What Holster Does the FBI Use? (A Complete Guide)

ByBuffalo Rifles Blog

The FBI’s Holster: A Brief Overview

The FBI is one of the most recognizable law enforcement agencies in the world, and its agents are often seen wearing distinctive holsters. But what kind of holster does the FBI use, and why?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the FBI’s holster, exploring its history, design, and features. We’ll also discuss some of the pros and cons of the FBI’s holster, and we’ll provide some alternative holster options that you may want to consider.

So whether you’re an aspiring agent or you’re just curious about the FBI’s gear, read on for a comprehensive overview of the FBI’s holster.

Holster Name Manufacturer Year Introduced
Glock 17 Holster Safariland 1982
S&W M&P 9mm Holster Blackhawk! 2005
Sig Sauer P226 Holster Galco 1982

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is the principal investigative arm of the United States Department of Justice. As such, it is responsible for investigating a wide range of crimes, including terrorism, organized crime, and white-collar crime. In order to effectively carry out its mission, the FBI needs to ensure that its agents have the right tools and equipment, including holsters for their firearms.

This article will discuss the history of FBI holsters, the different types of FBI holsters, and the factors that the FBI considers when selecting a holster.

History of FBI Holsters

The first FBI holsters were leather and were designed to hold the .38 Special revolver. These holsters were simple and functional, but they were not very comfortable or easy to draw from.

In the 1950s, the FBI switched to a nylon holster that was more comfortable and easier to draw from. This holster was also more durable than the leather holsters, and it could be easily cleaned and maintained.

In the 1980s, the FBI adopted the Bianchi M12 holster, which is still in use today. The Bianchi M12 is a level III retention holster that is designed to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm. It is also comfortable to wear and easy to draw from.

In recent years, the FBI has begun to experiment with new holster designs, such as the Safariland 7TS ALS holster. The Safariland 7TS ALS holster is a level III retention holster that is also equipped with an automatic locking system. This system helps to prevent the firearm from being accidentally drawn.

Types of FBI Holsters

There are three main types of FBI holsters:

  • Belt holsters: These are the most common type of FBI holster and are worn on the belt. Belt holsters are typically made of leather or nylon, and they can be either open-top or closed-top. Open-top holsters allow the firearm to be drawn quickly, but they are not as secure as closed-top holsters. Closed-top holsters provide more security, but they are more difficult to draw from.
  • Shoulder holsters: These holsters are worn on the shoulder and are more comfortable for long periods of wear. Shoulder holsters are typically made of leather or nylon, and they can be either open-top or closed-top. Open-top shoulder holsters allow the firearm to be drawn quickly, but they are not as secure as closed-top shoulder holsters. Closed-top shoulder holsters provide more security, but they are more difficult to draw from.
  • Ankle holsters: These holsters are worn on the ankle and are less accessible than belt or shoulder holsters. Ankle holsters are typically made of leather or nylon, and they can be either open-top or closed-top. Open-top ankle holsters allow the firearm to be drawn quickly, but they are not as secure as closed-top ankle holsters. Closed-top ankle holsters provide more security, but they are more difficult to draw from.

Factors Considered by the FBI When Selecting a Holster

When selecting a holster, the FBI considers a number of factors, including:

  • The type of firearm: The FBI uses a variety of firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and shotguns. The type of firearm will determine the size and shape of the holster.
  • The level of retention: The FBI requires its holsters to provide a certain level of retention. This means that the holster must prevent the firearm from being accidentally drawn.
  • The comfort level: The FBI wants its agents to be comfortable wearing their holsters for long periods of time. The holster must be made of a comfortable material and it must fit snugly against the body.
  • The accessibility: The FBI wants its agents to be able to draw their firearms quickly and easily. The holster must be easy to access, even when the agent is wearing body armor.

The FBI uses a variety of holsters to meet the needs of its agents. The type of holster that is used will depend on the type of firearm, the level of retention required, the comfort level, and the accessibility.

The FBI is constantly evaluating new holster designs and it is likely that the agency will continue to adopt new holsters in the future.

Additional Resources

  • [FBI Holster Standards](https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/holster-standards.pdf/view)
  • [FBI Holster Selection Guide](https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/holster-selection-guide.pdf/view)
  • [FBI Holster Training](https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/holster-training.pdf/view)

What Holster Does The FBI Use?

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) uses a variety of holsters for its agents and officers. The type of holster used depends on the agent’s or officer’s duty position, firearm, and personal preferences.

Duty Holsters

Duty holsters are designed for agents and officers who are actively engaged in law enforcement operations. These holsters are typically made of durable materials, such as leather or Kydex, and feature a number of features to keep the firearm secure and accessible.

Some of the most common features of duty holsters include:

  • A retention device to keep the gun secure in the holster.
  • A positive-locking mechanism to prevent the gun from being drawn accidentally.
  • A comfortable fit to reduce fatigue during long periods of wear.
  • A low-profile design to minimize printing.

Duty holsters are typically worn on the belt, either at the hip or the chest. Some duty holsters also feature a paddle or other attachment system that allows them to be quickly and easily removed from the belt.

Off-Duty Holsters

Off-duty holsters are designed for agents and officers who are not actively engaged in law enforcement operations. These holsters are typically less bulky and more comfortable than duty holsters, and they may be worn in a variety of locations, such as on the belt, in the waistband, or in a shoulder bag.

Some of the most common features of off-duty holsters include:

  • A comfortable fit to reduce fatigue during long periods of wear.
  • A low-profile design to minimize printing.
  • A quick-release mechanism to allow the gun to be drawn quickly in an emergency.

Off-duty holsters are typically made of lightweight materials, such as nylon or Kydex, and they may feature a variety of colors and patterns to match the agent’s or officer’s personal style.

Other Types of Holsters

In addition to duty and off-duty holsters, the FBI also uses a variety of other types of holsters, such as:

  • Training holsters: These holsters are designed for use in training exercises. They are typically made of lightweight materials and feature a variety of features to simulate the draw and fire of a firearm.
  • Storage holsters: These holsters are designed for storing firearms in a safe and secure manner. They are typically made of durable materials and feature a variety of locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Concealed carry holsters: These holsters are designed for carrying firearms concealed on the body. They are typically small and lightweight, and they may be worn in a variety of locations, such as on the belt, in the waistband, or in a shoulder bag.

The FBI selects holsters based on a number of factors, including:

  • The type of firearm being carried.
  • The agent’s or officer’s body type and build.
  • The agent’s or officer’s duty requirements.
  • The agent’s or officer’s personal preferences.

By carefully selecting the right holster, the FBI can help ensure that its agents and officers are able to carry their firearms safely and securely, and that they are able to draw and fire their firearms quickly and accurately in an emergency.

Features of FBI Holsters

FBI holsters typically have a number of features in common, including:

  • A retention device to keep the gun secure in the holster.
  • A positive-locking mechanism to prevent the gun from being drawn accidentally.
  • A comfortable fit to reduce fatigue during long periods of wear.
  • A low-profile design to minimize printing.

Retention Devices

The retention device is a critical feature of any holster, as it helps to keep the gun secure in the holster and prevents it from being accidentally drawn. FBI holsters typically use a variety of retention devices, including:

  • Snap-button retention: This is the simplest and most common type of retention device. It consists of a button that is pressed to release the gun from the holster.
  • Thumb-break retention: This type of retention device is similar to a snap-button retention device, but it also has a thumb-break that must be depressed in order to release the gun from the holster.
  • Speed-loader retention: This type of retention device is designed for use with speed loaders. It consists of a slot in the holster that allows the speed loader to be inserted and removed quickly and easily.

Positive-Locking Mechanisms

In addition to a retention device, FBI holsters also typically have a positive-locking mechanism to prevent the gun from being drawn accidentally. This mechanism can be a simple safety catch or a more complex locking mechanism.

What holster does the FBI use?

The FBI currently uses the Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster for their duty firearms. This holster is designed to provide a secure and comfortable way to carry a firearm, while also allowing for quick and easy access when needed. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) mechanism helps to secure the firearm in the holster, while the thumb-activated release allows for one-handed operation.

Why does the FBI use the Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster?

The Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster is a well-respected and trusted holster that has been used by law enforcement agencies around the world for many years. It is a proven design that provides a high level of security and retention, while also being comfortable and easy to use.

What are the advantages of the Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster?

The Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster offers a number of advantages over other holsters, including:

  • High level of security: The ALS mechanism helps to secure the firearm in the holster, making it difficult for someone to remove it without the user’s permission.
  • Comfortable and easy to use: The holster is designed to be comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. The thumb-activated release allows for one-handed operation, making it easy to draw the firearm when needed.
  • Durable construction: The holster is made from durable materials that are resistant to wear and tear.

What are the disadvantages of the Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster?

The Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster does have a few disadvantages, including:

  • It can be difficult to reholster the firearm if the ALS mechanism is engaged.
  • The holster is relatively expensive.

Are there any other holsters that the FBI uses?

In addition to the Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster, the FBI also uses a number of other holsters, including:

  • The Safariland 7360 ALS Level III Retention Holster
  • The Safariland 7390 ALS Level III Retention Holster
  • The Blackhawk Serpa CQC Level III Retention Holster

Which holster is best for me?

The best holster for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a high level of security and retention, the Safariland 7378 ALS Mid-Ride Level III Retention Holster is a good option. If you are looking for a more comfortable and easy-to-use holster, the Safariland 7360 ALS Level III Retention Holster or the Safariland 7390 ALS Level III Retention Holster may be a better choice.

How can I find a holster that is right for me?

There are a few things you can consider when choosing a holster that is right for you, including:

  • The type of firearm you will be carrying: The holster you choose should be compatible with the type of firearm you will be carrying.
  • The level of security you need: The level of security you need will depend on your personal needs and preferences.
  • The comfort and ease of use: The holster should be comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. It should also be easy to use, both for drawing and reholstering the firearm.

Where can I buy a holster for my firearm?

You can purchase a holster for your firearm from a variety of retailers, including:

  • Firearms stores: Many firearms stores sell a variety of holsters.
  • Online retailers: There are a number of online retailers that sell holsters.
  • Manufacturers: Some holster manufacturers sell their products directly through their websites.

How much does a holster cost?

The cost of a holster will vary depending on the type of holster, the brand, and the materials used. Holsters can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.

the FBI uses a variety of holsters depending on the needs of the agent. The most common type of holster is the belt holster, which is worn around the waist. Other types of holsters include ankle holsters, shoulder holsters, and inside-the-waistband holsters. The type of holster used is determined by factors such as the agent’s body type, the type of firearm being carried, and the agent’s personal preferences.

The FBI also has a number of policies and procedures in place regarding the use of holsters. These policies are designed to ensure the safety of agents and the public. For example, agents are required to wear a holster that is properly fitted and secured. They are also prohibited from carrying firearms in a careless or negligent manner.

The FBI’s use of holsters is an important part of its mission to protect the public. By following its policies and procedures, the FBI can help to ensure that its agents are able to carry firearms safely and effectively.

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