Level 2 vs. Level 3 Retention: The Best Duty Holsters for Compact & Sub-Compact Firearms
Posted by JX Tactical on Aug 21st 2025
Why Level 3 Retention Matters: Choosing the Best Duty Holster for Compact & Sub-Compact Guns
Duty Holsters: Security You Can Trust
When you step onto a shift as a law enforcement officer or security professional, your sidearm is more than a tool—it’s a lifeline. A reliable duty holster isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety, control, and readiness. That’s why choosing the right retention level—Level 2 or Level 3—is critical, especially if you carry a compact or sub-compact firearm like the Glock 43, Glock 48, Sig P365, P365XL, P365 X-Macro, Sig P365-Fuse, or Springfield Hellcat Pro.
At JX Tactical, we design our duty holsters with professionals in mind, and we’re proud to offer both Level 2 and Level 3 hood options across our lineup—including models built for compact pistols and light-bearing setups that often get overlooked.
What’s the Difference Between Level 2 and Level 3 Retention?
Level 2 Retention Holsters
- Typically feature a passive friction lock plus one active locking mechanism, often a hood or thumb release.
- Secure against casual grabs while still allowing a smooth draw with practice.
- Ideal for lower-risk environments or officers who prioritize speed in the draw stroke.
Level 3 Retention Holsters
- Build on Level 2 by adding an additional layer of security—commonly a rotating or pivoting hood combined with another locking device.
- Designed to resist gun grabs during physical altercations.
- The standard choice for many law enforcement agencies, especially patrol and high-contact roles.
In plain terms: Level 2 keeps your sidearm secure. Level 3 ensures it stays yours in a fight.
The Challenge of Compact & Sub-Compact Duty Guns
Full-size pistols have long dominated duty carry, but many officers and security professionals now prefer compact and sub-compact models for comfort and concealability. Pistols like the Glock 43/43X, Glock 48, Sig P365 series, and Springfield Hellcat Pro balance firepower with a slimmer profile.
The challenge? Smaller firearms are harder to secure. With less slide and frame for a holster to grip, compact guns demand precision-engineered retention systems. Many holster makers focus only on full-size models for Level 3 options, leaving professionals with limited choices for compact firearms.
JX Tactical: Duty Holsters Built for Real-World Needs
That’s where JX Tactical stands apart.
- Available in Both Retention Levels: Every duty holster we build is offered in either Level 2 or Level 3—giving you the choice that best fits your role. (Note: these are separate holsters, so you’ll want to select your preferred retention level when ordering.)
- Compact, Sub-Compact, and Light-Bearing Options: We design holsters for popular configurations such as:
- Glock 43, Glock 43X, and Glock 48 (including Glock 43/48 with TLR-7 Sub)
- Sig P365, P365XL, and P365 X-Macro (including Sig P365 X-Macro with TLR-7 Sub and Sig P365 X-Macro with TLR-7/A/X)
- Sig P365-Fuse (including P365-Fuse with TLR-7 HL-X)
- Springfield Hellcat Pro (including Hellcat Pro with TLR-7 Sub)
- Great Value for Professionals: Our holsters deliver the same security and performance demanded by duty users, at a price point that makes sense for working professionals.
With JX Tactical, you’re not limited to one or two firearm models—you get access to Level 2 and Level 3 retention holsters tailored for the pistols real officers and security personnel actually carry.
Level 2 vs. Level 3: Which One Should You Choose?
The answer depends on your role and environment:
- Choose Level 2 if:
- You work private security in lower-risk environments.
- You want faster access and minimal resistance on the draw.
- You carry compact firearms primarily for duty with less exposure to direct confrontation.
- Choose Level 3 if:
- You’re in law enforcement patrol, corrections, or any job with high public contact.
- You want maximum protection against gun grabs in physical altercations.
- Department policy mandates Level 3 retention.
With JX Tactical, you can select the retention level that matches your mission—without being limited by your firearm choice.
Conclusion: Don’t Compromise on Retention
Your duty holster isn’t just an accessory—it’s a safeguard. The debate between Level 2 and Level 3 retention comes down to how much security you need and how much risk you face. With JX Tactical, you don’t have to compromise.
Whether you carry a Glock 43/43X, Glock 48, Sig P365, P365XL, P365 X-Macro, P365-Fuse, or Springfield Hellcat Pro, we’ve built holsters that provide the retention level you require—Level 2 or Level 3, designed specifically for compact and sub-compact firearms, with light-bearing options available.