The video opens by criticizing open carry with no retention, describing how an exposed pistol in a flimsy or generic holster can be grabbed or knocked out during everyday movement. The hosts contrast this with purpose-built holsters selected for specific roles, such as concealed carry at appendix, 4 o’clock, or small-of-back, versus duty-rated or outside-the-waistband training holsters. They outline common holster materials and constructions, including hybrids, leather, Kydex, Bolteron, and injection-molded plastics, and note how overwhelming the options can be for new carriers. The discussion then introduces retention levels, focusing on what defines a level 1 holster. A proper level 1 design uses a rigid shell that fully covers and protects the firearm and trigger guard, provides an audible positive click when the gun seats, and often uses adjustable screws to tune friction around the trigger guard or weapon light for secure carry.
The next section explains that level 1 holsters rely on friction around the trigger guard and parts of the gun’s frame or slide to create that positive click and basic retention. While this can work well in a quality Kydex or similar rigid holster, the presenters warn that worn leather level 1 holsters can lose their shape over time. As the leather softens, retention weakens, and the firearm can fall out during running, grappling, or dynamic training. This limitation becomes critical for anyone doing more than casual range use. The segment reinforces that level 1 is essentially friction-only retention, with no mechanical lock to resist a determined gun grab. It sets the stage for why higher retention levels exist, especially for law enforcement, military, security personnel, or anyone who might be in close contact with others while carrying.
The video then defines level 2 holsters as adding a secondary locking system on top of the friction fit. This extra mechanism is why level 2 designs are widely used by law enforcement, military, and security professionals who need better protection against gun grabs. A Safariland 6390 RDO is used as a detailed example. This holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), a nub that automatically locks onto the pistol’s ejection port when holstered. With ALS engaged, the gun cannot simply be yanked out from above or the side. The hosts explain that such holsters are suitable not only for duty belts but also for civilian open carry on large properties or rural land. They stress the importance of choosing a holster built specifically for the user’s firearm and configuration, distinguishing between light-bearing and non-light-bearing models. An example setup pairs a Glock 34 MOS with an X300 weapon light in a compatible Safariland holster, producing a solid click and secure retention when holstered.
Attention shifts to level 3 retention, using the Safariland 6354DO Glock holster as the primary example. This setup combines multiple systems: a dual-hood design, the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood, and the internal ALS that locks onto the ejection port. The instructor explains how a proper draw stroke uses the thumb to depress and rotate the SLS hood while simultaneously clearing the optic shroud, allowing the pistol to come straight up in one smooth motion. Extensive dry fire practice is emphasized so that these steps become automatic and do not slow the draw. The speaker recounts real incidents where this level 3 holster prevented successful gun grabs during physical confrontations, crediting the retention system with likely saving his life. These stories highlight how the combination of SLS and ALS can defeat attempts by attackers who do not understand the release sequence, even when they have both hands on the gun.
The discussion addresses concerns that higher-retention holsters are too slow or complicated. The instructor describes timing drills run with a friend using a simple leather level 1 holster, showing that with proper training a level 2 or level 3 holster can be drawn just as fast in a single, practiced motion. The video then explains the optional shroud attachment available on some level 3 Safariland holsters. This shroud blocks access to the gun from the front, making it harder for someone facing the wearer to manipulate the release systems, and is recommended for security guards or anyone in a visible open-carry role. The segment contrasts inside-the-waistband and outside-the-waistband level 1 holsters, noting that competition shooters often favor low-retention OWB designs for speed. However, these competition rigs can allow the gun to fall out during running or scuffles. The hosts reference real-world incidents where open carriers with no retention had their guns taken, and they recommend at least a level 1 holster with a fully covered trigger guard for concealed carry and a minimum of level 2 retention for open carry, ideally using Kydex or injection-molded designs.
In the final portion, the presenters emphasize that any serious carry setup should provide solid retention, especially for those who run, train hard, or work hands-on with others. They recommend level 2 or even level 3 holsters for more physical activities, reminding viewers that consistent dry fire practice makes drawing from these systems reliable and fast. The importance of a well-protected trigger guard is stressed to prevent fingers, keys, or other foreign objects from entering the trigger area during holstering or daily movement. Safariland holsters are praised for their coverage and optional plastic or rubber flaps that further shield the trigger region. Viewers are invited to share whether they prefer inside-the-waistband or outside-the-waistband holsters and why. Several brands are mentioned, including Alien Gear, Safariland, Blackhawk, Blade-Tech, and Bravo Concealment, with positive comments about Bravo Concealment’s slim, concealable designs. The video concludes by advising carriers not to get paralyzed by endless online opinions, but instead to choose a reputable holster that fits their gun and mission, then invest time in training with that specific setup.
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