What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131 Stand Out?
In a market saturated with holsters, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131 emerges as a clear frontrunner for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts alike. This isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of equipment designed for rapid deployment, reliable retention, and comfortable all-day carry, especially for those running red dot sights on their duty pistols. The Safariland name speaks volumes, synonymous with quality and trust in law enforcement and military circles.
My search for a holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR led me to the Safariland 6390rds. Many holsters require extensive modifications or custom work to fit optics. The Safariland 6390rds promised a seamless fit right out of the box, a promise that immediately piqued my interest.
Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and clean lines. The holster felt solid, well-made, and ready for serious use. The materials felt durable and ready to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Compared to some cheaper, polymer-only holsters I’ve used, the Safariland felt like a significant upgrade. I also considered the Blackhawk! SERPA holster and some kydex options, but the Safariland’s reputation for retention and the mid-ride height won me over. The SERPA’s trigger finger release always made me nervous, and the kydex options often lacked the refined comfort and adjustability of the Safariland.
My first impression was excitement. The Safariland 6390rds felt like a holster designed for a professional. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6390rds at my local shooting range during a day-long training session focused on rapid draw and target acquisition. The weather was a mix of sun and light rain, providing a decent test of the holster’s performance in varied conditions. Drawing my Glock 17 from the holster was smooth and intuitive, thanks to the Automatic Locking System (ALS).
The ALS system disengaged effortlessly with my thumb as I established my grip, allowing for a clean and consistent draw stroke. Even with wet hands, the grip remained secure and the ALS release was reliable. The mid-ride height felt perfect, allowing for a comfortable and natural draw without interfering with my body armor or other gear.
There were no surprises after the first use. The holster performed exactly as advertised. The retention was secure, the draw was fast, and the overall feel was comfortable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, both on and off duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are only minor signs of wear on the finish, primarily around the edges where it rubs against my belt and other gear. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth release.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep the holster clean. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to other holsters I’ve owned that required constant adjustments and tightening, the Safariland has been remarkably low-maintenance.
The Safariland 6390rds far outperforms any previous duty holster I’ve used. The combination of secure retention, rapid draw, and comfortable carry makes it an invaluable piece of equipment. It’s a holster I trust my life to.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131 boasts a range of features designed for optimal performance and reliability. It’s specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, eliminating the need for cumbersome modifications.
Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps. This allows for a secure hold and a fast, intuitive draw.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip. This enhances comfort and allows for a more natural draw stroke, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
Open-Top Design: The open-top design allows for rapid weapon deployment. This eliminates any unnecessary barriers to a quick and efficient draw.
Duty-Rated Construction: Constructed from durable materials, the holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. This ensures long-lasting performance and reliability in demanding environments.
Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This eliminates the need for custom modifications or compromises in holster fit.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The ALS provides peace of mind knowing the weapon is secure, while the mid-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility. The open-top design prioritizes speed and efficiency.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for rapid and consistent deployment. The ALS system provides a positive lock that is easy to disengage with the thumb during the draw stroke. The holster offers a smooth and friction-free draw.
The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. The ALS is intuitive to use, even under stress, and the mid-ride height is comfortable for extended wear. One area for potential improvement might be the addition of an adjustable cant.
Overall, the Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-rated holster. Its performance is consistent, reliable, and confidence-inspiring.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds features a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic construction. The holster is made from a durable, molded material that is both lightweight and rigid. The internal lining is smooth and minimizes friction against the firearm’s finish.
The holster’s design is user-friendly. The ALS release is easy to locate and operate. The mid-ride height positions the firearm in a comfortable and accessible location. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds is built to last. Its durable construction and robust materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily duty use. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. The holster can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds comes standard with a mid-ride belt loop. This belt loop is adjustable to fit different belt widths.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. Many users will find that the stock configuration is ideal, but the availability of customization options allows for further personalization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131
Pros
- Secure Retention: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides a secure Level I retention. This ensures the firearm stays in place during rigorous activity.
- Rapid Draw: The ALS allows for a fast and intuitive draw stroke. This is crucial in high-stress situations.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: The holster is specifically designed for firearms with mounted red dot sights. This eliminates the need for modifications.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials. This ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Comfortable Carry: The Mid-Ride Belt Loop provides a comfortable carry position for extended wear. This reduces fatigue during long shifts.
Cons
- The Level I retention might not be sufficient for all users or environments.
- There is a learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a reliable and secure holster for their duty firearm. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and consistency. Anyone who carries a firearm with a red dot sight and values secure retention and rapid deployment will benefit from this holster.
This holster might not be ideal for individuals who prefer a minimalist or concealed carry setup. The Safariland 6390rds is designed for open carry and duty use, and its size and retention features may not be suitable for concealed carry applications.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality duty belt to provide a stable and secure platform for the holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131
In summary, the Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8327-131 is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises of secure retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry. The quality is worth the price.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and high-performing duty holster for a firearm with a red dot sight. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it.