Alien Gear’s New Duty Holster — SHOT Show 2025

in SHOT Show 2025
Alien Gear Level 3 Duty Holster
The Rapid Force Level 3 Duty from Alien Gear.

While perusing the isles of SHOT Show I came across the Alien Gear booth and one of their new holsters caught my eye. The Rapid Force Level 3 Duty for compact lights.

This is the newest addition to their Rapid Force line which also includes models for large lights and no lights. This newest model comes at the perfect time to accommodate the new wave of compact yet high-power lights like the TLR-7 HL-X from Streamlight. 

This holster utilizes two retention methods to hold your gun securely in place. To draw your weapon you simply press down on the hood button which shifts the hood forward. Then you sweep the unlocking lever to the rear. 

Alien Gear Level 3 Duty Holster
The hood flies open with a push of the button on the Alien Gear Rapid Force Level 3 Duty holster.

I have used several level two and three retention holsters and I can honestly say this is one of the most intuitive and ergonomic to operate. The two steps of the retention deactivation are almost unnoticed in my natural draw pattern. 

The rapid Force 3 is constructed of rigid injection molded plastic which gives it a robust feel. Both the hood button and unlocking lever feel sturdy and offer just the right amount of resistance to operate. 

Alien Gear Level 3 Duty Holster
Both controls feel sturdy and durable on the Alien Gear Rapid Force Level 3 Duty Holster.

SEE ALSO: Safariland Incog X IWB Holster Overview

Alien Gear offers a variety of mounts for their holsters including their own quick detach mount. If you already use Safriland’s QLS system, no worries, Alien Gear has an adapter. 

From the little time I spent with this holster, it seems like a winner, and apparently, others think so too. While talking at their booth I heard that the South Carolina Highway Patrol just swapped to the large light version and so did the New York City Police. 

Alien Gear Level 3 Duty Holster
The hood opens wide to clear the pistol and optic on the Alien Gear Level 3 Duty holster.

The new compact light models are currently set to ship in early March and with an MSRP of $190 I think they will sell well. Be sure to keep an eye on the Alien Gear Website for when they drop.

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About the author: Garrett Negen has a wide variety of skills and interests. His profession as an engineer in the steel industry falls right in line with his hands-on approach to his hobbies. Whether it’s ham radio, shooting, hunting, etc., Garrett is always happy when he has a project to work on.

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  • MeSeaHunt January 23, 2025, 7:58 am

    looks like a good choice EXCEPT for those of us who carry a Glock .45…… they all seem to skip that caliber for production!!!

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