Do I Need a Retention Holster

[conr]

So I can't find a retention paddle holster for my Bodyguard 380. Am I being too cautious wanting a retention holster? In other words, how secure will my gone be without some type of retention?

Thank you.

[SGB]

With the vast majority of quality concealed carry holsters adequate retention is accomplished by the friction created by a good fit.

[SFret]

Alternative. Make sure your holster has a belt hook that wraps around the bottom of the belt. This is good for cell phones, too. I use a simple cloth holster. My .380 Colt Mustang+2 fits real nice in a .22 holster.

[cgiven1]

IMHO a retention holster is only really necessary when open carrying. It will help stop a gun grab. For concealed carry, any quality concealed carry holster will be secure.

[eaccents]

With the vast majority of quality concealed carry holsters adequate retention is accomplished by the friction created by a good fit.

+1

A holster specifically designed for your gun, that will still hold your gun even when you turn the holster upside down, should be more than enough retention for CC.

[CaptnBud]

I have a BG 380 with a Galco Tuck IWB holster and it works well. With a good belt tight enough to keep your pants up everything stays put.

[BIGJOHN621]

I only use a retention holster when carrying in an OWB holster. My "muffin top" provides all the thumb break I need IWB.

[Firefighterchen]

I think it depends on how active your life is. Some things to consider.

1. The more active your life the higher retention you will want.
2. Where on your body you carry. (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 oclock and IWB/OWB)
3. Why you are carrying. (Job requirement vs civilian)
4. Will retention holsters make you more complacent and lower your situational awareness?
5. Will you become profecient in getting your firearm out of its holster whichever level you choose?
6. Do you think someone will get close enough to grab for it?

When I carry on my motorcycle I carry with a level II retention holster. Otherwise I carry level I OWB @ 2 oclock and I keep my SA up. I feel it shouldn't be a 12 point program, and I dont want any obstructions in a life or death situation, when I get my firearm out to defend myself. I try to keep my SA up so no one gets close to my firearm.

[conr]

Thank you for all the great answers. Maybe I'm being to restrictive in wanting retention. I guess my biggest fear is the gun falling out. Not someone grabbing it.