What To Consider When Choosing The Best .380 Holster
There are several things to take into account while buying a new holster. In the section that follows, we’ll look at some of the most essential aspects to take into account while choosing the best pistol holster for your requirements.
Intended Use
The first question to ask yourself is how you intend to use your new gun holster. If its a simple matter of protection then a traditional leather belt with a studded buckle will probably do the trick. However, if you want something that stands out from the crowd or simply wants to show off your taste in gear, then you might want to check into getting a custom made holster designed just for you.
For those who like to compete in shooting events or just want a unique hobby, a customized pistol holster could be the ticket. These holsters allow you to choose any color you’d like and even have them monogrammed with your name or nickname.
Material
Materials used in making holsters vary greatly depending on price point and intended use. From low-cost plastics to high-quality leathers, here’s an overview of what different materials can offer you.
- Plastic holsters tend to be very durable but can feel bulky during wear. They’re often molded to accommodate specific handguns models, so they may not fit other guns.
- Leather holsters are generally more versatile because they don’t require you to buy a new one whenever a model changes. Leather also feels lighter than plastic, though it isn’t as durable.
- Nylon holsters provide comfort and support without adding too much weight. This lightweight material is flexible and easy to clean.
Size and Fit
Next, think about where you intend to wear your new gun holster and how much movement you’ll have to deal with during the day. Large-size jackets and pants won’t move as easily as smaller ones, especially if they’re tight fitting. Think about how much room you have to store your gun as well. When thinking about size and fit, remember that a large-frame revolver may take up more space than a little 9mm pistol.
Quality Construction
Finally, look at the construction quality of the holster itself. While all holsters must go through a few stages of production to get approved by the manufacturer, the final product should come out well built. Check for things such as double stitching along seams, reinforcement at stress points, and thicker padding around the grip area.
Protection
When carrying a gun, you want to be protected. Finding a holster that adequately protects your handgun is necessary. Only the trigger guard is covered by some holsters. Others guard the barrel’s full length. Others cover both sides of the frame and go past the trigger guard.
Accessories
You might want to purchase extras like a magazine bag, lanyard, or flashlight when you purchase a holster. Your carry can be more comfortable and practical with the help of accessories.
Types of .380 Holsters
There are lots of different kinds of 380 holsters available. Everyone has its place, but before making a purchase, you need to understand what you’re getting into.
Outside-the-waistband (OWB)
An outside-the-waistband holster is worn for carrying a firearm in an open position. The term “outside” refers to where your body is not enclosed by any part of the holster or carrier. This type of carry is very common with law enforcement officers who often prefer it due to the fact that they can easily access their firearms without having to dig around in a bunch of straps and buckles. It’s also well-liked by certain people who carry a concealed pistol because it helps them maintain muzzle control while drawing from an OWB holster.
The downside of this kind of carry is obvious when you consider how easy it would be for someone to grab your gun if he had enough time on his hands. You could try putting it somewhere safe, but there’s always the chance that you’ll forget which pocket you put it in.
Inside-the-waistband (IWB)
An inside-the-waistband holster is worn for carrying a firearm in a closed position. The term “inside” refers to where your body is partially or completely surrounded by a portion of the holster. This type of carry is more secure than OWB carry since your draw will be somewhat slower and you’ll have to reach down to get your pistol. However, it’s less convenient than OWB carry since you’ll have to reach under your shirt to draw your weapon.
Some people find the added security worth the tradeoff in terms of comfort and convenience. If you do decide to go this route, make sure you buy a quality holster that fits your specific firearm. Some cheaper options may leave gaps between the holster and the frame of your gun that are big enough to see through. That wouldn’t necessarily be bad, except that you’d be leaving your gun at greater risk of being lost or stolen.
Shoulder holsters
A shoulder holster is attached to your belt loop using loops or clips so that it hangs off each side of your torso. Your normal pants pockets are used to keep your gear organized and accessible. A good shoulder holster should distribute weight well to avoid fatigue. Most importantly, it should stay out of the way during use so that you can focus on shooting.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
When choosing our recommendations for this guide, we relied on personal experience with concealed and open-carry holsters from across a wide range of categories. We also reviewed other sources to identify the best options in each category.
We focused our search on holsters that could be adjusted to fit different outfits and were made of a sturdy material (leather is popular because it ages well). Budget was not a concern; in fact, the majority of the holsters on this list are more expensive than the majority of cars. However, we did not include any items with unique characteristics, like as night sights or quick-release tritium magazines.
Frequently Asked Questions About 380 holsters
What is the most comfortable holster for a 380?
The most comfortable holster depends entirely on your intended use. For concealed carry in public, it’s generally agreed that either the six- or five-o’clock position of an ankle holster is the best place.
How tight should my .380 holster be?
How tightly you may adjust your holster without running the risk of it falling out while riding or jogging will depend on the specific model of your pistol. The majority of manufacturers provide their products with adjustable straps so you may check your fit before leaving. However, if you were to use your weapon for self defense, make sure to adjust them to the least restrictive setting possible. If you tighten them too much, you risk losing control of your weapon and hurting yourself or others.
Can I wear a 380 holster with body armor?
Absolutely! Some organizations might forbid you from openly carrying body armor, but most won’t mind, and some might even encourage it.
Which is better: an IWB or OWB holster?
When it comes to concealment, IWB holsters are better than OWB holsters. With IWB, the holster essentially conceals everything below the beltline, except for the handgun grip, which is visible through the shorts or pants. Concealability is enhanced by wearing loose-fitting shirts and pants.
Leather or Kydex: Which is better?
Which is better actually depends on preference. The best holsters for retention and reholstering are made of kydex. If you’re looking for comfort and style, leather holsters are the best.
Should you oil a 380 leather holster?
We do not advise using any leather conditioners on your custom holster, including liquid, oil, or saddle soap. Your 380 holster needs to be rigid, and the more rigid the better.