First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701
In the world of duty holsters, Safariland is a name synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation. As a gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, but the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701 immediately caught my attention with its promise of secure Level I retention combined with red dot optic compatibility. The open-top design, specifically tailored for firearms equipped with red dot sights (RDS), eliminated the need for cumbersome flip-up dust covers – a feature that often hindered quick target acquisition in high-pressure situations.
My search for a holster that could reliably secure my duty weapon while accommodating a newly-installed RDS led me to this particular model. I was seeking a balance of speed, security, and optic protection, something many holsters struggle to achieve simultaneously. The Safariland 6390rdso seemed to tick all the boxes on paper.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and attention to detail. The holster felt solid, with high-quality materials evident throughout. The finish was clean, and the Automatic Locking System (ALS) mechanism operated smoothly and positively. Compared to a standard Level II retention holster I had been using, the 6390rdso felt more streamlined and designed for speed. This was a welcome change.
I had considered other options, like the Safariland 7TS series or a custom Kydex holster. Ultimately, I chose the 6390rdso for its reputation for durability, the proven ALS system, and the mid-ride height which offered a good balance of accessibility and concealment under a duty jacket. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see how it performed in the field.
My initial excitement was tempered by the understanding that even the best gear needs to prove itself in real-world scenarios. I was definitely excited but also a bit skeptical, as I have learned over the years that looks can be deceiving.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 6390rdso took place at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills under various conditions. I wanted to evaluate its performance in a controlled environment before taking it into a more demanding operational setting. The weather was typical for the Pacific Northwest: overcast and damp.
The draw stroke was surprisingly smooth and intuitive; the ALS disengaged with a simple thumb press, allowing for a quick and efficient presentation of the firearm. Even with wet hands, the grip remained secure, and the holster provided a positive tactile feedback upon re-holstering. The mid-ride height proved comfortable, allowing for a natural draw without feeling overly bulky. There were no immediate issues, and the transition from my old holster was seamless.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, including range sessions and tactical training exercises, the Safariland 6390rdso has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The holster has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to scrapes, bumps, and exposure to the elements. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention without compromising speed.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the holster clean and functional. Compared to my previous experience with Kydex holsters, which often required specialized cleaning solutions, the Safariland 6390rdso is remarkably low-maintenance. The Safariland 6390rdso has exceeded my expectations. It provides a secure, reliable, and optic-ready solution for duty carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701
Specifications
The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701 is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) secures the firearm upon holstering. It boasts an open pocket design to protect the optic without a flip-up dust cover.
The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster close to the body. This enhances comfort and concealment.
These specifications are vital for duty use because they balance speed, security, and comfort. The RDS compatibility is crucial for modern law enforcement and tactical applications. The mid-ride height ensures a comfortable and accessible draw, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6390rdso performs admirably in its primary function: securely and reliably carrying a firearm equipped with a red dot sight. The ALS provides excellent retention, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon while still allowing for a rapid draw when needed. The open-top design facilitates a smooth and snag-free draw, even under stress.
One strength is the intuitive ALS mechanism. A weakness might be the Level I retention for some who prefer higher levels of retention. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster of this type.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6390rdso features a robust construction and is made from durable materials. Its weight is well-balanced, and the mid-ride height makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The holster is relatively user-friendly, with minimal learning curve required to master the ALS system.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6390rdso is built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear, tear, and the elements. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6390rdso is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. These include different belt loops and leg shrouds. While it doesn’t come with additional accessories, its compatibility with the Safariland ecosystem allows for significant customization. This makes it adaptable to various mission requirements and personal preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The ALS provides a secure Level I retention, ensuring the firearm stays in place during rigorous activity.
- RDS Compatibility: The open-top design allows for seamless use with red dot sights, without the need for a dust cover.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-lasting reliability.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably and allows for a natural draw stroke.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the holster in good working order.
Cons
- Level I Retention: Some users may prefer a higher level of retention (Level II or III) for enhanced security in certain environments.
- Price: The price point might be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701?
The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who require a reliable and RDS-compatible duty holster. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and ease of draw. Anyone needing a dependable holster for open carry will benefit from this model.
This product is not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and duty-oriented design. Also, those needing maximum (Level II/III) retention should explore other options.
A must-have accessory is a compatible Safariland belt. Consider also adding a leg shroud for additional stability and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701
In summary, the Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-6832-701 is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promises. The combination of secure retention, RDS compatibility, and comfortable design makes it a top contender in its class.
The price is justified by the quality, durability, and performance. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and optic-ready solution for duty or tactical use.
If you’re in the market for a high-quality duty holster that can accommodate your red dot sight, look no further than the Safariland 6390rdso. You won’t be disappointed.