What Is The Best Holster Style? (Level 1 vs 2)

Level 1 vs Level 2 holsters and basic retention

The discussion opens by defining level one and level two retention holsters. A level one holster simply retains the pistol, which is what most concealed carry holsters provide. The point is made that every pistol needs a proper holster; carrying without one is described as unsafe, regardless of excuses about just tucking a gun into a waistband. Level two holsters add a secondary retention device, such as a hood or locking mechanism, that must be actuated before the firearm can be drawn. This extra step helps keep the gun from falling out or being removed by someone else. The video focuses on comparing these two levels and deciding which style is appropriate for different uses.

Alpha Omega level 2 holster setup and match experience

A specific level two setup is shown using an Alpha Omega holster with a QLS lock for a Sig P320 VTAC. The holster is new and tightened down, which causes some rubbing on the mounted light. The speaker explains that this holster was originally used for an FNX-45 Tactical during a Battle Line Tactical course, and the Sig P320 VTAC was later fitted into it by cranking down the retention. During that course, the pistol actually fell out while running, illustrating the importance of training with gear and understanding its limitations. The takeaway is that holster fit and retention must be tested under movement, not just assumed to be adequate because the gun seems to sit tightly in place.

Concealed carry with level 1 holsters and target profile

The video contrasts open and concealed carry holsters. A simple level one retention holster is shown similar to what Katie uses with her Canik, and another example is a Secret Squirrel Concealment holster for the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus Performance Center. That pistol is described as holding 13+1 and is outfitted with a Streamlight weapon light and a Crimson Trace red dot. The holster allows easy concealed carry despite the accessories. The argument is that for concealed carry, basic retention is usually sufficient because the gun is hidden and the carrier is less of a visible target. In contrast, outside-the-waistband or thigh rigs are visible, signaling to everyone that the person is armed and potentially making them a target.

Gun grab concerns and when level 2 makes sense

The main drawback of a simple level one holster in an outside-the-waistband role is the risk of someone else accessing the gun. Without a secondary locking device, a person could potentially approach from behind and grab the firearm. A level two holster with a hood or similar mechanism adds one more action that must be performed before the gun can be drawn, which can slow or deter an attempted gun grab. That extra step can give the carrier time to brace, break a grip, or create distance. For concealed carry, the preference stated is a straightforward appendix holster without extra levers or buttons, because drawing under stress already involves multiple movements. The emphasis is on minimizing complexity for concealed defensive use while recognizing the security benefits of level two retention for exposed carry.

Armadillo Concealment light-based holster overview

An Armadillo Concealment holster is introduced that indexes on the weapon light rather than the specific pistol. It is designed around lights like the Streamlight TLR-1 series, allowing multiple guns to be carried in the same holster as long as they share that light. Models with integrated lasers have too much material and will not fit. The holster conceals the light, covers the trigger guard, and works with pistols such as the Sig P320 M18, Glock 19, and even an FNX, though the FNX is described as large and less comfortable. Retention on this holster is not adjustable; attempts to bend it tighter risk cracking the spine and ruining it. It is considered easy to conceal and useful for short trips, though not the most comfortable option for all-day wear.

Appendix carry draw drills with Sig P320 VTAC

The range segment begins with appendix carry draw drills using the Sig P320 VTAC equipped with a Sig Romeo1 Pro red dot. The DeltaPoint Pro optic would not co-witness with the VTAC sights, and the Romeo1 Pro largely obscures the integrated night sights and limits visibility of the fiber-optic inserts. The red dot is therefore treated as the primary sighting system. From about 15 yards, the shooter runs one-shot drills from concealment, starting with hands free, then drawing and firing. Initial attempts include a miss, followed by hits around 1.80 and 1.60 seconds. Slowing down slightly improves accuracy with only a small increase in time. Repeated runs produce consistent times around 1.68 seconds, showing how controlled pace and familiarity with the holster make the draw and first shot more reliable.

Improving split times and building holster familiarity

Further drills add a second target, requiring one shot on the left and one on the right. Times drop from about 2.94 seconds to 2.44 seconds as repetitions build comfort with the appendix holster and draw stroke. The holster’s release is described as intuitive and easy to manipulate, but the focus remains on balancing speed with sight alignment. The advice is to move quickly through the initial draw but slow down slightly when acquiring sights to ensure hits. Dry fire practice is strongly emphasized as the foundation before shooting live rounds, helping to build muscle memory for clearing the cover garment, establishing a grip, and presenting the pistol. The segment closes by noting that concealed carry draws involve slightly fewer positions than a full duty-style presentation, but still demand consistent practice.