When it comes to concealed carry, choosing the right holster is crucial. A holster that doesn’t fit properly or isn’t comfortable can lead to a number of issues, including difficulty drawing your firearm, accidental discharge, and discomfort while carrying. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which type of holster is best suited for your needs.
Types of Concealed Carry Holsters
Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters
IWB holsters are worn inside the waistband of your pants, providing a secure and concealed carry option. They are typically made of leather or Kydex and come in a variety of styles, including those that clip onto your waistband or those that attach to your belt. IWB holsters are comfortable to wear and provide a high level of concealment, but they can be more difficult to draw from quickly.
Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters
OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband of your pants, making them easier to draw from quickly. They are typically made of leather or Kydex and come in a variety of styles, including those that attach to your belt or those that have paddle attachments. OWB holsters are less concealed than IWB holsters, but they are more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Pocket Holsters
Pocket holsters are designed to fit in your pocket, providing a discreet and convenient way to carry your firearm. They are typically made of leather or nylon and come in a variety of sizes to fit different firearms. Pocket holsters are easy to conceal, but they can be more difficult to draw from quickly.
Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder holsters are worn over your shoulder and provide a comfortable and concealed carry option. They are typically made of leather or nylon and come in a variety of styles, including those that have a horizontal or vertical orientation. Shoulder holsters are easy to conceal, but they can be more difficult to draw from quickly.
Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters are worn around your ankle and provide a discreet and concealed carry option. They are typically made of leather or nylon and come in a variety of sizes to fit different firearms. Ankle holsters are easy to conceal, but they can be more difficult to draw from quickly.
Overall, the type of holster you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the type of firearm you are carrying. It is important to choose a holster that is comfortable to wear, provides a high level of concealment, and allows you to draw your firearm quickly and easily when necessary.
Belt Holsters
Belt holsters are a popular choice among gun owners. These holsters attach to your waistband or belt and keep your firearm close to your body for easy access.
One of the biggest advantages of a belt holster is that it provides a secure and stable platform for your firearm. This means that your gun will stay in place and won’t move around while you’re moving or sitting. Additionally, belt holsters are typically very comfortable to wear, especially if you choose one made from high-quality materials.
There are several different types of belt holsters to choose from, including:
- Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters: These holsters sit inside your waistband and provide a low-profile option for concealed carry. They are typically very comfortable and can be worn with a variety of clothing styles.
- Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters: These holsters sit outside your waistband and are great for open carry or concealed carry under a jacket or other outer garment. They provide a high degree of accessibility and can be very comfortable to wear.
- Paddle Holsters: These holsters attach to your waistband using a paddle attachment and are very easy to put on and take off. They are a great option for those who need to quickly remove their firearm, such as law enforcement officers.
Overall, belt holsters are a great option for concealed carry. They provide a secure and stable platform for your firearm, are comfortable to wear, and come in a variety of styles to suit your needs.
Inside the Waistband Holsters
Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry. They are designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants, with the holster itself positioned between your body and your pants. This type of holster is generally considered to be the most comfortable option for concealed carry.
When choosing an IWB holster, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to make sure that the holster fits your firearm properly. This will ensure that your firearm is secure and won’t accidentally fall out of the holster. You also want to make sure that the holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
One advantage of IWB holsters is that they offer a high level of concealment. Because the holster is worn inside your waistband, it is not visible to others. This makes it a great option for those who want to carry their firearm discreetly.
Another advantage of IWB holsters is that they offer a high degree of retention. The holster is designed to hold your firearm securely in place, so you don’t have to worry about it falling out while you are carrying it.
Pocket Holsters
If you prefer to carry your concealed weapon in your pocket, a pocket holster may be the best option for you. Pocket holsters are designed to fit in the front or back pocket of your pants or jacket, providing a discreet and comfortable way to carry your firearm.
When choosing a pocket holster, consider the following factors:
- Size and shape: Make sure the holster fits your gun snugly and securely, without adding too much bulk to your pocket. Look for a holster that is specifically designed for your make and model of firearm.
- Concealment: The holster should keep your gun concealed and prevent it from printing (showing through your clothing).
- Accessibility: You should be able to quickly and easily draw your gun from the holster, without fumbling or struggling.
- Comfort: The holster should be comfortable to wear, with no sharp edges or uncomfortable pressure points.
Some popular types of pocket holsters include:
- Nemesis Pocket Holster: Made from a soft, non-slip material, this holster grips the inside of your pocket to prevent it from moving around. It also has a slick surface on the outside, making it easy to draw your gun quickly.
- DeSantis Nemesis Pocket Holster: Similar to the Nemesis holster, but with added padding for extra comfort.
- Sticky Holster: This holster uses a “sticky” material to adhere to the inside of your pocket, keeping it in place. It also conforms to the shape of your gun for a secure fit.
- Remora Holster: Made from a non-slip material, this holster can be worn inside or outside your pocket. It also has a reinforced mouth to keep the holster open for easy reholstering.
Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters can be a great option for concealed carry, especially if you need to carry a smaller firearm. They work well for those who prefer not to carry a firearm on their waistband or for those who need to wear clothing that makes waistband carry difficult.
When choosing an ankle holster, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the holster is comfortable and fits securely around your ankle. You don’t want it to slide down or move around while you’re carrying your firearm. Look for a holster that has padding or a sweat guard to protect your skin from rubbing against the firearm or the holster.
Second, consider the size and weight of your firearm. An ankle holster is not suitable for larger firearms or those that are heavy. It’s important to choose a holster that is specifically designed for your firearm to ensure a proper fit and retention.
Finally, think about accessibility. Ankle holsters can be more difficult to access quickly than waistband holsters. You’ll need to practice drawing and re-holstering your firearm to ensure you can do so quickly and safely.
Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder holsters are a type of holster that is worn over the shoulder and under the opposite arm. They can be a good option for concealed carry, especially for those who spend a lot of time sitting or driving. Here are some things to consider when choosing a shoulder holster:
- Comfort: Shoulder holsters can be comfortable if they are designed properly. Look for a holster that has adjustable straps and padding to distribute the weight evenly.
- Accessibility: Shoulder holsters can be slower to draw from than other types of holsters. Make sure the holster has a good retention system and that the gun is easy to access when you need it.
- Concealment: Shoulder holsters can be more difficult to conceal than other types of holsters, especially if you are wearing a tight-fitting shirt. Look for a holster that is designed to be low-profile and that fits snugly against your body.
- Size and weight: Shoulder holsters can be bulky and heavy, especially if you are carrying a larger gun. Make sure the holster is designed to fit your specific gun and that it is made from lightweight and durable materials.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Holster
Comfort
Comfort is a critical factor to consider when choosing a holster. You’ll be wearing it for long periods, so it’s essential to choose one that’s comfortable. A comfortable holster should be made of high-quality materials that are soft and breathable. It should also fit your body type and be adjustable to ensure a snug fit.
Concealability
Concealability is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a holster. You want a holster that won’t print or show through your clothing. A good holster should be compact and fit your body type. It should also be designed to minimize the risk of your firearm falling out or shifting around.
Accessibility
Accessibility is also an important factor to consider when choosing a holster. You want a holster that allows you to access your firearm quickly and easily. A holster that requires too much effort to draw your firearm can be dangerous in a self-defense situation. Look for a holster that allows you to draw your firearm quickly and smoothly.
Retention
Retention is the final factor to consider when choosing a holster. You want a holster that keeps your firearm secure and prevents it from falling out. A good holster should have adjustable retention to ensure a secure fit. It should also be designed to prevent accidental discharges.
Conclusion
Choosing the right holster for concealed carry is a personal decision that requires careful consideration and research. By taking the time to find the right holster for you, you can ensure that you are carrying your firearm safely and effectively.