Best Concealed Carry Holsters Reviewed & Rated for Comfort
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Effectiveness
One of the first and arguably most important aspects I had to consider when writing this best of guide to concealed carry holsters was the performance of the holsters. A holsters ability to perform under any circumstance is nearly as important as the firearms ability to perform in any circumstance. Not only does it need to provide stable and unwavering control over the storage of your firearm on your body, but it needs to be able to operate in a manner that will safely allow you to remove your firearm when needed. Anything that gets caught on your firearm can cause you to pull up on the trigger.
Every user has their own preferences when it comes down to the positioning and angling of your firearm. While the functionality isn’t affected so much by your preference, the option is one of personal preference and with that in mind I included options that were capable of mounting at nearly any position on your belt and in some cases other places as well. As for the angling, most of the options on this list allow you to adjust your pistol to an angle that is comfortable to you. This adjustable angle will ensure you can pull your firearm with ease and comfort without sacrificing any time or movements that could cost you in the long run.
Durability
Whether you actually use your firearm or not your holster is going to end up showing signs of wear with enough time. Day in and day out sliding your firearm in and out of the holster will put it to the test. Not only will a good holster accept the challenge, but it will also go one step further and ensure your firearm remains free of scoffing with a soft inner layer. The truly durable holsters will be capable of maintaining the same retention you experience on the first day of use.
One of the most vital components of a good holster is the material used in its production. From durable polymer injection-molds to full grain leather, each of these holsters use higher quality materials to bring an enduring product that won’t falter without serious use.
With some of the holsters on this list using small moving parts and interchangeable pieces, being able to easily repair or replace the product or its parts was a key quality to keep in mind. Moreover, some holsters on this list were selected for their ability to be easily replaced due to low cost.
From military to law enforcement many people that need a reliable holster will often have to wear it for countless hours during the day. Should the mounting clip break after one use, your holster is about as useful as a brick to hold your pistol. Each of the holsters that I selected uses a mounting system that will hold your firearm securely to your body no matter how long you need to carry it.
Features
Although not vital to the functionality of the holster, offering additional features will add to the value of your purchase. From a spare ammunition pouch to modular attachments the small seemingly inane features will bring out the full experience of the holster. Many of the chosen holsters offer a unique feature that is sure to enhance your holster.
Nearly as unique as everyone’s individual preferences is everyone’s body shape and size. The most well-designed holsters will be able to be worn by any user regardless of size. Most of the options on this list use IWB clips that simply attached to a belt and can be worn by anyone. Others use large wrap around bands or are for more concealment and utilize a crotch carry. No matter the choice these holsters are sure to fit most any who are interested.
The last thing you want when firing your sidearm is to have to empty out a box of ammunition and reload the same clip continuously. While I didn’t make this an absolute requirement for every holster on this list, another trait I considered was the holsters ability to accommodate a spare pouch for an ammunition clip or tactical knife. I considered any holster that offered this small but noticeable addition to having slightly more value and offering more conformance.
Style
No matter the holster there are certain industry standards that makeup what a good holster will entail. Almost universally accepted as good practice is a holster that will envelop the entire trigger mechanism on your sidearm. Covering the trigger mechanism will prevent any foreign object from latching onto your trigger and causing your weapon to fire. Every holster on this list does embrace this requirement and will cover the trigger regardless of positioning or mounting type.
The most basic of all of the requirements on this list is that the holster is capable of concealing the firearm from the eyes of the public. Concealed carry laws vary widely from state to state, however in some states should the weapon be visible you could be subject to criminal prosecution for violating them. Whether it be an IWB mount or a mount that can hold your firearm on your ankle or chest, all of the holsters I selected are guaranteed to keep your weapon hidden in plain sight.
Value
The holsters on this list are quite durable, however, odd things happen and your holster could become damaged or broken. In the event of this occurring a good manufacturers warranty will make all the difference. Nothing says good customer service and speaks to quality like a lifetime warranty. Most of the holsters in this line up have some type of warranty.
Another trait of performance I selected to use as a filter for this list was the value the item provided compared to the cost. Things that affected this decision were the materials that were used in production, the features that each holster offers, and the overall cost to purchase the product originally. Furthermore, those that offered a manufacturers warranty and were capable of being easily replaced or repaired, were featured higher on this best of list. The holsters that failed to maintain good performance throughout the lifetime of the product were placed lower on the list.
BEST CONCEALED CARRY HOLSTERS REVIEWED & RATED FOR COMFORT
1. CYA Supply Co.
The CYA supply company’s IWB S&W 9mm and .40 is a unique option for this list. The design is specifically geared to the Smith and Wesson brands of the 9mm and .40 pistols and conforms to their specific shape making them only functional for those brands. What makes this holster good is exactly that, it is made specifically for a weapon system. When your weapon is in place and it sits secure, you know without a doubt there is no obstruction or anything preventing your weapon from clicking into place with their retention system.
Audible retention
One of the most gratifying feelings you can have is when something clicks into place and conforms to its right position. The retention system on this holster should be a standard that other manufacturers strive to surpass as it will make an audible clicking sound when your weapon is secured into position. You will instantly know when your weapon is ready for the road with this unique feature.
Sweat Guard
While not everyone that uses a holster will need this feature it is quite noteworthy. The sweat guard will run along the slide of your pistol keeping it clear of moisture or sweat should you be perspiring while using this holster or simply happen to get wet.
Cost and Value
This holster is one of the higher priced holsters and while the features are quite amazing, it is only suited to meet a specific group of weapon systems. Should the design have been modular this surely would have been a higher rated holster on this best of list.
2. The Ultimate Suede Leather
This suede leather holster is basic and provides the most necessary of requirements, concealing your firearm inside your waistband. This lightweight and very slim holster are geared more towards snub nose .38’s and .38 specials of most brands. The basic design of this holster allows for quick and easy concealment and access when it’s needed. It offers both left and right handed support.
Handmade
This holster is handmade using high-quality suede that allows your firearm to slip in and out with ease. The quality is great and is built to last. The producers stand behind their product with a lifetime warranty.
Fits J Frames
While making this list I included this holster to fill the J frame niche. The other holsters on this list while supporting the J frame weren’t specifically made for a J frame weapon system. This holster is a valued addition to the diversity of the frame support on this list.
Cost and Value
This holster while very basic in design still falls into the mid-range price area. While it is lacking in features and the simplistic nature of this holster makes it feel like a lower valued holster. Therefore this is a lower rated but noteworthy product on this best of list.
3. Bulldog Cases Nylon Hip
This featherweight nylon holster by Bulldog is a great companion for a sidearm. It uses temperature resistant material that can withstand the heat generated from sustained firing. This material is very durable and will not crack or fade from the severe heat. Bulldogs nylon holster has an adjustability thumb break that can be used by both left and right-handed shooters.
Water Resistant Outer Shell
With many people being required to wear holsters for long periods of time and through strenuous physical activity you need one that will not be affected by moisture. This holster has a water-resistant outside shell that protects it from water or perspiration.
Scratch Resistant Spine Lining
Holsters have a tendency to wear over time. The bulldog holster lined spine to prevent any tearing or wear from repeated use.
Cost and Value
The bulldog holster comes in two different designs, semi-auto, and revolver. Your firearm of choice is sure to fit snug in this breathable and light holster. It is priced in more of a mid-range on this list and seems to fall there as far as rating as well making this a cost-effective choice.
4. Houston Eco Leather IWB
As one of Houston's top-selling holsters of 2019, it’s a proud staple in this list as the most cost-effective option. This holster offers great concealment is waterproof, sweatproof and has a very low profile. This holster uses a passive retention system that allows for a smooth and quick draw. The interior uses a suede lining that can withstand regular and repeated use with minimal wear.
Simplistic Design
While generally used with Glocks, the simplistic design with an open end and passive retention system allow it to conform to most subcompact pistols. This same simple design complements the firearm by being lightweight and often times you will even forget you're wearing it.
Small Silhouette
A holster for concealed carry must not be able to be seen with definite shape and size. That same simplistic design allows you to carry your firearm and it will remain virtually invisible to the naked eye.
Cost and Value
As the most cost-effective option on this list, this is one of the lower priced options for a concealed carry holster. The low cost speaks nothing of the quality however, it is very durable and will withstand regular use.
5. Alien Gear Starter Kit
This concealed carry friendly holster utilizes a modular design and supports a variety of compact single or double stack pistols. This product is available in both left and right-handed use and can be worn IWB as well as a few other ways. It is manufactured using a shift shell which is an injection molded polymer that is extremely durable. This holster has adjustable retention bolts that allow you to choose your desired retention with the use of an Allen key that is included in the purchase.
Retention Adjustability
No matter the reason everyone has a different preference when it comes down to the retention of your firearm in your holster. Some people prefer their retention to be really tight while others prefer a more relaxed and free feeling for an easy slide. With the Alien Gear ShapeShift holster, you can easily adjust the two bolts that adjust the retention using a small Allen key and three interchangeable risers.
Versatility
With firearms design and sizing varying so drastically from one manufacturer to another, finding the right holster for one, much less two or more firearms can be quite challenging. While most concealed carry holsters are made for specific models alien gear uses three different polymer shells that allow you to hold a large variety of firearms in the single holster. These durable interchangeable holster pieces are very easy to use and pretty much snap and hold in place.
Cost and Value
This holster made by alien gear is a bit more expensive than your standard concealed carry holster. While the price is a bit higher you do get four different holster styles so you can store multiple different weapon systems with this single holster. Additionally, the retention adjustability, as well as the ability to choose the different riser attachments, make this a holster that is very cost effective considering the higher price.
6. DTOM Denim Possum
The Don’t Tread On Me Denim Possum carry pouch is an above the undergarment concealed holster that has ample room for a large caliber pistol with any frame. The Possum carry pouch uses a water-resistant layer to keep moisture from your gun while providing the ultimate discretion. It has a spare pouch for an additional magazine or tactical knife and is offered as one size fits most. The possum pouch doesn't hinder any important movement your body may need to make and it is very discrete.
Larger Carry Capacity
The Possum pouch is capable of holding some of the larger single stack .45 caliber pistols like 1911. This larger holster area accommodates many pistol designs and is nearly sure to suit your needs.
Spare Clip Area
Being capable of holding a spare clip is nearly a vital function. With the deep concealment, this pouch provides the additional clip is certainly a welcome addition to its features.
Cost and Value
This unique holster is a fine addition to this best of list. The possum carry pouch falls in the mid-range pricing on this list. The deep concealment and moisture wicking capabilities are some of the more valued features of this discrete holster.
7. Sticky Stack Sub-Compacts
The Sticky Holster supports single stack subcompact firearms and allows for ambidextrous use. This holster is a unique concealed carry option as it can fit inside a pocket as well as being able to be used as an IWB carry. The sticky holster is modular in design allowing for it to be used with many different models of pistols. True to its name, the sticky holster uses a sticky outer layer to latch onto your clothing holding it firmly in place.
Ambidexterity
Of the great features offered by the sticky holster, the ambidexterity is its most redeeming quality. It uses a “sticky” outer layer to grasp onto your clothing and keep it in place. This allows you to place your holster on either side of your hip for both left and right-handed users.
Pocket Use
This is the only concealed carry option on this list that is able to be held securely in a pocket. While not a common area for a weapon to be concealed it does accomplish the job of remaining out of sight and not being recognizable through your clothing.
Cost and Value
This holster isn’t the cheapest on the list but brings a unique set features such as the pocket carry option and its sticky outer layer. This interesting option is very affordable and would make a great addition to your firearm.
8. Thunderbolt XL Belly Band
The XL concealed carry belly band is an extremely comfortable elastic band that uses velcro to quickly and easily fasten and can be worn under any choice of clothing. The simple wrap-around design allows you to wear this band around your waist, further up on your abdomen or just about anywhere that's comfortable for you. The most redeeming aspect of this band is its ability to hold any pistol because it uses a simple holster design that is large enough to accommodate them all.
Universal Fitting
The concealed carry belly band was designed very well and with its wraparound elastic strap is capable of fitting just about anyone. The band allows it to conform to your specific body shape holding your band and weapon firmly in place while using it. This same strap design allows you to position your firearm anywhere that is comfortable for you, hip, side or back you will have it within reach.
Two Spare Clips
Having a spare clip is equally as important as your choice to carry a firearm in the first place. While other holsters on this list do feature a spare clip pocket, the belly band has not one, but two additional pockets to carry a spare clip or even a tactical knife.
Cost and Value
From the conforming design to the holster that encompasses most pistol designs the belly band is modestly priced. With a pistol and the two clips, you will still have room to hold a cell phone, important documents, or even a wallet nestled safely inside this band. The velcro is made with highly durable and military grade material which ensures long-term use.
9. CONCEALED CARRIER Universal
This concealed carrier universal holster uses a neoprene breathable material to provide lasting comfort through extended use. Whether it’s your main weapons holster or a spare holster for your ankle weapon it is sure to give a quick drawing and durability functionality that rivals to most expensive holsters. This holster uses a thumb break retention strap that is incredibly easy to remove with a simple thumb motion.
Universal Frame Support
The modular design featured on this holster is its most prized quality. This concealed carry holster will support any frame and any sized gun from compact to a full size 1911. While not specifically unique on this list when combined with its extremely low cost it was a much needed beneficial feature.
Includes Extra Pouch
Having a spare clip is definitely important whenever you make the choice to concealed carry. Other holsters featured here do have spare clip compartments however this holster is the only one that has an entirely separate pouch with its own anchoring clip keeping the weight disturbed between a firearm and spare ammunition.
Cost and Value
While this holster doesn't have everything it does have a good selection of prized features that are staples for any holster. Combined with the additional clip pouch this holster is hands down the least expensive option on the list making this a very valued product.
10. DTOM Universal
Another quality product from the Don’t Tread On Me line up is the Premium leather universal holster. This holster uses a high-quality leather exterior that completely encompasses the trigger area providing ideal trigger protection. This ambidextrous holster has a removable clip for attaching to either the IWB or OWB. This full grain leather holster will fit most semi-auto medium and larger sized pistols without adding to the size or bulkiness of the weapon.
Compact
When it comes to a holster size really does matter. This holster is extremely compact making it extremely versatile and allowing for you to conceal it inside your waistband, in a vest, or even around your ankle. The compact size compliments extended the use and would be perfect for an everyday carry holster.
Removable Clip
The removable clip that is attached to this holster allows you to place it on either side of your body providing support to both left and right-handed shooters. This same positioning feature will allow you to choose what type of draw motion you use, whether you're shooting in a competition or just target practicing, you need quick access to your firearm.
Cost and Value
From the versatility to extreme compact size this is a very formidable holster on this best of list. It is on the cheaper end of this list and comparable to the most affordable holsters that are featured here. It offers most of the same features and has its own strengths that firmly place this as a solid choice for any buyer.
Sources
- Concealed Nation, Firearms Blog ,
- Police One, Firearms Blog ,