I am looking into purchasing a few different Raven Concealment holsters. Due to the long wait time (thanks Magpul…), I will actually be purchasing a holster for a gun I do not own yet (M&P 9, full size).
Here’s the question…
Will the light-compatable model provide adequate retention without a light equiped? When I do purchase the M&P, I probably will not have the available funds to get a light at that very moment, but I would like to have a holster and mags at the very least, and the light would come shortly thereafter.
Also, as a side note, but still related, will a 1911 light compatable holster retain a 1911 without a light affixed? I only differentiate because of the slimmer profile of the 1911. I would like to buy one holster for each gun that can fill all roles (I know, crazy) but the 1911 will not be recieving a Dawson rail for quite some time yet…
The Ravens (and most tac light holsters for that matter) need the light attached to retain the weapon. If you think about it, light is the widest part when the weapon/light are in the holster together, so the holster is holding more onto the light then your weapon. When you remove the light, the weapon is able to rock backwards and jiggle around due to the void left by the light.
If you’re just standing there and working on drawing from the holster then you can get away with not having the light attached.
If you’re actually moving or doing anything other than standing still i would NOT recommend carrying a loaded pistol in an RCS holster without the light attached if that is the way the holster is set up.
Good luck with your purchase, you will love your new holster.