Open Carry is a somewhat controversial topic, but one thing nearly everyone will agree on: You need a second level of Retention if open carry is going to be a habit for you.

A second level of retention is a step that requires deliberate manipulation to draw the pistol, aside from the passive retention that should already be built in. 

Our holsters are molded specifically for the exact firearm you have (providing retention in and of itself), as well as adjustable retention held in the trigger guard. Our  Level 2 Holsters also have an auto throw hood is locked in place until the intuitively located thumb lever is depressed. The hood then rotates with enough force to move loose garment, making your firearm ready when you need it.

As you can see in the pictures above, our Level 2 Retention Holster design is very simple. This holster will not hinder you from being able to draw quickly, should you need to. It will, however, hinder someone else from taking your firearm in a bad situation.

If you have a light or laser on your carry gun, you'll need to check out the Light bearing Level 2 Holster.

Concerned about recent issues regarding space in the trigger guard of light bearing holsters? Jon Dara addresses that in on of our youtube videos below:

In a recent video, Jon from Dara Holsters addresses growing concerns in the firearm community about light-bearing holsters—specifically those made using large-scale injection molding to fit multiple light models. These types of holsters often leave a gap between the trigger guard and the weapon light, which could theoretically allow someone with very small fingers (like a child or petite individual) to access and depress the trigger. This has raised safety concerns, especially for law enforcement or individuals who open carry and may encounter physical confrontations. John explains that Dara Holsters has long been aware of this issue and mitigates it by designing holsters with full magazine release coverage and extremely tight tolerances around the light, minimizing trigger guard exposure even under stress.

This topic is particularly relevant when discussing Level 2 holsters and open carry. Level 2 retention systems are designed to prevent unauthorized access to a firearm, which is critical for anyone carrying openly in public or professional settings. Dara Holsters’ attention to secure fitment around the trigger guard and magazine release, along with the introduction of a taller optic-clearing hood, reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining retention and minimizing risk. While some designs necessitate a small gap for light compatibility, Jon emphasizes that with their custom molds and meticulous design standards, the risk of unauthorized trigger access is drastically reduced—making Dara Holsters a safer choice for those who prioritize retention and real-world usability in their open carry gear.

For more information regarding our Level 2 Retention Holsters, please don't hesitate to contact us via  e-mail!