For more than a century, the Glocks have been a staple of the American market. The first model, developed by John Moses Browning in 1877, was straightforward: a metal frame that covered the trigger guard and held the firearm steady while the user pressed the trigger. The current firearm is the result of several modifications that were made to the original design over time.
Although the many models differ from one another, they all have the same fundamental function. It’s easier to shoot correctly and securely when you combine an appropriate firearm with a suitable holster. The greatest glock holsters can literally save your life, especially when you take into account the diversity of alternatives that are currently offered. You’ve therefore arrived at the proper place if you’re looking for your first or second Glock holster. Your shooting style and level of gun knowledge will determine the best glock holster for you, which you may choose by consulting the buying guidelines on this site. The best items on the market will also be covered in detail.
What To Consider When Choosing The Best Glock 43 Holster
Several factors should be considered before purchasing a new holster. The next section covers the most crucial aspects and elements to think about while selecting the best Glock 43 handgun holster.
Material
Glock holsters can be made from several different materials, including leather, nylon, fiberglass, and plastic.
- Leather is an excellent material for a gun holster because it’s tough, water resistant, and naturally flexible. However, over time, this flexibility can wear away and tear, causing problems with accuracy and comfort.
- Nylon is another popular option due to its lightweight design and superior durability. These holsters tend to be more stiff than those made from other materials, which makes them less comfortable to wear.
- Fiberglass is another synthetic polymer that offers great strength and resistance to impact damage. This material tends to be softer than steel or aluminum, but harder than plastic. It also absorbs shock better than either of these metals, making fiberglass the ideal material for a pistol holster.
- Plastic is not as durable as metal, but it does offer a lighter weight design that doesn’t cause too much discomfort. Plus, you won’t have to worry about cleaning or maintaining a firearm holster made from plastic.
Size/Fit
The size and fit of a Glock 43 holster will affect its functionality and how well it keeps your gun secure while traveling or during work. For instance, if the holster fits too tight, it won’t allow for free movement of the weapon and could cause issues firing or handling the gun. If the fit is too loose, the gun could fall out or drop-down during operation. To ensure a proper fit, measure the length and width of the handle on your gun before looking for a suitable holster online or in person.
Quality Construction
A good-fitting Glock 43 holster should feel snug around the waist without any gaps where the gun can poke through. In addition, the angle at which the holster attaches to the body needs to be correct to prevent twisting during use. For a truly safe travel experience, look for a high-quality product with adjustable straps so they can be tightened if necessary. Also, check that the belt loops are large enough to avoid pinching the legs.
Adjustability
One feature that sets apart a quality Glock 43 holster from the rest of the pack is adjustability. Whether you need to shift side to side, raise or lower the gun, or make a quick adjustment while working, a properly fitted holster allows for smooth, efficient maneuvering. Most manufacturers incorporate some kind of adjustability into their holsters; however, the details vary among products. Some holsters simply slide up and down along the barrel, whereas others utilize a ratchet system similar to what you’d find on a wrench.
Firearm Type
Depending on how you want to use your Glock 43, you might need a certain style of gun holster that is compatible with your specific pistol.
- Standard sights – As the name suggests, these holsters have standard sights (typically two) that protrude forward slightly above the trigger guard area.
- Single stack mags – Rather than having multiple cartridges stacked vertically like in a double stack magazine, single stack magazines hold only one cartridge in the vertical position. They’re often used in handguns with larger capacities such as 9mm and .40 caliber.
- No sights – Completely blind fire fireproof, these holsters don’t emit light or sound when fired, allowing you to take aim at something without seeing it.
Style
While searching for a new Glock 43 holster, there are three main styles: traditional, convertible, and extended.
- Traditional. They consist of a piece of fabric that wraps around the waist and then fastens behind the hip bone with a hook and loop style closure. This method of securing the holster limits mobility somewhat, but it was considered acceptable back then.
- Convertible G43 holsters feature a front pocket clip attached to the top of the holster. This allows the user to convert the rig from a traditional holster to a more modern version with a fixed blade or wire loop.
- Extended G43 holsters feature a longer piece of cloth that hangs off of the waist and then hooks onto itself behind the hip bone. Though this seems like it would limit mobility even further, it actually adds a bit of extra security by preventing the gun from dropping out of the holster.
Types Of Glock 43 Holsters
Glock 43 holsters can be found in a variety of styles. Each has a purpose, but you should always be aware of what you’re getting into before making a purchase.
Outside-the-waistband (OWB)
A weapon is carried openly in an outside-the-waistband holster when neither a jacket nor a loose-fitting shirt covers it. Although certain OWB variants have been created for usage below the hip or close to the ankle, the most common location for this style of holster is at your side, under your armpit.
The biggest advantage of wearing the OWB holster is comfort, as you won’t be constantly jabbing yourself with a hot gun. However, if you prefer to keep your shirts tucked in and aren’t comfortable drawing from the shoulder, then maybe a more concealed carry option is your best bet.
Inside-the-waistband (IWB)
When carrying a gun in a closed position, a jacket or loose-fitting shirt covers the holster, which is worn inside the waistband. The most typical placement for this style of holster is over your appendix in the front, though certain IWB variants can also be worn lower back or close to the ankle.
This style of holster provides the greatest level of concealment because the muzzle of the weapon isn’t jabbing you in the side every time you reach for something. You’ll also experience much less heat buildup due to having the barrel properly insulated.
Shoulder
A shoulder holster is worn for carrying a pistol on your upper right arm. This allows for quick access to your weapon without removing your hands from whatever they were doing when you drew.
It can be used while sitting down or standing up, and it keeps your arms very free to move around. It’s especially useful in situations where you don’t want to give away your position by reaching across your body. If you do decide to go with a shoulder holster, make sure that the draw is easy enough for you.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
We began by looking for holsters from reliable companies and sellers. We then limited our search to those that were made especially for use with a person who has a concealed or open carry permit.
Finally, all holsters made of materials other than leather and nylon were disqualified. This is because if you ever find yourself in a fight and need to draw your weapon and flee for cover, they won’t protect you or your weapon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glock 43 Holsters
What Glock 43 holster is the most comfortable?
Your choices and way of life will strongly influence the appropriate response to this question. Personally, I like carrying my Glock 43 in a cross-draw or appendix position, but not everyone does.
How snugly should I fit my Glock 43 holster?
Your holster will have its own fitment guide, but generally speaking, you’ll want it as snug as possible without rubbing against anything inside of your waistband or outside of your clothing. If you wear a belt, make sure it fits properly before wearing your holster.
Can I wear a Glock 43 holster with body armor?
Absolutely! While some manufacturers merely offer a smooth, coated surface that won’t catch on anything during a draw stroke, certain manufacturers sell their holsters expressly with this application in mind.
Is the Glock 43 the ideal concealed carry weapon?
The Glock 43 does really offer everything you might want from a dependable everyday concealed carry weapon.
Are holsters for the Glock 43 and 43X the same?
Both are regarded as concealed carry-specific weapons. Despite the capacity variations, the G43 and G43X both fit the same holsters. This is because the slide’s geometry, the trigger guard’s geometry, and the holster’s contact surfaces are all still the same.