There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a concealed carry holster. The right one should be comfortable, secure, and accessible.
Many different holsters are on the market with many features, belt attachment methods, and materials. Here are some essential features to look for:
Comfort
Depending on your body type and lifestyle, you may need to wear your gun in a specific way. For example, a traditional inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster is worn inside your pants and can be easily located when needed. It also requires a strong belt so it won’t sag and expose your weapon during a struggle. Other concealed carry options include a bra holster or a thigh holster.
However, these holsters are often bulkier and harder to draw from than an IWB holster. Additionally, they can cause your firearm to sweat. This can cause a snag on the trigger and potentially cause an accidental discharge. A good alternative is a belly band holster with kydex reinforcement on the trigger area. This can be more comfortable and can be worn in tighter clothes.
Concealment
Whether it’s an IWB holster, a shoulder holster, or even one that fits on your ankle, concealed carry holsters for men you choose should help you conceal your firearm as much as possible. This is important because a gun out in the open is likelier to fall into the wrong hands during a physical altercation.
Holsters are also designed to minimize snags, which can cause accidental discharges or injuries if the trigger is caught by clothing, jewelry, or other objects. However, this must be balanced with the need for quick access and comfort when wearing the holster. A good option is kydex holsters, heat-molded to fit handguns precisely and offer adjustable retention. The downside is that they tend to cost more than other holster materials.
Accessibility
If you carry a gun, it needs to be easily accessible. Searching for your handgun, you don’t want to fumble in your pants.
A good IWB holster in an appendix carry position will provide easy access for most people. Kydex is a rigid material, so it’s best to look for a holster with softer backing, like leather or neoprene, for comfort. However, it would be best if you were careful to avoid cutting down portions of the backing that protect the trigger or aid in retention.
Another great option is a shoulder or chest holster. These are a bit harder to conceal, but they are incredibly comfortable and allow easier access.
Durability
If a gun is not securely held in a holster, it risks falling out and getting into the wrong hands or accidentally discharged. Choosing a stiff holster made of leather or kydex (or both) will protect the trigger from accidental manipulation, minimizing the chance of an accidental discharge.
Leather holsters are flexible and will mold to your weapon over time, but they need maintenance to keep them sound and functioning well. Kydex is a better option, as it will not collect moisture or become damaged by sweat. It also protects the trigger against snagging, making it much safer to draw from than nylon and fabric holsters, which have the potential to catch on something and snag your weapon’s trigger guard.
Convenience
A holster should keep your gun secure while allowing you to draw it quickly. It should also protect your gun from the elements, including rain and sweat. A good holster offers trigger guard coverage, meaning no part of your body or the holster can touch the trigger.
Most holsters use friction to hold the gun in place, but some have a tension screw that can be adjusted to change how much friction is needed. They should also minimize printing (how much the holster shows through your clothes). You can choose from leather holsters that clip to the outside of your pants, which fit inside your waistband, belly band holsters, or kydex holsters for men.