What Is Holster Retention and Why Does It Matter?

By nick hoffer December 05, 2025

By Nick — Founder of Hoftac Industries & Creator of OMNIcarry

Holster retention is one of those things people hear about but rarely understand — especially when they’re new to carrying. So let’s break it down in simple terms. No jargon, no overthinking. Just what retention is… and why it actually matters every single time you carry.

What Is Holster Retention?

Holster retention is how tightly your holster holds onto your firearm. In its simplest form.

If it’s too loose → the gun can shift or fall out.
If it’s too tight → your draw feels like you’re trying to rip Excalibur out of a stone.

Good retention gives you the right amount of “click” and keeps your firearm secure until you decide to draw it.

Why Retention Matters

Because real-life carrying isn’t gentle.

Retention keeps your firearm secure when you:

Sit
Stand
Bend over
Get in your car
Move quickly
Train at the range

It ensures the gun stays put during daily life and comes out smoothly when you need it.

Retention is basically your holster’s safety belt.

Two Types of Retention (Simple Version)

1. Passive Retention (used on the OMNICARRY)

This is the most common style — especially in concealed carry holsters.
It relies on:

Tension
Mold shape
Holster pressure around the trigger guard

You’ll usually feel a light “click” when the gun seats in place.

2. Active Retention

Found more often in duty holsters.
Includes:

Thumb releases
Latches
Hoods
Buttons

Very secure, but slower and bulkier — not usually needed for everyday carry.

How OMNICARRY Handles Retention (The Good Stuff)

Here’s where OMNIcarry stands out:

OMNIcarry uses Multi-Fit retention. This consists of retention plates and bushings instead of relying on a single mold.
This system lets the holster form itself to your firearm while giving you control over how tight or smooth you want your draw.

Benefits:

Adjustable retention
Consistent feel across multiple guns
Custom-like click without needing a custom mold
Works for over 300+ models (600+ with Micro/1911 setup)

It’s simple:
You get to choose the draw feel that works for you.

How to Know Your Retention Is Set Right

You should be able to:

Hold the holster upside down without the gun falling out (unloaded)
Draw the gun with a clean, smooth pull
Reseat it with a clear soft click
Use it daily without it loosening on its own

If it feels too loose or too tight — adjust it.
OMNIcarry makes that easy.

Who Benefits Most From Multi-Fit Retention?

Everyone… but especially:

New concealed carriers
Anyone switching between pistols
People who move a lot during the day
Range shooters
Anyone who wants a consistent, predictable draw

Retention = safety + comfort + confidence.

Holster retention is simply how well your holster holds your gun — and it matters more than most people realize. It keeps your firearm secure, stable, and ready when you need it.

With OMNIcarry’s retention plate system, you get a custom-feeling fit and full control over your draw — no overthinking, or complicated adjustments, just reliable retention that works.

learn more from our previous Blogs