Over a century has passed since the Glocks first became popular in the United States. The first model, created by John Moses Browning in 1877, was straightforward: a metal frame that fit over the trigger guard and steadied the weapon as the user pressed the trigger. The original design was altered significantly over time, and the final product is the pistol we know today. The best Glocks have shown to be superior in accuracy and dependability when compared to other handgun types, such as those using a rotary or cross-draw system. These weapons need some maintenance to work effectively because of the numerous moving parts they are built with, such as the revolving barrel and the spring-loaded hammer. But anyone with some familiarity with how to use a handgun can carry out this kind of maintenance with ease.
While there are changes between different models, the majority of contemporary Glocks have similar parts that allow them to work similarly. Knowing what features to look for when buying a new holster is essential when trying to get the perfect glock holster.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Glock 43X Holster
There are a lot of things to think about while purchasing a new holster. The most crucial characteristics and attributes to consider while choosing the best Glock 43x holsters are covered in the following section.
Intended Use
Many of the convenience and safety factors that must be taken into account depend on the use of a handgun. Weight might not be a concern, for example, if you’re shopping for a new pistol holster for EDC (everyday carry). On the other side, weight may be crucial if you’re looking for a concealable handgun or a custom gun safe. In general, though, smaller weapons can weigh less than full-size pistols, so it’s wise to stay on the side of caution and pick a lightweight holster that won’t obstruct your draw when you need it.
Material
Depending on whether a holster is intended for self-defense, competition, or duty, the materials utilized in its construction differ significantly. Duty and competition holsters typically have extensive cushioning and strong leather straps, whereas those designed for self-defense frequently have thinner leather bands and less padding. It’s crucial to evaluate the holster’s fit because a tight fit could make it difficult to draw your handgun.
A good fit is crucial for duty and competition purposes because it stops the pistol from moving while being used and minimizes slippage when being transported. However, if you keep your hands as far away from your body as you can, self-defense doesn’t necessarily require this level of protection.
Size and Fit
A proper fit makes sure that the holster won’t bunch up while you’re moving or slide down toward the trigger. The shooter may not be able to get a clear shot as a result, or the gun may even start firing low blasts instead of high ones. This is crucial if you carry your gun sideways or inside out, as this is something that is difficult to tell by simply looking at the holster.
Quality Construction
As with anything you put your money into, you want to ensure that what you buy has been constructed properly. A poorly built holster will not only feel uncomfortable but also possibly break open accidentally causing damage or injury. Fortunately, due to the nature of their work, we’ve seen very few issues with quality construction among the holsters we tested. That said, we did notice one potential problem: all of the holsters we tested were made using metal loops rather than plastic clips as they would be in a real world situation.
While these metal loops serve the purpose of holding the holster together, they don’t allow for any adjustability which means the size and shape of the holster must match the size and shape of the gun it holds. We found this to be more of a hassle than anything else since different makes and models of guns can come in various sizes and shapes.
Adjustability
One of the biggest advantages of having a holster is that you get to customize it to suit your specific needs. After all, you wouldn’t want a universal fitment that didn’t accommodate your gun, right? In order to offer maximum flexibility, many holsters include multiple attachment points so you can attach them directly to your belt or use them with a belt loop or a backpack frame. On the other hand, you must make sure that a holster performs properly and allows for a smooth draw. Adjustable holsters help you accomplish this goal.
Durability
If you’d prefer not to spend money on repairs every time your gun gets dropped on hard surfaces or goes off accidentally, then look for a durable holster. These holsters tend to be thicker and better able to withstand rough handling.
We found that while all of the holsters we tested were generally quite sturdy, two in particular stood out as being extremely tough. These were the Kydex holsters, which is a type of rigid plastic that combines with steel to create a highly resistant material. And the other standout was the Flex-o-Matix holsters, which uses flexible metal that moves freely without cracking or breaking.
Safety
Additionally, be certain that your holster is secure and safe. The trigger guard of a Glock is completely hidden by the holster, which is considerably more important because Glocks lack manual safety systems while being incredibly secure firearms. This is essential for all holsters, however it is especially important for weapons without a manual safety.
Types Of Glock 43X Holsters
Glock 43X holsters come in a number of varying kinds. Each has a use, but before making a purchase, you should understand what you’re getting into.
Shoulder holster
The most popular and practical method for carrying a pistol is a shoulder holster. It’s incredibly cozy and keeps your gun’s muzzle lower than it would be if you carried it in your front pocket or under your arm. The drawback of this style of holster is that it exposes your upper arm, making it easy to snag. Because of this, you can be attacked.
A good shoulder holster will have some sort of padding to prevent chafing and provide a little extra security. In addition, it should be made from materials that won’t absorb too much sweat so that it stays dry and doesn’t cause heat damage to the skin.
Belly Band Holster
This type of holster is worn around your waist with a band of cloth (or leather) running across your abdomen. While somewhat less common, belly band holsters are becoming more popular as they offer a discreet way to carry a firearm without drawing attention to yourself. They tend to be fairly inexpensive and come in both single- and double-gun varieties. However, there are many who find them uncomfortable due to the fact that they ride up against their body when drawn. If you wear one of these, make sure to get a well-fitted shirt to avoid any unwanted movement.
Additionally, keep in mind that while they may look like a regular belt, these are not standard belts; these are designed specifically for use with firearms. Therefore, you’ll want to buy one that fits snugly and isn’t going to twist or slide out from underneath you.
How We Chose Our Top Picks
We started by looking for holsters from reliable businesses and online merchants. Anything costing more than $100 (before shipping and taxes) was not taken into consideration. The holsters on our list were picked after extensive research into manufacturer specifications, personal ownership, and in-person testing. Although there is an option for those who may require more specialized choices, such as a quick-release holster or one meant to conceal ID cards, the majority of the holsters on this list are created using hard materials like leather or nylon.
For most people, price point was an important factor in choosing their top picks because we don’t want you spending money on something that doesn’t live up to its value. However, we also took into consideration reviews from independent sources and online retailers to find some great deals for those looking for good quality at a reasonable cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glock 43X Holsters
What is the best concealed carry position?
Inside the waistband (IWB) is generally considered one of the better concealed carry positions, but it’s also the most uncomfortable and least concealment-friendly option.
Is IWB a good concealed carry position?
It depends. Yes, if you’re searching for quick access to your weapon while yet retaining outstanding concealment. However, switching to an open-carry position can be more effective if you desire maximum concealment with the least amount of effort.
How tight should my Glock 43X holster be?
Your holster will vary depending on what you use. For example, some manufacturers offer their products with either a five- or seven-o’clock belt buckle, while others include a three- or four-o’clock configuration. You can also get rid of the plate altogether and go with a leather or neoprene band instead.