If you are already a firearm owner as a private person, or a firearm holder due to your profession, or you are just getting ready for your exams and the purchase of your first firearm, we are all part of one community. It doesn't matter whether you're a hunter or a sport shooter. It doesn't matter whether you train 5 times a week or only go to the shooting range occasionally for fun. It doesn't matter whether you train combat or defensive shooting. We are all part of a larger whole, which shares not only the same rules, concerns, hobbies, and pleasures, but also the same questions....
At the moment, probably all of us are wondering how things will turn out with the new amendment to Act No. 190/2003 on Weapons and Ammunition. Unfortunately, I can't give you any relevant answer to that right now. What I can answer, however, is how to choose the right holster. Even though it may seem like a fairly simple and easy matter, the opposite is actually true. I've been a member of the shooting community since 2013, I've completed several Slovak and foreign courses, and most importantly, I worked for more than a year at a Slovak manufacturer of holsters and tactical accessories. That's why I know what the most common questions are when it comes to choosing the right holster....
“The way you carry your firearm has a fundamental impact on the effectiveness of its use. That's why you shouldn't underestimate the choice of holster“
What does the term "holster" actually cover?
Holster for a firearm. What does that all involve? If you've been a member of the community for a while, you probably know exactly what you want and, above all, why. But if you're just starting out or want to learn more, the following lines are meant especially for you.
Several factors determine the choice of the right type of holster, and we will go through them one by one. Today we would like to focus on a "more general" introduction to the topic of holsters as such, and gradually go through all the attributes for choosing the right holster.
What are the deciding factors?
The type and method of carrying the holster, position, material, cut or shape, cant,... And last but not least, an equally important factor is the right belt and clothing. Since these are extensive and significant topics, we will cover them in separate articles. Today we will just briefly mention what you can look forward to in the coming weeks.
Type and method of carrying
In this article we will focus on the basic classification of holsters themselves. Their advantages and disadvantages. Belt holsters, shoulder holsters, thigh holsters, or holsters mounted on platforms for tactical vests... Each type has its own advantages, disadvantages, and specific use. We will explain what options are offered by inside-the-waistband and outside-the-waistband carry...
Holster position – on the belt relative to the drawing hand
This depends on your options, requirements, and preferences. It is often determined using the so-called "clock system". Holster position plays an important role in concealed carry, while for open carry the so-called 3 o'clock position is most commonly used (on the side of the shooting – dominant hand).
Cut or shape of the holster
It is a very individual factor, most influenced by the material. The oldest and still popular material for making holsters is leather, which on today's market is complemented by nylon and kydex. Today we also encounter so-called hybrid materials – for example a combination of leather and kydex. Each material has certain properties, and therefore we will address the materials themselves in a separate article. In terms of cut, the size of the holster is also important, which should be user-comfortable. And let's be honest... the aesthetic aspect also counts.
Angle
Two factors have the greatest influence on the angle itself. The first is the position of the holster itself, and the second is your biomechanics. Don't rack your brain over this term. Simply put, it is the mechanics of your movement – specifically the correct grip on the weapon, which affects a full and proper draw of the weapon.
Belt and clothing
The belt is something that is often overlooked, yet it plays an important practical role. Because the belt is exactly the thing that guarantees you will find the holster where it should be. I wrote more about belts in one of my articles on berny.blog.
Berny's tip in conclusion
The way a weapon is carried has a fundamental impact on the effectiveness of using the weapon in a crisis situation. But simply carrying a weapon is not enough! If you want to have a real chance of succeeding in a crisis situation, you must understand that using a weapon is only one part. Mental and physical preparation, training with and without a weapon, simulations, first aid knowledge, and a legal minimum... these are all attributes that will increase your chance of successfully handling a crisis situation. And believe me, you will only have seconds to correctly assess the situation and react accordingly...
Remember that the best "defense" in any crisis situation is prevention!
Berny
My goal is to pass on the knowledge and experience that a person needs not only when out in nature but also in everyday life. My task is to spread awareness about responsibility and safety, not only for oneself but also for those around us. My idea is that life is too short to do things we don't enjoy, and that is why I help people in today's hectic world to find not only the charm and beauty of nature and our rich history, but also to push their limits. You can learn more about me on my blog.
From the series on gun holsters
- How to choose the right holster for a weapon? Getting started
- 3 questions before choosing the right holster
- Why is not every holster the same? The material decides
- Holsters for concealed carry. 6 +1 tips on how to choose the right one
- Carrying a weapon in a bag. Yes or no?
