Navigating the Holster Market: 8 Considerations in Choosing the Perfect Concealed Carry Option

When it comes to concealed carry holsters, the choices can be overwhelming. To assist you in making an educated decision, let’s delve into essential factors to consider when selecting your ideal holster. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to choose the ultimate concealed carry holster that aligns with your specific needs.

IWB

• Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters prioritize concealment, albeit potentially sacrificing some comfort.

• IWBs excel in warmer months, especially without outer layers, while still effectively concealing your firearm.

OWB

• Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters are less discreet, requiring covering garments like jackets for full concealment.
• OWBs are easier to wear and ideal for colder months, offering straightforward accessibility.

A crucial aspect to consider when evaluating holsters is their ability to remain discreet beneath your clothing. Even if a holster boasts exceptional retention and comfort, it’s essential that it doesn’t create a conspicuous bulge that draws attention while you’re wearing it.

In the realm of concealment with holsters, it’s valuable to prioritize adjustability. This allows you to customize the angle and height of the holster to seamlessly meld with your body and attire. Additionally, the material of the holster plays a significant role. For instance, kydex holsters conform snugly to the gun’s shape without introducing noticeable bulk, thus contributing to effective concealment.

If it isn’t comfortable, you’re not going to wear it. When trying out holsters, pay close attention to what construction and carry position are most comfortable for your lifestyle. If you’re new to wearing one, it might take some time to get used to it

3. Ensuring Retention

Another important consideration when choosing a holster is how well it retains the gun. The bottom line is that if your holster won’t hold your gun securely when moving or running, you shouldn’t use it. A gun falling on the ground is a danger to everyone.

As we say in class, there is no such thing as speed re-holstering. But you should choose a holster that allows you to re-holster your firearm safely and efficiently should you need to.

Quality demands an up-front investment, but will ultimately save you money. Opt for renowned manufacturers offering top-notch holsters, regardless of design or material.

6. Proper Fit

One-size-fits-all holsters house just about any pistol. Many inexpensive nylon holsters claim they’re one-size-fits-all, but do they do it well? The short answer is “No.” Here’s why:

• The fit will be too tight or too loose. Retention will be all over the place, and they won’t be as concealable as possible.
• Holsters that fit any gun have their place, but that place is not on your person when you need to conceal a firearm.
• Opt for holsters molded to your specific pistol model – Kydex excels in this aspect. There’s no doubt that you can mold leather too, but it will be thicker and not as detailed as a molded Kydex holster.

To be considered safe for carry, your holster needs to completely cover the trigger guard.
We recommend that the trigger guard is completely covered by a material that does not flex,
such as Kydex. This greatly reduces the risk of any foreign object pressing against the trigger from the outside of the holster.

Your pistol can’t defend you if you’ve left it at home. Find options that are easy to don and doff, fitting under various attire. Prioritize proper fit for comfortable, concealable, and secure use over time.

If everything fits properly, you will have a comfortable and concealable holster that’s easy to draw and easy to re-holster. The gun won’t fall out, and it will serve you safely for years to come.