How to Adjust the Retention on Your Holster?

Holster retention means how securely a holster keeps the gun in place. A good retention system prevents the pistol from wobbling out of your holster but makes drawing and access to it easy. It is essential for safely carrying and using the gun. A holster retention should not be very tight or loose. It should be balanced for comfortable movement and drawing. You can adjust it based on your needs to easily access the gun when needed. Keep reading as we explain how to adjust holster tightness or the retention on your holster.

Types of Holster Retention

Holster retention systems are of two types: passive and active.

Passive retention

Passive retention is found on many leather concealed carry holsters and some Kydex holsters. The holster is designed according to the shape of the gun, which keeps the gun from falling out.

The gun does not fall due to friction. Passive retention is also known as level 1 retention and is ideal if you prefer inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry.

Some level 1 retention holsters have ALS (Automatic Locking System). It requires one manual hand motion to release the pistol from the holster.

Active Retention

Active retention holsters have one or more mechanical devices in them. You should unlock those devices before taking out the gun. Active retention gives more security and keeps the gun more secure than passive retention during vigorous activities.

These devices are typically a trigger guard lock, thumb break, tension screw, or mechanical locks.

However, you must know how to disengage the active retention devices while drawing. Otherwise, you won't be able to effectively draw your firearm during an attack and under urgent circumstances.

Levels of Holster Retention

Holster retention levels indicate the level of security that a firearm gives. They are numbered from 1 to 4.

• Level 1 - A level 1 retention holster is a passive retention holster. The gun in a level 1 retention holster stays secure through friction, and you require a single action to draw it. The first level is fine for everyday carry when you don't move much.
• Level 2 - The level 2 retention holster uses friction and another mechanism of restraint, like a thumb strap, a thumb button, or an automatic lock. This retention level keeps the firearm secure even if it is turned upside down. Unless you release the secondary mechanism, the pistol will not come out. If your daily tasks need you to do physically demanding activities, like lifting, climbing, or crawling, level 2 holster retention is ideal.
• Level 3 - Level 3 retention features three distinct mechanisms that you must disengage before drawing the firearm. These are usually a thumb break or strap, a secondary locking system, or a release button/switch. Level 3 is the optimum retention level in the holsters worn by law enforcement and military personnel.
• Level 4 - Level 4 is the exceptional retention level, as it includes four distinct retention mechanisms. You must disengage all of them before drawing the firearm. The four mechanisms are a thumb break or strap, an internal locking system, a release button/switch, and an additional locking mechanism, like a dial or a lever. High-risk law enforcement officers and military personnel exposed to unpredictable environments or dangerous situations, like SWAT teams, tactical units, or prison guards, have level 4 retention holsters.

How to Adjust Holster Tightness?

The process to adjust retention differs slightly for passive and active retention holsters. Retention is mainly adjusted through a screwdriver. You use it to adjust the screw near the trigger guard.

Adjusting Active Retention

Active retention holsters come with a thumb break or strap. This locking mechanism holds the pistol in place. You can adjust how tight the strap is with Velcro or buckle adjustments. Remember to make the tightness balanced. A retention that is too tight will prevent you from drawing the gun easily. If the retention is very loose, the gun may fall out or be easier for another person to access.

If your holster features an internal locking mechanism or button, you need to adjust the screw or dial on it. This screw adjusts the pressure or action you are required to exert to release the firearm. Adjust it based on how hard you need to push, pull, or twist to make the lock disengage.

Adjusting Passive Retention

Holsters with friction retention have screws or bolts. These screws are seen at the sides of the holster and provide tension on the gun's trigger guard.

To increase retention and make the gun secure, tighten the screws. It increases the friction, making it tougher for the gun to come out. To decrease retention for ease of drawing, loosen the screws slightly. It reduces the friction and enables a smooth draw.

When adjusting a passive retention holster, put it on your waistband in the appropriate place. You must adjust the retention while wearing the holster on your belt.

How to Adjust Holster Tightness on a Light-bearing Holster?

In a light-bearing holster, you need to adjust the screw nearest the trigger guard. This finetunes the primary retention on the back of the light. The second screw, which is a bit away from the trigger guard, assists in changing the clamping force on the light for stability.

If the holster feels too loose, heat up the Kydex with a dryer. It will rise slightly. Then, set your thumb on the trigger guard and push forward. Let the Kydex cool down, and then try the holster.

Some Considerations When Adjusting Holster Retention

In order to adjust holster retention optimally, consider the following points:

• The gun should be unloaded before you adjust the holster.
• Begin with a looser retention setting and then slowly tighten it.
• Check the security after adjustment. The weapon should not move during sudden movements.
• Ensure that the holster offers ease of drawing without a lot of resistance.
• Be mindful of your preferred retention settings. It will help you when you make unintentional adjustments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Adjusting Holster Tightness

A holster retention is vital for the safety and accessibility of the firearm. Yet, users make some common mistakes while adjusting and testing retention.

• Never rely on the 'shake test' to test how secure the retention is. This method entails placing your gun in the holster, holding it upside-down, and shaking it. Even poor-quality holsters pass this test. The test does not guarantee the safety and functionality of the holster.
• If a holster does not have retention, it is not necessarily a bad holster. For example, pocket holsters and IWB holsters keep the gun in place without any retention mechanism. They are perfectly safe to use.
• Don't overtighten the retention screws to enhance the pistol's security. It makes drawing extremely hard.
• Don't forget to test the holster retention in the position you want to carry your gun. A holster that fits well in an appendix or strong-side position may not fit well in a cross-draw position.

Concluding Words

Now, you know the basics of holster retention and how to adjust it properly. The holster you choose should make you confident of carrying and using the gun safely in the situations you are exposed to daily. Adjusting its retention goes a long way in keeping the gun securely on yourself. If you want to know anything else about holster retention, feel free to contact us at Wright Leather Works.