What "retention level" means
Retention levels describe how many separate actions are needed to draw the pistol. Passive retention is friction or tension that holds the gun in place. Active retention is a mechanical device, such as a lock, hood or strap, that you must defeat on purpose.
| Level | Typical mechanism | Common users |
|---|---|---|
| I | Passive tension, or one simple lock that some makers class as Level I | Plainclothes, concealment, range |
| II | One active device | Security, some patrol, off-duty OWB |
| III | Two active devices | Uniformed patrol |
Safariland's systems, decoded
Safariland is the reference point for most duty holster discussions, so its acronyms are worth learning:
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): an internal lock that engages automatically when the gun is holstered. You release it with your thumb as part of the draw.
- SLS (Self Locking System): a rotating hood over the back of the slide. You push it forward and down to release.
- GLS (Grip Lock System): a lever released by your middle finger as you take a firing grip. It's designed to fit many pistol models in one holster.
A holster with both ALS and SLS, like the 6360RDS, is commonly rated Level III.
The holsters, by tier
Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS
G19 MOS + X300U
Blackhawk T-Series L2D
P320/M17 · duty
Safariland GLS Pro-Fit
multi-fit
Uncle Mike's PRO-2
Glock duty · basketweave
Safariland 6360RDS ALS/SLS
This is a mid-ride duty holster built for an optic-equipped pistol with a mounted light. The listed fit is the G19 MOS with a SureFire X300U. The "RDS" in the name means it's cut for a red dot, which matters more and more now that optics are common on duty pistols.
Blackhawk T-Series L2D
Blackhawk's duty line. "L2D" stands for Level 2 Duty. The listed fit is the Sig P320, P250, M17 and M18.
Safariland GLS Pro-Fit
This is the flexible option. One holster fits many pistols, so it's useful on the range, for security roles, or anywhere a single holster has to cover several guns. It isn't built to replace a fitted Level III patrol holster.
Uncle Mike's PRO-2
A basketweave-finish duty holster with a listed fit for many Glock models. Check the listing for its retention rating and fit before buying.
Choosing a level
Start with your agency or employer's policy. Beyond that, ask yourself three things:
- How likely is a close-contact struggle in your role?
- How much time will you put into draw practice?
- Do you carry a light, an optic, or both?
Uniformed officers working in public generally benefit from Level III. The more retention you add, the more training you need, because under stress an unfamiliar release becomes a failure point.
Don't forget the belt
A retention holster only works if it stays put. A rigid 2.25" duty belt like the Nexbelt Operating Duty Belt keeps the holster from shifting during the draw or a struggle.
Nexbelt Operating Duty Belt
2.25"
Safariland
full lineup
Changing pistols or adding an optic? See Glock Gen 6 and duty holster fit first. Holster compatibility is where upgrades most often go wrong.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an industry standard for retention levels?
Not a universal one. Manufacturers define their own ratings, so a 'Level II' from one maker isn't guaranteed to equal another's. Read how each maker defines its levels.
What's the difference between ALS and SLS?
On Safariland holsters, ALS (Automatic Locking System) is an internal lock released with the thumb. SLS (Self Locking System) is a rotating hood over the rear of the slide. Holsters combining both are commonly rated Level III.
Is more retention always better?
No. More retention protects against gun grabs but can slow your draw if you don't train with it. Match the level to your role and train until the draw is automatic.
Can I use a duty holster for concealed carry?
Duty holsters are bulky and generally made for outside-the-waistband wear on a duty belt. Most people carry concealed in a purpose-built concealment holster.
Keep reading
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