First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132 is a purpose-built piece of kit, designed for professionals who demand both speed and security in their sidearm retention. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill holster; it’s a tool crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and tactical communities. The open-top design, accommodating red dot sights without a cumbersome dust cover, immediately signals its modern approach to duty carry.
For years, I’ve relied on various holsters, but the increasing prevalence of red dot optics on duty pistols necessitated a change. My old holster simply couldn’t accommodate the optic without significant modification, a risky proposition. I needed a solution that offered both Level I retention and seamless compatibility with my pistol’s red dot, all while maintaining a comfortable and accessible mid-ride position.
The Safariland holster arrived in a no-nonsense package, reflecting its utilitarian nature. Pulling it out, the first thing I noticed was the robust build quality. The STX finish felt incredibly durable, and the overall construction inspired confidence.
I considered the Blackhawk T-Series L3D RDS and the Galco M5X Matrix, both reputable holsters with similar features. I chose the Safariland 6390rdso primarily for Safariland’s legendary reputation for retention and the streamlined design specifically for red dot optics; the open pocket design was much more appealing to me than a flip-up dust cover. The Safariland offered a cleaner draw and arguably faster target acquisition.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was undeniable, and the Automatic Locking System (ALS) felt incredibly secure. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6390rdso was at the local shooting range, a familiar environment for testing new gear. I spent several hours drawing and re-holstering, focusing on smooth, consistent movements. The ALS system took a few repetitions to master, but soon became intuitive.
The holster performed admirably in the relatively controlled range environment. I also conducted some basic movement drills – running, kneeling, and prone positions – to assess retention under stress. The pistol remained securely in place, even during rapid transitions.
I encountered no immediate issues, although the initial draw felt slightly stiffer than my previous holster. This was expected, given the ALS retention system. The open pocket design for the red dot proved to be a significant advantage, allowing for an unobstructed sight picture upon drawing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, both on the range and during force-on-force training scenarios, the Safariland 6390rdso has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy piece of equipment. The STX finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear despite constant rubbing against clothing and gear.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it clean and functional. The ALS mechanism has remained smooth and consistent, requiring no lubrication or adjustment.
Compared to my previous open-carry holster, a basic thumb-break design, the Safariland 6390rdso is a significant upgrade in both security and speed. The ALS system provides a superior level of retention, and the open-top design facilitates a faster, more natural draw. The mid-ride position sits comfortably on the hip and facilitates easy access to the firearm without impeding movement. It has significantly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132 is designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. Its primary feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the firearm upon holstering and is released by a simple thumb activation during the draw stroke. The “RDSO” designation signifies that this holster is specifically designed for Red Dot Sights – Open.
The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke. The open pocket design protects the optic without the need for a flip-up dust cover, enabling faster target acquisition. The level I retention indicates the security level offered by the holster, using the ALS system.
The holster material is a proprietary nylon blend called STX, known for its durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions. The weight varies depending on the specific firearm model it’s molded for, but it’s generally lightweight enough not to add significant bulk to the duty belt. It accommodates various belt widths.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, security, and comfort. The ALS system provides peace of mind, knowing the firearm is secure, while the open-top design ensures a rapid draw. The mid-ride position enhances comfort and accessibility, essential for all-day wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso performs its intended job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a secure and reliable retention mechanism, preventing accidental dislodging of the firearm. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient once the ALS release is mastered, allowing for rapid target acquisition.
The open pocket design is a major strength, offering unobstructed access to the red dot sight. A weakness of the design may be increased debris collection around the optic. The mid-ride position is comfortable and allows for a full range of motion.
This holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-rated Level I retention holster. The combination of security, speed, and comfort is a rare find. It is specifically designed for modern duty pistols with red dot optics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rdso boasts a well-thought-out design. The STX material feels robust and durable, while remaining relatively lightweight. The holster hugs the body closely, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort.
The ALS release is ergonomically positioned for easy thumb access during the draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve involved in mastering the ALS release, but it becomes intuitive with practice. The mid-ride position is comfortable and allows for a full range of motion.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rdso is built to last. The STX material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors. The holster can withstand the rigors of daily duty use.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant to maintain smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso itself doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, its strength lies in its compatibility. Safariland offers a wide range of accessories that enhance the functionality of the holster. These include different belt loops, drop-leg platforms, and quick-release systems.
The holster is compatible with most popular red dot sights on the market. It also accepts various weapon lights, provided they are compatible with the firearm model for which the holster is designed. The user can customize the ride height and cant angle by swapping out the belt loop.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Red Dot Optic Compatibility: The open pocket design allows for seamless use with red dot sights, without the need for a dust cover.
- Durable Construction: The STX finish is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Position: The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.
- Reputable Brand: Safariland is a trusted name in the law enforcement and tactical communities, known for quality and reliability.
Cons
- ALS Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release requires practice.
- Potential Debris Collection: The open pocket design could allow for more debris to collect around the optic.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132?
The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who carry a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. It’s also ideal for individuals who prioritize retention, durability, and comfort. The duty-rated construction makes it suitable for demanding environments and extended periods of wear.
Those who prefer a Level II or Level III retention holster might want to skip this product. Individuals who are not comfortable with a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system may prefer a simpler design.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability. A compatible weapon light can enhance the functionality of the holster and the firearm.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-1582-132 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises. It provides exceptional retention, seamless red dot sight compatibility, and rugged durability. While the ALS system requires some practice, the benefits of enhanced security and speed far outweigh the learning curve.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and performance. This holster is an investment in personal safety and professional readiness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6390rdso to anyone seeking a reliable and capable duty holster for a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with Safariland quality.