Imagine reaching for your firearm in a critical situation, only to fumble with an awkward, ill-fitting holster. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or new to concealed carry, the right holster is more than convenience—it’s about safety, comfort, and confidence.
Finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming: Comfort or accessibility? Leather or Kydex®? Everyday carry or tactical use? Choose wrong, and you risk discomfort or compromised safety—something no responsible gun owner wants.
Key Takeaways
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Gun holsters are engineered in various styles—such as IWB, OWB, and Molly-B—with each design catering to different carry methods and situations.
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A holster should be chosen based on comfort, retention, concealment, and accessibility to guarantee a secure and practical fit for your needs.
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Material choices, ranging from leather and Kydex® to hybrid options, along with design features like cant and ride height, play a critical role in achieving the right balance of safety, functionality, and personal style.
At Eclipse Holsters, we believe your holster should feel like an extension of you. This guide breaks down the different types of gun holsters to match your lifestyle, firearm, and needs.
Understanding Holster Basics: What Makes a Great Gun Holster?
A holster is more than a holder—it’s critical gear balancing safety, accessibility, and comfort. A great holster covers the trigger guard to prevent accidental discharge, allows quick draws when needed, and feels comfortable enough for daily carry.
Ultimately, the ideal holster is one that seamlessly integrates with your lifestyle and ensures your firearm is both readily available when needed and safely stowed when it's not.
Types of Gun Holsters
Not all holsters are created equal—each one brings something unique to the table, and the best choice depends on how you live, what you carry, and when you need it.
Whether you’re after deep concealment, lightning-fast access, or all-day comfort, there’s a holster style out there for you. Here’s a breakdown of different types of gun holsters, packed with everything you need to know to pick the right one.
If you’re all about looks and personalized designs, Eclipse Holsters lets you craft a holster that’s as unique as you are, with custom designs tailored to your style.
1. Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters
Inside the Waistband holsters, or IWBs, are the undercover champs of the holster world. Tucked snugly inside your waistband, they sit between your pants and your body, usually clipped to your belt. They’re designed to disappear under a shirt or jacket, making them a staple for concealed carry enthusiasts who want to keep things discreet.
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Pros:
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Top-tier concealment: A well-fitted IWB holster vanishes under even a light cover garment—perfect for staying low-profile.
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Secure and close: The gun hugs your body, reducing printing (that telltale bulge) and keeping it stable.
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Versatile positioning: Wear it at your hip, appendix, or small of the back—your call!
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Cons:
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Slower draw: Reaching inside your waistband takes a beat longer than an outside holster—practice is essential to master the draw.
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Sweat factor: In hot weather, it’s close to your body, so breathable materials are a must.
IWB holsters shine for everyday concealed carry. Whether you’re running errands, heading to work, or just living your life, they offer discreet protection without screaming “I’m armed.” They’re especially great if you’re in a state where concealed carry is the norm and open carry might raise eyebrows.
2. Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters
Outside the Waistband holsters, or OWBs, are the bold extroverts of the holster family. Worn proudly on a belt outside your pants, they’re easy to spot and even easier to reach. Think of them as the go-to for range days or places where open carry is no big deal.
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Pros:
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Comfort king: No digging into your waist—OWB holsters sit comfortably on your hip all day long.
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Lightning draw: With nothing in the way, you can access your firearm fast—ideal for emergencies or competition.
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Roomy fit: They handle full-size guns with ease, no cramming required.
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Cons:
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Concealment challenge: Without a long jacket or untucked shirt, everyone’s going to see it.
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Belt dependency: You’ll need a sturdy gun belt to keep it from flopping around.
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Weather woes: Exposed to the elements, so rain or dust might call for extra care.
OWB holsters are perfect for open carry states, rural outings, or hitting the range. They’re less about hiding and more about accessibility—great for shooters who want their gun at the ready without fuss.
3. Molly-B Holsters
Meet Eclipse Holsters’ Molly-B holster—perfect for bag carry fans. This isn’t your standard belt holster; it’s built to tuck neatly inside your bag with a sturdy Velcro mounting plate that sticks securely to any soft-sided Velcro lining.
It’s the perfect partner for keeping your firearm handy yet discreet, whether you’re on the move or just like your hands free.
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Pros:
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Bag carry brilliance: Ideal if you’d rather stash your firearm in a bag than wear it on your body.
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Velcro vibes: Pairs perfectly with the Marsupial Gear Concealed Carry Belt Bag but works with any Velcro-lined bag you’ve got.
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Fast draw friendly: Designed for quick, smooth access when seconds count.
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Made in the USA: Crafted with pride and top-notch quality right here at home.
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Cons:
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Bag-bound: No bag, no go—this one’s not for on-body carry.
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Velcro required: You’ll need a bag with the right lining to make it stick.
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Practice makes perfect: Drawing from a bag requires practice to make it smooth.
For those who prefer carrying bags—be it travelers, hikers, or anyone juggling gear who wants their firearm close but out of sight, the Molly-B offers an ideal solution. It shines with the Marsupial Gear Concealed Carry Belt Bag, but its universal Velcro compatibility means it’s ready for any bag with the right setup.
4. Shoulder Holsters
Straight out of a Hollywood action flick, shoulder holsters strap across your chest with the gun nestled under your arm. They’re a classic choice that shifts the weight off your waist, offering a different vibe for carrying your piece.
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Pros:
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Long-haul comfort: Great for bigger guns—your hips won’t feel a thing.
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Seated access: Perfect when you’re driving or at a desk; no awkward waistband reach.
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Cons:
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Concealment hurdle: You’ll need a jacket or loose coat to cover it, limiting warm-weather use.
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Draw learning curve: The cross-body motion takes practice to master.
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Fit fuss: Adjusting straps for your frame can be a pain at first.
Shoulder holsters are a win for long drives, office jobs, or anyone who finds waist carry uncomfortable. They’re great for heavier handguns, sparing your belt the strain.
5. Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters are the sneaky ninjas of carry options. Strapped around your lower leg, they’re built for backup guns—small, discreet, and out of the way until you need them.
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Pros:
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Stealth mode: Hidden under pants or boots, they’re nearly invisible—perfect for a second gun.
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Hands-free carry: Your waist stays clear for other tools or a primary holster.
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Subtle vibe: Ideal when deep concealment is non-negotiable.
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Cons:
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Slow draw: Bending down or lifting your pant leg isn’t quick—definitely not for primary defense.
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Size limit: Only works with compact or subcompact firearms.
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Comfort catch: Walking all day with weight on your ankle can get old.
Ankle holsters are a pro move for law enforcement, security folks, or civilians who want a backup weapon that stays out of sight. Think of it as your “just in case” plan.
Gun Holster Language: Common Terms
Holsters involve more than meets the eye—terms like cant and ride height impact comfort and accessibility. Understanding them is key to optimizing your carry setup.Here’s what they mean and tips to find your ideal setup.
Holster Cant
Cant is the angle at which your gun sits in the holster compared to your waist. Picture it as the tilt of the firearm. There are three main types:
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Zero Degree Cant: The gun is straight up and down, with the slide vertical. This works well for holsters worn near the front of your body, like appendix carry.
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Forward Cant: The top of the gun tilts forward. You’ll see this on holsters worn on the side or slightly behind the hip—it aligns with your arm’s natural motion for an easier draw.
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Reverse Cant: The top tilts backward. This is rare and mostly used for cross-draw setups (drawing from the opposite side).
You might have heard the term FBI cant—it’s just a nickname for a forward cant of about 15-20 degrees, often used for side carry. Extreme cants (like 30-40 degrees) are rare and usually only seen for holsters worn far back—not a common choice for most shooters.
Holster Ride Height
Ride height is how high or low your gun sits relative to your belt line. It’s typically split into three categories:
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High Ride: The gun sits higher, with more than a finger’s width between the belt and the grip. Great for hiding under a jacket, but it might slow your draw.
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Mid Ride: A middle ground where you can grab a full firing grip right away. This is a favorite for many shooters.
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Low Ride: The gun sits lower, with the grip near the belt. It’s easier to conceal but can make it tricky to get a solid grip quickly.
How Cant and Ride Height Work Together
Cant and ride height are separate but connected. Some holsters let you tweak them independently, while others link them through the design. Here’s how they play off each other:
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Carry Position: The further back your holster sits, the more forward cant you might need for a smooth draw. Up front, a straight drop often works best.
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Draw Dynamics: A super high ride with a long gun can make drawing awkward, especially if the cant doesn’t match your reach.
A common setup? For appendix carry, try a zero degree cant with a mid ride height. For strong-side carry (just behind the hip), a slight forward cant (around 10 degrees) with a mid ride often feels right.
If you’re looking to learn more gun language, the terms like open or concealed carry might interest you.
Material Breakdown: Leather, Kydex®, or Hybrid?
Beyond the design and fit, the material of your holster plays a significant role in its performance and your overall carry experience. The three most common materials are leather, Kydex®, and hybrid combinations. Let's break down the characteristics of each:
1. Leather Holsters:
Leather has been a traditional choice for holsters for centuries, and for good reason. It offers a classic aesthetic and often molds to the shape of your specific firearm over time, providing a snug and comfortable fit.
Leather holsters tend to be more comfortable against the skin, especially for all-day wear. They also offer a quieter draw compared to other materials. However, leather can retain moisture, which might be a concern in humid environments or if the holster comes into contact with sweat.
It may also require a "break-in" period to achieve the optimal fit and can potentially lose some rigidity and retention over extended use compared to Kydex®.
2. Kydex® Holsters:
Kydex®, a rigid thermoplastic, has surged in popularity recently. Known for its durability and excellent retention, Kydex® holsters securely hold your firearm in place, often with an audible "click" when holstered.
This material is also highly resistant to moisture and is easy to clean. Kydex® maintains its shape and rigidity over time, ensuring consistent performance. The aesthetic is also more modern and less traditional.
If Kydex® is your choice, don’t forget to check out the top three contenders from last year.
3. Hybrid Holsters:
Hybrid holsters pair a Kydex® shell for retention with a comfortable leather or neoprene backing. This design often offers the secure retention of Kydex® with the added comfort of a softer backing against the body. They can provide a good balance for those who prioritize both security and comfort.
However, hybrid holsters can sometimes be bulkier than all-leather or all-Kydex® options, and the leather backing might still be susceptible to moisture retention.
Your holster material impacts safety, accessibility, comfort, and durability. Choose based on your needs, style, and environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best holster for carrying my gun all day without anyone noticing?
An Inside the Waistband (IWB) holster is ideal for all-day concealed carry, it hides well under clothing. For off-body carry, the Molly-B holster secures discreetly in a bag. Ankle holsters are another option for small guns but work best as a backup.
How do I know if a holster is safe to use?
A safe holster fully covers the trigger guard, has strong retention to keep the gun secure, and is made from durable materials like Kydex® or reinforced leather. It should fit your specific firearm snugly with no looseness. If it doesn’t meet these standards, it’s not safe.
How can I make sure my holster is comfortable for all-day wear?
Choose comfortable materials like leather or padded hybrids, adjust the cant and height to your body, and pair it with a strong gun belt. Test carry positions—appendix, hip, or even shoulder—to find what works for you.