Anyone who has ever had a concealed weapon holster knows that there is no such thing as “one-size-fits-all.” In fact, if you were to ask any gun owner to see their holster, they’d probably bring out a box with several styles to show you. It isn’t always easy to get the right fit and the right features for your particular needs, but to save you going through a lot of trial and error as well as expense, here are a few tips that could have you choosing the right holster the very first time without the most common mistakes so many people make when buying their first holster.
About the Fit
The advice you will hear most often is that the holster must fit the gun as well as being a good fit for the belt. You are told that the belt and holster must offer a unique fit so there is no moving about while you are wearing it. However, that’s just a part of the story. Just as there are different shapes, sizes and weights of guns, so too will there be differences in the size of the person wearing the holster. A holster that works well on a thin person may be uncomfortable on a larger body frame and so that must be taken into consideration as well.
About the Style
There are several styles of holsters to consider, but when it comes to carrying a concealed weapon for everyday wear, most gun owners have at least one tuckable holsters. These can be tucked under a shirt to better conceal the weapon and the only thing which may show a bit is the clip that holds it to the belt. If you are a serious gun owner and want to keep your gun with you every day, you can buy tuckable holsters made especially for your handgun so that it fits both the gun and you in terms of comfort.
Elements of a Holster
Once you’ve determined the right ‘fit’ it’s time to look at the elements of a good holster. You should consider if it can be drawn easily with either hand if the need should arise. Also, can you quickly and easily draw your weapon while seated and strapped in your vehicle? Remember, safety is of vital importance so it is necessary to find a holster in which your gun isn’t likely to slip out, especially in public places. Most gun owners state that a holster should not be made with snaps or other types of closures or releases because they hinder your ability to quickly draw the weapon.
Finally, it is important to remember a good rule of thumb when shopping for anything whatsoever. The reality is, you get what you pay for. Sure, you can find cheap holsters made of inferior materials are available at less the cost, but isn’t a leather holster customized for your particular weapon a better buy? You don’t want a holster that isn’t safe enough to carry your gun and you certainly don’t want one that will be falling apart after the first few wears. Take your time and shop carefully so that the holster you buy will serve you over a long period of time. The right holster will feel like an extension of your body and that’s exactly what you want.