The Glocks have been a mainstay of the American market for more than a century. Invented in 1877 by John Moses Browning, the original design was simple: A metal frame that fit over the trigger guard and held the gun steady while the operator pulled the trigger. Over time, numerous improvements to the original design were made, and the result is the modern-day firearm.
When compared with other types of handguns, though, the Glocks are heavy. This makes them difficult to carry around without some sort of holster. There are several options on the market, but the best ones come with a price tag that can easily exceed $1,000. Luckily, we can help you out. By using our own expertise and resources, we’re able to provide you with a quality holster that will keep your weapon safe and secure while also allowing you to enjoy your firearm without worrying about it getting damaged or stolen.
What To Consider When Choosing The Best Glock 20 Holster
When shopping for a new Glock 20 holster, there are many factors to consider. The following section looks at some of the most important considerations in detail.
Intended Use
Before deciding on which is the best Glock 20 holster for your needs, think about how you intend to use it and what features would help make that experience better.
- If you’re looking for a versatile option, then you might want to check into both single- and double-action holsters.
- For those who like to keep things simple, a single-action holster may be your best bet.
- For self-defense purposes, a high-quality concealment holster is essential.
Material
Glock 20 holsters can be made from various materials, including leather, nylon, fiberglass, and plastic.
- Leather is an excellent material for a gun holster because its flexible and durable. Leather also absorbs shock well, making it less likely to damage your wrist during firing.
- Nylon is another popular choice due to its lightweight nature and flexibility. This fabric doesn’t hold as much heat as leather but does absorb more than enough to warm up a pistol grip without causing discomfort.
- Fiberglass is strong and stiff but tends to weigh more than other options. This makes it unsuitable for long distances or rapid fire.
- Plastic is inexpensive, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion. However, this material is not as durable as other options and has a tendency to crack if exposed to direct sunlight.
Size and Fit
The size and fit of a Glock 20 holster are two critical elements to ensure proper operation. First, determine where you will wear the holster and whether any adjustments need to be made to accommodate different sizes and shapes.
Next, consult one of the numerous online resources available to find out how large a Glock 20 handgun is and compare it to the measurements of the intended holster location. Also, look over the gear you’ll be wearing with the holster to see if any of the straps or waistbands stretch, because if they do, it could cause problems when trying to draw your weapon.
Quality Construction
A good holster should prevent accidental activation when disengaged and prevent leakage or spillage when engaged. In addition to these basic functions, some holsters include special locking mechanisms that further secure the gun. However, even though a holster appears to have all the right components, poor craftsmanship can ruin its functionality. For example, a poorly fitted saddle can lead to leaks or bruises; similarly, a belt that’s too tight can cut off circulation and trigger pressure points that stick up under the arm.
Locking Mechanism
Almost every Glock 20 holster includes a locking mechanism of some kind, usually involving a button or switch located somewhere on the handle. These locks prevent the gun from accidentally coming out unless the holster is actively being used. Some holsters feature internal locking systems that require additional steps to unlock the firearm, such as turning a knob or sliding a slider along the side of the handle. While these extra measures add security, they’re not necessary for everyone.
Style
Finally, decide if the Glock 20 holster meets your personal style requirements. If you prefer a classic appearance, then perhaps a traditional flap holster is right for you. On the other hand, a minimalist approach might go better with a streamlined ID holder or a flashy light bar.
Types Of Glock 20 Holsters
Glock 20 is a larger pistol that has been around for decades. It’s reliable, accurate, and it can pack quite a punch.
Outside the waistband (OWB)
An OWB holster is worn at your side outside your pants or shorts. The draw is from the strong-side hip; you reach over your own body to draw the gun. An OWB holster is ideal for concealed carry because it keeps your muzzle parallel with the ground when drawing. The downside of an OWB position is that your upper arm is constantly jabbing into you as you attempt to draw the weapon. You’ll want to keep a firm grip on the gun to prevent unwanted movement. This isn’t a big deal for most people but some may have issues with it.
Inside the waistband (IWB)
An IWB holster is worn inside your pants or shorts. The draw is from the strong-side hip; you reach over your own body to draw the gun. Most people find this more comfortable than having their firearm jutting out in front of them. However, there are many who feel like they’re being jabbed by the muzzle every time they need to use their firearm.
Some also complain about not being able to see their firearm due to the fact that it’s wedged between their legs. Keep in mind that if you choose an IWB holster, you will be carrying your handgun far less often. If you opt for an IWB holster, make sure you buy one that fits close to your dominant hand so you won’t have any problems reaching across yourself.
Belt Holsters
The vast majority of people carry a gun with them in this way. This kind of holster is fastened to your belt by using loops or slots. To make removal easier, it can also employ a paddle. If you’re searching for one belt holster for concealed weapons, you might want to choose one with loops instead of a paddle because it will be less obvious and hold on safer during a physical battle.
One of three materials: leather, kydex, or nylon, is frequently used to make belt holsters. While they all function well as holsters, nylon and kydex are more expensive options and are also a bit bulkier. Leather holsters must be “broken in,” as they could need to expand to fit your Glock 20.
Shoulder Holsters
Since they might be difficult to wear for extended periods of time, not many people who carry weapons do so using shoulder holsters. Women may also experience anatomy-related issues that make shoulder holsters quite unpleasant. In comparison to an inside-the-waistband or paddle holster, their elevated posture makes it possible to conceal them beneath a jacket and makes them much more pleasant for sitting down use.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
We started by searching for holsters from reputable companies and sellers. Next, we narrowed our search to those that were designed specifically for concealed carry.
Finally, since they frequently fail to entirely conceal the trigger guard, we disqualified those holsters featuring nylon or leather backing. This is not an issue if you are wearing a loose holster, but it could be a problem if your concealed weapon falls to the ground as you begin to climb the steps, forcing you to search about for it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glock 20 Holsters
What is the most comfortable holster for a Glock 20?
Your intended use will strongly influence the optimal response to this query. Ankle or shoulder holsters are typically considered to be the best options for concealed carry in public.
How tight should my Glock 20 holster be?
Your holster should fit snugly but not constricting against your body so you can draw and reholstering without having to worry about catching on anything while moving. Make sure you get one with enough room to allow for movement while seated as well as standing up. If you’re going to wear a belt, make sure it fits loose enough where you can wiggle around comfortably while seated or standing up. Also, check out our tips on drawing from the waistband vs. sitting position.
Can I wear a Glock 20 holster with my dress pants?
Absolutely! Some manufacturers advertise their products specifically for formal attire, and there are times when that’s appropriate (weddings, etc.). Just remember that some companies only offer specific types of holsters, so make sure you understand what kind(s) they provide before making any purchases. Also, avoid wearing white uniforms or other colors that contrast too much with the gunmetal color of your holster. That said, there are tons of companies offering different colored/leather options, so finding one that matches your wardrobe shouldn’t be too hard.
Is it legal to carry a Glock 20 in public?
In general, carrying a concealed firearm in public is legal in all US states, although local regulations may differ. However, there are several laws and restrictions surrounding open-carrying firearms in various locations. Laws that limit your ability to carry openly will also apply to your Glock 20 since the two are considered equivalent.