Wearing a holster is an important part of owning a firearm. Not only does it provide easy access to your weapon, but it also keeps it secure and out of sight. Knowing how to wear a holster properly is essential for anyone who owns a firearm. In this guide, we will discuss the basics of how to wear a holster in a comfortable and secure manner.Holsters are designed to secure a firearm to the body and make it easy to access when needed. There are several types of holsters available, each with different designs and features that suit different needs. The most common types of holsters are inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), shoulder, ankle, pocket, drop leg, small of back and concealed carry purses. The type of holster you choose should depend on how you will be using it as well as your personal preference for comfort and convenience.
Inside the Waistband Holster (IWB): IWB holsters clip or attach inside the waistband of pants or skirts and can be worn in either a strong-side or cross-draw position. They are typically made from leather, nylon, or Kydex and molded to fit specific firearms. IWB holsters provide excellent concealment when worn with a loose fitting top and also allow for an easy draw.
Outside the Waistband Holster (OWB): OWB holsters attach to a belt outside of clothing and provide better accessibility than IWB holsters. They usually come in either leather or Kydex construction and offer good retention as well as rapid deployment with practice. OWB holsters provide better security than IWB but may not be ideal for concealment due to their bulkiness.
Shoulder Holster: Shoulder holsters are designed to be worn across the chest for easy access while seated or standing. They are typically made from leather or nylon materials and feature adjustable straps that allow for comfortable all-day wear. Shoulder holsters offer good concealment when worn with a coat but can be difficult to draw from quickly due to their location on the body.
Ankle Holster: Ankle holsters wrap around the lower leg near the ankle bone and can be used for deep concealment under long pants or skirts. They are typically made from leather or nylon material with adjustable straps that keep them snugly in place while walking or running. Ankle holsters offer good accessibility when seated but may not offer enough support when standing up quickly due to their location on the body.
Pocket Holster: Pocket holsters fit directly into the pocket of pants or skirts for deep concealment without printing through clothing fabric material. They usually feature textured surfaces that help keep them securely in place during draw strokes while also making sure that only your fingers come into contact with your firearm during deployment. Pocket holsters may not offer enough retention if dropped but do provide fast access when needed in close quarters situations like sitting at a restaurant table.
Drop Leg Holster: Drop leg holsters attach to a belt via two straps that wrap around both legs just above the knees allowing for quick access while standing up in tactical situations like running away from danger, shooting on uneven terrain, etc.. These types of holsters usually feature adjustable tension screws and thumb breaks that help ensure secure retention while keeping your firearm securely in place until you need it most.
Small of Back Holster: Small of back (SOB)holsters sit directly behind your hipbone between your belt line and spine offering excellent concealment without printing through fabric material like other holster styles do . These types of holster should only be used if you have adequate muscle memory since drawing from this position can take longer than other styles due to its location on your body . Additionally , they should never be used when seated since they could cause bodily discomfort due to their placement .
Concealed Carry Purses: Concealed carry purses allow you to discreetly carry your handgun while still having plenty of room for other necessary items . These purses feature holster pockets , quick access pockets , adjustable straps ,and other features which make them ideal for everyday use . However , they may not offer enough protection against drops since some models lack structural reinforcement which could lead to accidental discharges if mishandled .
Thigh Holsters: The Different Types
Thigh holsters are a great way to carry a weapon while keeping it hidden. These holsters are designed to be worn at the thigh and securely hold your weapon in place. They come in several different styles, from inside-the-waistband (IWB) to outside-the-waistband (OWB) and even shoulder rigs. Each style has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to find the one that best meets your needs.
Inside-the-Waistband Holsters
Inside-the-waistband thigh holsters are designed to be worn inside your pants or skirt. This type of holster is great for those who want maximum concealment, as they keep the weapon hidden from view. IWB holsters are typically made of leather or nylon and provide good retention while still allowing quick access to your firearm. Some models also come with extra pockets for magazines or other items you may need to carry.
Outside-the-Waistband Holsters
Outside-the-waistband thigh holsters are designed to be worn on the outside of your clothing. This type of holster allows you to easily access your firearm without having to reach into your waistband or pocket. OWB holsters also provide better retention than IWB models, so they can be a good choice for those who need extra security for their weapons. They also tend to be more comfortable than IWB models since they don’t press against the body as much.
Shoulder Rigs
Shoulder rigs are an alternative type of thigh holster that can be worn either inside or outside the waistband. These rigs feature straps that go over the shoulder and around the torso, allowing you to position your firearm in a more comfortable spot on your body. Shoulder rigs also provide excellent retention and allow you quick access to your weapon in an emergency situation.
No matter what type of thigh holster you choose, it’s important that you select one that fits securely and provides enough space for any additional items you may need to carry with you. With so many different types available, there is sure to be one that meets all of your needs and preferences!
Types of Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder holsters are a convenient and comfortable way to carry your handgun. They offer quick access to the gun and provide additional concealment. There are several types of shoulder holsters available, including horizontal, vertical, and cross-draw models. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider what will work best for you.
Horizontal Shoulder Holster
A horizontal shoulder holster is one of the most popular types of holster on the market today. It typically consists of two straps that fit over the shoulders and a holster pouch that hangs from the straps. The pouch is usually positioned at an angle so that it is easy to quickly draw your weapon when needed. Its advantage is that it allows for a natural draw motion, which can help you stay concealed while drawing your weapon.
Vertical Shoulder Holster
A vertical shoulder holster is similar to a horizontal one, but the pouch hangs vertically from the straps instead of horizontally. It is usually positioned in front of the body, which tends to be more comfortable than having it on your side or back. Its advantage is that it provides even better concealment than a horizontal holster because it will not show any bulges when properly worn.
Cross-Draw Shoulder Holster
A cross-draw shoulder holster is designed for those who need easy access to their gun from either their right or left side. It consists of two straps that crisscross over each shoulder and a pouch that hangs in front of the body. This type of holster allows you to draw quickly and easily without having to turn your body away from your target.
When selecting a shoulder holster, it’s important to consider what type will best suit your needs and lifestyle. Different types offer different levels of comfort, concealment, accessibility, and more. But no matter which type you choose, make sure it fits well and provides enough security for your weapon.
Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Holsters
Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are a popular choice among gun owners, as they provide great concealment and comfort. IWB holsters are typically made with leather, Kydex, or nylon, and they come in a variety of sizes to fit different handguns. The holster is designed to sit on the inside of your pants waistband, and it generally has a clip or loop that secures it to the waistband for extra stability. IWB holsters give you the ability to easily draw your firearm when needed, while still providing excellent concealment of your weapon.
An important factor to consider when looking at IWB holsters is comfort. A well-made holster should be comfortable to wear all day without any discomfort or chafing. It should also fit securely around your waist without any excess bulk or weight. Additionally, the holster should feature adjustable retention settings so you can adjust the amount of friction required to draw your firearm. This allows you to customize the draw speed and make sure that your weapon doesn’t accidentally fall out while you’re on the move.
The type of material used in an IWB holster is also important, as it affects both durability and comfort. Leather is usually the most comfortable option, but it requires more upkeep due to its sensitivity to moisture and sweat. Kydex offers excellent durability but may not be as comfortable as leather in some cases. Nylon is often more affordable than other materials but may not last as long if not properly maintained.
When selecting your IWB holster, be sure to consider all of these factors in order to find one that fits comfortably and provides adequate concealment for your needs. With so many options available today, finding a quality holster that meets all of these criteria can be easier than ever before!
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry holsters are a great way to keep your handgun safe and secure, while also providing a convenient way to transport your firearm. Concealed carry holsters come in a variety of styles and materials, including leather, nylon, and kydex, and they are designed to be worn on the belt or inside the waistband. The most popular type of concealed carry holster is an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster, which offers maximum concealment and comfort. There are also many other types of concealed carry holsters available, such as shoulder holsters, pocket holsters, ankle holsters, and belly bands. Each type of holster offers its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Open Carry
Open carry holsters offer quick access to your firearm without the need for concealment. These types of holsters come in many different styles as well – from hip holsters that attach to your belt loops to shoulder rigs that hang over your shoulder or around your neck. Open carry holsters also come in a variety of materials – leather being the most popular – but you can find them made from nylon or kydex as well. Open carry is not always legal in all areas so it’s important to check with local laws before you purchase an open carry holster.
Appendix carry is a popular method for carrying handguns due to its comfort and ease of access. It involves carrying the firearm in an appendix position near the front of the waistband instead of on the hip or back side. Appendix carry holsters generally feature either high-ride or low-ride designs with adjustable cant angle for maximum comfort and concealment. They are typically made from kydex or leather materials with multiple retention systems like adjustable tension screws or thumb break straps for added security.
Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters are a great way to carry a firearm, as they keep the weapon out of sight and allow for quick access when needed. These holsters are typically made of leather or nylon and have adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit around the ankle. They usually include a pocket for additional magazines or other items, and some models even feature a trigger guard to keep the firearm safely tucked away. Ankle holsters are great for concealed carry, as they can easily be concealed under loose pants or sweatpants. They can also be worn in many different positions, depending on the wearer’s preference and comfort level.
When shopping for an ankle holster, it is important to make sure that it is comfortable and fits securely around the ankle. If you plan on wearing it for extended periods of time, then look for one with padded straps to provide extra support and cushioning. Additionally, make sure that the holster has enough room for your chosen firearm and any additional items you want to carry with it. It should also have a secure closure system so that your firearm won’t accidentally slip out when you are walking or running. Lastly, look for one with adjustable retention straps so that you can customize the fit according to your needs.
An ankle holster is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a discreet way to carry their firearms while still being able to access them quickly when needed. With its comfortable fit and secure closure system, this type of holster is both practical and convenient. Whether you need it for everyday carry or just want something more discrete than traditional belt holsters, an ankle holster is definitely worth considering!
Pistol Holsters
Pistol holsters are an important accessory for any gun owner. They provide secure storage and easy access for your handgun, allowing you to carry it safely and discreetly. There are many types of pistol holsters available on the market, from simple belt holsters to more complex shoulder or ankle rigs. The type of holster you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.
Outside the Waistband Holsters
Outside the waistband (OWB) holsters are one of the most popular types of pistol holsters available. These holsters attach to a belt or waistband and can be worn in either a strong side or cross draw position. They offer good retention and quick access to your firearm, making them a great choice for open carry or concealed carry applications. OWB holsters come in a variety of materials, including leather, nylon, and even Kydex.
Inside the Waistband Holsters
Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters are designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants or shorts. These holsters provide good concealment while also offering quick access to your firearm. IWB holsters come in both leather and Kydex varieties, with Kydex being more lightweight and durable than leather. They can be worn in either a strong side or appendix position, depending on preference.
Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder holsters are great for those who need to conceal their firearm but also want easy access when needed. These rigs consist of two shoulder straps with a holster attached at one end that allows you to carry your handgun in an accessible position under your arm. Shoulder rigs usually offer good retention but may not be comfortable for those who have larger frames.
Ankle Holster
Ankle holsters are great for those who need to conceal their firearm in tight clothing such as suits or shorts without sacrificing easy access when needed. Ankle rigs attach around the ankle and allow you to wear your handgun in an easily accessible position under your pant leg. Ankle rigs usually offer good retention but may not be comfortable for those with larger frames.
Pocket Holster
Pocket holsters are designed specifically for pocket carry and provide excellent concealment while also offering quick access when needed. Pocket rigs are made from lightweight materials like leather, nylon, or Kydex that provide minimal bulk and maximum comfort when carried in a pocket or similar area. Pocket rigs usually offer good retention but may not be suitable for larger handguns.
On-Body Carry Options
On-body carry options are the most popular way to store and transport a firearm. This is because they provide the most secure storage option available. The most common on-body carry options are holsters, shoulder holsters, concealed carry purses, and ankle holsters. Holsters come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials and colors to fit any body type and firearm size. Shoulder holsters are typically worn underneath clothing for added concealment and protection. Concealed carry purses provide discrete storage of a firearm while also providing access to other items such as wallets and keys. Ankle holsters are worn around the ankle for easy access in seated positions or when walking around town.
Off-Body Carry Options
Off-body carry options include lock boxes, gun safes, range bags and backpacks. Lock boxes are typically small enough to fit inside an automobile glove box or under a car seat for easy access when needed. Gun safes provide secure storage of multiple firearms in one location while also providing additional security measures such as combination locks or biometric locks. Range bags offer multiple compartments for storing ammunition, magazines, tools, ear protection and other items needed at the shooting range. Backpacks offer convenient storage options for carrying a firearm with you while traveling or hiking.
Conclusion
Wearing a holster is a great way to ensure that you keep your firearm safely and securely. It’s important to choose a holster that fits your needs and lifestyle, as well as one that is comfortable and accessible when you need it. Be sure to consider the material, design, and fit when making your selection. With the right holster, you can keep yourself safe while still looking stylish.
Above all, it’s important to remember the importance of safety when carrying a firearm. Always take the time to familiarize yourself with the laws in your state or country concerning concealed carry before selecting a holster or carrying a weapon. Make sure you know how to handle the firearm before wearing it, and always store it in an appropriate location when not using it.
In conclusion, wearing a holster is an essential part of responsibly carrying a firearm. By taking the time to select one that fits your lifestyle and needs, you can feel secure knowing you are properly storing and transporting your weapon in a safe manner.
