When carrying a defensive handgun, the holster’s retention is crucial—it determines whether the handgun can be accidentally dropped or snatched away during an attack. There’s a wide range of terms used in the market regarding “secured holsters” and “retention levels,” which can be confusing. This article breaks down the key points you need to know to help you make more informed decisions when purchasing carry gear.
HaGear
Many people confuse “holsters secure the gun” with “holsters prevent others from grabbing the gun.” In reality, there’s a huge difference: the former only prevents the gun from falling, while the latter concerns whether the weapon could fall into the hands of another person during a physical confrontation. Understanding this is fundamental to safe gun carry.
First, distinguish two concepts (the most important distinction)
Basic Holster Retention (Basic Retention) – “Drop Prevention”
- Definition: A holster secures the pistol in place, preventing it from falling or sliding out when flipped.
- Common Implementation Methods:
- Friction/Tension Fit (common in Kydex and high-quality leather) – Creates resistance through a precise fit.
- Retention Strap/Thumb Break (common in soft or nylon holsters) – Physical cover/buckle.
- Application: Concealed carry, primarily to prevent accidental drop of the pistol.
- Limitations: Typically ineffective against an attacker attempting to snatch the pistol.
Note: Some pancake-style or low-cost holsters on the market can be fine-tuned with friction, but if the material is too soft (such as some nylon holsters), the retention is often unreliable and requires additional straps or structural reinforcement.
This pancake style holster offers friction hold only and is perfect for OWB concealed carry.
Retention Holster – “Anti-snatch”
- Definition: A holster specifically designed to prevent someone from grabbing a gun. It typically combines a mechanical lock with a specific release mechanism, making it difficult for a non-gun owner to quickly draw the gun.
- Typical Users: Law enforcement, security personnel, and open carry.
- Common Mechanisms:
- Internal lock (locks the trigger guard/trigger plate)
- Release mechanisms such as a removable cover/knob/button/lever (requires skilled users to quickly release)
- Multiple retention combinations (e.g., friction + lock)
- Historical Example: Early law enforcement gun grabbing issues spurred the development of tactical training and safety holsters; designs by manufacturers like Rogers and Safariland became industry milestones.
- Recommended Level: If you openly carry a gun or carry a firearm on duty, it’s recommended to choose a holster with at least a 2 level retention and receive appropriate training.
Some manufacturers will label “friction + thumb strap” as “Level 2”, but if it has not been rigorously tested (such as simulating an attacker pulling hard for 5 seconds after wearing it), it is widely recognized by the industry, but it is not a legally unified standard. This labeling may just be a marketing tactic.
Retention Levels: The Truth in the Market
Many organizations and manufacturers label holsters as “Level 1/2/3/4,” but there’s no single, universally recognized standard. The following is a common understanding shared by the United States Firearms Coaches Association (USCCA) and the industry (for reference):
- Level 1: One retention method (usually friction, tension, or a simple thumb strap)—primarily prevents drops.
- Level 2: Two retention methods (e.g., friction + a lock, or two different locking mechanisms).
- Level 3: Three retention methods (usually two locks + one friction)—significantly improves snatch resistance.
Note: Zero doesn’t mean anything without Level 0 retention, so a holster labeled “Level 0” shouldn’t have any retention at all… meaning the gun will fall out of the holster if you turn it upside down—and it’s not a usable holster. Therefore, there’s no such thing as a secure “Level 0” holster.
Remember—we’re talking about secure holsters, not just belt pockets.
Common Misconceptions and Facts
Fact: With specialized training, a gun owner can draw just as quickly—sometimes even faster (because it’s more ergonomic)—using a holster with a retention mechanism. Practice is key: Without practice, any piece of equipment will slow you down.
Fact: For concealed carry, a high-quality friction-fit (Kydex/premium leather) is generally sufficient. The problem is that friction-fit holsters offer little resistance to snatching; however, they are excellent for drop protection and everyday carry.
Fact: There’s no uniform regulation in the market, and manufacturer “level” claims are often marketing-driven. When purchasing, verify that there are clear third-party or manufacturer-specified testing methods and standards, rather than simply relying on the numbers.
For concealed carry, friction fit is likely all the retention you need. This holster can be adjusted using the tension screw near the triggerguard.
Usage recommendations
Clarify your carry scenario
Choose a holster based on how and where you’ll carry. A mismatch between holster type and carry context is a common source of accidents or poor performance.
Level 1 retention holsters (Fast Draw Holster)
Often called “speed-draw” holsters, Level 1 rigs rely mainly on friction/tension and simple straps. They’re well suited for competitive shooting or situations where the fastest possible draw is the priority.
Level 2 retention holsters（Duty holsters）
Often referred to as duty holsters, Level 2 rigs balance higher security with convenient access for the wearer. These “safety holsters” are typically associated with law-enforcement duty gear — and for good reason: a handgun carried openly is a much more attractive target than one that is concealed.
Before modern retention holsters and retention training were introduced, many officers were injured or disarmed each year while struggling with suspects. During arrests or fights, an assailant is often close enough to attempt to grab an officer’s service weapon, and some offenders will try to disarm rather than be taken into custody. For these reasons, we recommend using a proper retention (duty) holster for anyone who carries exposed.
IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) holsters
For many concealed-carry setups, friction and precise fit are the primary retention methods. Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters typically rely on this friction fit to keep the pistol secure and prevent accidental loss. Unless an IWB holster is specially designed or custom-built with additional locking mechanisms, it generally does not provide Level-2 (or higher) retention. If your priority is concealment, a high-quality Kydex or leather IWB often suffices; if your priority is defending against a grab while openly carrying, choose a dedicated retention (duty) holster instead.
Train with your holster
Any holster — whether friction-fit IWB or multi-level duty rig — requires practice. Proper, repeated dry-fire and live-fire practice with your chosen holster will ensure you can draw safely and quickly under stress
