First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701
In the realm of duty gear, the Safariland name is synonymous with reliability and performance. For over a decade, I’ve relied on Safariland holsters to secure my sidearms, trusting their craftsmanship in demanding environments. The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 steps into the modern era, designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, a feature increasingly vital for tactical professionals. This holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), promising Level I retention, and a mid-ride belt loop for comfortable carry.
My need for a holster like this arose from the increasing prevalence of red dot sights on duty pistols. My older holsters simply wouldn’t accommodate the optic, forcing me to choose between modern sighting systems and secure carry. Unboxing the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701, I was immediately impressed by the familiar Safariland quality. The materials felt robust, the construction precise, and the overall design appeared well-thought-out.
Compared to other red-dot-compatible holsters I’ve examined, like the Blackhawk! T-Series RDS or the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster RDS, the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 seemed to prioritize simplicity and streamlined functionality. I chose this model over others due to Safariland’s reputation for durability and its proven ALS retention system. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism; would it truly live up to the Safariland legacy?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 took place at a local shooting range, simulating a typical duty environment. I ran drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering, focusing on speed and smoothness. The weather was mildly humid, a common condition in my region.
The holster performed admirably even when slightly wet, the draw remaining consistent. The ALS system was intuitive to disengage, requiring only a thumb swipe to release the firearm. No time was needed to get used to it, the holster behaving as expected right out of the box.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight initial stiffness in the ALS lever, which loosened up with repeated use. This wasn’t a significant impediment, but something to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 has proven its mettle. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some minor scuff marks on the outer SafariSeven nylon blend. I have also used it during simulated active shooter scenarios, high speed movement training and in grappling situations.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or debris. Compared to my previous open-top duty holsters, the 6390RDSO offers superior security and better accommodates modern optics. It surpasses expectations, delivering on Safariland’s promise of dependability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 is a duty-rated, Level I retention holster designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. Its construction utilizes Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, offering exceptional durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides a secure Level I retention.
The holster features a mid-ride belt loop, positioning the firearm comfortably on the hip. This allows for a more natural draw stroke and reduces interference with body armor or other gear. The open-top design is specifically tailored for red dot sights, providing protection without the need for a flip-up dust cover. This ensures a fast and unhindered draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 excels in its primary function: securing and providing rapid access to a duty weapon. The ALS system is reliable and easy to operate, offering a tactile and audible confirmation of secure retention. The open top accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without issue.
The holster’s strengths lie in its durability, simplicity, and effective retention. A minor improvement could be made with a smoother ALS release out of the box. It easily meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 boasts a well-thought-out design. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet robust, and the mid-ride position is comfortable for extended wear. The weight distribution is well-balanced, preventing the holster from feeling cumbersome.
The holster is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve for those familiar with Safariland’s ALS system. The open top design facilitates a smooth and snag-free draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven construction promises long-lasting durability. With proper care, this holster should withstand years of rigorous use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 itself does not come with additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting platforms, including drop leg shrouds and quick-release systems. The holster’s open-top design allows for the use of various red dot sights.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701
Pros
- Proven ALS retention system: Ensures a secure hold on the firearm.
- Red dot sight compatibility: Accommodates modern optics without modification.
- Durable SafariSeven construction: Withstands harsh conditions and heavy use.
- Mid-ride belt loop: Offers a comfortable and natural draw stroke.
- Reliable and easy to operate: Minimal training required.
Cons
- The ALS release can be slightly stiff initially.
- Price point might be a barrier for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who rely on red dot sights and require a secure and dependable duty holster. It is also suitable for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and retention.
Those who are on a tight budget or do not require red dot sight compatibility might consider other options. A must-have accessory is a compatible Safariland mounting platform to adapt the holster to different carry preferences.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 is a reliable and well-designed duty holster that effectively addresses the needs of modern firearms users. The price is justified considering the Safariland’s quality, durability, and proven performance. I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a secure and accessible holster for their red-dot-equipped duty weapon.
If you’re ready to upgrade your duty rig, the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-572-701 is a solid investment that will provide years of dependable service. Don’t compromise on security or performance – choose Safariland.