Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models

The Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models is a Level I retention, open-top duty holster designed for professionals who need a secure yet rapidly accessible firearm. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, has engineered this holster with their Automatic Locking System (ALS), providing excellent weapon retention without the need for cumbersome straps or snaps. It’s built for specific Glock models with weapon-mounted lights, making it a popular choice among officers and security personnel.

My journey to finding this holster stemmed from a need for a reliable, secure, and quick-draw solution for my Glock 19 with a Streamlight TLR-1. I was tired of holsters that either felt insecure or required excessive manipulation to draw my weapon. I wanted something that instilled confidence in retention while still allowing for a smooth, intuitive draw in high-pressure situations.

Upon unboxing, the holster immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean lines. The SafariLaminate material felt incredibly durable, and the suede lining hinted at careful attention to protecting the firearm’s finish. The mid-ride belt loop seemed like a good compromise between accessibility and concealment, and the overall weight felt appropriate for a duty holster – substantial enough to feel secure, but not so heavy as to be burdensome.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 Tactical Holster and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse OWB Holster. The Serpa’s finger-activated release felt less intuitive and potentially risky under stress, while the Blade-Tech, although versatile, lacked the active retention I was looking for in a duty-style holster. The Safariland 6390 ALS struck a better balance between speed, security, and ease of use.

My first impression was one of guarded optimism. I was excited about the ALS system and the promise of a fast, secure draw, but also aware that a holster is only as good as its performance in real-world scenarios. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6390 ALS was the shooting range, where I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills. I tested it during a particularly humid summer afternoon, pushing myself to draw quickly and efficiently while sweating profusely. The holster’s ALS system proved remarkably intuitive.

Even with sweaty hands, the thumb release was easy to locate and disengage, allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. Re-holstering was equally straightforward; the weapon locked into place with a reassuring click. There was a slight learning curve in finding the optimal thumb placement, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.

Initially, I noticed a slight tightness in the draw stroke, but this eased up after a few dozen repetitions as the holster broke in. Otherwise, there were no significant issues or surprises – the holster performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and occasional tactical training exercises, the Safariland 6390 ALS has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The SafariLaminate construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation, despite being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional bump against barricades. The suede lining continues to protect the finish of my Glock, preventing scratches and wear marks.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous holsters, which often required constant adjustments and re-tightening, the Safariland 6390 ALS has been a breath of fresh air. It consistently provides a secure, reliable platform for my firearm, instilling confidence in its ability to perform under pressure. It surpasses my expectations for a duty holster in terms of both durability and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models

Specifications

The Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster is specifically designed to accommodate various Glock 19 and Glock 23 models equipped with weapon-mounted lights. It is crucial to choose the correct model for your specific firearm and light combination. This holster is compatible with the following gun and light configurations:

• Glock 19 ITI M3
• Glock 19 Streamlight TLR-1
• Glock 19 Streamlight TLR-1HL
• Glock 19 SureFire X200
• Glock 19 SureFire X300
• Glock 19 SureFire X300U
• Glock 23 ITI M3
• Glock 23 Streamlight TLR-1
• Glock 23 Streamlight TLR-1HL
• Glock 23 SureFire X200
• Glock 23 SureFire X300
• Glock 23 SureFire X300U

The holster features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering. This provides Level I Retention, preventing unauthorized removal without the user deliberately deactivating the locking mechanism. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster for comfortable carry and a relatively quick draw.

The open-top design eliminates the need for a Secondary Locking System (SLS) hood, further streamlining the draw stroke. The holster is constructed from SafariLaminate, a proprietary thermoformed material known for its exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion, moisture, and extreme temperatures. A suede lining protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, durability, and ease of use. The ALS system ensures weapon retention, while the SafariLaminate construction guarantees long-lasting performance in demanding environments. The open-top design and mid-ride belt loop contribute to a fast and efficient draw stroke, which is essential for professionals who rely on their firearm in critical situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock that inspires confidence. The thumb release is easy to locate and disengage, even under stress, and the draw stroke is smooth and consistent.

The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and durability. The ALS system is inherently more secure than friction-based retention systems, and the SafariLaminate construction can withstand significant abuse. The open-top design eliminates unnecessary steps in the draw stroke, making it faster and more efficient.

One potential area for improvement could be the addition of an optional ALS Guard, as mentioned in the product description. This would increase the retention level to Level II, providing an extra layer of security for users who require it.

Overall, the Safariland 6390 ALS meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster. It provides a secure, reliable, and accessible platform for a firearm, instilling confidence in its ability to perform under pressure.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6390 ALS boasts a functional and well-thought-out design. The SafariLaminate material is exceptionally durable and provides excellent protection for the firearm. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural and ergonomic draw stroke.

The holster’s weight is appropriate for a duty holster – substantial enough to feel secure, but not so heavy as to be burdensome. The suede lining is a thoughtful touch, preventing scratches and wear marks on the firearm’s finish.

The Safariland 6390 ALS has a slight learning curve associated with the ALS thumb release, but it is quickly mastered with practice. The holster is generally user-friendly and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

Thanks to its SafariLaminate construction, the Safariland 6390 ALS is built to last. It is highly resistant to abrasion, moisture, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding environments. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant will ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6390 ALS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. As mentioned earlier, an optional ALS Guard is available to increase the level of security to Level II Retention.

The holster is specifically designed to accommodate certain Glock models with weapon-mounted lights, so compatibility with different light models may be limited. It’s essential to verify compatibility before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models?

The Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster for their Glock 19 or Glock 23 with a weapon-mounted light. It is an excellent choice for those who prioritize weapon retention and rapid access in high-pressure situations.

This product may not be suitable for those who prefer a more minimalist or concealed carry holster. It is also not the best option for individuals who own a firearm and light combination not specifically listed as compatible.

A must-have accessory for this holster is the optional ALS Guard, which provides an additional layer of security for those who require Level II Retention.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models

The Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster w/ – 1 out of 39 models is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and accessibility. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention, while the SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting durability. The open-top design and mid-ride belt loop contribute to a fast and efficient draw stroke.

At a price of $133.20, the Safariland 6390 ALS represents a solid value for professionals who rely on their firearm in critical situations. The price is justified by the holster’s exceptional performance, durability, and security features.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 6390 ALS to anyone looking for a reliable and secure duty holster for their Glock 19 or Glock 23 with a weapon-mounted light. It is a well-designed and well-built holster that will provide years of dependable service. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – get the Safariland Model 6390 ALS Duty OWB Holster today.