How to Replace Retention Hardware on Your Dara Holster: A Complete Guide

Maintaining your gear is critical, especially when it comes to your holster. Your holster's retention system is what keeps your firearm secure, whether you're carrying daily, training on the range, or competing in a match. At Dara Holsters, we take retention seriously, which is why we offer durable, adjustable retention systems and sell spare retention hardware for those who need to refresh or replace components.

In this article, we'll walk you through how to replace or install retention hardware using a Dara Holsters replacement kit, explain how our Level 1 and Level 2 retention systems work, and answer the most common questions about holster retention.

We'll also feature our step-by-step video tutorial so you can follow along visually.

What is Retention Hardware?

Retention hardware includes the screws, posts, and rubber grommets that secure the two halves of a Kydex or Boltaron holster and apply pressure around your firearm. This pressure is what provides the passive retention—the 'click' you feel when you holster your weapon.

At Dara Holsters, every holster comes equipped with a military-grade adjustable rubber retention system. These components are tough, long-lasting, and designed to provide consistent retention under a variety of conditions. But like all gear, they can wear out over time or become lost if not properly maintained.

That’s why we offer replacement retention hardware kits on our website, and why we've made it easy for you to swap out the old and install the new.

When Should You Replace Your Retention Hardware?

While our holsters are built to last, there are a few signs it might be time to replace your hardware:

• You've lost a screw or grommet from regularly backing out your screws.
  
  
• The rubber grommets on an older holster are cracked, compressed, or dry-rotted.
  
  
• You're building a backup kit and want fresh retention on-hand.
  
  

Some shooters also keep extra hardware on hand just in case something goes missing during competition or field use.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace Retention Hardware

Check out the full video tutorial below or follow the steps outlined here.

Watch the Video: How to Replace Retention Hardware on Your Dara Holster

What You Need:

• Dara Holsters retention hardware kit (includes screws, posts, and rubber grommets)
  
  
• Phillips head screwdriver
  
  
• Clean workspace
  
  

Step 1: Remove Old Hardware

Carefully unscrew the existing retention screws and remove the grommets. Set them aside or discard them if they’re worn out.

Step 2: Identify the Grommet Orientation

Each grommet has two holes: one larger, one smaller. The larger hole should face down toward the holster body, resting against the post. This orientation ensures the smaller hole grips the screw tightly.

Step 3: Insert New Grommets

Drop the new grommets into place, making sure they are seated correctly with the large side down.

Step 4: Insert the Screws

Push the retention screws through the outer shell and into the grommets. It may feel snug—that’s intentional. The grommet is designed to grab the screw and prevent it from backing out unintentionally.

Step 5: Tighten and Test

Use your Phillips screwdriver to tighten the screws until they're flush with the back of the post. Don’t over-tighten. Once installed, insert your firearm and test the retention. Adjust as needed.

If the firearm draws too easily, tighten slightly. If it's difficult to draw, back the screws out in small increments.

Understanding Dara Holsters' Retention Systems

Level 1 Retention (Standard)

Our standard adjustable retention system uses a rubber grommet and screw setup that lets you fine-tune how tightly your holster grips the firearm. It's simple, effective, and field-tested by law enforcement, military personnel, and competitive shooters alike.

To ensure consistency and reliability, we fit test every holster before it ships using the actual firearm and/or weapon-mounted light. We maintain a detailed internal spreadsheet that records the tested draw weight for each firearm model. This quality control process guarantees your holster arrives tuned to proper specs—right out of the box.

Level 2 Retention (Duty Holsters)

Our Level 2 system adds a rotating hood mechanism in addition to the adjustable friction retention. This hood snaps into place over the back of the slide or optic and must be manually released during the draw stroke. It offers added security for duty and open carry setups.

Both systems are covered under our Lifetime Warranty, and if your hardware fails, contact our support team to get it replaced.

Why Use Dara's Retention Hardware?

Our retention hardware isn’t just generic off-the-shelf material — it’s fully engineered by us, specifically for our holsters. Every component in the system is purpose-built to work together seamlessly:

• The screws are designed to fit perfectly within precision-cut holes in our holsters, providing a snug and secure fit.

• The rubber grommets are made from a specific compound and thickness, engineered to compress properly and provide consistent tension — all tailored to our in-house machined molds.

• Every piece is developed to complement the others, ensuring a flawless retention system that holds tight when you need it and releases cleanly when you draw.

This level of precision ensures that your retention won’t fail, even under hard use. It’s the kind of reliability you can only get from gear that’s built as a system — not as a collection of parts.

There are a lot of generic hardware kits on the market—but they’re not built to Dara's spec. Our hardware:

• Screws are precision-machined to match our retention design
  
  
• Uses custom made rubber grommets for long-lasting performance
  
  
• Comes with stainless steel hardware
  
  
• Is covered under warranty for normal use
  
  

If you're using a Dara Holster, stick with parts made for it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if my holster needs new retention hardware?

If you're adjusting the screws regularly and they won’t stay tight, or the draw feels inconsistent, your grommets may be worn. Also, if you’ve lost a screw or feel the holster isn’t holding the firearm like it used to, it’s a good time to replace.

What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 retention?

Level 1 uses adjustable friction-based retention. Level 2 adds a mechanical device (rotating hood) that locks the firearm in place until manually released. Level 2 is often used by law enforcement or for open carry.

Can I add Loctite to my retention screws?

Yes. We recommend using a small amount of Loctite if you prefer a set-and-forget approach. Just make sure your retention is dialed in before applying it.

How tight should my holster retention be?

That depends on your application. For concealed carry, you want a secure fit that still allows a clean draw. For competition or open carry, slightly looser retention may allow for faster presentation. Always test with your actual gear.

Do you offer replacement hardware kits?

Yes. You can purchase retention hardware kits directly from our website. They include the exact screws and grommets we use in production.

Are replacement parts covered under warranty?

If the hardware fails under normal use, yes—we'll replace it under our Lifetime Warranty. If you just need extras or want backups, they’re available for purchase.

Do I need special tools to install new hardware?

Nope. Just a standard Phillips head screwdriver and a clean surface to work on.

Conclusion

Your holster is only as good as its retention. Whether you're dialing in your fit or replacing worn parts, Dara Holsters makes it easy to keep your gear in top condition.

If you're using one of our holsters and notice a change in how your firearm draws or retains, don't wait. Grab a hardware kit, watch the video, and give your setup a quick tune-up.

Your gear—and your safety—deserve it.

Have questions? Reach out to our support team at support@daraholsters.com or call the number listed on our website. We’re here to help.

Shop Replacement Retention Hardware Kits → https://daraholsters.com/retention-hardware/