DARA

LIGHT BEARING LEVEL 2 DUTY HOLSTER

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Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster The Dara Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) retention holster designed for pistols equipped…
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Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster

The Dara Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) retention holster designed for pistols equipped with weapon-mounted lights. Built for law enforcement, military personnel, armed security, and professional duty use, it combines adjustable passive retention with an active, spring-operated rotating hood.

Each holster is individually thermoformed in-house from .125" Kydex or Boltaron for a specific firearm and weapon light combination. This firearm-specific construction provides a secure fit, protects the trigger guard, and accommodates compatible slide-mounted optics and suppressor-height sights.

Two Levels of Retention

Passive retention: Dara's adjustable rubber retention system allows the user to fine-tune the resistance during the draw.

Active retention: The rotating hood locks over the firearm until the thumb-operated release is depressed. The spring-loaded hood then rotates forward, helping clear loose garments and providing a consistent draw stroke.

Unlike holsters that use an aftermarket retention hood, Dara's Level 2 system was engineered in-house as a complete duty holster. Its retention components, hardware, and holster body are designed to work together.

Adjustable for Your Duty Setup

The Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is compatible with the Dara Level 2 Control Kit, allowing users to customize the thumb release for their hand size, gloves, and personal preference.

Compatible Dara duty attachments, including the DBL2 and DBL2-L, provide options for adjusting ride height, cant, and clearance from body armor. The Bridge Adapter also supports compatible third-party mounting systems.

Every holster is manufactured and fit tested in-house and backed by Dara's Lifetime Warranty.

Key Features

  • Durable Construction: Manufactured from .125" Kydex or Boltaron with black oxide coated stainless steel hardware and purpose-blended injection-molded components.
  • Adjustable Retention: Adjustable rubber passive retention combined with an active, spring-operated rotating hood. The Level 2 Control Kit provides additional thumb release customization.
  • Optics & Sight Compatibility: Designed to accommodate compatible slide-mounted optics and suppressor-height sights. Regular and Large Hood options provide clearance for different optic heights.
  • Customizable Draw: Adjustable ride height and cant with compatible mounting attachments. An optional leg strap provides additional stability.
  • Attachment Options: Choose between compatible DBL2 and DBL2-L mounting configurations. These attachments provide clearance for body armor and accommodate belt widths from 1.5" to 2.25".
  • Third-Party Compatibility: The Bridge Adapter allows compatible Dara holsters to connect with supported third-party belt attachments.
  • Made in the USA: Each holster is manufactured and fit tested in Dara's North Carolina facility.
  • Weapon Light Compatibility: Available for specific firearm and weapon light combinations. See our supported firearms and compatibility information.

Important Fitment Information

Please specify your exact firearm model and weapon light when ordering to avoid fitment issues. All custom Duty Holsters are non-refundable.

Important: Weapon lights that are not explicitly listed in the product dropdown menu WILL NOT fit.

For additional optic sizing guidance, see How to Measure for the Correct Hood Size.

Light-Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster Specifications & Compatibility

The Dara Light-Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is manufactured for specific firearm and weapon light combinations. Review the specifications and compatibility information below before selecting your holster configuration.

Technical Specifications

Holster Type Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) Level 2 Duty Holster
Retention System Active spring-operated rotating hood and adjustable rubber passive retention
Shell Material Kydex or Boltaron
Shell Thickness .125 inch
Hardware Black oxide coated stainless steel
Weapon Light Compatibility Specific to the firearm and weapon light combination selected when ordering
Optic Compatibility Compatible with many slide-mounted optics; correct hood and optic cut depend on optic dimensions
Suppressor-Height Sights Compatible with supported suppressor-height sights
Mounting Options DBL2 and DBL2-L configurations with additional compatible mounting accessories
Ride Height Adjustable with compatible mounting attachments
Cant Adjustment Adjustable with compatible DBL2 and DBL2-L attachments
Belt Width Compatibility 1.5 to 2.25 inches for listed Dara duty attachments
Manufacturing North Carolina, USA
Warranty Dara Lifetime Warranty; terms and exclusions apply

Firearm & Weapon Light Compatibility

Each light-bearing holster is designed for the firearm and weapon light combination selected during ordering. Not all firearm models support every weapon light.

Component Compatibility Information
Firearm Select the exact manufacturer and firearm model from the available product options.
Weapon Light Select the exact supported weapon light for your firearm. Different weapon light models are not necessarily interchangeable.
Slide-Mounted Optics Compatible with many red dot optics. Hood clearance and optic cut must be selected appropriately.
Suppressor-Height Sights Designed to accommodate supported suppressor-height sights.
Compensators & Threaded Barrels Designed to support threaded barrels. Customer can choose a longer barrel length within the same model series to cover or holster may allow threaded barrel to pass through the bottom. Compensators not exceeding the height or width of the frame/slide may also be accommodated within or may ass through the bottom of the holster. Rail mounted compensators are not accommodated.
Aftermarket Frames Not accommodated unless specified in our drop down menu.
Use Without Weapon Light Holster is designed to fit with exact WML attached.

Retention Hood & Optic Clearance

Dara offers two rotating hood sizes to accommodate different optic heights. Measure from the top of the firearm's slide to the highest point of the optic.

Configuration Fitment Guidance
Regular Hood Accommodates supported optics measuring up to 1.2 inches tall from the top of the slide.
Large Hood Required for supported optics taller than 1.2 inches.
Trijicon SRO / RMR HD Select the deeper optic cut option when ordering.
Other Optics Check optic dimensions and select the appropriate hood configuration. If your optic falls between hood sizes, Dara recommends sizing up.

Important: Optic height is not the only factor affecting fitment. Optic housing shape, mounting position, and firearm configuration may also affect clearance.

Mounting Attachment Comparison

Dara's mounting attachments allow users to customize their holster position for their belt, body armor, and other equipment.

Attachment Description
DBL2 Shorter aluminum drop hanger with adjustable cant and belt width.
DBL2-L Longer aluminum drop hanger offering additional drop and ride-height adjustment.
ALQD Quick Disconnect Allows compatible Dara holsters to be detached and transferred between supported mounting configurations.
Bridge Adapter Provides compatibility with supported third-party belt attachment systems. Learn more about the Bridge Adapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster Accommodate My RDS Sight?

Yes. Dara offers two rotating hood sizes to accommodate most slide-mounted optics, with some exceptions. Forward-mounted optics such as the Trijicon RMR HD and Trijicon SRO are also supported with the appropriate deeper optic cut.

Will This Light-Compatible Holster Fit Any Weapon-Mounted Light?

No. This holster is made to order for the specific firearm and weapon light combinations listed in the product dropdown menu. Weapon lights not listed as compatible will not fit.

Who Uses a Light Bearing Level 2 Retention Holster?

Light-bearing Level 2 Duty Holsters are commonly used by law enforcement officers, military personnel, armed security professionals, and competitive shooters who carry firearms equipped with weapon-mounted lights.

When Should Someone Use a Light-Compatible Level 2 Retention Holster?

A Level 2 retention holster is designed for applications where additional firearm retention is needed, including duty assignments, training, and activities involving sprinting, climbing, or maneuvering around obstacles. Light-bearing configurations accommodate supported weapon-mounted lights.

Can I Adjust the Retention on My Level 2 Duty Holster?

Yes. Dara's adjustable rubber retention system allows users to fine-tune passive retention. The active rotating hood provides an additional retention mechanism.

Can I Customize the Thumb Release?

Yes. The Dara Level 2 Control Kit offers different thumb control configurations to accommodate user preference, hand size, and gloves.

Can I Use This Holster With Body Armor?

Yes. Compatible Dara mounting attachments, including the DBL2 and DBL2-L, provide different ride-height and clearance options for use with body armor and other duty equipment. Actual clearance depends on the user's equipment and mounting configuration.

Does Dara Offer a Warranty?

Yes. Dara's Level 2 Duty Holsters are backed by a Lifetime Warranty, subject to the applicable warranty terms and exclusions.


Built for Professional Duty Use

The Dara Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster combines firearm-specific construction, adjustable retention, optic compatibility, and multiple mounting options in a system designed for professional use.

Contact Dara Holsters for assistance with firearm fitment, weapon light compatibility, or information about our Law Enforcement and Military Discount.

Dara Lifetime Guarantee
Our gear is built to last a lifetime but in the event it becomes damaged or defective we will repair or replace your Dara-manufactured and branded products- excluding apparel, patches, and stickers- for free. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a new, current generation product of equal or greater value.
521 reviews
  • Level 2 Duty Holster 5

    Posted by Russell on Oct 12, 2026

    Fit and finish of the holster for my DR920 were spot on. I've already taken it to the range, and as always, function was flawless.

  • Level 2 light hearing holster 5

    Posted by Jon Bond on Sep 02, 2026

    Great holster very pleased with my purchase. I was having trouble finding a duty holster to fit my Glock 19x with a RMR HD.

  • Holster 5

    Posted by Enzo Gorlami on Sep 02, 2026

    This is by far the nicest holster I have ever owned, dara knocked it out of the park. I purchased the dbl/alqd and installed it to my belt and I was absolutely shocked at the quality, fit and finish. No doubt will be me go to company fory next IWB holster and the DBL/L mount for just a longer drop on the leg. I absolutely love the way it feels drawing and the simple design of the hood lock and draw motion is superb. If your looking for your next holster look no further as this will be the last one you'll need.

  • Level 2 light bearing duty holster 5

    Posted by Jason Bennett on Aug 29, 2026

    I recently switched to Dara after 20+ years of using Safariland holsters for work and competition and I have zero regrets. The fit, finish and quality is beyond my expectations. The customer service is top notch, I can call and talk to someone vs emailing them and hope that I get a reply sometime before I die. What started as an “I’ll try it and see how it goes” has turned into 3 holsters, mag pouches and accessories. I’d like to thank John and the crew at Dara for making excellent products!! See ya on the range… JB

  • FNX 45 TACTICAL LEVEL II 4

    Posted by John Bonner on Aug 27, 2026

    The FNX 45 Tactical is a new firearm for me so I've have no comparison , but compared to other holsters I have own this is a quality holster and the retention is great without restricting my draw.

  • Thankful for helping a southpaw 5

    Posted by Douglas McFarling on Aug 22, 2026

    Dara you guys rock! As a left hand shooter I've always had to take what I can get. Then I found Dara. Great selection, fabulous quality and crazy quick service. Thank you

  • Perfect fit! 5

    Posted by Matthew Schmitt on Aug 05, 2026

    I needed a quality duty holster with level 2 retention for the range for my HK VP9 tactical. This was a great choice, perfect fit with the light and very fast on shipping!

  • HK VP 9 TLR-1 HOLSTER 5

    Posted by Trevor on Jul 22, 2026

    So far, so good: really enjoying the new holster. I have the quick loop so it’s very quick and easy to take on and off.

  • CZ Shadow 2 holster 5

    Posted by Nat on Jul 22, 2026

    Works for both shadow 2 and also CZ-75 variants!

  • Dara Level 2 duty holster 5

    Posted by J on Jul 18, 2026

    Fast shipping and it fits perfectly. This is my third Dara product and they have earned my business

An example of the double loop and drop offset attachment. the double loop has 2 points of attachment to the belt where the belt feeds through each side. The drop offset is a separate piece that connects the double loop to the holster. the drop offset drops the holster down and offsets the grip from the body.

DOUBLE LOOP + DROP OFFSET

An example of the quick loop and drop offset attachment. the quick loop hinges at the top and clips around the bottom of the belt with locking tabs to secure it in place. The drop offset is a separate piece that connects the quick loop to the holster. the drop offset drops the holster down and offsets the grip from the body.

QUICK LOOP + DROP OFFSET

An example of the dbl2 with spacers. the dbl2 is the shortest of the aluminum drop hangers, offering an adjustable cant and adjustable belt width. the spacers offset the holster from the attachment with just enough clearance to operate the retention system.

DBL2 + SPACERS

example view of the DBL2 with ALQD Quick Disconnect. The DBL2 is the shorter (less drop) of the aluminum attachments, the ALQD allows you to quickly disconnect, swap and reconnect a different holster.

DBL2 + ALQD

An example of the dbl2-l with spacers. the dbl2-l is the longest of the aluminum drop hangers, offering an adjustable cant, adjustable ride height and adjustable belt width. the spacers offset the holster from the attachment with just enough clearance to operate the retention system.

DBL2-L + SPACERS

example view of the DBL2-L with ALQD Quick Disconnect. The DBL2-L is the longest of the aluminum attachments, the ALQD allows you to quickly disconnect, swap and reconnect a different holster.

DBL2-L + ALQD

all of our drop attachments side by side on a belt. left to right: the  dbl2 which provides the shortest drop, the dbl2-l on the highest setting which has almost the same drop height as the double loop and drop offset attachment, the middle features the dbl2-l on the lowest setting which provides the lowest drop, then comes the double loop and drop offset with a similar drop as the dbl2-l on its higher setting, and to the far right is the double loop with straight drop- on option we no longer offer.

LEVEL 3 HOLSTER COMING SOON: CLICK FOR D3 UPDATES

Description

Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster

The Dara Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) retention holster designed for pistols equipped with weapon-mounted lights. Built for law enforcement, military personnel, armed security, and professional duty use, it combines adjustable passive retention with an active, spring-operated rotating hood.

Each holster is individually thermoformed in-house from .125" Kydex or Boltaron for a specific firearm and weapon light combination. This firearm-specific construction provides a secure fit, protects the trigger guard, and accommodates compatible slide-mounted optics and suppressor-height sights.

Two Levels of Retention

Passive retention: Dara's adjustable rubber retention system allows the user to fine-tune the resistance during the draw.

Active retention: The rotating hood locks over the firearm until the thumb-operated release is depressed. The spring-loaded hood then rotates forward, helping clear loose garments and providing a consistent draw stroke.

Unlike holsters that use an aftermarket retention hood, Dara's Level 2 system was engineered in-house as a complete duty holster. Its retention components, hardware, and holster body are designed to work together.

Adjustable for Your Duty Setup

The Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is compatible with the Dara Level 2 Control Kit, allowing users to customize the thumb release for their hand size, gloves, and personal preference.

Compatible Dara duty attachments, including the DBL2 and DBL2-L, provide options for adjusting ride height, cant, and clearance from body armor. The Bridge Adapter also supports compatible third-party mounting systems.

Every holster is manufactured and fit tested in-house and backed by Dara's Lifetime Warranty.

Key Features

  • Durable Construction: Manufactured from .125" Kydex or Boltaron with black oxide coated stainless steel hardware and purpose-blended injection-molded components.
  • Adjustable Retention: Adjustable rubber passive retention combined with an active, spring-operated rotating hood. The Level 2 Control Kit provides additional thumb release customization.
  • Optics & Sight Compatibility: Designed to accommodate compatible slide-mounted optics and suppressor-height sights. Regular and Large Hood options provide clearance for different optic heights.
  • Customizable Draw: Adjustable ride height and cant with compatible mounting attachments. An optional leg strap provides additional stability.
  • Attachment Options: Choose between compatible DBL2 and DBL2-L mounting configurations. These attachments provide clearance for body armor and accommodate belt widths from 1.5" to 2.25".
  • Third-Party Compatibility: The Bridge Adapter allows compatible Dara holsters to connect with supported third-party belt attachments.
  • Made in the USA: Each holster is manufactured and fit tested in Dara's North Carolina facility.
  • Weapon Light Compatibility: Available for specific firearm and weapon light combinations. See our supported firearms and compatibility information.

Important Fitment Information

Please specify your exact firearm model and weapon light when ordering to avoid fitment issues. All custom Duty Holsters are non-refundable.

Important: Weapon lights that are not explicitly listed in the product dropdown menu WILL NOT fit.

For additional optic sizing guidance, see How to Measure for the Correct Hood Size.

Light-Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster Specifications & Compatibility

The Dara Light-Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster is manufactured for specific firearm and weapon light combinations. Review the specifications and compatibility information below before selecting your holster configuration.

Technical Specifications

Holster Type Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) Level 2 Duty Holster
Retention System Active spring-operated rotating hood and adjustable rubber passive retention
Shell Material Kydex or Boltaron
Shell Thickness .125 inch
Hardware Black oxide coated stainless steel
Weapon Light Compatibility Specific to the firearm and weapon light combination selected when ordering
Optic Compatibility Compatible with many slide-mounted optics; correct hood and optic cut depend on optic dimensions
Suppressor-Height Sights Compatible with supported suppressor-height sights
Mounting Options DBL2 and DBL2-L configurations with additional compatible mounting accessories
Ride Height Adjustable with compatible mounting attachments
Cant Adjustment Adjustable with compatible DBL2 and DBL2-L attachments
Belt Width Compatibility 1.5 to 2.25 inches for listed Dara duty attachments
Manufacturing North Carolina, USA
Warranty Dara Lifetime Warranty; terms and exclusions apply

Firearm & Weapon Light Compatibility

Each light-bearing holster is designed for the firearm and weapon light combination selected during ordering. Not all firearm models support every weapon light.

Component Compatibility Information
Firearm Select the exact manufacturer and firearm model from the available product options.
Weapon Light Select the exact supported weapon light for your firearm. Different weapon light models are not necessarily interchangeable.
Slide-Mounted Optics Compatible with many red dot optics. Hood clearance and optic cut must be selected appropriately.
Suppressor-Height Sights Designed to accommodate supported suppressor-height sights.
Compensators & Threaded Barrels Designed to support threaded barrels. Customer can choose a longer barrel length within the same model series to cover or holster may allow threaded barrel to pass through the bottom. Compensators not exceeding the height or width of the frame/slide may also be accommodated within or may ass through the bottom of the holster. Rail mounted compensators are not accommodated.
Aftermarket Frames Not accommodated unless specified in our drop down menu.
Use Without Weapon Light Holster is designed to fit with exact WML attached.

Retention Hood & Optic Clearance

Dara offers two rotating hood sizes to accommodate different optic heights. Measure from the top of the firearm's slide to the highest point of the optic.

Configuration Fitment Guidance
Regular Hood Accommodates supported optics measuring up to 1.2 inches tall from the top of the slide.
Large Hood Required for supported optics taller than 1.2 inches.
Trijicon SRO / RMR HD Select the deeper optic cut option when ordering.
Other Optics Check optic dimensions and select the appropriate hood configuration. If your optic falls between hood sizes, Dara recommends sizing up.

Important: Optic height is not the only factor affecting fitment. Optic housing shape, mounting position, and firearm configuration may also affect clearance.

Mounting Attachment Comparison

Dara's mounting attachments allow users to customize their holster position for their belt, body armor, and other equipment.

Attachment Description
DBL2 Shorter aluminum drop hanger with adjustable cant and belt width.
DBL2-L Longer aluminum drop hanger offering additional drop and ride-height adjustment.
ALQD Quick Disconnect Allows compatible Dara holsters to be detached and transferred between supported mounting configurations.
Bridge Adapter Provides compatibility with supported third-party belt attachment systems. Learn more about the Bridge Adapter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster Accommodate My RDS Sight?

Yes. Dara offers two rotating hood sizes to accommodate most slide-mounted optics, with some exceptions. Forward-mounted optics such as the Trijicon RMR HD and Trijicon SRO are also supported with the appropriate deeper optic cut.

Will This Light-Compatible Holster Fit Any Weapon-Mounted Light?

No. This holster is made to order for the specific firearm and weapon light combinations listed in the product dropdown menu. Weapon lights not listed as compatible will not fit.

Who Uses a Light Bearing Level 2 Retention Holster?

Light-bearing Level 2 Duty Holsters are commonly used by law enforcement officers, military personnel, armed security professionals, and competitive shooters who carry firearms equipped with weapon-mounted lights.

When Should Someone Use a Light-Compatible Level 2 Retention Holster?

A Level 2 retention holster is designed for applications where additional firearm retention is needed, including duty assignments, training, and activities involving sprinting, climbing, or maneuvering around obstacles. Light-bearing configurations accommodate supported weapon-mounted lights.

Can I Adjust the Retention on My Level 2 Duty Holster?

Yes. Dara's adjustable rubber retention system allows users to fine-tune passive retention. The active rotating hood provides an additional retention mechanism.

Can I Customize the Thumb Release?

Yes. The Dara Level 2 Control Kit offers different thumb control configurations to accommodate user preference, hand size, and gloves.

Can I Use This Holster With Body Armor?

Yes. Compatible Dara mounting attachments, including the DBL2 and DBL2-L, provide different ride-height and clearance options for use with body armor and other duty equipment. Actual clearance depends on the user's equipment and mounting configuration.

Does Dara Offer a Warranty?

Yes. Dara's Level 2 Duty Holsters are backed by a Lifetime Warranty, subject to the applicable warranty terms and exclusions.


Built for Professional Duty Use

The Dara Light Bearing Level 2 Duty Holster combines firearm-specific construction, adjustable retention, optic compatibility, and multiple mounting options in a system designed for professional use.

Contact Dara Holsters for assistance with firearm fitment, weapon light compatibility, or information about our Law Enforcement and Military Discount.

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