How to Choose the Best Concealed Carry Holster

It takes time to choose the right firearm. And because the selection process to pick out the best gun can be so time-consuming, that means we might neglect precise details or functionality considerations in other areas, such as gun accessories. This is especially true when it comes to one of the most common, yet most overlooked gun accessories – gun holsters.

If you are new to guns or have been handling a firearm for a while without assistance from holsters, you may be wondering why you need gun holsters? Do concealed holsters give you added safety or benefits?

To answer these questions, it is important to understand what exactly holsters do. Holsters, especially those used for concealed carry, have three primary functions.

Gun and holster laws can vary depending on your location so you should stay mindful that traveling to different states often means encountering different gun regulations. For this reason, make sure to check gun laws in places where you intend to travel to and bring a holster that is in accordance with the state and city gun legislation wherever you go.

Gun holsters increase the accessibility factor of your firearm, hold your gun securely in place, and keep your gun easy to carry on the go. Most importantly, they help prevent accidental firing while you're on the move.

On top of all of that, concealed carry holsters grant ample discretion. There are many different styles of holsters and even left-handed holster models for sinistral gun owners. The most common concealed carry holster types are:

Inside-Waistband, or IWB holsters, are the most popular option for concealed carry methods. These holsters are designed to secure to your belt with a loop or a clip and hold pistols or a similarly sized firearm inside your waistband for optimal concealment since most of the weapon is covered by your pants’ waistband. However, this type of holster also leaves the gun’s handle slightly exposed.

Holsters designed as Outside-Wasitband, or OWB style concealed carry holsters are ideal for gun owners with a revolver or larger semiautomatic models. The wide wings on OWB holsters help ensure a secure hold on your belt and do not leave behind printing for a more discreet appearance. These are a more comfortable option because it doesn’t compress the weapon against your hip or any other part of the body the way IWB holsters do. They also provide the wearer with a quicker draw since the handle is more exposed – something to consider if you prefer maximum concealment.

OWB and IWB holsters are ideal for shooting while standing. But what if you need your firearm while you’re sitting? This is where shoulder holsters come in handy. Shoulder holsters not only offer more comfort since they distribute the gun’s weight across your upper body, but they also make drawing from sitting positions less cumbersome. Because of their design, they can make it easy to carry large revolvers and ammunition in a simple and discreet way. However, for concealment, you’ll need to wear a jacket or coat over the holster.

Need a backup plan? Ankle holsters are ideal for carrying your subcompact semiautomatic models or short-barreled revolvers under a pant leg, keeping the weapon completely covered. What ankle holsters lack in accessibility and comfort, due to where they are kept, they make up for with excellent discretion. The downside of ankle holsters? If you’re drawing from an upright position, it can be extremely awkward and may take your eye off the target while reaching down.

Women make up a large demographic of concealed weapon carriers but, unfortunately, holsters are often built with men’s anatomy in mind. A women’s holster or concealed carry bag is not only is responsible for keeping firearms comfortable, secure, and discreet to carry, but they also have the additional task of fitting appropriately with female gun owners’ lifestyles.

Smaller pockets on pants, slim fit jackets or blazers, and oversized bags filled with daily essentials are just a few considerations holsters and concealed carry handbags designed for women address with their construction.

Academy Sports + Outdoors offers left-handed holster models, concealed carry gun holsters for women, and gun model-specific holsters. Choose a concealed carry holster that keeps you safe and confident at the range, in the field, when at home, or on the job.

Shop in-store and online at Academy to find the right holster for your firearm needs.