Concealed carry is a deeply personal choice, rooted in the fundamental desire for self-protection and security. Whether you’re a seasoned firearm enthusiast or someone considering carrying for the first time, one crucial aspect often stands between you and your peace of mind: the holster.
A holster is more than a simple accessory; it’s the bridge between your firearm and your readiness for self-defense. It determines how comfortably and discreetly you can carry your firearm while ensuring safe and quick access when needed most.
This comprehensive guide leaves no stone unturned as we explore the intricate world of concealed carry holsters.
From the most popular Inside the Waistband (IWB) and Outside the Waistband (OWB) options to the specialized realms of shoulder, chest, ankle, belly band, and pocket holsters, we take a deep dive into each category. Our aim is simple: to equip you with the knowledge and insights to make informed decisions about your concealed carry setup.
But it doesn’t stop there. We’ll also explore the specific needs of women, the merits of on-body versus off-body carry, and what to look for in an ideal concealed carry holster. We’ll delve into holster materials, understand the concept of positive grip, and demystify the world of holster retention.
So, whether you’re seeking the best concealed carry holsters across various categories or the wisdom to choose the right one for your unique needs, this guide is your ultimate resource.
With safety, comfort, accessibility, and readiness as our guiding principles, let’s embark on this journey together to ensure your concealed carry experience is as secure and seamless as possible.
Summary of Our Top Picks by Category
- Best Inside-the-Waistband Holster: Tenicor CERTUM 3 or Tenicor VELO 4
- Best Outside-the-Waistband Holster: Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Holster
- Best Shoulder Holster: Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System
- Best Chest Holster: Hosking Chest Holster
- Best Ankle Holster: Galco Gunleather Ankle Glove
- Best Belly Band: Crossbreed Belly Band 2.0 Holster
- Best Pocket Holster: Pocket Protector Holster
- Best Concealed Carry Holster for Women: Flashbang Betty 2.0 Holster
- Best Modular System Holster: Crossbreed A.R.M.S. Holster
Best Concealed Carry Holster: IWB Holsters
Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters have become a popular choice for concealed carry enthusiasts due to their ability to provide effective concealment without sacrificing accessibility. As the name suggests, IWB holsters are designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants or shorts, positioning the firearm discreetly against your body.
This type of concealed carry holster offers numerous advantages, such as reduced printing (the visible outline of the firearm), easy access to your firearm, and enhanced comfort for extended wear.
Best Concealed Carry Holsters: OWB Holsters
Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters offer a versatile and accessible solution for concealed carry practitioners who prefer to keep their firearm comfortably outside the waistband of their pants or skirt. OWB holsters are known for their ease of use, quick draw capabilities, and adaptability to various firearm types.
Unlike Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters, OWB holsters are positioned on the exterior of your clothing, allowing for quick and unencumbered access to your firearm. However, this comes with the trade-off that OWB holsters aren’t nearly as easy to conceal as IWB holsters.
Best Concealed Carry Holsters: Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder holsters represent a classic and versatile concealed carry method, offering an alternative to traditional waistband carry options. These holsters are designed to be worn comfortably over the shoulders, with the firearm typically positioned horizontally or diagonally across the torso.
Shoulder holsters are favored for their ease of access, especially when seated or driving, making them a popular choice among law enforcement and those who spend long hours in a seated position.
Best Concealed Carry Holster: Chest Holsters
Chest holsters represent a specialized and practical approach to concealed carry, designed to provide firearm accessibility in a unique and comfortable way.
Worn across the chest, these holsters offer a secure and easily accessible method for carrying your firearm while keeping it readily available for quick deployment.
Chest holsters are particularly favored by outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and hunters, as they provide a secure and hands-free carry option, ensuring that your firearm is readily available in wilderness and remote environments.
Best Concealed Carry Holsters: Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters offer a discreet and inconspicuous method of concealed carry. However, they don’t keep your gun holster very accessible, so ankle holsters aren’t the best type of concealed carry gun holster for a primary weapon. However, they’re great for carrying a backup firearm or a secondary defensive option comfortably concealed.
These gun holsters are also ideal for those situations where waistband carry may not be practical, such as when wearing fitted clothing or seated for extended periods. Ankle holsters provide a unique blend of accessibility and deep concealment, making them popular among law enforcement professionals, undercover agents, and individuals who prioritize discreet carry.
Best Concealed Carry Holster: Belly Bands
Belly bands offer a versatile and adaptable solution for concealed carry, appealing to individuals who seek both comfort and concealability in their chosen carry method.
These innovative gun holsters are designed to wrap snugly around the wearer’s torso, providing a discreet and secure means of carrying a firearm, spare magazines, or other essential items. Belly bands offer a unique blend of deep concealment, allowing the wearer to discreetly carry their firearm without the need for specialized clothing or bulky holsters.
Whether you’re a seasoned concealed carrier or new to the world of carrying firearms, our exploration of belly bands in this section will provide valuable insights into their features, benefits, and considerations, helping you make an informed choice for your concealed carry needs.
Best Concealed Carry Holsters: Pocket Holsters
Pocket holsters represent a convenient and discreet concealed carry option, offering firearm owners an inconspicuous way to carry their microcompact handguns safely and comfortably.
Designed to fit neatly inside a pocket, these holsters keep the firearm secure, minimize printing, and provide quick access when needed. However, they’re obviously limited in the size of guns that they can accommodate and can be prone to printing if not well designed.
These gun holsters are particularly popular for everyday carry (EDC) due to their simplicity and versatility, making them a preferred choice for those seeking a low-profile and easily accessible method of concealed carry.
Best Concealed Carry Holsters for Women
Concealed carry holsters designed specifically for women have seen a surge in popularity as more women choose to carry firearms for self-defense. While almost all holsters are technically unisex, they’re generally designed with men in mind.
But just as there is a list of best handguns for women, the following holsters are tailored to address the unique needs and preferences of women, offering comfort, concealability, and accessibility.
A Cautionary Note on Off-Body Carry:
While many lists of women’s concealed carry holsters include stylish carry purses and bags, I won’t recommend any form of off-body carry. Off-body carry refers to carrying a firearm in a bag or purse separate from the body, and while it may seem convenient, it poses significant safety concerns.
One of the primary drawbacks of off-body carry is that it can lead to reduced firearm control and accessibility. The bag or purse may be separated from the carrier, increasing the risk of theft or loss. More importantly, during a critical self-defense situation, retrieving the firearm from a bag can be slower and less reliable than drawing from a securely holstered position on the body.
Additionally, the separation between the firearm and the carrier raises the possibility of unauthorized access, especially if the bag is left unattended or falls into the wrong hands.
For these reasons, it is generally recommended that women, like all concealed carriers, prioritize on-body carry methods, such as holsters designed for various carry positions, to ensure their safety and readiness in self-defense scenarios.
Best Concealed Carry Holster: Modular Holster Systems
Modular Holster Systems provide a versatile and adaptable approach to concealed carry. These systems typically consist of a base platform and various interchangeable components that allow you to configure the holster to your specific needs. This flexibility makes them a popular choice among concealed carriers who want a single platform that can accommodate multiple carry methods and firearm types.
What to Look for in a Concealed Carry Holster
Selecting the right concealed carry holster is a critical decision for anyone who carries a firearm for self-defense. A holster is not just an accessory; it’s a crucial component of your self-defense toolkit. The perfect holster should offer a delicate balance between comfort, accessibility, retention, and concealability while ensuring safe firearm handling.
In this section, we’ll discuss the essential factors to consider when choosing a concealed carry holster. From carry position to trigger coverage, material choices, and concealability, we’ll provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
Whether you’re new to concealed carry or a seasoned practitioner, understanding these key considerations will help you select the perfect holster that suits your lifestyle, body type, and firearm choice while prioritizing safety and readiness.
Carry Position
The carry position refers to where you’ll place the holster on your body and is a crucial decision that affects both comfort and weapon accessibility. Common carry positions include:
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Appendix Carry: Positioned in the front of the body, it offers rapid access but can be uncomfortable when sitting for extended periods. Be mindful of holster comfort and the risk of muzzle direction towards sensitive areas.
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Strong-Side Carry: Typically positioned on the hip, it provides good accessibility and comfort for many individuals. The holster should match your dominant hand and maintain concealment with various clothing choices.
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Small of the Back (SOB) Carry: Positioned in the lower back area, SOB carry offers excellent concealment. However, it can be uncomfortable while sitting, and drawing from this position may be challenging in high-stress situations.
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Shoulder Carry: Ideal for those who prefer an alternative to waistband carry. Ensure the shoulder harness is adjustable and comfortable, allowing for discreet carry under clothing.
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Ankle Carry: Suitable for small backup firearms, it offers deep concealment. Look for an ankle holster with a secure strap system to prevent shifting during movement.
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Belly Band Carry: Versatile and accommodating of various positions, a belly band holster should offer adjustable retention and comfort. It’s essential to ensure it conceals well and stays in place.
Selecting the right carry position depends on your body shape, lifestyle, and comfort level. Trying different positions can help you determine the best fit for your wants and needs.
Trigger Coverage
Trigger coverage is non-negotiable, unless you have a specific use case where you need the gun out of the holster. The vast majority of gun owners will not be in these situations. A proper holster must completely cover the trigger guard of your firearm to prevent accidental discharges. Ensure that the holster you choose securely encases the trigger.
Positive Grip
When drawing your firearm, you must be able to establish a positive grip immediately.
A “positive grip” refers to securing a firm grip on a firearm when drawing it from a holster or handling it. It means that when you reach for your firearm, your hand can quickly and confidently establish a grip without fumbling or uncertainty. Test the holster to ensure a smooth and consistent draw.
Having a positive grip is essential for several reasons:
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Safety: A positive grip ensures that you have full control over the firearm from the moment you begin to draw it. This reduces the risk of accidents or unintentional discharges.
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Speed: In self-defense situations, speed is critical. With a positive grip, you can draw your firearm efficiently and get on target faster.
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Accuracy: A secure grip on the firearm allows for better control, which translates to improved accuracy when aiming and firing.
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Confidence: Knowing you can establish a strong grip without hesitation boosts your confidence and readiness when carrying a concealed firearm.
In practice, achieving a positive grip involves consistent training and practice, so your hand naturally and automatically finds the correct position on the firearm’s grip when needed. Different holsters and carry positions may require slight adjustments to your drawing technique to ensure a positive grip every time.
Retention
Holster retention refers to the mechanism that keeps your firearm secure within the holster. It can range from passive (friction-based) retention to active (mechanical) retention. The level of retention should be balanced to provide both security and quick access. You should be able to draw your firearm easily with the right force while keeping it secure when not needed.
Material
Holsters are made from various materials, each with its pros and cons.
Kydex:
Kydex holsters are renowned for their durability, offering excellent resistance to wear, tear, and impact. They provide a high retention level due to their rigid construction, securely holding the firearm in place until intentionally drawn.
Kydex holsters are lightweight, making them comfortable for everyday carry without adding significant bulk. Moreover, they resist moisture, safeguarding your firearm from corrosion.
Kydex can be easily molded and customized to fit specific firearm models precisely. However, some users find them less comfortable than holsters made of more flexible materials, and Kydex holsters can produce a distinct noise when the firearm is reholstered, which may not be ideal in certain situations.
Leather:
Leather holsters offer exceptional comfort as they tend to conform to the wearer’s body shape over time. They also possess a classic and traditional appearance that many users appreciate. Depending on the design, leather holsters can provide good retention while still allowing for a smooth draw.
However, they require regular maintenance, including cleaning and conditioning, to prevent drying out and losing their shape. New leather holsters may have a break-in period to become more comfortable and provide optimal retention.
Additionally, leather holsters tend to be bulkier than Kydex, which can impact concealability, and may have less retention, particularly if they lack an active retention mechanism.
Nylon:
Nylon holsters are often budget-friendly and lightweight, making them comfortable for extended wear. They come in various styles and can accommodate a wide range of firearm models. Nylon holsters are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance.
However, they typically offer less retention compared to Kydex or leather, relying more on friction to hold the firearm in place. While durable, nylon may not be as long-lasting as Kydex or leather, especially under heavy use.
The flexibility of nylon can also lead to printing (visible firearm outline) under clothing, which may affect concealment.
Hybrid (Combination of Materials):
Hybrid holsters offer a balance of various material benefits. For instance, a Kydex shell on a leather backing combines the rigidity and retention of Kydex with the comfort of leather. These holsters can be tailored to provide a balance of comfort, retention, and durability to suit the user’s preferences. However, some hybrid holsters can be more complex and may require more maintenance than single-material holsters.
Selecting the right holster material hinges on personal priorities, such as comfort, retention, durability, and maintenance. Each material boasts distinct strengths and weaknesses, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when making your selection.
Concealability
Obviously, concealability is absolutely essential for a CCW holster. Several factors contribute to the concealability of a holster. The holster’s design plays a crucial role, with options that minimize bulk and feature low-profile designs being ideal for discreet carry.
In addition, the size and shape of the holster should be chosen carefully to match the firearm, reducing unnecessary bulk that could lead to printing—a visible outline of the firearm through clothing.
Lastly, clothing choices matter significantly. Loose-fitting shirts, jackets, or concealment garments can help obscure the firearm, contributing to effective concealment. While this is primarily on your own clothing choices and not the holster itself, holster placement and ride height can also be adjusted to optimize concealability based on your body type and clothing style.
Achieving effective concealability often involves experimentation and tailoring your setup to your unique needs and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
I hope this guide helps you. It’s my goal to save you time and money. You don’t want to be another guy or girl with a box of holsters in your closet that you don’t use.
There are so many concealed carry holster choices on the market that it can be overwhelming. We’ve tested many of the top holsters, and these are the best based on our testing.
Again, here are our top picks based on category:
- Best Inside-the-Waistband Holster: Tenicor CERTUM 3 or Tenicor VELO 4
- Best Outside-the-Waistband Holster: Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Holster
- Best Shoulder Holster: Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System
- Best Chest Holster: Hosking Chest Holster
- Best Ankle Holster: Galco Gunleather Ankle Glove
- Best Belly Band: Crossbreed Belly Band 2.0 Holster
- Best Pocket Holster: Pocket Protector Holster
- Best Concealed Carry Holster for Women: Flashbang Betty 2.0 Holster
- Best Modular System Holster: Crossbreed A.R.M.S. Holster
Ultimately, you will need to try them out and see if they work for your body type, carry position, and comfort level, among other things.
Have any questions? Let me know in the comments section below.
