Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster Review

Here’s What I Think of the Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments – from rugged outdoor expeditions to meticulous workshop projects and demanding field deployments – I approach every piece of equipment with a critical eye. My journey led me to the Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster out of a need for a reliable, secure, and efficient carry solution for my FNH FNS pistol during specific duty scenarios. Standard, unholstered carry, while sometimes necessary for immediate access, always felt like a compromise on safety and retention. Competitors like Bianchi and Blackhawk offered options, but Safariland’s reputation for duty-grade equipment often edged them out in my decision-making process. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of robust construction; the thermoformed SafariLaminate material felt substantial and protective, promising durability without excessive bulk.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing phase for this Safariland holster focused on practical, everyday duty applications rather than extreme scenarios. I wore it during extensive periods of movement, including long shifts on my feet and during some moderate physical exertion, simulating the demands of patrol or security work. The holster proved to be quite comfortable, with the mid-ride height offering a good balance between accessibility and keeping the pistol from interfering with my duty belt. Its open-top design without SLS facilitated a surprisingly swift and natural draw stroke once I became accustomed to the ALS mechanism.

There was a slight learning curve to disengaging the ALS lock smoothly, requiring a deliberate thumb placement and press. However, this initial adjustment period was brief, and the system became intuitive within a few hours of practice. What surprised me was the secure fit; even during rapid movements or transitions, the pistol remained firmly seated in the holster, reassuringly free of unwanted play or shifting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster has held up exceptionally well. It has been exposed to various weather conditions, including light rain and dust, and the SafariLaminate material shows no signs of degradation or cracking. The retention system remains consistently secure, and the ALS thumb release continues to operate smoothly without any signs of stiffness or wear.

Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of occasional wiping down with a damp cloth and a light application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism. Compared to some less robust polymer holsters I’ve used in the past, this Safariland model offers superior durability and a much more consistent feel. There have been no unexpected failures or performance drops, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable piece of duty gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster

Specifications

The Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster is constructed from rugged, thermoformed SafariLaminate material, designed to withstand harsh environments and protect the firearm. It is specifically molded for the FN Herstal FNH FNS ALS 40 Only pistol model, ensuring a precise fit. This particular model is a belt holster designed for duty applications, featuring a Level I Retention system.

The open-top design, lacking the Self-Locking System (SLS), is intended to facilitate a faster draw. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon once holstered; a straight-up draw is possible only after the release is manually deactivated. Crucially, an optional ALS Guard accessory is available, which can elevate the retention level to Level II. This holster comes in a Black finish.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for rapid deployment. In this regard, it performs admirably. The ALS mechanism provides a solid, audible click when the weapon is holstered, confirming it is locked in place. The straight-up draw is indeed quick once the ALS release is engaged by the thumb.

The main strength lies in its balance between security and speed. While it offers Level I retention, which is less than many duty holsters, the ALS system itself is inherently secure without needing additional straps or covers. Its primary weakness, for some users, might be the lack of higher built-in retention without the optional ALS Guard. However, for its intended purpose of a Level I retention duty holster, it meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is classic and functional. The SafariLaminate construction provides a rigid yet slightly forgiving shell that contours well to the pistol. The overall feel is one of solid, professional craftsmanship, without any sharp edges or superfluous design elements.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride position of the holster on the belt is comfortable for extended wear. The ALS release is positioned intuitively for a right-handed draw, allowing the thumb to naturally fall onto the release button during the draw stroke. There is a slight tactile difference in the feel of the ALS mechanism compared to other Safariland systems, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

Built for the rigors of professional use, the Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster is designed for long-term durability. The SafariLaminate material is resistant to impact and abrasion, showing minimal wear even after consistent use. The ALS mechanism is robust and has proven to be reliable in various conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward; the holster can be cleaned with a damp cloth, and the ALS mechanism benefits from occasional light lubrication. There are no obvious weak points or failure points that have emerged during my testing period. Users should, however, ensure the pistol is fully seated to engage the ALS lock properly each time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster itself is primarily a standalone product, but its utility can be enhanced. The most significant accessory is the optional ALS Guard, which can be added to increase the retention level to Level II, providing an additional layer of security. This is a crucial consideration for users who require a higher degree of firearm retention.

While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization beyond the ALS Guard, it is designed to integrate with standard duty belt systems. The black finish is a standard color that pairs well with most duty attire.

Pros and Cons of Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster?

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, or any firearm owner who carries an FNH FNS ALS 40 Only pistol and requires a secure, yet accessible, duty-grade holster. It is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a fast draw and are comfortable with a Level I retention system, or who plan to add the ALS Guard for increased security. Those who need a highly concealed or minimalist holster should look elsewhere.

For optimal performance and security, I highly recommend investing in the optional ALS Guard accessory if your duty requirements necessitate Level II retention. Additionally, ensuring you have a compatible duty belt that allows for proper cant and height adjustment will maximize the comfort and efficiency of this holster. A quality gun belt is essential for any duty holster setup.

Conclusion on Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster

The Safariland FNH FNS ALS 40 Only 6390 LVL1 Retention Holster is a testament to Safariland’s reputation for producing high-quality, reliable gear. Its durable construction, secure ALS system, and efficient open-top design make it a strong contender for professionals needing a duty holster for their FNH FNS ALS 40 Only pistol. While its base Level I retention might not satisfy everyone, the availability of the ALS Guard provides a clear upgrade path. Considering its robust build and dependable performance, the $129.99 price point is justifiable for the peace of mind and operational efficiency it offers. I would recommend this holster to any FNH FNS owner prioritizing security and rapid access in a duty environment, especially if they are willing to consider the optional ALS Guard for enhanced retention.