Choosing the Right Holster – A Comprehensive Review
Choosing the right holster is just as important as selecting your handgun. A quality holster can help you draw your firearm faster and easier, which is critical in a self-defense encounter.
Before you select your holster, sit down and write out all the demands you will place on it. Then, consider the different materials available.
Material
The material that the Desantis holsters is made of plays an important role in its ability to secure, retain, and access your firearm. The best holsters are crafted from high-grade, durable materials that provide superior support and retention for the gun.
The most common holsters are made from leather or Kydex, with the choice coming down to personal preferences. Kydex holsters are made of a thermoplastic material that is highly customizable and durable. Leather holsters are more traditional but must be broken in to fit the gun and wearer properly.
If the holster you choose doesn’t cover your trigger guard completely, it could endanger you and others. This is why it is important to take the time to select a holster that will do the job you need it to do.
Fit
The holster should fit your gun well and allow you to draw it with a full combat grip (with both fingers on the trigger). Depending on the circumstances, you also want the ability to deactivate safeties and shoot one-handed. If your holster allows you to do only some of these, it isn’t right for you.
Choosing the wrong holster could put you and others in danger. Hard-sided holsters are designed for specific guns; using one that isn’t fitted could lead to accidental trigger catch upon re-holstering and potential injury or death. Prioritizing a good, conventional holster over other types for day-to-day use is best. Consistency in carrying is key under stress. A holster that moves around with every shift can be a nuisance.
Retention
Retention is some force or friction that keeps your gun in the holster. Some holsters have passive retention, which uses gravity and the holster’s friction to keep your gun in place. Others use active retention, a mechanical process that prevents a gun from being easily removed from the holster.
This is especially important for people who carry openly, like law enforcement officers. They don’t want a bad guy to be able to grab their gun from them during a confrontation.
Some holsters have adjustable retention, which means you can adjust the tension or friction to hold your gun in place. Generally speaking, the higher the retention level, the more secure it is, but it should be tight enough to draw your weapon.
Weight
A holster needs to be of reasonable weight to carry comfortably. It must also retain a handgun securely and prevent unintended trigger manipulation while allowing for a reasonably unencumbered presentation (draw).
While countless holsters are available, one for your make and model firearm is best. It will firmly hold your weapon and fit like a glove.
Some people wear a holster under a coat or tucked into their waistband, while others use a holster on a belt, clipped to clothing, or worn at the hip. Whatever the case, it is important to find a comfortable holster that will not print through your clothes – as this can still be considered brandishing in certain states. For this reason, choosing the right holster is just as important as the gun itself.
Comfort
While some people carry their firearm in a pocket or their waistband sans holster, this is not the most comfortable way. A holster is ideal as it allows the weapon to be accessed quickly in an emergency.
The holster also keeps the gun secure and prevents it from being taken by others in a dangerous scenario. As responsible gun owners, we must keep this in mind at all times.
Most gun owners spend much time finding a holster that works for them. They try various styles and materials until they find the one that is comfortable and convenient. This process can take some time, which is why many gun owners end up with the proverbial box of holsters in their basements.
