Iwb Belt
Introduction to Concealed Carry Holsters
As more and more shooters apply for concealed carry permits, the need for concealed carry holsters is going to become more important. By concealed carry, I’m talking about a holster or carrying method that allows the weapon to worn in such a manner that it is completely concealed from the view of others. A number of states that allow concealed carry permits have specific requirements that the weapon has to be completely concealed or they are in violation of the terms of the permit.
Concealed carry holsters include a number of different holster styles such as pocket holsters, ankle holsters, inside the waistband holsters, and belt holsters.
Depending on a number of variables, each style of concealed carry has different strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, with proper selection, nearly any of those holster styles would work for concealed carry. Some of the variables that come into play with concealed carry holsters include the following:
- size of the weapon
- body type
- climate
Let’s a take a second and talk about each variable individually, although they all somewhat tie together in the end.
Handgun size – While this may seem unimportant on it’s face, it becomes very important in terms of concealment and comfort. The bottom line is larger weapons are more difficult to conceal, no matter what steps to you. The size of the weapon will play a direct role in how effectively it can be concealed as well as how comfortable it is. Rather than try to conceal an oversized weapon, choose a weapon that is moderately sized and then select a concealed carry holster.
Body type – Body type can also play a direct role in the types of holsters that you will be able to use in concealed carry. If you have or are growing a spare tire (like me), IWB carry may not be a good option as it will be difficult to conceal the handgun. If you have a thin build, you may also be faced with the same problem. How do you get around it? Review your options with other types of carry. There are some really nice OWB holsters that conceal very well under a T-shirt. I have personally found that front pocket carry works best for me as it’s easy to put on and virtually disappears. You may need to spend some time testing, but I’m sure a carry method that works for you can be found.
Weather & Climate – The climate where you will be carrying concealed can and will play a role in your gun holster selection. Warmer climates mean less clothes, which means you will have to conceal a handgun under a T-shirt or in a pocket. Warmer climates generally means shorts so ankle carry is also eliminated as a possibility. Cooler climates don’t really pose a problem as more clothing means it’s easier to conceal a pistol. Rapidly changing climates can cause even bigger problems. Take climate and weather into account as you search for holsters and realize that you may have to pick up more than one holster to meet those needs.
In the end, you’ll have to find the best handgun/holster combo that works for you. Hopefully the information provided here will be valuable and relevant for you.
About the Author
With all the choices on the market today, choosing a concealed carry holster can be difficult. Grant Jordan is a police veteran with over 20 years of concealed carry experience. For more information on concealed carry, consider visiting Grant’s site at: Concealed Carry Holsters
Mini Hybrid IWB Holster
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Blade-Tech IWB Belt Loop $9.26 Rubber band with a “pull the dot” snap closure for safe carry of a knife or pistol inside the waistband. Comes in a set of two loops. Holster/Sheath shown not included…. |
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Galco Kingtuk IWB Holster – Right Hand, Black, Glock 17,19,22,23,26,27, 31,32,33 KT224B $62.95 •Comfortable backing plate made of lined saddle leather w/Napa leather front combined with a rigid Kydex® holster pocket for fast draw & easy holstering •Removable metal belt clips can be moved up or down in the corresponding holes in the leather, enabling user to set carry height & angle •Fits belts up to 1-3/4”… |
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Fobus Standard Holster RH Paddle KT2G Ruger LCP Kel-Tec P-3AT .380 2nd gen & .32 2nd gen $21.79 Fobus Evolution Holster, Paddle, Right Hand – Ruger LCP – KT2G… |
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Fobus Standard Holster RH Paddle SWMP S&W M&P 9mm, .40, .45 (compact & full size), SD 9 &40 $23.32 Fobus Evolution E2 Paddle Holster – S&W M&P, SD 9 & 40 SWMP… |