Drawing and Holstering Safely

Drawing and Holstering Safely

Properly drawing and holstering a firearm is a fundamental skill for armed security officers. The ability to quickly and safely draw a firearm in a high-stress situation can be the difference between life and death. Likewise, holstering must be done correctly to prevent accidental discharges and ensure the firearm remains secure. Security officers must practice these techniques regularly to develop muscle memory and ensure efficient firearm handling.

General Safety Guidelines for Drawing and Holstering

  • Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times.
  • Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
  • Use a quality holster that provides good retention and covers the trigger guard.
  • Practice drawing and holstering with an unloaded firearm before attempting live-fire drills.
  • Avoid excessive movement when drawing to minimize the risk of dropping the firearm or losing control.

Steps for Drawing a Firearm Safely

  1. Establish a Proper Grip
    • Keep your strong-side hand high on the backstrap of the firearm while it is still holstered.
    • Maintain a firm grip before drawing to ensure control.
  2. Clear the Holster
    • Release any retention mechanisms on the holster.
    • Pull the firearm straight up to avoid snagging.
  3. Rotate the Firearm Toward the Target
    • As the firearm clears the holster, rotate it forward while keeping your support hand clear to avoid an accidental injury.
  4. Extend and Acquire Sight Alignment
    • Bring the firearm up to eye level and acquire a proper sight picture.
    • Align your sights on the threat while maintaining a balanced stance.
  5. Finger on the Trigger Only When Ready to Fire
    • Keep your finger off the trigger until you are certain of your target and ready to fire.

Steps for Holstering a Firearm Safely

  1. Assess the Situation
    • Ensure the threat has been neutralized or the need for a drawn firearm has passed.
    • Scan the area for additional threats before re-holstering.
  2. Finger Off the Trigger
    • Keep your trigger finger straight and outside the trigger guard.
  3. Slow and Controlled Movement
    • Do not rush when returning the firearm to the holster.
    • Move deliberately to ensure proper placement and retention.
  4. Avoid Covering Your Own Body
    • Be mindful of your body position and ensure the muzzle does not point at your leg, hand, or torso while holstering.
  5. Secure the Firearm in the Holster
    • Confirm that the firearm is fully seated and retention mechanisms are engaged.
    • Visually check that the holster is properly securing the firearm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Trigger Finger Inside the Trigger Guard – Can result in an accidental discharge when drawing or holstering.
❌ Drawing Too Quickly Without Proper Grip – Can lead to loss of control or dropped firearms.
❌ Failure to Clear Clothing or Holster Retention Straps – May cause the firearm to snag, delaying deployment.
❌ Rushing the Holstering Process – Security officers should never force the firearm into the holster or rush the motion.
❌ Neglecting Situational Awareness – Always be aware of your surroundings before drawing or holstering.

Best Practices for Drawing and Holstering on Duty

✔ Train regularly to develop smooth and safe drawing techniques.
✔ Use a retention holster to prevent unauthorized access to your firearm.
✔ Always re-holster slowly and deliberately to avoid negligent discharges.
✔ Maintain trigger discipline throughout the entire draw and holster process.
✔ Practice in various scenarios, including seated positions, standing, and moving situations.

Mastering safe drawing and holstering techniques is a critical skill for armed security officers. Consistent training and strict adherence to safety rules ensure that a firearm is only deployed when absolutely necessary and is secured properly when not in use.