How to Choose a Tactical Gun Holster
Have you given any thought on how to choose a tactical gun holster for your handgun? It should not be an afterthought.
If fact, you need to give as much care and attention when choosing a gun holster as you did when you purchased your handgun.
In this Joint Force Tactical blog post our experts will explore tactical gun holsters including what to look for and how to ensure you buy the right one for your gun and your style of carry.
It should definitely be a part of your Must Have Tactical Gear if you carry a firearm. If it’s gun holster adapters or holster accessories you need, Joint Force Tactical also offers a great selection of those as well.
Ask us about:
- Low-ride and mid-ride drops
- High-rise adapters
- Leg straps
- Shrouds
- And more!
We carry many of the more popular brands for gun holster accessories including BlackHawk, Blade-Tech, Crossbreed, Vertx, and Safariland.
Holster Considerations
Aside from law enforcement and military personnel, most likely your choice of handgun and style of carry is a personal choice. It is equally as important that your holster is one you can rely on.
When choosing a tactical gun holster, you will want to consider the following:
- What type of holster do you require?
(Concealed Carry, Duty) - Is it a perfect fit for your type of gun?
- Does it offer the protection your firearm needs?
- Does it holster your gun easily?
- Is it comfortable to wear?
- Is it Left or Right Handed?
- Does your gun have a Light or Red Dot sight?
- What type of material is the holster made of?
Types of Tactical Gun Holsters
There are two primary types of tactical gun holsters available at Joint Force Tactical including:
- Concealed Carry
- Tactical or Duty Holsters
This government web page offers detailed information on the Firearms Act in Canada concerning Authorizations to Carry Restricted Firearms and Certain Handguns Regulations.
Concealed Carry Holsters
Designed to be low profile and inconspicuous, concealed carry tactical gun holsters are ideal for smaller, short-barrelled handguns.
- Inside waistband (IWB) holsters are the most common for flat compact handguns.
- Outside waistband (OWB) holsters are more suitable for larger handguns and revolvers.
However, there are plenty of other options for concealment as well, including the following.
Belly Band Outside Waistband (OWB)
Ankle Holsters Inside Waistband (IWB)
Tactical / Duty Holsters
While law enforcement and military typically use belt holsters, other options like drop leg, chest, and shoulder holsters might be a better choice, depending on your needs.
For instance, if you use long body armour then a drop leg holster might be a better choice instead of a belt holster. Your options include:
Chest Holders
Belt Holsters
Drop Leg Holsters
Joint Force Tactical also carries a selection of Blade-Tech and Safariland Taser Holsters.
Handgun Retention
Another important consideration is handgun retention to ensure your gun is secure in its holster.
Handgun retention is measured in levels. Higher levels are more secure but can slow down your draw.
There are several retention options to consider when choosing a tactical gun holster including:
- Level 1 Retention
Friction is common in most concealed carry holsters. Your gun must fit the holster properly to be safe and effective. - Level 2 Retention
Thumb break straps (quick release) and thumb loops also employ friction for level 2 retention. - Level 3 Retention
Trigger guard locks feature a hook or post that locks into the gun’s trigger guard. When combined with a strap and friction they have a level 3 retention. - Level 4 Retention
Gun butt flaps are most secure and employ friction plus the 3 other retention methods. They also help protect against rain, dust, mud, etc., but are slower to open to employ the handgun.
Holster Materials
There are several material choices for tactical gun holsters, and each have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Synthetic Fabric Holsters– These are becoming more and more common since most are waterproof, quite durable, and require little maintenance. Many also include padding for comfort.
Kydex Holsters – Made from rigid, low maintenance molded plastic, Kydex holsters are tough and offer better gun protection. Usually, they are molded to hold a specific type of handgun. They are generally bulkier and more uncomfortable to wear.
Need Help Choosing a Tactical Gun Holster?
The best gun holster is the one that best suits your gun, you style of carry, and your needs. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a handgun holster including, among others, comfort, dexterity, and how and where it will be used.
Above all, the tactical gun holster you choose needs to feel natural and properly fit your handgun and your situation.
Our tactical gear experts at Joint Force Tactical can help and offer tips on how to choose a tactical gun holster. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.
We have a lot of experience providing the proper tactical gear to military and law enforcement personnel plus first responders, search and rescue, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and others.
Please call us at 1-604-705-0600 or send us an email.
Or, if you are in the area, drop in and ask for help. Our brick-and-mortar store is located at Unit 103, 5725 Vedder Road in Chilliwack, BC Canada.
