First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412 is not just another piece of gear; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration of preparedness, a nod to professionals who rely on their equipment to perform flawlessly under pressure. This holster promises speed, security, and adaptability for firearms equipped with red dot sights, a must-have in today’s dynamic operational environments.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I was looking for a holster that could accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR, without sacrificing retention or ease of draw. I was tired of holsters that required constant adjustment or felt flimsy during rigorous training exercises. After years of using various Safariland products, I decided to give the 6390rdso a shot, hoping it would live up to the Safariland reputation.
Unboxing the 6390rdso, I immediately noticed the robust construction and clean lines. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, promising resistance to scratches, heat, and even chemicals – important considerations for any duty or tactical holster. Its mid-ride height seemed perfect for balancing accessibility and concealment under a jacket or vest.
Compared to my older Safariland ALS holster (non-RDS), the open pocket design of the 6390rdso for the red dot sight was a game-changer. It eliminated the need for a cumbersome flip-up dust cover, streamlining the draw stroke significantly. I also considered a Blackhawk! Serpa holster, but the Level I retention system of the Safariland felt far more secure and reliable. I was genuinely excited to test it on the range.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed well-thought-out, and the build quality was undeniably excellent. However, only real-world testing would reveal whether the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412 truly lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6390rdso was at a local shooting range, simulating a dynamic shooting drill. I ran through various scenarios, including drawing from concealment, engaging multiple targets, and performing reloads, all while wearing standard tactical gear. The weather was mildly humid, typical for a summer afternoon in my area.
The draw stroke was incredibly smooth and consistent, thanks to the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The ALS disengaged easily with my thumb during the draw, providing a fast and intuitive release. I found that the mid-ride height positioned the firearm perfectly for a natural grip, facilitating rapid target acquisition.
After approximately two hours of continuous drills, I noticed no significant issues. The holster retained the firearm securely even during vigorous movement, and the red dot sight remained protected within the open pocket. However, I did find that the ALS release lever required a bit of getting used to, especially with gloves.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following months, I integrated the Safariland 6390rdso into my regular training regimen. This included weekly range sessions, force-on-force drills in a simulated urban environment, and even a weekend-long outdoor survival course. These diverse scenarios provided a comprehensive assessment of the holster’s reliability and durability.
After significant use, the holster exhibited minimal signs of wear and tear. The SafariSeven™ material proved to be incredibly resistant to abrasions and scratches. Despite being exposed to dust, mud, and varying temperatures, the ALS mechanism continued to function smoothly and reliably.
Cleaning the 6390rdso was also remarkably simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth was usually sufficient to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. Compared to my previous kydex holsters, which often required specialized cleaning solutions, the Safariland holster was significantly easier to maintain. I would rate its overall performance significantly better than my older retention holsters.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412 boasts several noteworthy specifications:
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is the core retention mechanism, providing Level I retention with a thumb-activated release. It ensures the firearm remains secure until deliberately drawn.
- SafariSeven™ Nylon Blend Construction: The holster is molded from Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon, offering high resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions. This makes it incredibly durable in harsh environments.
- Open Pocket Design for Red Dot Sights: This feature accommodates various red dot sight models without the need for a cumbersome dust cover. It provides protection to the optic while allowing a fast, unencumbered draw.
- Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride height positions the holster at an optimal location on the belt, balancing accessibility and concealment. It allows for a comfortable draw stroke and reduced printing under clothing.
- Duty Rated: Designed to meet the rigorous demands of law enforcement and military applications. This indicates a high level of durability and reliability.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The ALS ensures secure retention, while the SafariSeven™ material guarantees long-term durability. The open pocket design for red dot sights makes the holster compatible with modern optics, and the mid-ride height promotes a comfortable and efficient draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso excels in its core function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS provides a positive lock, preventing accidental dislodgement, while the thumb-activated release is intuitive and easy to master.
The holster performs exceptionally well in dynamic shooting scenarios, allowing for rapid draws and reholstering without compromising security. Its strengths lie in its reliability, durability, and compatibility with red dot sights. A potential improvement could be the addition of an adjustable tension screw to fine-tune the draw resistance. The 6390rdso easily meets the expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The 6390rdso features a streamlined and functional design. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, and the holster’s contours are carefully molded for a comfortable fit against the body.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the ALS release lever may require some initial practice. I found the mid-ride height to be ideal for my body type and preferred shooting style.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6390rdso is built to last. The SafariSeven™ material is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The ALS mechanism can be lubricated periodically with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. It is designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights, including models from Trijicon, Leupold, and Aimpoint.
While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, its modular design allows users to tailor it to their specific needs using compatible Safariland accessories. Adding a QLS (Quick Locking System) fork allows for rapid attachment and detachment from different mounting platforms, enhancing its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412
Pros
- Superior Retention: The ALS provides a secure Level I retention, ensuring the firearm remains in place until deliberately drawn. This is essential for duty and tactical applications.
- RDS Compatibility: The open pocket design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without the need for a dust cover, enhancing usability with modern optics. This design is excellent.
- Exceptional Durability: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly resistant to heat, cold, abrasions, and chemicals, ensuring long-term reliability in harsh environments.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: The ALS release mechanism and the holster’s design facilitate a fast and consistent draw stroke, crucial for rapid target engagement.
- Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster at an optimal location, balancing accessibility and concealment, and enhancing comfort during extended wear.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve: The ALS release lever may require some initial practice to master, particularly when wearing gloves. This can be overcome with regular training.
- Limited Customization: While compatible with Safariland accessories, the holster itself offers limited customization options beyond belt loop adjustments. More adjustability would be welcome.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412?
The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a reliable and durable duty holster. Competitive shooters who use red dot sights on their pistols would also benefit from the holster’s speed and security.
This holster may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and Level I retention system, which prioritizes security over discreetness. Individuals looking for a minimalist or highly customizable holster may also find the 6390rdso lacking in certain areas.
A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland QLS system. This will allow for rapid transition of the holster between different mounting platforms, such as a belt, a thigh rig, or a MOLLE vest.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-4502-412 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of speed, security, and durability. Its compatibility with red dot sights, robust construction, and reliable ALS retention system make it an excellent choice for professionals who depend on their gear in high-stakes situations.
At $175.99, the price is justified given the holster’s quality and performance. The 6390rdso offers a significant value proposition for those who prioritize reliability and functionality.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 6390rdso without hesitation to anyone seeking a duty-grade holster for their red dot sight-equipped firearm. It is a well-designed, expertly crafted, and thoroughly tested piece of equipment that will not disappoint. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference!