Finding the ideal method to carry a hidden weapon is the next step after deciding to do so. This page describes all the many kinds of concealed carry holsters.

 

The most popular kinds of concealed carry holsters that we will discuss are as follows:

 

• Holsters for the shoulders
• Holsters that are inside the waistband, or IWB,
• Holsters in pockets
• Ankle Holsters

Safety Tip: 

The majority of experts advise against carrying a hidden weapon without a holster. A high-quality concealed gun holster keeps your gun safe and in the precise location you want it to be. It also keeps anything from getting into the trigger well and causing the gun to discharge.

Terminology for Holsters You Should Understand

Learn the following terminology if you are searching for the best concealed carry holster, especially if this is your first time purchasing one:

 

• Appendix carry. The term “appendix carry” describes holding your firearm in front of you, close to your appendix, to the side of your belly button.
• Cant. The gun’s sitting angle, expressed in degrees, is known as the cant.
• Cross-draw. Wearing a holster on your support side is known as a cross-draw holster. In other words, drawing it requires crossing over your body.
• Printing. The outline a gun can create when you are attempting (and failing) to carry it covertly is called printing.
• Rake. Another name for the gun’s angle in the holster, which is likewise expressed in degrees, is rake.
• Retention. The degree to which the holster holds the gun in place is known as retention. You will see Level I, Level II, and Level III; the more retention, the more difficult it is to take the gun out of the holster. (In an emergency, the majority of CCW holsters are Level 1 for rapid release.)
• Ride. In relation to the trigger, the ride is where the holster fastens to your belt.
• The back is small. SOB (small-of-the-back) holsters fasten to the side of your spine or at the base of it.
• Strong point. Your dominant side is your strong side. Your right side is your strong suit if you are a right-handed firefighter.
• Side of support. The opposite of your strong side, your support side is also referred to as your weak side. Your left side is your support side if you are a right-handed firefighter.

Holsters for the shoulders: 

You can keep your gun at your side, under your armpit, with a shoulder holster. You may easily hide these holsters under a coat or jacket, and they typically hold a spare magazine on the other side of the gun. Additionally, you can purchase a sleeveless or V-neck holster shirt that enables you to carry concealed in an informal or off-duty setting.

The Waistband Holsters Inside

An IWB holster, also known as an inside-the-waistband holster, fastens to your belt. While the remainder of the gun remains hidden in your jeans, the grip rests above your waistband. The ThumbDrive® Holster for Glock 17 and 22 models is a great illustration of an IWB holster.

Holsters for the Pocket

Generally speaking, an inside-the-pocket holster is a holster bag with movable locking straps. The main function of pocket holsters, which are made for small weapons, is to conceal the trigger and prevent your gun from printing.

Holsters for the ankles

Ankle holsters tie around your ankle using hook-and-loop or elastic. They can be hard to reach in a sticky scenario and hard to hide if your pants are tight. Additionally, running safely while wearing an ankle holster is difficult. Ankle holsters are typically best utilized as a backup. These holsters are popular among those who spend a lot of time sitting, such as drivers or office workers, since they provide easier access in seated positions. However, they may cause discomfort or chafing if worn for extended periods without proper padding or support. Always consider comfort and mobility when selecting one.

Selecting the best concealed carry holster for you largely depends on your particular preferences. To find out what feels good, try out a few at your neighborhood 5.11. It’s also important to consider your daily routine, clothing style, and typical activities to ensure your holster choice supports both discretion and readiness. In order to become comfortable wearing any kind of holster and be as successful as possible in an emergency, it is crucial that you practice, practice, and then practice some more.