Safety Options
Which retention level to use is either a matter of personal choice or employer mandate. With the additional number of safety devices added to weapons and holsters on today's market, secure gear is more reliable than in the past. Additional tactical training for law enforcement, security and military personnel has decreased the likelihood of loss of weapon control. The more the user practices the required actions, the more flexible and second nature the movement becomes.
Level I
The original retention device was a thumb strap with a snap. While still available in a more advanced form, it provides minimal protection from someone trying to obtain a gun from law enforcement or security personnel. The modern-day thumb guard must be manually disengaged before every use and reengaged afterwards.
Level II
Most police officers use this retention level. It is a compromise between speed and safety. It generally consists of an external and internal safety device. One example of Level II retention would include a thumb-break. Some versions have an auto-lock technology that engages the trigger guard when the gun is holstered and does not release it until the user draws the weapon.
Level III
This retention level requires at least three prohibitive items, whether inside or outside of the duty or tactical holster. Each manufacturer's models are unique and designed specifically for safety first, with as little effect on the swiftness of drawing the weapon as possible. Level three combinations include a trigger guard, pivot guard, thumb break or angled holster.
Summary
Different holsters are worn with the same gun in different situations. Those with more or higher retention levels are more secure, but less swift in weapon release. The important thing for the person wearing different types of holsters to remember is which model has which features. When they all have auto retention features, it gives the user peace of mind that the gun will be secure until it is ready to use, and will come out swiftly when needed.
Given that, where should your gun go in your car? Counting down from 5 to 1 here are the best places to put your gun holster in your car.
This is a great place for your handgun and it is where I had mine that one time that I was pulled over and the police offer's buddy (the one that walks around the car) ultimately shined his flashlight on and shouted, as if he discovered gold, "I see it!". Really it is quite concealed here. The only drawback is that if someone opens your driver door somehow, your gun becomes unreachable.
This is a really good spot and inside your glove box, you have many options. If the box is big enough the holster may fit on a side wall. If not it will definitely fit on the bottom or top panel (mounted inverted). The only drawback to mounting the holster in your glovebox is that reaching it will be a stretch for the driver.
This is a very popular place to mount your car holster. It checks all the boxes. It is mostly concealed, easy to reach, and in most cars some kind of strap can be used so that you don't drill holes into your car's interior.
Right inside the center console box is my personal favorite (assuming that the box is big enough and the lid opens correctly allowing you to easily draw the firearm. It is just perfect. Your gun will be completely concealed inside the box and right next to you the hole time, like your guardian angel.
Not for the faint of heart. Your knee will cover the gun most of the time, but fairly often the gun is probably considered not concealed. However, what you give up in concealment is made up for in accessibility and that's why this spot is our number one. (ahem, if you're right handed or can shoot with your right hand) - You just reach your arm out and make the most natural draw and your gun is right there. Mounting your gun holster to this car panel provides, by far, the fastest, easiest access to your gun.
]]>