Understanding the World of Concealed Carry Holsters
Different Types of Holsters: A Broad Overview
The world of concealed carry holsters is vast, each type designed to optimize concealment, accessibility, and comfort based on various factors like body type, clothing style, and lifestyle.
Inside the Waistband Holsters: The Pinnacle of Concealment
Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are often considered the gold standard for concealment. Designed to sit inside the waistband of your pants, these holsters offer a high degree of discretion.
Advantages: Exceptional concealment, ideal for concealing under light clothing, often offer good all-day comfort, especially with the right design.
Disadvantages: Can sometimes be less comfortable for larger individuals or those with specific body types. May require slightly larger pants size to accommodate the firearm and holster.
Outside the Waistband Holsters: Easy Access and Comfort
Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters sit outside your waistband, usually attached to your belt. These holsters prioritize ease of access and, in some cases, can be more comfortable for extended wear.
Advantages: Quick and easy access to your firearm, often more comfortable than IWB holsters, especially for those with wider frames. Easier to put on and take off.
Disadvantages: Less concealment compared to IWB holsters, can be prone to printing (the outline of the gun showing through clothing), may require a cover garment.
Appendix Carry Holsters: For the Dedicated Carrier
Appendix carry involves positioning the holster in front of the hip, near the abdomen. This method allows for rapid draw speed and can offer great concealment.
Advantages: Fast draw speed, excellent concealment, can be comfortable for some body types.
Disadvantages: Requires careful training and practice to safely and effectively utilize. Can be more challenging for individuals with specific builds. Requires a higher degree of awareness and safe gun handling.
Pocket Holsters: Discreet and Convenient
Pocket holsters are designed to fit inside a pocket, offering discreet concealment.
Advantages: Exceptional concealment, ideal for casual settings, convenient for quick errands or situations where a belt-mounted holster is not suitable.
Disadvantages: Slower draw compared to other methods, limited in terms of retention and security. Requires a specific type of pocket.
Ankle Holsters: A Secondary Carry Option
Ankle holsters secure the firearm to the ankle, offering a secondary carry position.
Advantages: Good for deep concealment and can be used as a backup weapon, particularly for seated situations.
Disadvantages: Draw is slow, can be uncomfortable for extended periods, and generally not a primary carry method.
Shoulder Holsters: For the Long Haul
Shoulder holsters spread the weight of the firearm across the shoulders and back, often suitable for long-term wear.
Advantages: Comfortable for extended wear, good for concealed carry under a jacket.
Disadvantages: May be more difficult to conceal, less discreet in warm climates.
Key Features to Consider
Beyond the type of holster, several key features determine its quality, functionality, and suitability for *concealed carry for your Glock 23*.
Material Matters: Choosing the Right Construction
The material is the backbone of any holster, impacting its durability, comfort, and how well it performs.
Kydex: Kydex is a thermoplastic material, offering exceptional durability, water resistance, and excellent retention. Kydex holsters are molded to the specific gun model, ensuring a precise fit and optimal safety.
Leather: Leather offers a classic aesthetic and can conform to the shape of your body over time. Leather holsters provide a level of comfort that some find appealing. However, leather requires more maintenance and can be more susceptible to wear and tear than Kydex.
Nylon and Cordura: Nylon and Cordura holsters are generally more affordable and offer flexibility. However, they may lack the durability and retention of Kydex or the comfort of leather.
Retention: Keeping Your Firearm Secure
Retention refers to how securely the holster holds your firearm. Adjustable retention is crucial, allowing you to fine-tune the grip on your Glock 23.
Ride Height and Cant: Optimizing Draw and Comfort
Ride height refers to the position of the holster relative to your belt.
Cant is the angle at which the holster positions the firearm.
Finding the right combination of ride height and cant will help you find the optimal comfort for your body and optimize the draw speed and comfort for the user.
Sweat Guard: Protecting Your Firearm and Body
A sweat guard is a barrier, usually made of the same material as the holster, that sits between your firearm and your body. This layer shields the firearm from sweat, which can cause corrosion, and adds an additional layer of comfort.
Belt Clips and Attachments: Keeping Things Secure
Reliable belt clips or attachment systems are essential. Look for robust and durable clips or loops that can securely attach to your belt and withstand daily wear and tear.
Understanding Your Needs: A Personal Fit
Choosing a holster is a highly personal decision. Consider your body type, preferred clothing style, climate, and personal preferences to identify the features that will best meet your needs.
Top Concealed Holster Recommendations for the Glock 23
Inside the Waistband Holsters
Brand X IWB Holster for Glock 23: Excellent Blend of Concealment and Comfort
Brand X IWB holsters, which can be Vedder Holsters, Tier 1 Concealed, or similar companies, provide a solid balance of concealment, comfort, and durability. Constructed from Kydex, they offer excellent retention and a secure fit for the Glock 23. The minimalist design makes it easy to conceal under various clothing options.
Detailed review: Durable Kydex construction. Adjustable cant and ride height. Excellent retention. Sweat guard. Secure belt clip. Comfortable enough for daily wear. Easy to conceal.
Price: Moderate.
Link to Purchase: Find them online from the brand’s website.
Brand Y IWB Holster for Glock 23: A Favorite for All Day Carry
Brand Y, like Crossbreed or StealthGearUSA, holsters often incorporate a hybrid design. These holsters combine a leather backing with a Kydex shell, blending the comfort of leather with the retention and durability of Kydex. The leather backing against the skin offers additional comfort, especially during extended carry. The *Glock 23 concealed carry* becomes comfortable.
Detailed review: Hybrid design combining Kydex and leather. Comfortable for all-day carry. Adjustable cant and ride height. Secure retention.
Price: Moderate.
Link to Purchase: Purchase directly from their website.
Brand Z IWB Holster for Glock 23: Budget Friendly Option
Brand Z, such as Alien Gear or Galco offer the Glock 23 user a more affordable option. Offering a good balance of features and value. These holsters are designed for ease of use and provide a secure fit for the Glock 23.
Detailed review: Durable design. Adjustable cant and ride height. Secure retention.
Price: Budget Friendly.
Link to Purchase: Purchase directly from their website.
Outside the Waistband Holsters
Brand A OWB Holster for Glock 23: Secure and Accessible
Brand A, like Safariland or Blackhawk!, holsters are designed with quick access in mind. They are often used for open carry situations, but they can also be used for concealed carry if the user prefers a deeper conceal. Constructed from durable materials.
Detailed review: Durable design. Adjustable cant and ride height. Secure retention.
Price: Moderate.
Link to Purchase: Purchase directly from their website.
Brand B OWB Holster for Glock 23: Simple and Functional
Brand B, such as a brand that produces simple and functional OWB holsters, are usually a very affordable option for those that prefer the OWB platform.
Detailed review: Durable design. Adjustable cant and ride height. Secure retention.
Price: Moderate.
Link to Purchase: Purchase directly from their website.
Appendix Carry Holsters
Brand C Appendix Carry Holster for Glock 23: For Dedicated Practice
Appendix Carry Holsters are made for the user that prioritizes the appendix carry platform. This ensures that the *Glock 23 concealed carry* is comfortable and provides the draw speed that users expect.
Detailed review: Appendix specific design. Adjustable cant and ride height. Secure retention.
Price: Moderate.
Link to Purchase: Purchase directly from their website.
Brand D Appendix Carry Holster for Glock 23: Safety First
Another offering in the appendix carry segment, these holsters, often offer a number of safety features that increase the safety of carrying in this position. These holsters are the choice for those that understand the draw backs of this method and work hard to avoid those concerns.
Detailed review: Appendix specific design. Adjustable cant and ride height. Secure retention.
Price: Moderate.
Link to Purchase: Purchase directly from their website.
Pocket Holster
Brand E Pocket Holster for Glock 23: The Discreet Option
For the utmost discretion, a pocket holster like one offered by Desantis Holster provides an option for your *Glock 23 concealed carry*. It’s critical that the pocket holster fully covers the trigger, preventing accidental discharge. Ensure your pocket size is adequate for your Glock 23.
Detailed review: Extremely discreet. Designed for pocket carry.
Price: Affordable.
Link to Purchase: Available from various retailers.
Ankle Holster
Brand F Ankle Holster for Glock 23: Backup or Seated Carry
If an ankle holster is a preferred method, make sure the holster is properly secured to the ankle and that it’s easy to reach.
Detailed review: Deep concealment. Useful as a backup option.
Price: Affordable.
Link to Purchase: Available from various retailers.
Shoulder Holster
Brand G Shoulder Holster for Glock 23: For Cooler Weather
A shoulder holster is often used during the colder months when you have a jacket. It is imperative that the holster is comfortable for all-day wear.
Detailed review: Comfortable, good for cooler temperatures.
Price: Moderate to Expensive.
Link to Purchase: Available from various retailers.
Making the Right Choice: Key Considerations
Body Type and Build
The fit of your holster will depend on your body type. Certain holsters will conceal better on certain individuals.
Clothing Choices
Make sure the clothing you wear is compatible with the holster.
Comfort and Concealment
Find the balance between your comfort and your ability to conceal.
Draw Speed and Practice
*Concealed carry* should be practiced.
Holster Maintenance
Maintenance of the holster will help it last longer.
Safety First
Always handle your firearm responsibly and follow all legal requirements.
Conclusion
The *best concealed holster for Glock 23* is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material?
What is the best carry position?
