Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster Review

First Impressions of Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is a name that resonates with law enforcement and tactical professionals alike. Known for their rugged construction and reliable retention systems, Safariland holsters are a staple on duty belts across the nation. This particular model, the 6390RDSO, caught my attention because it addresses the growing need for holsters accommodating red dot sights on duty pistols, a feature becoming increasingly common in modern law enforcement.

I’ve spent years struggling to find a holster that properly accommodated both my Glock 17 and its accompanying red dot optic, all while maintaining the security and accessibility required for duty use. Many holsters offer one or the other, but finding a balance of both proved elusive. The 6390RDSO promised that balance, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Upon receiving the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster, my initial impression was one of quality and robustness. The Safariland SafariSeven™ nylon blend felt incredibly durable, and the mid-ride belt loop seemed perfectly positioned for comfortable all-day wear. Compared to some of the flimsy, generic red dot compatible holsters I’d encountered, this one felt like a purpose-built piece of equipment.

I had been considering a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse 2.0 and a Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster for its reputation of superior durability and the proven reliability of its Automatic Locking System (ALS). While the others offered similar functionality, I trusted the Safariland name and the peace of mind knowing my firearm would be securely retained. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it would solve my red dot holster dilemma.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster at my local shooting range. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, simulating real-world scenarios that I might encounter on duty. The holster performed exceptionally well, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke, even with the added bulk of the red dot sight.

I also tested the holster in various weather conditions, including a particularly rainy day at the range. Even when wet, the Safariland SafariSeven™ material maintained a secure grip on the firearm, and the ALS system continued to function flawlessly. Acquiring a solid purchase on the firearm and disengaging the ALS remained intuitive, even with wet hands. There was a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but after a few practice draws, it became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The holster’s durable construction gives me confidence that it will withstand the rigors of daily duty.

Maintaining the holster has been incredibly easy; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS system has remained consistently reliable, providing a secure retention without hindering a fast and efficient draw. Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is a clear winner in terms of both durability and functionality. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my duty gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster

Specifications

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster boasts several key specifications. It is designed for firearms with red dot sights, featuring an open pocket that protects the optic without the need for a flip-up dust cover. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides Level I Retention. The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to ride close to the body.

  • Gun Make: Glock
  • Light/Laser Attachment: w/ Light
  • Retention Level: Level I
  • Max Weight Capacity: 198 lbs

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The ALS system provides a secure retention of the firearm, while still allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The mid-ride design offers a comfortable and stable platform for carrying a duty pistol all day. The open pocket design ensures that the red dot sight is protected from damage, without hindering the draw stroke.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and reliable retention of the firearm, while still allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use, and the holster’s design is well-suited for duty use.

The holster’s strengths lie in its durability, reliability, and user-friendliness. The main weakness is that Safariland cannot guarantee RDS holsters will be compatible with non-factory mounted red dots due to variables such as placement of the RDS on the slide. It meets and exceeds expectations, providing a secure and comfortable platform for carrying a duty pistol.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is durable and lightweight, and the mid-ride belt loop is positioned for optimal comfort. The holster’s design is user-friendly, and the ALS system is intuitive and easy to use.

The build quality is excellent, and the materials used are top-notch. The holster is comfortable to wear, even for extended periods, and the ALS system provides a secure and reliable retention. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but after a few practice draws, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the holster is easy; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS system requires minimal maintenance, and the holster’s overall design is simple and robust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including various belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. It is also compatible with most popular weapon lights, such as the Streamlight TLR-1 and SureFire X300. Customization options are limited to aftermarket mounting solutions, but the holster’s modular design allows for a high degree of personalization.

The holster is designed to accommodate various Glock models with specific light attachments, as outlined in the product details. It is essential to verify compatibility before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster

Pros

  • Exceptional Durability: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is incredibly resistant to wear and tear.
  • Reliable Retention: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides a secure retention without hindering a fast draw.
  • Red Dot Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights.
  • Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to ride close to the body for all-day comfort.
  • User-Friendly: The ALS system is intuitive and easy to use.

Cons

  • RDS Compatibility Limitations: Safariland cannot guarantee compatibility with non-factory mounted red dots.
  • Trijicon SRO Incompatibility: This holster model is not compatible with the Trijicon SRO optic.


Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster?

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who carries a duty pistol with a red dot sight. It is also a good choice for competitive shooters who want a durable and reliable holster for their Glock. Anyone requiring secure Level I retention with RDS compatibility will benefit greatly.

Individuals who should skip this product include those who don’t use a red dot sight or those who prefer a higher level of retention (Level II or III). Also, those using a Trijicon SRO will need a different holster.

A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is compatible with the Safariland mid-ride belt loop. Also, consider a leg shroud for added stability and comfort.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster

The Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster is an outstanding duty holster that provides a secure and reliable platform for carrying a Glock with a red dot sight. Its durability, user-friendliness, and comfortable design make it a top choice for law enforcement and other tactical professionals.

The price of $151.99 is justified by the holster’s exceptional quality and performance. This holster provides great value and is significantly more affordable than many other RDS-compatible duty holsters.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster to anyone who needs a durable, reliable, and comfortable holster for their Glock with a red dot sight. If you are in the market for a high-quality duty holster that can accommodate your RDS equipped Glock, look no further than the Safariland Model 6390RDSO ALS Mid-Ride Duty Holster. You won’t be disappointed!

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