Once you have the gun itself, making a holster should be easy. But in reality, there are a lot of factors to take into account while deciding how to carry your firearm with you. Will you be carrying a hidden weapon? Will you mainly be seated or standing? Are you going to be wearing a dress or shorts with a structured waistband? Do you have any pockets? The holster you choose depends on all of these factors and more.
It’s important to have a sturdy holster. Despite the fact that there are many different ways to carry a gun, a beautiful holster makes it easier and more discreet to do so. 9mm holsters must help you conceal your pistol as much as possible in addition to securing it. Large flaps, padding, and carrying techniques are thus eliminated. Making the proper choice is essential because a holster can only conceal a handgun so much. The greatest holster is also composed with strong materials and can withstand repeated use. It should also be easy to clean in case it gets too dirty to work efficiently. Most of these holsters are large enough to hold a full-size gun while still being portable.
What To Consider When Choosing The Best 9mm Holster
When shopping for a new holster, there are many factors to consider. The following section looks at some of the most important features and functions when selecting the best 9mm handgun holster.
Material
Materials used in gun holsters vary greatly depending on price point and style. Cheap plastic or leather holsters can be found on the street corner, while high-end custom rigs may cost thousands of dollars.
- Plastic is an inexpensive option that comes in various colors and patterns. It’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture damage. However, over time it can become brittle and crack, especially if left untreated. Plastic holsters tend to soften up with wear, making them easier to pull apart.
- Leather is another economical material that offers durability and comfort. Leather holsters have a classic look and feel, but they’re not as easily cleaned as plastics. They can absorb water like a sponge, which makes them more likely to develop mold growth.
- A soft and smooth synthetic material is nylon. Even in damp environments, it doesn’t rust or decompose. Although it is frequently pricey, nylon has the strength of few materials.
- Kydex (thermoplastic resin) is another tough, synthetic polymer that feels comfortable against the skin. Kydex holsters don’t smell bad either, unlike leather ones that can start to reek after a few uses.
Size and Fit
A good fit ensures that your pistol stays secure in the holster without rubbing against bone or tissue. First measure yourself by placing a flexible measuring tape slightly above the hipbone and then consult one of our charts to determine what size firearm holster you should order.
Next, check out the sizing chart below to see if the holster fits properly on your waist. If it does, great! You know it will fit your weapon securely because it was made specifically for you. However, if the holster appears too large, try a smaller size. Most manufacturers make these sizes so that their customers’ weapons do not hang down past their hips. A small difference of just a couple of inches can mean the difference between a proper fit and having to adjust your draw when walking around or sitting down.
Security
The last thing you want is for your firearm to sit loose in its holster during transport or simply get lost in your pants. To avoid this fate, make sure the belt loop where your pistol sits has a sturdy snap that closes tightly. Also, choose a site that isn’t prone to quick draws, a strong grip on the handle of your gun helps prevent accidental firing.
Finally, invest in a quality lock for your holster. While simple friction locks work fine for keeping your pistol in place, a better method is a combination lock that requires multiple numbers to open.
Style
There are several different styles of gun holsters, each of which serves a purpose. Here are some examples:
- Classic western gunslingers wore their six shooters low on their hips, but today’s trend is toward wearing firearms higher on the body. Some people prefer carrying their handguns inside the waistband rather than on the side, which puts them closer to the centerline. Others wear their pistols outside the waistband, leaving room for a backup mag if needed.
- For those who need to tuck their gear away when traveling light, a baggy jeans approach might work. Wear thick denim that hangs loosely on the hips, and insert the muzzle end of your gun into the front pocket. Keep in mind that doing this could cause problems when reaching in your back pocket, so only use this technique if necessary.
Types Of 9mm Holsters
There are three main types of 9mm holster. Each has its place, but you need to know what you’re getting into before making a purchase.
Outside-the-waistband (OWB)
An OWB holster is worn outside the waist and holds the gun in front of your body with the muzzle pointing towards the center back or front of your hip. This type of holster is most often used for concealed carry because it keeps the muzzle parallel to the ground when drawing from concealment. The draw stroke should be smooth and quick to avoid presenting a large target area at an early stage in the draw process.
The opposite end of the spectrum is an inside-the-waistband holster which is worn within the waist and holds the gun behind your body with the muzzle pointing toward the small of your back. This type of holster is best suited for open carry as it positions the muzzle in a safe direction while concealing the weapon.
Shoulder
A shoulder holster is worn by attaching straps across the shoulders and over the top of the arms. The straps usually cross in the middle so that one strap goes under each armpit and hook onto loops on either side of the barrel. Some models use buckles instead of hooks. Most leave the muzzle free to move up and down along the barrel but some muzzle discipline may be required depending on how the particular model fits your needs.
This type of holster is not recommended for larger firearms like the 1911 pistol due to the added weight and bulkiness.
Kangaroo
A kangaroo holster wraps around both legs and attaches to itself via Velcro straps. It then carries the firearm high on the thigh where it’s out of the way yet easily accessible if needed.
It can also be used to secure other gear such as magazines or knives. However, this type of holster isn’t ideal for carrying a larger handgun due to the fact that the muzzle will jut out in front of you at all times.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
We began by looking for the top holsters from respected manufacturers. Then, since there aren’t many goods that fit comfortably and covertly while also being able to withstand the demands of a law enforcement job, we focused our search on those that were made expressly for comfort.
Finally, we looked at feedbacks from online sources to get a sense of what people are saying about different brands and models. The reviews helped us see which ones had great features or were backed up with real-world ownership experiences. In the end, we came up with this great list of the best 9mm holsters.
Frequently Asked Questions About 9-millimeter holsters
What is the most comfortable holster for a 9mm?
The most comfortable holster depends entirely on your body type and lifestyle. Some manufacturers advertise their products as being “comfortable” or “most comfortable,” but those claims can be difficult to verify.
How tight should my 9mm holster be?
Your holster’s fit will depend on what you intend to use it with. For concealed carry, you’ll want something that’s not too loose, but not so tight as to cause discomfort while drawing from it.
Are all 9mm holsters the same?
The quick response is no. The holster sizes are made to fit particular weapons, ensuring a good fit and easy draw.
How long do 9mm holsters last?
With proper cleaning and maintenance, a Kydex holster can last a lifetime, whereas a leather holster may only last 5 to 10 years with continuous use.
Which is better, leather or Kydex 9mm holsters?
Which is better truly depends on what appeals to the individual. The best holsters for retention and reholstering are made of kydex. When it comes to comfort and aesthetics, leather holsters are the best.
How do 9mm holsters work?
Most 9mm holsters typically use loops or clips to fasten to your side. Some are made to allow you to even tuck your shirt behind the clip, but always around the gun and holster. This therefore enables you to wear a tucked-in shirt while wearing a holster.