What Makes Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412 Stand Out?
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412 is more than just a piece of molded polymer; it’s a critical piece of equipment for law enforcement, military personnel, and responsible armed citizens. Designed by Safariland, a company synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster world, this holster caters specifically to those running red dot sights (RDS) on their duty pistols. Its ALS (Automatic Locking System) retention, mid-ride height, and duty-rated construction immediately set it apart, promising a secure, accessible, and comfortable carry for those who need it most.
I’ve spent years relying on various holsters, always searching for the ideal balance of security, speed, and comfort. The increasing prevalence of RDS-equipped pistols on the force led me to seek a holster purpose-built for this setup, and the Safariland 6390rds kept popping up in my research and discussions with fellow officers.
Unboxing the Safariland 6390rds, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the overall design appeared both streamlined and functional. The initial impression was one of quality and purpose-built design, not a cheap injection molded afterthought.
Compared to other RDS-compatible holsters I’ve used – a modified Blackhawk! Serpa and a custom Kydex rig – the Safariland 6390rds offered a noticeably more refined and professional feel. The Blackhawk! felt bulky and less secure, while the Kydex, though custom-fitted, lacked the smooth draw and inherent retention of the ALS system. This Safariland holster felt like a purpose-built tool, not a workaround.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. I was eager to put it through its paces, to see if it lived up to the reputation and addressed the shortcomings I’d experienced with other holsters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6390rds was the police academy range. The controlled environment allowed me to focus on the draw stroke, retention, and overall feel of the holster with my Glock 17 MOS and Holosun 507C. I also spent a day running drills in full kit on a close-quarters combat course.
The holster performed flawlessly in both dry and slightly damp conditions. The ALS system engaged positively every time, and the draw stroke became intuitive after just a few repetitions. Even when simulating awkward shooting positions and physical altercations, the pistol remained secure until intentionally drawn.
Getting used to the ALS thumb release took a little practice, but it quickly became second nature. The mid-ride height was a game-changer, positioning the pistol perfectly for a smooth, natural draw without interfering with my body armor. The only initial issue was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the optimal balance between retention and ease of draw, but that was easily remedied with a few minutes and a screwdriver.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use on duty, the Safariland 6390rds has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. It shows minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to daily exposure to the elements and the rigors of law enforcement. The SafariSeven™ material resists scratches and abrasions remarkably well.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean and functional. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism periodically to ensure smooth operation. The holster has consistently outperformed my previous setups in terms of both security and ease of access. It’s become an indispensable part of my daily carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412
Specifications
- The Safariland 6390rds is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS). This accommodates a wide variety of pistol and RDS combinations.
- It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an internal locking device. The ALS secures the weapon in all directions without the need for straps or snaps.
- The holster uses a mid-ride belt loop. This positions the firearm close to the body for improved comfort and concealment.
- It provides Level I Retention. This offers a balance between security and speed of draw.
- The SafariSeven™ nylon blend construction is non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish. This also performs in a wide variety of climates.
- It accommodates most common red dot sights without modification. This provides flexibility and saves time from modification.
The specifications combine to deliver a holster that is secure, comfortable, and reliable in demanding situations. The ALS system ensures the firearm remains secure until needed, while the mid-ride height improves ergonomics and reduces printing. The SafariSeven™ construction guarantees durability and protection for both the holster and the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rds excels at its primary function: securely carrying a firearm with an RDS while providing a fast and reliable draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, automatically locking the weapon into place upon holstering. Deactivation is intuitive and requires only a natural thumb movement during the draw stroke.
The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, comfortable carry, and RDS compatibility. The ALS is a significant advantage over friction-based holsters, providing a positive lock without sacrificing speed. One area for potential improvement could be the addition of an optional secondary retention device for even greater security in extreme environments.
The Safariland 6390rds meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It offers a significant upgrade in both security and functionality compared to previous holsters I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rds boasts a well-thought-out design focused on both functionality and comfort. The mid-ride height positions the firearm at an optimal draw angle. The design facilitates a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
The SafariSeven™ material provides a comfortable feel against the body. The holster is robust and durable, without feeling overly bulky or cumbersome. There’s a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but the design quickly becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rds, constructed from SafariSeven™ nylon blend, is built to withstand the demands of daily use in harsh environments. The material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. This is crucial for law enforcement and military personnel who rely on their gear in challenging conditions.
Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep the holster functioning optimally. This ease of maintenance ensures long-term reliability and reduces downtime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rds is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs. This includes different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options.
While the holster itself does not come with any included accessories beyond the standard belt loop, its compatibility with the Safariland ecosystem provides ample customization opportunities. The ability to adapt the holster to different carry positions and mounting platforms is a significant advantage for users with varying needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412
Pros
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Provides secure Level I retention with a fast, intuitive draw.
- SafariSeven™ nylon blend: Durable, non-abrasive, and resistant to extreme temperatures and environmental conditions.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications.
- Mid-Ride Height: Offers a comfortable and ergonomic carry position, improving draw speed and reducing printing.
- Safariland Ecosystem: Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories for customization.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS release requires practice to master, potentially slowing down initial draw speed.
- Level I Retention: While secure for most situations, may not offer sufficient retention for extreme environments without additional security features.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412?
The Safariland 6390rds is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and armed security professionals who carry a pistol with a red dot sight as part of their duty gear. It’s also an excellent choice for responsible armed citizens who prioritize security and reliability in their concealed carry setup.
This holster may not be ideal for individuals who prefer minimalist holsters with no active retention or those who are unwilling to invest the time to master the ALS release. A must-have accessory is a compatible Safariland belt or mounting platform.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412
The Safariland 6390rds – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDS-8328-412 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, reliability, and comfort for those carrying RDS-equipped pistols. Its ALS system, durable construction, and ergonomic design make it a standout choice in a crowded market.
At $165.99, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, performance, and long-term durability. It represents a worthwhile investment for professionals and responsible citizens who demand the best from their gear.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rds to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and RDS-compatible duty holster. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference.