LEVEL 3 RETENTION

LEVEL 3 RETENTION

Maximum security for high-risk environments. Level 3 adds a third, deliberate action while preserving a trained, efficient draw stroke.

• Three active mechanical retention mechanisms
• Ejection Port Auto-Lock + Retention Hood + Button Cover
• Modular and duty-ready for modern attachments

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Level 3 Duty Holster Retention — Explained

At Blade-Tech, “retention level” counts active mechanisms only — each level adds a distinct, mechanical action you must defeat before the pistol can clear the holster. (We do not classify passive friction as Level 1.)

What is Level 3?

Three active retention mechanisms. On VALOR, Level 3 adds a Button Cover to the Ejection Port Auto-Lock and Retention Hood. All three must be defeated before the draw.

1

Clear Button CoverMoves the cover away so the button is accessible.

2

Push Button DownDefeats the Retention Hood.

3

Pull Button BackDefeats the Ejection Port Auto-Lock for a straight-up draw.

• Maximum gun-grab resistance for high-contact settings
• Deliberate, trained sequence preserves draw consistency
• Ideal for crowd control and corrections/jail environments

Why Officers Choose Level 3

Level 3 prioritizes security where hands-on public contact is expected. The additional Button Cover helps prevent unauthorized access while keeping the officer’s trained sequence intact.

How Level 3 Works on VALOR

The Button Cover is cleared first, exposing the control. The Retention Hood is released by pushing down, and the Ejection Port Auto-Lock is defeated by pulling back — three positive, tactile confirmations before the draw.

Which Level Fits Your Use Case?

Level	Definition	Typical Use	Security vs. Speed
Level 1	One active mechanism to defeat before the draw.	SWAT / tactical entries where weapon control is high and speed is paramount.	Fastest draw; lower public gun-grab resistance.
Level 2	Two active mechanisms to defeat before the draw.	Patrol — routine public contact with elevated retention needs.	Balanced: high security with an easy, trained draw.
Level 3	Three active mechanisms to defeat before the draw.	Crowd control, corrections/jail environments, high gun-grab risk.	Maximum security; more steps before the draw.

Level 3 Retention — FAQs