Best Retention Holster
A Comprehensive Guide
You have a gun, but it is not safe to carry in your purse. What can you do? The options are limited. You could get a bulky holster that attaches to your belt, or you could put the gun in an inconvenient place like your glove compartment. Neither of these solutions is good enough for you!
What about a retention holster? A good retention holster should be comfortable, easy to use, and concealable. It needs to have the right amount of tension so that your gun doesn’t fall out but not too much that it becomes difficult to draw. With a best retention holster, you can carry your gun safely and comfortably on your body without worrying about getting mugged. It is easy to use and fits any size handgun, so you don’t need two holsters sitting around your house.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry to purchase the best retention holster, and you want to make the best decision, here are our top 3 picks:
Top 3 Retention Holster
$64
$0
0 new
from 64
in stock
$134.99
$159.99
159.99 new
from 134.99
in stock
Are you looking for a new retention holster? We know that finding the right holster can be difficult. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best retention holsters on the market today to make your search easier. You won’t find another product like it on the market today. It’s not just an amazing product but also an incredible experience you can have every day of your life.There are so many options out there, and we understand how overwhelming it can be to try and figure out which one is right for you! With our top 5 list, we want to help simplify things by giving you all of your options in one place so that choosing becomes easy as pie!
5 Best Retention Holster (Ranked And Reviewed)
$173.72
$0
24 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2 new
from $173.72
Specifications
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Brand:
Safariland
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Origin:
Made in the USA
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Material:
Safari Laminate
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Size:
S&W M&P .45 ACP w/o Safety, with Light
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Hand Orientation:
Right
Safariland’s ALS/SLS Level 3 Retention Duty Holster is the most advanced duty holster on the market. With an automatic locking system and self-locking system, this holster is perfect for law enforcement professionals. The Safariland 6360 Level 3 Duty Holster offers a smooth draw and easy reupholstering with its tension adjustment screw. This product also features a patented friction lock that aids in weapon retention, making it one of the safest holsters on the market today.
This is the Safariland 6360 Level 3 Retention Duty Holster. Safari Laminate construction protects handguns and sights. This holster has a lock that grabs the gun by the ejection port. As soon as you put the gun into the holster, it automatically locks. The holster has a thumb break retention strap with an adjustment screw to tighten or loosen the hold on firearms. It also has a rotating hood to protect from any debris entering your weapon and an adjustable tension device so you can adjust how tightly or loosely your weapon fits in your holster.
Positive
- Level 3 retention holster
- Multiple colors available
- Manufacturer's warranty
- ALS and SLS retention
- Perfect retention holster
Negatives
- Available only for right-hand draw
- Difficult to operate the locking lever on the ejection port
2. IMI Israel New Level 3 Retention Black Holster
IMI Israel New Level 3 Retention Black Holster for Glock 17/22/28/31 Pistols Gen 4 Compatible (1410)
$64
$0
24 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6 new
from $64
Specifications
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Brand:
IMI-Defense
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Material:
Durable Polymer
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Color:
Black
The IMI Defense Level 3 Retention Holster is a high-quality holster that will hold your gun in place. The polymer used in this holster is durable and strong enough to keep your gun safe and secure. This product will provide you with the security you need when carrying your weapon around. This product comes in black color. It has a Level 3 retention system that ensures your gun stays securely in place even when you are moving around or when an external force is applied to the holster. You can use this holster with an M9 pistol. The New Level 3 Retention holster is the most versatile and concealable OWB holster to date. The Level 3 is designed for the end-user that wants a minimalist, low profile, outside the waistband (OWB) holster with multiple ride height and cant options.
The IMI Defense Level 3 Retention holster is designed for law enforcement, security, and military professionals who use a handgun as their primary weapon. The unique rotating hood design allows the operator to draw their firearm in any position, including upside down. The holster also includes an adjustable retention screw that enables the user to adjust the retention level according to his or her preferences. This feature can be especially useful in situations where an officer may need to make a quick release from the holster while maintaining a firm grip.
Positive
- Remove firearm by simply depressing a lever
- Dual-Safety retention system
- Rotates 360 degrees for every application
- Provides a comfortable, custom fit
- Holds your gun securely
Negatives
- Did not fit with Glock 31
3. BLACKHAWK SERPA Level 3 Retention Tactical Holster
$134.99
$159.99
24 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8 new
from $134.99
Specifications
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Brand:
BLACKHAWK
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Size:
Size 10 – S&W 5900/4000 series 9mm/40 Cal
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Hand Orientation:
Right
BLACKHAWK SERPA Level 3 Retention Holster is designed for professional users who need a holster to be drawn and re-holstered quickly. The Level 3 Retention holster features a retention adjustment screw that allows the user to select the retention level. This tactical holster also includes our patented SERPA Auto Lock release, which secures the weapon once holstered but allows for quick and easy draw using a natural drawing motion. In the event of a crisis, you need to be able to get your firearm out quickly and without hesitation.
The battle-tested circle level 2 auto-lock tactical holster features two levels for retention that will help keep it secure when danger presents itself at any time or place. There’s no worry about security because with this holster – safety comes first! When drawing your gun, it will find itself in a safe position parallel with the slide. You can slip it back into the holster and have the firearm automatically engaged at level two – or you may choose another option if desired! This mounting design protects both rear sights and provides complete coverage for protection around all sides, which lets users easily conceal carry.
Positive
- To retention levels
- Have buckles and loops for straps
- Flexible and tight Holster
- Made by polymer
- Fits with Glock pistols
Negatives
- Issue of reholstering
- Holsters do not fit weapons as smoothly
4. Tactical Scorpion Gear Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster
$18.99
$0
24 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2 new
from $18.99
Specifications
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Brand:
Tactical Scorpion Gear
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Material:
USA Made Polymer
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Size:
Ruger LCP2
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Hand Orientation:
Right
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Style:
Level II OWB Holster Open Carry
The Tactical Scorpion Gear Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster is a right-hand OWB holster designed for concealed carry. The holster is compatible with most subcompact pistols and can also be used inside the waistband (IWB) or outside the waistband (OWB) holster. The Scorpion Gear Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster features a fully adjustable thumb break retention strap with a quick-release button, adjustable passive retention, and steel-reinforced rivet attachment points for durability. This is a Tactical Scorpion Gear Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster for the Ruger SR9C. This holster has an Auto-lock system, which holds your gun tight and is very easy to draw.
The level 2 retention system can be adjusted with two screws on either side of the holster. It can be worn OWB or IWB by using the included belt clips and belt loops, respectively. The paddle portion of this holster can also be removed if you want to use it as a straight drop leg rig instead. The Tactical Scorpion Gear Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster also provides adjustable retention and a positive ‘POSI-CLICK’ when holstering. The unique design of the Tactical Scorpion Gear Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster allows for adjustment of up to 30 degrees in either direction. This will enable you to adjust the cant of your firearm for maximum comfort and concealment.
Positive
- Auto-Lock system
- Protect Rugor pistol
- Strong durable belt/paddle
- POSI-Click retention
- -180 to +180 degrees carry angle
Negatives
- Issue with paddle or belt assembly
5. Polymer IWB for Concealed Carry G2C Taurus Retention Holster
$18.99
$0
24 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
1 new
from $18.99
Specifications
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Brand:
GUN & FLOWER
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Material:
Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
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Closure Type:
Adjustable Retention Screw Thread
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Size:
Right Hand Draw(IWB)
The Polymer IWB is a size-right hand draw holster for concealed carry, featuring our Taurus retention system. This polymer holster is built for daily use and features adjustable retention with a quick-release button that ensures your firearm stays secure until you need it. The Polymer IWB for Concealed Carry G2C Taurus Retention Holster is a lightweight and durable holster that will fit like a glove to your handgun. It comes with an audible click when the gun is holstered, making it easy to draw quickly. The polymer construction makes it light and comfortable while still providing excellent retention of your firearm. It features a belt clip that can be adjusted 360 degrees to comfortably fit any waist size or body shape. This holster also has -5 to 20 degrees adjustable cant and retention depth so you can customize the way it fits on your body.
Positive
- -5 to 20 degrees adjustable cant
- Fit like a glove than an audible click
- Holds gun at a comfortable angle for quick access
- Lighter than leather
- Comfortable to wear all day long
Negatives
- Doesn't cover the magazine release
- After some time, gun loosely falls out
What To Consider While Buying The Best Retention Holster?
Some factors matter when considering a new retention holster. You have to know these points before going out and spending money on a retention holster.
Holster Retention Levels
Level 1 retention holsters have a single point of contact between the gun and the holster body itself. This holster type relies on friction to hold the gun in place, which can be overcome by a person or intentionally, depending on where that single contact point is located. In general, these types of holsters are not designed for active physical movement such as running, sprinting, or grappling. Level 2 retention holsters have an added measure of security to reduce the likelihood of someone snatching your firearm from you by locking it in place and requiring you to disengage a mechanism to draw the gun. This addition can be a strap that goes over the back of the slide, a rotating hood, or any number of retention devices meant to keep the gun securely fastened inside the holster.
Level 3 retention holsters (such as the Safariland ALS and SLS) generally have two points of contact to reduce the forward or downward movement of your firearm. This means that the gun is held in place by either a rotating hood, a thumb break strap on the back of the slide, or a tab on the front of the slide. In addition to these features, a level 3 holster may also include an active retention device such as a button that prevents someone from removing the gun from the holster without actively disengaging it using one hand.
Compatible with Your Gun
Make sure that it is. A retention holster should only do one job, and that is to hold your gun securely. Otherwise, you might have a holster that doesn’t fit your gun properly, which could be dangerous. It would help if you also made sure that the holster works with all of your magazines too. If you’re thinking about buying one, you must do some research into the different retention holsters available
Belt Attachment
Make sure that the belt attachment has a strong connection to your gun holster. This means whether the holster comes with an attachment so that it can be attached to the belt. This is so it stays in place while you are carrying your weapon. Otherwise, it can move around while you are moving or even while you are running, which isn’t good for security.
Adjustable Retention
A good-quality retention holster should have an adjustable screw so that it can be adjusted accordingly. This means that it can be fine-tuned to your weapon. This is great because you don’t want a holster that doesn’t hold your gun properly. Otherwise, you might injure yourself or someone else with the weapon.
Soft Material
Make sure that the holster has been designed to protect the surface of your weapon from any scratches with a smooth and gentle inside lining. This is so your weapon doesn’t get scratched when you put it in or take it out. If the holster’s inside lining isn’t made of soft fabric, then this could damage your gun over time. It might even be really dangerous to use if it isn’t lined with a soft fabric, which is why it’s so important to look out for this.
Durable Material
If you’re carrying a heavy gun, then you need a holster that will not give out. The holster should have been made from durable material so it can handle the weight of your weapon. Otherwise, it could be dangerous. A good quality retention holster should have been made from a top-grade reinforced polymer plastic that is lightweight and durable, which means that it won’t break or snap easily.
Price
The holster should be affordable so that you can get it without having to spend too much money. There are many different types of retention holsters on the market, but not all of them come in at a great price. If you’re looking for a good-quality holster, then you should be able to pick one up without breaking the bank.
Made with Smooth, Soft Internal Lining
This is so your gun doesn’t get scratched when you put it in or take it out. If the holster’s inside lining isn’t made of soft fabric, then this could damage your gun over time. It might even be really dangerous to use if it isn’t lined with a soft fabric, which is why it’s so important to look out for this. Make sure that the holster has been designed to protect the surface of your weapon from any scratches with a smooth and gentle inside lining.
FAQs
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
As a rule, when holding the firearm upside down and trying to free it from the holster, Level I holsters should not be able to fall out. Level II and III retention holsters four should require some effort to remove the firearm from the holster. A Level IV holster requires so much force that you would need both hands to free the gun.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
There are four levels of holster retention.
- Level I. Moderate Retention.
- Level II. Good Retention.
- Level III. Enhanced Retention.
- Level IV. Optimal Retention.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
A retention holster is a type of handgun holster that works to keep the firearm secure. The main purpose of the best retention holster is to prevent anyone other than the owner from drawing it, though they may also have additional features for comfort or ease of use.
Conclusion
The best retention holster offers a secure and dependable way to keep your gun safe. There are many different types of holsters, but the best ones provide an extra level of security such as dual or even triple locking systems to make sure your gun stays inside the holster. As most gun-owners like to conceal their firearm with an untraceable holster, the best types of holsters tend to be those that are custom fitted. The perfect type of holster will also make sure your handgun is securely held in place even when you’re in a scuffle and it will prevent your gun from popping out if someone tries to take it from you.
Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.
