Choosing the right concealed carry holster is essential for safety and comfort. To find a good one, consider your needs and preferences and research.
A good holster should be made of sturdy material that covers the trigger and protects it from accidental discharges. It should also be comfortable to wear.
Know Your Needs
A holster is an essential accessory for any gun owner. It’s a tool that can help you defend yourself and others, so it needs to be high-quality and durable. Choosing the right one for your specific pistol can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Research can ensure you get a holster that will suit your needs.
The most common materials for holsters are leather, polymer (such as Kydex), and nylon. Each has its benefits and drawbacks. For example, a nylon holster may not offer the best retention or consistent draw. However, it’s often affordable and comfortable enough to be concealed inside the waistband. Look for a holster with a sight channel, which protects the sights from cuts while drawing and reholstering your weapon.
Know Your Gun
The most important aspect of good concealed carry holsters is that they fit your handgun well. That can mean a snug fit that “grabs” the gun or one that uses friction, shape molding, retention screw pressure, or a combination of all three to keep the firearm from just walking right out.
The holster should also ensure the trigger guard is fully covered to prevent accidental discharges when you draw your pistol. This is another non-negotiable.
Many holsters use Kydex or Boltaron, both nearly identical plastics, to give the holster a solid, reliable foundation. Others are molded nylon, and more are hybrid holsters with a base that a molded shell attaches to. The material used will affect durability, cost, and retention. You want a durable and affordable option, but not at the expense of quality retention or fit.
Know Your Style
Choosing the right holster is all about balance: you want to draw your weapon quickly and easily without struggling with it, but you also need to ensure that it is secure enough not to fall out if you are active. It’s best to try out different holsters to see what works for you.
For example, the no-fuss, simple holster offers excellent security and fits various gun models. Another great option features a slim design and adjustable retention.
Another essential feature to look for is trigger coverage. A good holster should completely encase the trigger to help prevent accidental discharges. This is especially important if you have an IWB holster, as it can be challenging to reach your firearm if it isn’t covered properly.
Know Your Budget
Whether in a law enforcement context or for self-defense, the right holster is essential to carrying your firearm. But with so many options, it can take time to decide. Some offer a wide range of quality holsters designed for all types of concealed carry, including inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), appendix, cross-draw, and shoulder. They’re made from leather or Kydex, a tough thermoplastic that can be heat-molded to fit specific firearms and offer excellent retention. Some models also include a hybrid design, which combines a leather backer for comfort against the skin and a Kydex shell to hold your gun.
Please test it out before buying to ensure you’re getting the best holster for your money. Please put it on and wear it through a typical day, preferably while doing physical activity.
Try It Out
When choosing a concealed carry holster, it is essential to try it out to ensure it fits correctly and is comfortable for you to wear. Covering the trigger guard is also necessary because an exposed one can easily be bumped and cause a negligent discharge.
A Kydex or leather holster specifically molded for your firearm will offer the best retention. This is especially important if you choose an IWB holster since a loose gun can fall out of the waistband and easily be stolen by someone else.
Consider a holster that adjusts the retention with a paddle or lever. This can help you find the right balance between concealment and speed of draw.
