S. Arya asked:

Safariland has defined retention levels in three categories. Each level of retention provides the user a specific amount of security in order to avoid having the weapon removed by an unwarranted person.

Although many holster manufacturers claim to have some form of retention, at the time of this article Safariland is the only company that has defined their levels of retention and also integrated it with their current lines of holsters.

Safariland defines retention levels based on the amount of security or retention devices that are available in order to release the gun from the holstered position.

A good example of this type of retention is the Safariland 070 holsters.

Safariland Retention Level I

All current holster manufacturers including Safariland sells a form of this retention which provides a basic thumb break mechanism which must be unbuttoned or unclipped in order for the weapon to be removed. This is considered the simplest form of retention and should be considered as a minimal security device for the weapon carrier. This form of retention during a confrontation can easily be compromised causing the weapon owner to lose control of their gun.

Safariland Retention Level II

A level two holster is where the user must remove the thumb break and also rock the weapon forward or backwards to unlock the internal mechanism. This type of rocking action provides the user with the ability to remove the weapon easily however thwarts anyone not wearing the holster to remove the weapon.

A Safariland level II retention system is the retention most preferred by law enforcement throughout the world. Allowing a quick draw and also a secure form of holstering. Keep in mind the greater the retention level the more training is required in order to make sure optimal weapon draw is achieved. In most user opinions the Level II retention is considered the best medium of retention and also the most optimal draw.

A popular example of the Safariland Level II retention holster is the Safariland 6280 Mid Ride

Safariland Retention Level III

Take for example the Safariland Raptor 6070 Level III. This Level 3 retention holster allows a rapid draw and an excellent retention, as long as the draw is frequently practiced. This requires the officer to be dedicated to the holster and make sure he is fully comfortable with the weapon and the way it is holstered. However, since a majority of departments only require annual or bi-annual qualifications of the handgun and holster, there is a good chance Level III retention will result in miscued draws.

Safariland has recommended the user of a Level III holster should practice drawing and holstering the weapon approximately 200 times before actually using the holster on duty. However it has been duly noted most police officers and users are unwilling to invest that amount of time to make sure they are fully comfortable with retention methods of a Level III holster. Safariland has also mentioned the learning curve from Level II retention to Level III retention climbs a dramatic curve and requires an enormous amount of time to be fully proficient.

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SAFARILAND C87 LEATHER BW BLACK HOLSTER RIGHT HAND    US $18.00

Safariland Level 3 HK 40c 9c USP holster RH BW nice    US $.99

SAFARILAND MODEL 070 0705 SSIII LEFT HAND HOLSTER BLACK    US $9.99

SAFARILAND PADDLE HOLSTER    US $25.00

SAFARILAND SMITH WESSON 0705 140 91 RH BLACK HOLSTER    US $9.99

SAFARILAND SMITH WESSON 0705 140 92 LH BLACK HOLSTER    US $9.99

NEW SAFARILAND MODEL 070 3397 LEFT HAND HOLSTER BLACK    US $9.99

MISP Safariland Smith Wesson Conceal Hi Ride Holster    US $4.95

Safariland Holster Beretta 6304 180 131    US $71.00

MISP Safariland Smith Wesson Duty Gear Holster    US $4.95

Safariland Top Gun Holster 200 140 92 HI Gloss Black LH    US $19.95

Safariland Top Gun Holster 200 67 162 Plain Black LH    US $19.95

Safariland Top Gun Holster 200 77 92 HI Gloss Black LH    US $19.95

Safariland Top Gun Holster 200 83 91 Hi Gloss Black RH    US $19.95

SAFARILAND MOD101 SHOULDER HOLSTER LG REVOLVER    US $39.00

S. Arya asked: Uncle Mike's offers unmatched holster fit and selection. When Uncle Mike's pioneered the use of nylon in holsters over 20 years ago, no one could have foreseen how much the invention would change the industry. Today's hunters, law enforcement agencies and the military rely on nylon holsters to stand up to the rigors of everyday carry.Take for example the Uncle Mikes Sidekick Hip Holster:

Sidekick Hip Holsters are available in black selected sizes are Available in Realtree Hardwoods HDT" Camo. Sidekick holsters are versatile beyond compare.

Sidekick Hip Holsters are:

· Waterproof-Carry them anywhere, while hunting in the rain or shooting at range.

· Excellent Fit-Your gun carried tightly because the holster molds to the shape of your gun, yet returns to its original shape once the gun is removed.

· Wear Comfortably-Medium high ride design can be worn on a holster belt up to 21/4" wide or on a standard trouser belt.

Another fine example of an Uncle Mikes Nylon Holster includes the Sidekick Ambidextrous Hip Holsters

· Uncle Mikes ambidextrous holsters fit everyone and almost every need

· Fully ambidextrous holster easily converts from right to left-handed.

· Two holsters in one-Wear as a belt holster (fits belts up to 2 '/4" wide) or an inside-pant holster, just by reversing the belt clip. Secure -Non -stretch Velcro retention strap and molded thumb break keep your firearm secure. Holster includes a Strap Trap adjustment tool.

· Durable-Constructed of our patented Sidekick laminate of Cordura nylon. Padded, waterproof interior holds the firearm snugly. Spring steel belt clip is powder coated for rust and corrosion resistance.

Uncle Mikes Holsters are like having a holster tailored to fit your needs. For example the Uncle Mikes Sidekick Vertical Shoulder Holster

· Super comfortable secure way to carry in the field

· If you're looking for comfort and ease in firearm carry, you'll find it in our vertical shoulder holsters

· Freedom of movement-Onside self-adjusting belt loop keeps holster close to your side. Fully adjustable shoulder harness has a self-centering back piece and its 2 1/2" wide nylon web straps distribute weight. Fits up to 48" chest.

· Choose how you carry- Offside tie-down anchors harness to belt and lets you carry a speedloader or magazine case vertically or horizontally. Can be worn inside or outside your jacket.

· Secure-Retention strap with combination adjustable buckle and snap keeps firearm in place.

· Scoped Holsters Available -Choose Black or Realtree Hardwoods HDT Camo. Left hand holsters available only in Black.

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Uncle Mikes LE Tactical Thigh Holster 20 rt hand    US $40.00

UNCLE MIKES SIDEKICK HOLSTER SIZE 0 NWOT NYLON FOR BELT    US $.99

Uncle Mikes Dual Retention Holster Smith Wesson MP    US $6.95

Uncle Mikes Shoulder Holster with Magazine Holder sz15    US $15.00

Uncle Mikes Shoulder Size 3 Holster    US $9.99

UNCLE MIKES MIRAGE HOLSTER SW BERETTA CENTURIAN NEW    US $21.99

Uncle Mikes Deluxe Duty Holster Belt 2 L 38 42    US $25.52

Uncle Mikes Pro Pak Horizontal Holster Sz 16    US $49.80

Uncle Mikes Kydex Paddle Holster RH SZ 19 5 1911s    US $25.52

UNCLE MIKES SIZE 16 ANKLE CONCEALMENT HOLSTER    US $9.99

Uncle Mikes Right Hand Undercover Holster    US $.99

UNCLE MIKES CORDURA SHOULDER HOLSTER SZ 5 LARGE AUTO    US $9.99

Uncle Mikes Sidekick Size 3 Shoulder Holster    US $20.00

Uncle Mikes Deluxe Duty Holster Belt 2 M 32 36    US $25.52

Uncle Mikes Shoulder Holster Heckler Koch USP Compact    US $29.99

Chad Reimer asked:

The 1911 pistol is one of the most popular handguns ever to hit the civilian market. During the turn of the 19th century the first 1911 firearm was developed for military testing, with the new stronger 45 ACP round, which was specified during initial testing of several competitors. To make a long story short, the 1911 pistol won the bid, firing over five thousand rounds without a single misfire, thus making it the most ideal military pistol at the time. Over the course of time the military switched to the M9 and USP for the most part, leaving the 1911 to the civilian markets.

Over the past twenty years there has been more than double the producers of 1911 pistols, due to the universal 1911 parts; it makes for simple configuration, as well as the ability to easily customize any 1911 with relatively little experience. The 1911 parts market has took off out of the recent 1911 boom, with items like 1911 grips, 1911 holsters, and many after market 1911 parts, to ensure match grade precision.

The 1911 pistol is not only ideal for a work in process, to customize and become familiar with, but is a must have for many concealed carry owners, as well as standard issue for a number of police and special law enforcement agencies. With over a dozen companies producing 1911s, gives the opportunity to choose what model is right for you, despite budget or precision. Some 1911 pistols retail for around four hundred dollars, but others are well over the thousand dollar mark.

When it comes to choosing the right 1911 pistol its is all a matter of individual’s preferences, there are compact models, sub compact models, full sized , and even tactical 1911 carbine kits. The universal fit of 1911 parts makes them ideal for after market accessories. And for those who want to customize their 1911 pistol more, without spending time and money on gun smiths, there are a series of videos available for 1911 pistols, everything from care to customizing 1911s.

The 45 caliber round that made the 1911 pistol special is also the most popular round in home defense, due to the low velocity and stopping power, this hasn’t changed in over one hundred years. The development of the 45 ACP cartridges paved the way for new tactical carbines like the MP5 and a number of other firearms to adopt the 45 ACP.

The 1911 pistol design is not only the most popular civilian pistol, but it truly has stood the test of time. With the 1911A1 World War I specs still being sold, in fact one of the most popular firearms, its clear that despite all the custom 1911 pistols on the market, people are still reaching to the old familiar configuration. In conclusion the 1911 pistol is showing no signs of stopping or slowing, even with the almost one hundred year design, 1911 might just stand the test of time.

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Gun Side Holster for Colt 1911 Kimber 1911 5 Barrel    US $21.95

GUN SHOULDER HOLSTER FOR COLT 45TAURUS 1911 DBL POUCH    US $34.90

SHOULDER HOLSTER FOR COLT 45TAURUS 1911 SINGLE POUCH    US $29.70

5 Shot Leather IBS holster government 1911 black RH    US $39.00

5 Shot Leather LFA holster government 1911 black RH    US $58.00

USA Leather Belt Slide Holster 4 Colt Kimber 1911 LH    US $24.95

USA MADE Gun Holster 4 Springfield 1911 A 1 5 barrel    US $12.99

USAMADE GUN HOLSTER Concealement 4 SMITHWESSON 1911 3    US $12.99

NEW Side Gun Holster For Colt 1911 with 5 Barrel    US $19.95

NEW Side Gun Holster For Colt 1911 with 5 Barrel    US $19.95

US Marked Vintage Colt 1911 A1 Pistol Leather Holster    US $32.10

1911 Mo Carry model HolsterCaldwell Gunleather    US $50.00

Shoulder Holster for COLT 45 KIMBER SPRINGFIELD 1911 H    US $29.99

Under desk counter holster 1911    US $32.00

BARSONY BROWN LEATHER FLAP HOLSTER KIMBER 1911 45 COLT    US $39.99

S. Arya asked:

Blackhawk Tactical Gear the Choice for True Professionals

Blackhawk Tactical Gear is considered to be one of the finest military and duty gear money can buy. Blackhawk holsters are not pretty or appealing to the eye, instead they are performance driven and ready for battle. The products made by Blackhawk are tested thoroughly and driven to maximize punishment. Each item exudes how much abuse a Blackhawk product can actually take. With Blackhawks no questions asked warranty you can guarantee that this holster will withstand any punishment you can give it.

Take for example the Blackhawk CQC Serpa holsters. The injection molded Carbon Fiber Composite holsters provides minimum weight and bulk but provides an excellent retention system. This unique retention system locks in the weapon where it allows only the wearer of the holster to easily draw the weapon. The patented SERPA lock engages the trigger guard and locks it in until you are ready to draw the weapon. When ready to draw the weapon the index finger is all you need to disengage the lock and easily draw the weapon from its holstered state. The distinct advantage over thumb break is the ability to draw and holster the weapon accurately each and every time. This is not the case with thumb breaks which require greater accuracy due to the unpredictable locking mechanism. The CQC Serpa system comes with adjustable tension and a patented retention system which eliminates the need for a thumb break.

Blackhawk also makes the same style holster in a lower retention level called the Carbon Fiber Composite Holster which gives the same low profile look and feel with the Serpa locking technology. Both the CQC Serpa and the Carbon Fiber Composite holsters comes standard with the Multi Fit Loop Belt system which accommodates a variety of belt widths. Also included as standard accessories are the easy-on paddle which attaches securely to the inside lip of the pants. Only Blackhawk CQC holsters come standard with belt and paddle options.

CQC Carbon Fiber is not just a simple molded plastic, instead Blackhawk development has created a polymer composite that is lightweight, form fitting, and nearly indestructible. These same materials can be found in US Air Force Aircrafts and other aerospace components. Also these materials are found in race car bodies, and cutting edge medical instruments. These low profile holsters offer a sleek look that offer the apex of concealment. Without a doubt the Blackhawk CQC holster will provide you the ultimate concealment and more importantly an excellent retention for your safety.

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BLACKHAWK SERPA Carbon Fiber RH Holster HK USP FS 9 40    US $49.95

Blackhawk SERPA Level 3 Beretta Duty Mid Ride Holster    US $34.00

BLACKHAWK LEATHER INPANT GLOCK 17 19 22 HOLSTER NEW    US $49.95

Blackhawk Serpa Holster fits Beretta 92 96 Right Hand    US $61.00

Blackhawk Pocket Holster 40PP03BK    US $10.08

Blackhawk Pocket Holster for Most 380s 40PP02BK    US $10.08

Blackhawk 60WF06BK Fanny Pack Large Black    US $19.95

NIB BLACKHAWK CQC SERPA HOLSTER FOR GLOCK 17 22 RH GUN    US $42.27

Blackhawk Scoped Pistol Bandolier Holster 40SB03M1 R    US $50.80

Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster 1911 Commander 410542BK R    US $32.95

Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster for 1911 Govt 410503BK R    US $38.95

Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster for HK USP FS 410514BK R    US $39.95

Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster for Sig 228 229 410505BK R    US $36.87

Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster for SigPro 2022 410508BK R    US $32.99

Blackhawk SERPA CQC Holster FOR Smith Wesson M P    US $32.99