Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP Review

First Impressions of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP

For over a decade, I’ve trusted my life and the lives of others to my gear, both in demanding operational environments and during intense training scenarios. Holsters, especially duty holsters, are absolutely critical. The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP immediately stood out because it seemed to bridge the gap between speed, security, and red dot optic compatibility, something I’ve found lacking in many other designs.

My old Level II retention holster felt cumbersome, especially with the addition of a red dot. I needed something that offered quicker draws without sacrificing security. The initial draw to the Safariland was the promise of Level I retention specifically designed around red dot sights.

The holster arrived in Safariland’s standard packaging, simple and functional. Picking it up, the immediate impression was solid; it felt robust, not flimsy. The SafariSeven material had a reassuringly rigid feel.

I was debating between this and the Safariland 7378RDS and the Blackhawk! Omnivore. I ultimately chose the Safariland 6390rdso because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specific design for red dot optics without a cumbersome hood. The Blackhawk! felt too universal and less refined.

My initial reaction was positive, bordering on excited. I was eager to test if it lived up to the hype and addressed my need for a faster, more secure red-dot-compatible duty holster. The sleek design and mid-ride height looked promising.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6390rdso at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training day. This simulated real-world scenarios requiring rapid target acquisition and engagement under pressure. The weather was typical for late summer: hot, humid, and dusty.

The holster performed admirably even under these conditions. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) released smoothly with a natural thumb movement. The draw stroke was noticeably faster than my previous Level II holster.

There was a slight learning curve in mastering the draw motion with the ALS, but it became intuitive after only a few repetitions. I didn’t have any issues with the holster or firearm under the stressful environment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and two multi-day tactical training courses, the Safariland 6390rdso has proven exceptionally durable. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear on the SafariSeven material. Only minor scuffs appear.

Maintenance is incredibly simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This is consistent with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Compared to my old leather duty holster, the Safariland is a vast improvement in terms of durability, speed, and optic compatibility. It outperforms it in nearly every category. The comfort is also better.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP

Specifications

The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP is designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. The key feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which provides Level I Retention. This makes it ideal for duty use and open carry, balancing security and speed.

The RDSO designation indicates it’s specifically designed for Red Dot Sights, with an open pocket that protects the optic without a cumbersome flip-up cover. It utilizes Safariland’s SafariSeven material, known for its non-abrasiveness and structural integrity. The mid-ride belt loop positions the firearm close to the body for enhanced concealment and comfort.

These specifications are crucial for a duty holster because they directly impact the officer’s ability to quickly and safely deploy their firearm. The Level I retention provides adequate security without hindering draw speed. The red dot sight compatibility ensures that officers can effectively use modern optics.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6390rdso performs its job exceptionally well. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, and the ALS release is intuitive. My accuracy and target acquisition speed have improved noticeably since switching to this holster.

The holster’s strength lies in its balance of security, speed, and optic compatibility. A potential weakness, depending on individual preference, is the Level I retention. Some may prefer a Level II or III holster for added security in extremely high-risk environments.

The Safariland 6390rdso exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of a fast, secure, and red-dot-compatible duty holster. I wouldn’t change a thing about its design.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390rdso boasts excellent build quality. The SafariSeven material is robust and feels incredibly durable. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and stable platform for the firearm.

The holster is user-friendly. The ALS system is intuitive to learn, and the draw stroke feels natural. There is a minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should last for years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required. No special tools or solvents are necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390rdso itself doesn’t come with extensive accessories, as it’s primarily a holster body and belt attachment. However, Safariland offers various belt loops and mounting options to customize ride height and cant.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of firearms lights that attach to the weapon itself. It also works with various red dot sights. The compatibility is what sets Safariland apart.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP

Pros

  • The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides excellent Level I retention with a smooth and fast draw.
  • The RDSO (Red Dot Sight Optic) design allows for seamless compatibility with various red dot sights, protecting the optic without hindering draw speed.
  • SafariSeven construction is incredibly durable, resistant to abrasions, and requires minimal maintenance.
  • The Mid-Ride Belt Loop positions the firearm close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment.
  • Safariland’s reputation for quality and reliability provides peace of mind knowing you’re using a holster trusted by law enforcement and military professionals worldwide.

Cons

  • Level I retention may not be sufficient for extremely high-risk environments where higher levels of security are required.
  • The initial cost can be higher compared to some other duty holsters, but the quality and features justify the investment.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP?

The Safariland 6390rdso is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize a balance of speed, security, and red dot sight compatibility. It’s also ideal for competitive shooters who demand a reliable and fast holster.

This holster might not be the best choice for individuals operating in extremely high-risk environments where Level II or III retention is mandatory. Also, it may not be necessary for those who don’t use a red dot sight on their firearm.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a high-quality duty belt that provides a stable and secure platform. Also, a reliable weapon light that’s compatible with the holster is highly recommended for low-light situations.

Conclusion on Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP

The Safariland 6390rdso – Als Mid-ride Duty Rated Level I Retention Holster 6390RDSO-832-131-2-NP is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of speed, security, and red dot sight compatibility. It’s expertly crafted, incredibly durable, and thoughtfully designed for professionals who rely on their equipment.

The price is justified by the superior quality, features, and the peace of mind that comes with using a Safariland product. It is an investment in your safety and effectiveness.

I personally recommend the Safariland 6390rdso without hesitation. If you’re looking for a fast, secure, and red-dot-compatible duty holster, look no further. Upgrade your carry today and experience the difference that Safariland quality makes!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top