Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a fundamental component for responsible firearm carry, particularly for those running a red dot sight (RDS) on their Glock. Safariland has built a reputation on providing reliable, duty-grade holsters, and the 6390RDS continues this legacy, offering secure retention and a smooth, intuitive draw for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. This specific model, one of 165 variations, is designed for Glock 17, 22, 31, and 17 MOS pistols.

Years patrolling as a law enforcement officer meant constantly searching for the perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort when it came to my sidearm. The red dot sight was a game-changer for target acquisition speed, but finding a holster that accommodated it while maintaining a secure hold proved challenging. I needed a duty holster that offered Level I retention, a mid-ride height for comfortable carry, and, crucially, RDS compatibility without sacrificing Safariland’s renowned durability.

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging – functional and no-nonsense. My initial impressions were positive; the STX Plain finish looked clean and professional, and the holster felt solid in hand. The molded construction felt robust, promising longevity, and the suede lining hinted at protection for my firearm’s finish.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 RDS holster and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse 2.0 before ultimately choosing the Safariland. The Blackhawk! system, while popular, felt less intuitive and the retention release was not as natural as the ALS. The Blade-Tech, while offering good concealment, lacked the robust construction and proven track record of Safariland for duty use.

My first impression was a definite sense of relief and anticipation; this holster seemed to address all my previous frustrations. The build quality suggested it could withstand the rigors of daily duty, and the ALS retention system gave me confidence in the security of my firearm.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster took place at the shooting range, followed by integration into my daily carry routine during tactical training exercises. I ran drills focusing on drawing speed, re-holstering efficiency, and retention integrity in various simulated scenarios. These scenarios included weapon retention attempts and physical altercations.

The holster performed admirably in all conditions. Rain was never an issue. The ALS system remained functional even when the holster was soaked and muddy. The mid-ride height proved comfortable while seated in a vehicle for extended periods, a crucial consideration for patrol officers.

The draw stroke became almost second nature after just a few hours of practice. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) release is intuitive; a simple thumb movement disengages the lock, allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. Initially, there was a slight learning curve to consistently deactivate the ALS, but with practice, it became seamless.

One minor issue during the first use was the slight resistance when re-holstering the firearm, but this smoothed out after a break-in period of a few days.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster continues to perform exceptionally well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The STX Plain finish has proven to be quite durable, resisting scratches and abrasions from everyday use.

Regular cleaning involves simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally applying a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Maintenance is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. The suede lining shows no sign of wear.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6390RDS significantly outperforms them in terms of RDS compatibility, retention reliability, and overall comfort. The level of security provided by the ALS system is superior to simple friction-fit holsters, and the mid-ride height is noticeably more comfortable than low-ride or high-ride options for my body type.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models

Specifications

• Model: 6390RDS-832-411. This designates the specific configuration within the broader 6390RDS family.
• Retention Level: Level I. This means it primarily relies on the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for retention.
• Firearm Compatibility: Glock 17, Glock 22, Glock 31, Glock 17 MOS. It’s designed to accommodate these specific Glock models, including those with the Modular Optic System (MOS).
• Hand Orientation: Right Hand. The holster is molded specifically for right-handed shooters.
• Finish: STX Plain Black. This refers to the durable, textured outer finish.
• Material: SafariLaminate. Safariland’s proprietary thermal-molded construction provides exceptional durability and protection.
• Lining: Suede. The interior suede lining protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and abrasions.
• Ride Height: Mid-Ride. This places the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height on the hip.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon once holstered and is deactivated with a thumb release during the draw stroke. This is a core feature, providing a high level of security.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance and suitability for different users. The firearm compatibility ensures a secure and proper fit. The Level I retention offers a balance of security and draw speed. The mid-ride height offers comfort and accessibility. The SafariLaminate construction guarantees longevity and resilience in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster performs its job exceptionally well, offering a secure and reliable platform for carrying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The draw is smooth and intuitive. The ALS system provides confident retention.

The ALS system is the holster’s greatest strength. It provides a positive lock on the firearm until deliberately disengaged, giving peace of mind in active situations. One minor area for improvement would be a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback when the ALS is fully disengaged, which could speed up the draw stroke by a fraction of a second.

The holster definitely meets and even exceeds expectations, offering a combination of security, comfort, and RDS compatibility that is hard to find in other duty holsters.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster boasts a well-thought-out design focused on functionality and user comfort. The SafariLaminate construction provides a robust yet lightweight platform. The mid-ride height positions the firearm comfortably on the hip.

The ALS system is integrated seamlessly into the holster’s design. It allows for a natural and intuitive draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. Overall, the design is user-friendly and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Safariland’s reputation and the robust construction of the 6390RDS, it’s reasonable to expect this holster to last for many years of consistent use. The SafariLaminate material is resistant to wear and tear, and the suede lining provides added protection for the firearm. Regular maintenance involves simple cleaning and lubrication, ensuring long-term functionality.

Maintaining the Safariland 6390RDS is very simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth and application of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism, as needed, is usually enough.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and mounting platforms. The optional Optic Hood Cover provides added protection for the red dot sight in harsh environments, although it doesn’t come standard.

The holster is designed to accommodate most popular red dot sights on compatible Glock models. It readily accepts various Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) adapters for easy attachment to different belts and vests. Users should verify compatibility of their specific RDS and mounting hardware with the 6390RDS model before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models?

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize firearm security, RDS compatibility, and a reliable draw stroke. It’s well-suited for those who carry a Glock 17, 22, 31 or 17 MOS equipped with a red dot sight as part of their duty or training regimen.

Those seeking a minimalist, low-profile concealed carry holster may find the 6390RDS too bulky. Anyone unwilling to dedicate time to practicing and mastering the ALS release mechanism should consider simpler retention systems.

Must-have accessories include a Safariland QLS system for quick holster attachment and removal and the optional Optic Hood Cover for added RDS protection.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 165 models

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure, reliable, and comfortable platform for carrying a Glock with a red dot sight.

While the price is higher than some other options, the Safariland 6390RDS ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention holster’s superior retention, durability, and RDS compatibility justify the investment for serious users. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any professional or enthusiast seeking a duty-grade solution for carrying a Glock with a red dot sight. Take your time to practice the ALS release and you will have a winner!