The Myths and Realities of Open Holsters for Police Officers

Police officers often carry their sidearms in open holsters for the sake of quick access. However, many misconceptions exist about the ease of accessing these weapons from open holsters. This article aims to address these myths, providing insights into the security features of holsters used by police departments and the challenges involved in removing a firearm from an open holster.

Why Do Police Officers Use Open Holsters?

The primary reason police officers use open holsters is for rapid accessibility. This setup allows officers to draw their weapon quickly, which is crucial in high-stress situations. However, it is essential to understand that the ease of access from an open holster is often exaggerated. Many believe that anyone can easily grab the weapon, but this is far from the truth.

Security Holsters and Draw Techniques

Many law enforcement agencies still opt for advanced draw holsters, such as Level 12 or Level 3 holsters, which offer increased security. These holsters can significantly hinder the effort required to remove a weapon quickly. Contemporary holsters are designed with subtle security features that make it difficult for untrained individuals to access the firearm.

Practical Experience: Attempts to Grab the Gun

During my tenure in a volunteer fire department, I observed an instance where a sheriff deputy attempted to take my weapon. Despite knowing the retention mechanism, the deputy found it challenging to remove the gun from the holster. Similarly, during training, I tried multiple times to "take" the weapon, but the process proved to be incredibly difficult. Even other officers on the department struggled to remove another officer's gun from their holster while it was still fastened to their waist. The removal process requires pressure in a specific direction and quick reflexes, which are not always easy to maintain.

The Draw Pattern of Contemporary Holsters

Modern holsters are equipped with a special draw pattern that makes it nearly impossible to access the weapon quickly without the proper training. While it is not entirely impossible to draw the weapon from an open holster, it is exceedingly difficult for those unacquainted with the proper technique. The process typically involves shifting pressure in a specific manner, making it challenging for anyone who hasn't undergone the necessary training.

Common Myths Debunked

One common myth states that once you've grabbed the grip of the gun, you can easily remove it from the holster. However, reality paints a different picture. If you attempt to remove the gun in the wrong manner, you will likely end up on the ground with the officer on top of you. Your natural instinct might be to push your hands straight down, but this action is unlikely to clear the weapon in time. By the time you can cock and fire the gun, the threat is typically already neutralized.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while law enforcement officers do use open holsters for rapid access, the security features of these holsters make it difficult for untrained individuals to remove the weapon quickly. The draw pattern and Snap mechanisms are designed to prevent quick removal. These security features ensure that officers can maintain control of their weapons without compromising public safety.

It is important to note that vesting in such misconceptions can lead to unnecessary risks. If you ever find yourself in a situation where someone attempts to take your weapon, the best option is to remain calm and follow the proper procedures. Trust the training provided by law enforcement and avoid making the situation worse by acting impulsively.

Keywords: open holsters, police firearms, holster security