Let’s Talk About Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster
For over a decade, my career has revolved around equipping professionals and enthusiasts with the right gear for demanding situations, and holsters are a critical piece of that puzzle. When duty calls, you need a holster that’s reliable, secure, and allows for a rapid, intuitive draw. The Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster promises just that, blending Safariland’s reputation for quality with features tailored for modern duty pistols equipped with red dot sights.
My search for the perfect duty holster began with a specific need: a secure and accessible platform for my Glock 17 MOS with a Trijicon RMR, and it needed to play well with my preferred high-ride carry position. I was looking for something that would provide both a level of retention appropriate for uniformed duty and seamless operation with the added bulk of a red dot sight.
The Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging, secure and straightforward. My initial impression was positive. The STX Tactical finish looked durable, and the holster felt solid without being overly heavy.
I considered a few other options, including the Blackhawk! Serpa and the newer offerings from Alien Gear, but I always came back to Safariland. Their track record with law enforcement and military professionals, coupled with the proven ALS (Automatic Locking System), made it the clear frontrunner. This holster promised a faster draw than my previous Level II holster while maintaining a high degree of security, especially crucial in crowded environments.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Safariland holsters are known for their reliability, but I was eager to see how the RDS (Red Dot Sight) compatibility and the Level I retention system would perform in practice. I was ready to hit the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster at my local shooting range, running drills focused on speed and weapon retention. The weather was typical for early spring – damp and slightly chilly. I wanted to simulate real-world conditions as much as possible, including drawing with wet gloves.
The ALS proved incredibly intuitive. A simple thumb release allowed for a smooth, natural draw. The high-ride position kept the weapon close to my body, minimizing printing and making it easier to draw from under a jacket. There were no immediate issues. The draw felt fast and clean, and the retention was secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a few force-on-force training scenarios, the Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster has held up remarkably well. The STX Tactical finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated contact with clothing and gear.
Maintenance has been simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it clean, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism ensures smooth operation. Compared to my previous holster, a Level II retention model with a thumb break, the Safariland offers a significantly faster and more intuitive draw while maintaining adequate security for most duty applications. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both speed and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster
Specifications
The Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster is designed for modern law enforcement and tactical applications. It is specifically molded to accommodate pistols equipped with red dot sights.
- Manufacturer: Safariland
- Color: Black
- Finish: STX Tactical
- Retention Level: Level I (ALS)
- Holster Finish: STX Tactical
- Carry Position: Hi-Ride
These specifications are important because they directly affect the holster’s performance and suitability for duty use. The Level I retention, while offering a faster draw than higher-level retention systems, still provides a significant degree of security against unauthorized removal of the weapon. The hi-ride carry position is more comfortable for some users, and it also allows for better concealment under clothing.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS mechanism works flawlessly, engaging automatically when the weapon is holstered and releasing smoothly with a natural thumb movement.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, speed, and security. The only weakness is its Level I retention, which may not be sufficient for environments where a higher level of security is required. It has met and, in some ways, exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s design is well thought out, prioritizing both security and comfort. The STX Tactical finish provides a durable and professional appearance. The hi-ride carry position is comfortable for extended wear, and the holster’s molded design ensures a snug and secure fit for the firearm.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but it is quickly overcome with practice. The design is user-friendly, and most officers will find it easy to adapt to.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation and the quality of materials used, the Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster is expected to last for years with proper care. The STX Tactical finish is highly resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that is required to keep the holster in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the holster itself doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, its compatibility with Safariland’s extensive line of mounting platforms allows for a high degree of customization. It can be easily attached to belt loops, thigh rigs, or other mounting systems.
It is compatible with a wide range of firearms accessories, including red dot sights, weapon lights, and lasers. The holster’s design accommodates these accessories without compromising its security or functionality.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster
Pros
- Fast and intuitive draw thanks to the ALS system.
- Specifically designed for pistols with red dot sights.
- Durable STX Tactical finish resists wear and tear.
- Comfortable hi-ride carry position.
- Safariland’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Cons
- Level I retention may not be sufficient for all duty environments.
- Slight learning curve with the ALS system.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster?
The Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competition shooters who prioritize speed and accessibility without sacrificing security. It’s especially well-suited for individuals who carry a pistol equipped with a red dot sight.
This holster may not be the best choice for those who require the highest level of weapon retention, such as corrections officers or those working in extremely high-risk environments. A Level II or Level III retention holster may be more appropriate in those situations.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland mounting platform that suits your specific needs, whether it’s a belt loop, thigh rig, or other mounting system. Regular cleaning and lubrication are also essential to ensure the holster’s longevity and smooth operation.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster
The Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster is a well-designed, durable, and reliable duty holster that offers a great balance of speed, security, and comfort. The ALS system provides a fast and intuitive draw, while the STX Tactical finish ensures long-lasting durability.
At $165.99, the price is justified by the holster’s quality, performance, and reputation. It’s an investment in your safety and effectiveness.
I would highly recommend the Safariland Model 6392RDS ALS Hi-Ride Level I Retention Duty Holster to any law enforcement officer, security professional, or competition shooter who is looking for a high-quality duty holster that is compatible with red dot sights. Invest in your security and performance – you won’t be disappointed.