When we approached the topic of concealed carry pistols, it was quite simple to compile a list of recommended firearms based on specific features any concealed carrier can benefit from. The same cannot be said for holsters, which have a large variety of brands, configurations, and positions. Instead of providing specific product recommendations, we’d like to offer four things you should consider when attempting to select an ideal and safe holster for your needs.
1. The Holster Must Completely Cover the Trigger Guard to Prevent Trigger Presses
If even a small portion of your trigger guard is left exposed by a holster, it’s likely time to continue your search. If there is any chance a small object, like a key or pocketknife, could wiggle into the holster and lead to an accidental press, that is 100% a dealbreaker. This type of issue is most common with holsters that are “one size fits all”, so be sure to consider selecting a holster specifically designed for your pistol.
2. The Holster Must Prevent the Pistol from Accidentally Falling Out at All Times
Under no circumstances should your pistol fall out of your holster while you are completing mundane movements or even rigorous activities. In order to ensure your pistol can stay safely retained in its holster, we have a few tests you should be sure to try before committing to concealed carrying with it:
- Do 10+ vigorous jumping jacks (with pistol unloaded). Any vertical gun movement or slippage here should be concerning.
- Jiggle the holster and pistol (unloaded) upside-down over a soft area such as your bed. If it falls out right away or with minimal shaking, it’s time to continue your search or check for retention adjustment features. Conversely, you should still be able to remove the pistol from the holster without great difficulty when you need to do so.
3. The Holster Must Remain in Place After the Pistol is Drawn
Be sure to test whether your holster remains firmly in place after you draw your pistol. Sometimes a bad fit can lead to the holster becoming detached and falling to the ground after a draw. Even worse, we’ve even seen some holsters become detached from the body but remaining attached to the firearm. At the range, it’s easier to laugh this type of error off, but this sort of failure could be life threatening when you truly need your pistol to be available right away.
4. You Must Be Able to Easily Grip the Pistol in a Ready Stance While Holstered
While it is critical for a holster to cover a trigger guard, you should be sure that your holster does not cover past your trigger guard and onto the grip. Your fingers must be able to access the grip and consistently grab the pistol when it is fully in the holster. Fumbling for a proper grip on the pistol in a true combat situation presents a great risk for being too late to respond.
Looking for a New Concealed Carry Holster? Check Out Blacksmith Tactical
We’re firm believers in safe holsters at Soteria Training Academy, and we’ve partnered with a custom holster manufacturer that creates custom made holsters that adhere to all the rules outlined in this blog. In addition to creating our full roster of trainee holsters, Blacksmith Tactical also offers 10% off any purchase with promo code ‘soteria’!
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Soteria Training Academy provides expert pistol training with an emphasis on safety. Whether you’re a beginner in the world of firearms, or already have a wealth of experience, we look forward to helping your shooting skill set. Contact us today by visiting our website, or call us at (410) 216-3176 to learn more.