How to Choose a Holster for Your Glock (or Any Specific Gun Model) ?
How to Choose a Holster for Your Glock (or Any Specific Gun Model)
Intro
Too many options? Focus on four things: exact model fit, retention level, carry position, and material. Nail those, then fine-tune comfort with ride height, cant, and a rigid belt.
Start here: Leather Holsters | Crossdraw | Leather Belts | 1911 owners: 1911 Leather Holsters.
Core concept: model-specific fit first
Dimensions, trigger guard shape, sights, and slide length vary by model. A Glock 19 isn’t a Glock 17, and a slim 1911 won’t behave like a P320. Pick holsters cut for your make and model for a secure, rattle-free fit and a clean draw.
Breakdown: the four decisions
1) Size compatibility
Match the holster to the exact gun (and generation/rail where relevant). If you run optics, tall sights, or a light, verify compatibility in the description. For Glock and SIG families, check the specific slide/barrel length.
2) Retention level
Level I: friction/snap—fast for concealed carry (IWB/OWB).
Level II: adds a thumb break or guard—extra security without much speed loss.
Level III: locking duty rigs—maximum security, slower draw; for uniformed use.
3) Carry position
IWB: best concealment, especially for compact Glocks and SIGs.
OWB: comfort and fast access; add a cover garment.
Crossdraw: opposite-side carry that shines for long drives—see Crossdraw Holsters.
4) Material: leather, Kydex, or hybrid
Leather: molds to you, smooth draw, classic look—great for revolvers and 1911s.
Kydex: rigid shape, crisp retention, easy maintenance—popular for Glocks/SIGs.
Hybrid: Kydex shell + leather backing for balanced comfort and consistency.
Dialing it in: ride, cant, belt
Lower ride hides the grip; higher ride speeds the master grip. Strong-side often likes 10–20° forward cant; appendix tends toward neutral. A purpose-built Leather Belt prevents roll and printing more than any other single upgrade.
Quick checklist
✔ Exact model/length/optic/light compatibility
✔ Retention you can defeat under stress, not fight
✔ Carry position you’ll actually wear all day
✔ Material that matches your use and climate
✔ Belt stiffness to keep the angle stable
Internal reads
Choosing styles: OWB vs IWB and more | Fit basics: How to choose the right holster | Break-in: How to break in a new holster | Materials: Leather vs Kydex FAQs
Explore Products
Ready to pick? Compare model-ready cuts in Leather Holsters, try long-drive comfort with Crossdraw, and lock the setup down with Leather Belts.
FAQ
Will one Glock holster fit multiple models?
Sometimes—within the same slide/barrel family. For best retention and concealment, choose your exact model (and note optics/lights).
What retention is best for EDC?
Level I or II. You want secure carry and a draw you can execute smoothly under stress without complex steps.
Leather or Kydex for Glock?
Kydex wins on rigidity and speed. Leather wins on comfort and long-term carry feel. Hybrids split the difference.