design. The ALS system seemed more intuitive and less likely to be inadvertently deactivated. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6390rds was at the shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I tested it with a Glock 17 equipped with a Trijicon RMR. The draw felt natural and intuitive after a few repetitions, the ALS disengaging smoothly with thumb activation.
The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions. I then simulated adverse conditions by wetting the holster and my hands. Even with reduced grip, the ALS remained secure, and the draw was still reliable. There were no unexpected issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some minor scuffing on the exterior finish. Routine cleaning involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally lubricating the ALS mechanism with silicone-based lubricant.
Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, the 6390rds excels in its balance of retention, speed, and optic compatibility. It outperforms older models that lacked red dot accommodation and feels significantly more secure than some other Level I retention systems on the market. This holster has met, and in some ways exceeded, my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH
Specifications
- Retention Level: Level I, utilizing the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions, activated automatically upon holstering.
- Material: Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is designed to be non-abrasive to firearm finishes and resistant to heat, cold, and moisture.
- Ride: Mid-ride belt loop. The mid-ride design positions the holster lower on the belt than a high-ride holster, promoting comfort and concealability.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights (RDS). This feature accommodates a wide variety of RDS optics without modification to the holster.
- Finish: Plain Black. A durable and professional-looking finish suitable for duty use.
These specifications are crucial for a duty holster because they directly impact the user’s ability to safely and effectively carry and deploy their firearm. The ALS ensures the weapon remains secure, while the SafariSeven material provides long-lasting durability and protection. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable carry position, and the RDS compatibility is increasingly essential for modern law enforcement and tactical applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS provides a secure Level I retention without hindering a rapid draw. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to disengage the locking mechanism.
The main strength of this holster lies in its simplicity and reliability. The ALS is easy to learn and use, even under stress. A minor weakness could be the limited adjustability of the holster; while the belt loop can be adjusted for different belt widths, the holster’s angle and cant are fixed. This holster meets the high expectations associated with Safariland duty gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds features a streamlined and functional design. The holster is constructed from durable SafariSeven nylon, which is both lightweight and rigid. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip.
The holster is user-friendly, requiring minimal training to master the ALS draw. The thumb release is strategically positioned for easy access, and the overall design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve to consistently and efficiently deactivate the ALS, but it becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. The SafariSeven material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the overall construction is robust. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The holster is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly for cleaning and maintenance purposes. The durable construction makes it easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds comes standard with the mid-ride belt loop. Customization options are somewhat limited, but users can typically swap out the belt loop for different models to adjust the ride height and angle. This holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and drop-down adapters.
It is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. The holster’s design allows for compatibility with a variety of popular RDS brands and models.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH
Pros
- Secure Level I Retention with the ALS system.
- Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Durable SafariSeven nylon construction.
- Smooth and intuitive draw stroke.
- Mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry.
Cons
- Limited adjustability (cant and angle are fixed).
- Higher price point compared to some other Level I retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure and reliable Level I retention holster that is compatible with red dot sights. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency in their draw stroke.
This product may not be ideal for users who prefer a higher level of retention (Level II or III) or those who do not use red dot sights on their firearms. It might also be cost-prohibitive for casual shooters on a tight budget.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality duty belt to ensure a stable and secure platform for the holster. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended to maintain smooth and reliable operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-832-731-NH is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its secure Level I retention, durable construction, and compatibility with red dot sights make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their firearms in demanding environments.
While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the quality and features of the 6390rds justify the cost. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a secure, fast, and optic-ready duty holster. If you need a reliable and high-performing holster for your red dot equipped firearm, the Safariland 6390rds is an excellent choice.