Kydex Retention Systems Not Recommended

Published on October 25, 2024
Duration: 12:50

This video strongly advises against using Kydex-only holsters without a Level III retention system for duty belt setups, drawing on 12 years of active duty infantry experience. The instructor emphasizes that while Kydex holsters are suitable for concealed carry or flat range use, duty applications require a hood and thumb release to prevent accidental firearm loss during physical activity, vehicle egress, or combat scenarios. The video highlights the importance of training with these retention systems to ensure quick and reliable access when needed.

Quick Summary

For duty belt setups, Level III retention holsters are strongly recommended over Kydex-only options. These systems, featuring a hood and thumb release, prevent accidental firearm loss during dynamic activities, vehicle egress, or physical confrontations, ensuring weapon security and operator safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction: Duty Belt Setup Discussion
  2. 00:43Question: Handgun Ejection from Kydex Holsters?
  3. 01:14Kydex Holsters Without Retention: Potential Failure
  4. 02:07Anecdote: Battalion Shooting Competition Incident
  5. 02:37Infantry Requirement: Level III Retention
  6. 03:00Addressing Kydex Holster Compression Adjustments
  7. 03:28Scenario: Seatbelt Snagging Handgun
  8. 03:50Recommendation: Duty Holsters Need Retention
  9. 04:06Kydex Holsters for Flat Range vs. Duty
  10. 04:16Hands-On Scenarios and Casualty Movement
  11. 04:46Overt Duty Belt Setup: Kydex-Only Not Recommended
  12. 05:05Active Scenarios and Holster Ejection
  13. 05:17User Error vs. Holster Error
  14. 05:44Duty Belt Setup Recommendation: Level III Retention
  15. 06:00The Need for Level III Retention in Dynamic Situations
  16. 06:13Balancing Speed and Security
  17. 06:34IWB Holsters vs. OWB Duty Holsters
  18. 07:00Duty Belts Require Level III Systems
  19. 07:07Incidents with Non-Retention Holsters
  20. 07:21Shoot House Scenarios and Hand-to-Hand Combat
  21. 08:00Realistic Use: Recommend Real Holsters
  22. 08:05Recommended Holster Brands: Safari Land, Alien Gear
  23. 08:49Activating Retention Systems: Thumb Down, Thumb Back
  24. 09:04Training Protocol: Repetitive Retention Defeat
  25. 09:57Building Trust with Retention Systems
  26. 10:07Speed vs. Survival
  27. 10:17Kydex-Only System is Not Suitable for Duty
  28. 10:24Disclaimer: Not Attacking Companies
  29. 10:36Purpose of Kydex-Only Holsters: Conceal Carry & Competition
  30. 11:01Duty Use Requires Safari Land or Equivalent
  31. 11:11Ensuring Handgun Stays Secured
  32. 11:22Conclusion: Set Up for Success
  33. 11:36Upcoming Videos: Sling Setup, 20-in Rifles
  34. 11:48Nighthawk's Medical Series Announcement
  35. 12:29Final Thoughts on Holsters

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Kydex-only holsters not recommended for duty belt setups?

Kydex-only holsters lack the active retention mechanisms like hoods and thumb releases found in Level III systems. This makes them prone to accidental firearm loss during dynamic movements, vehicle egress, or physical altercations, posing a significant safety risk.

What constitutes a Level III retention holster?

A Level III retention holster typically requires three distinct actions to draw the firearm. This usually involves disengaging a hood or strap over the firearm and then activating a thumb release or similar mechanism, ensuring a secure hold.

Are there specific brands recommended for duty holsters?

Yes, Safari Land is highly recommended for its tried-and-true Level III retention duty holsters. Alien Gear is also mentioned as producing a good Level III retention option that has gained advocacy.

What is the difference in suitability between IWB and OWB duty holsters?

Inside-the-waistband (IWB) Kydex holsters are suitable for concealed carry as the outer garment provides additional retention. Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters for duty use, however, require robust retention systems like Level III to prevent firearm loss during active operations.

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