Duty Holsters

The duty holster is an outside the waistband carrying option with different retention levels that keep an officer’s firearm firmly in place. Each retention level requires the user to take an additional step to release their firearm from the locked position. These steps provide an extra layer of security and make it nearly impossible for an assailant to yank out of the holster during a struggle or an arrest. Each year, officers are killed by their own firearms, making it of the utmost importance to purchase a duty holster with this life-saving retention. (This is also why officers need to don a body armor vest that can withstand the caliber of their firearm).

The three most common levels of retention include: 

• Level I: Utilizes passive retention, meaning the holster only relies on friction to hold the firearm. To deploy, one action is required, typically with a firm tug. This type of retention is common with concealed carry holsters.  

• Level II: Has the characteristics of a level I holster, but with an additional active retention mechanism in place. This means two actions are required in order to release the firearm from the holster. Typically, this involves a thumb break, trigger guard lock, rotating hood, etc.

• Level III: Utilizes passive and active retention, plus an additional retention device. Three actions are required in order to release the firearm from the holster. This is one of the most secure retention levels to use and may require some practice in order to draw efficiently.

Galls proudly carries a large selection of duty holsters from some of the industry’s best-selling brands. These brands include Safariland, BlackHawk, Bianchi, Uncle Mike’s, and more. 

Popular Duty Holsters

The Don Hume Tiger Mid Ride Holster provides level I retention and has an open-top design for a quick draw. This retention holster features a suede lining and has a polyethylene layer to enhance durability. It also has a metal-reinforced belt loop that contours to the hip, a covered trigger guard for safety, and a reinforced thumb break.

Made to fit over 150 pistols, the BlackHawk Omnivore Multi-Fit is a level 2 holster that accommodates almost any semi-automatic with an accessory rail. This level 2 retention holster features an active retention mechanism that locks directly into the Rail Attachment Device and disengages with the thumb release. The free-floating design makes zero contact with the frame, preventing wear from the firearm's finish. On top of that, the extra clearance of this BlackHawk holster makes holstering easier while allowing debris to fall through. 

The Safariland 6369 ALS/SLS Level III Mid-Ride Retention Holster utilizes an automatic locking system to secure a firearm in all directions upon re-holstering for instant level II retention. When flipped in place, the rotating hood of this Safariland holster provides level III retention. The self-locking system is a unique design that locks into the ejection port and operates with the user’s thumb. The hood guard protects the SLS from impacts and premature release. Additionally, the mid-ride belt loop allows this level 3 holster to ride close to the body, and the suede lining protects the sights and finish of the firearm.

In addition to duty holsters, Galls also offers a selection of holster police accessories. For help finding a holster, check out Galls’ holster finder.