First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG
In the world of duty gear, reliability and security are paramount. The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG enters the arena as a holster specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights, offering a blend of speed and retention. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality in law enforcement and tactical circles, so my expectations were high right out of the gate.
For years, I’ve relied on open-carry holsters in various capacities, both professionally and recreationally. I needed a holster that could accommodate a Glock 17 with an attached Trijicon RMR, without sacrificing draw speed or compromising retention during foot pursuits or grappling scenarios.
Upon receiving the Safariland 6390rdso, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, while the overall design seemed meticulously thought out. Unlike some red dot sight (RDS) holsters with cumbersome flip-up covers, the 6390rdso features an open pocket designed to protect the optic without adding unnecessary steps to the draw.
Compared to a Blackhawk! Serpa or a similar level II retention holster from a less reputable brand, the Safariland clearly felt superior in material quality and design. I ultimately chose the Safariland for its reputation for reliability and its specific design for red dot optics, which many competitors seemed to overlook. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland 6390rdso was at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training day. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and a bit chilly, presenting a good opportunity to assess the holster’s performance in less-than-ideal conditions. Drawing from the holster was surprisingly intuitive.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) disengaged smoothly with my thumb, allowing for a fast and clean draw even with gloved hands. The mid-ride belt loop positioned the firearm perfectly, making it easy to acquire a proper grip without excessive reaching. After about 50 draws and re-holsters, I experienced no malfunctions and no issues with the ALS mechanism.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a few force-on-force training scenarios, the Safariland 6390rdso has proven its mettle. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite the holster being subjected to repeated draws, re-holstering, and incidental contact with other gear. The Safariland SafariSeven™ material seems virtually impervious to scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning the holster is remarkably simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and reliable retention. Compared to my previous duty holster, a level II retention model from another brand, the Safariland offers a superior balance of speed, security, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG is a duty-rated, Level I retention holster designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing secure retention with a simple thumb release. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend, which is non-abrasive to firearm finishes.
The open-top design accommodates a wide range of red dot optics without the need for a flip-up dust cover. This feature greatly increases speed and ease of draw. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for optimal accessibility and comfort. This is especially important for those wearing body armor or other load-bearing equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS system provides excellent retention. It requires a deliberate action to release, preventing accidental dislodgement. The open-top design significantly enhances draw speed compared to holsters with traditional retention straps or flaps.
The mid-ride position offers a comfortable and ergonomic draw stroke. It minimizes interference with other gear. One minor area for potential improvement might be the adjustability of the ALS tension, but overall, the holster performs exceptionally well. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6390rdso is outstanding. The SafariSeven™ material feels incredibly robust, and the overall construction is solid and well-executed. The mid-ride belt loop distributes the weight of the firearm evenly. It makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The ALS release is intuitively positioned and easy to operate with the thumb. The open-top design provides excellent situational awareness. The user can quickly confirm the position of the firearm without needing to manipulate any additional retention devices. There’s a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rdso is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariSeven™ material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and solvents. It is designed to hold up to thousands of draws and re-holstering cycles.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. Regular inspection of the ALS mechanism is recommended. A drop of oil may be needed occasionally to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting platforms, including drop leg platforms, shoulder harnesses, and MOLLE adapters. This modularity allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences. While the holster is primarily designed for use with red dot sights, it can also accommodate firearms with standard iron sights.
Many users opt to add a Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) adapter. This allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the holster from different mounting platforms. Other customization options include different belt loop sizes and various finishes.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides secure Level I retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. This is critical for duty use.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: The open-top design accommodates a wide range of red dot optics without hindering the draw stroke. This eliminates the need for cumbersome flip-up covers.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly robust and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and solvents, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: The ALS release and mid-ride position facilitate a smooth and efficient draw stroke, even under pressure.
- Modular Design: Compatibility with Safariland mounting platforms allows for versatile customization. Users can easily adapt the holster to different carry methods.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve: It can take some practice to master the ALS release. New users should dedicate time to practice draws to build muscle memory.
- Limited Adjustability: The ALS tension is not easily adjustable. This may be a concern for users who prefer a very specific level of retention.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG?
The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a reliable and secure duty holster. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who use red dot-equipped firearms and need a fast and consistent draw. Anyone prioritizing weapon retention and speed of draw will find this holster to be a valuable asset.
This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and duty-oriented design. It may also be overkill for casual range shooters who do not require a Level I retention holster. A quality belt designed for holster carry is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster stability and weight distribution.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-45027-132-AG is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The $164.20 price tag is justified by the holster’s exceptional build quality, innovative design, and reliable performance.
I would definitely recommend this holster to anyone seeking a duty-grade solution for carrying a red dot-equipped firearm. If you’re looking for a holster that you can trust your life with, the Safariland 6390rdso is an excellent choice. Don’t compromise on your gear – invest in quality and peace of mind!