Selecting the perfect holster for your airsoft pistol can be overwhelming with so many options available. The right airsoft holster not only secures your pistol but also enhances your gameplay by ensuring quick access and compatibility with your airsoft gear. In this guide, we’ll break down the key features of holsters, focusing on retention levels and mounting positions, to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Holster Retention: Passive vs. Active

Retention refers to how a holster holds your pistol in place. There are two primary types:

  1. Passive Retention: The pistol is secured by the holster’s material and shape, relying on friction or a snug fit. Every well-made holster should have at least passive retention – this is the foundation of safety and functionality.

  1. Active Retention: A mechanical device (like a thumb release or hood) locks the pistol in place. To draw, you must deactivate the mechanism. Active retention adds extra security, ideal for dynamic airsoft games where movement is intense.  
Active retention holsters are designed to keep your pistol secure.

Holster Retention Levels Demystified

Ignore marketing terms like “Level 2+” or “Level 3+” – retention levels simply count the number of securing mechanisms in the holster. Here’s a clear breakdown:

  • Level 1: Passive retention only (e.g., friction-fit holsters).
  • Level 2: Passive retention + one active mechanism (e.g., a thumb-release button).
  • Level 3: Passive retention + two active mechanisms (e.g., a hood and rotating hood lock).
  • Level 4: Passive retention + three active mechanisms (rare, often for specialized use).

Pro Tip: Always use all retention mechanisms as intended for maximum safety and performance. Choose your retention level based on your gameplay needs, not trends. A fast-paced CQB skirmish might favor Level 1-2, while milsim events could demand Level 3 for added security.

This is a Level 1 Holster.

Holster Mounting: Belt vs. Drop Leg

Where you mount your holster impacts draw speed, mobility, and gear compatibility. For airsofters, the two most popular options are:

Belt-Mounted Holsters

  • Position: Attached to your belt, sitting higher on the hip
  • Pros:
    • Lightweight and low-profile, reducing snags and gear.Better for dynamic movements (running, crouching).
    • Easier to conceal under a jacket (for milsim games).
  • Cons: May interfere with bulky plate carriers or belt gear.

Ideal for: Players prioritizing agility and a minimalist setup.

An example of a belt-mounted holster.

Drop Leg Holsters

  • Position: Strapped to the thigh with a belt attachment, lowering the pistol’s placement.
  • Pros:
    • Optimal draw stroke with minimal gear interference.
    • Popular among military and law enforcement – great for realism in airsoft.
  • Cons: Slightly reduces agility due to added bulk on the thigh.

Ideal for: Players wearing plate carriers or those who prefer a tactical, military-style setup.

This is an example of a drop leg holster

Find Your Perfect Holster at RedWolf Airsoft

Whether you need a Level 2 retention holster for quick access or a drop-leg platform for immersive gameplay, RedWolf Airsoft has you covered. Explore our curated selection of high-quality holsters designed for airsoft pistols, and gear up for your next skirmish.