We tested over 50 of the best concealed carry holsters and found the best IWB, OWB, shoulder, and belly band holsters out there.
Deciding to carry a handgun concealed is a big decision. Picking the right holster is just as important as picking the handgun that you carry.
But looking at pictures of holsters online really doesn’t tell you how the holster is going to feel. You need to hold it and use it to know if it is going to work for you. In this guide, you will find out what certain features to look for and tips to help speed this process up.
Our team of four has over 25 years of experience with concealed carry holsters. We have been to many different training courses, shoot handguns competitively, and served in the military.
In this guide, we give you all the info you need to choose the best holster for you. We tested these holsters, some for over five years. We sought out the best of the best, and there are many that got thrown in a box and never used again.
Our goal in this guide is to keep you from having that same box full of holsters that you don’t use.
Keep reading to find out what we found.
Comparison of our Favorite Concealed Carry Holsters
Hidden Hybrid Holsters Double Clip
IWB or OWB
Hybrid Design
Fits over 100 Guns
MSRP: $89.95
CYA Supply Ridge Holster
IWB
Full Kydex
Fits over 100 Guns
MSRP: $59.74
Harry’s Holsters Infiltrator
IWB
Full Kydex
Fits over 50 Guns
MSRP: $97.75
Alien Gear Photon Holster
IWB or OWB
Full Kydex
Fits over 50 Guns
MSRP: $44.88
Falco Holsters Belly Band
Multiple Pockets
Kydex and Nylon
Fits over 100 Guns
MSRP: $99.95
1791 Gunleather 4-way Holster
IWB or OWB
Molded Leather
Universal Fit
MSRP: $49.99
Craft Holsters Eagle Shoulder Rig
Shoulder or OWB
Molded Leather
Fits over 100 Guns
MSRP: $169.00
Stealth Gear Ventcore 1.0
OWB
Hybrid Design
Fits over 75 Guns
MSRP: $76.95
Best Concealed Carry Holsters
Hidden Hybrid Holsters Double Clip – Most Comfortable
- Type: IWB and OWB
- Material: Hybrid – Leather and Kydex
- Handgun Models Available: Over 100
- Return Policy: 30 Day
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $89.95
The Hidden Hybrid Holsters Double Clip Holster is a Hybrid Style Holster and is one of the most comfortable holsters I have ever tried.
This holster has a leather backing with a Kydex shell. This offers the best of both worlds, the comfort of leather with the retention and security of Kydex.
The leather is Amish made in Ohio and is a nice heavy thickness with soft suede on the inside. I like how the edges are smooth and rounded off. I have found the edges on some leather holsters to be irritating.
The Kydex shell is available in multiple colors and has adjustable retention screws.
What’s great about the double clip model is I can use it in IWB or OWB configurations.
For using it to carry IWB, there are five different clips available. I prefer the polymer or the spring steel clips. They both allow me to tuck my shirt in behind the clips. This is great when I need to dress up and don’t want to carry an OWB holster.
This is a wider holster and not for appendix carry. Although I found it works great in the 3 o’clock to 5 o’clock positions.
If you are looking for an appendix holster, they also have a single clip option available as well.
For using it to carry OWB, there are loops in the leather to run my belt through. I found that I had to remove the IWB clips for using it OWB, so it does not lend itself to switching back and forth quickly. This is really the only negative I could find.
I have used this holster with a Glock 19, and it is one of the most comfortable holsters I have used in the 3 o’clock position.
Recommended for:
The Hidden Hybrid Holsters Double Clip Holster is for anyone looking for a comfortable holster that can be carried both IWB and OWB. It works great with larger handguns.
PROS
Hybrid Design
Comfortable
Shirt Tuckable Clips
High Quality Leather
CONS
Must Remove Clips For OWB
Video About Hidden Hybrid Holsters
CYA Supply Ridge IWB – Best Appendix
- Type: IWB
- Material: Kydex
- Handgun Models Available: Over 100
- Return Policy: 30 Days
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $59.74
The CYA Supply Ridge IWB Holster is a full kydex holster that is one of the best appendix holsters that we have found.
I have found full Kydex holsters to not be super comfortable, but this one surprised me.
We carried both a Glock 19 and a Sig P365 with this holster. Not only was it comfortable in the appendix position but at the 3 o’clock position as well.
I like that it comes with three “claw” options. While most other manufacturers charge extra for this, CYA includes it in the price. I can totally remove the claw or attach two different height claws. This allows me to adjust it based on my body shape and the position I carry it in.
This holster is slimmer than most other IWB Kydex holsters. I suspect that is why it is more comfortable than other holsters we have tried.
It has adjustable retention and adjustable spring steel clips. The clips do have cant angle adjustment, although the ride height is somewhat limited. We did not have any issue with the ride height of ours, but it could be an issue for some people.
They are also available in multiple colors and are optics-ready. They have a huge amount of gun models available. However, they don’t cover pistol-mounted lights.
Recommended for:
The CYA Supply Ridge IWB Holster is for anyone looking for a low-profile appendix holster. It is a comfortable Kydex holster that conceals very well.
PROS
Comfortable
Adjustable Claw
Low Profile
Affordable
CONS
No Light Bearing Models
Video Review of the CYA Supply Ridge Holster
Harry’s Holsters Infiltrator IWB – Best IWB
- Type: IWB
- Material: Kydex
- Handgun Models Available: Over 50
- Return Policy: 30 Days
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $97.75
Harry’s Holsters Infiltrator IWB Holster is a full Kydex holster that works great in any IWB carry position.
I really like the adjustability of this holster. The holster ships without the clips attached. It comes with a card inside that has a QR code to scan for a video on how to adjust and set up the holster.
The Ride height of the holster can be adjusted by nearly one inch, so it can suit many different body types and carry positions. The cant angle also has plenty of adjustment depending on how I want to carry it.
This holster also comes with a package of Vibra-Tite, which is a thread-locking compound that works better than traditional locktite.
If you are not quite sure how you want to set up your holster, I would recommend trying it first without applying the locktite. I found if I put it on first like the instructions suggest and then take the screws back out, I get it all over my fingers, holster, and everything else. Once you find a good clip position, take the screws out and apply the Vibra-tite.
While this holster does not have a claw, it does have a raised wing feature around the trigger. This helps to push the grip of the gun close to my body much like a claw does. While this feature is not adjustable like some claw attachments are, it is easier to clip on my belt since it has a nice gradual slope.
This holster is a little more expensive than some others, but the ability to adjust it is what makes it stand out from the rest. I do wish it came with extra screws and nuts though, they are easy to lose.
Recommended for:
Harry’s Holsters Infiltrator IWB Holster is for someone who wants the concealability of carrying IWB but doesn’t have a lot of experience. The adjustments will allow you to find the perfect carry position.
PROS
Adjustable Clips
Setup Video
Raised Claw Like Feature
Retention
CONS
No Light Bearing Models
Video of the Harry’s Holsters Infiltrator Holster
Alien Gear Photon – Most Flexible
- Type: IWB or OWB
- Material: Kydex
- Handgun Models Available: Over 50
- Return Policy: 30 Day Test Drive
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $44.88
The Alien Gear Photon holster is the latest holster from Alien Gear.
Similar to their shape-shift line of holsters, Alien Gear has made this holster in a universal configuration that can work in almost any carry position.
I personally purchased the Shape Shift holster years ago when it first came out and didn’t like it since it was bulky. I actually sent it back for a refund – which is perfectly fine, and it is great that Alien Gear offers a 30-day test drive.
I was skeptical of the Photon holster for this reason. But, after trying it in multiple configurations I must say it is a great holster.
I can set up this holster in either left-hand or right-hand draw. For most holsters, I have to specify which hand draw I want when you order. This is usually a problem, especially for us, since Blake is left-handed. But, with this holster, we can change it to the opposite hand in just a few minutes.
For IWB carry, it has a claw that I can add or remove depending on my preference. The ride height and cant angle are also adjustable so you can set it just how I like. For appendix carry I can attach a mag carrier in a side car configuration, something few holsters offer.
In the OWB setup, I removed the front clip and installed a paddle attachment to the rear of the holster. Just like the clip, the ride height and cant angle have plenty of adjustment. Included is a snap-in cover for the exposed front holes, which is a nice touch.
The holster comes with a bunch of spare screws, nuts, and spacers. In case I lose something I have a backup which I really like.
The only thing I don’t like about the holster is when carrying IWB the Kydex does not fully cover the handgun slide. So, if I am not wearing an undershirt the slide of my pistol rests right against my skin. The raised panel with the attachment holes is also against my skin. So, if you plan to carry IWB for more than a few hours, I recommend wearing an undershirt.
Recommended for:
The Alien Gear Photon holster is for anyone who is not sure if they want to carry OWB or IWB. This is a true multi-season holster and will allow a beginner more options to decide how they want to carry. For this price, this holster is a great value.
PROS
Can Use IWB or OWB
Adjustability
Ambidextrous
Light Bearing Models
CONS
No Sweat Guard
Video of the Alien Gear Photon Holster
Falco Kydex Belly Band Holster – Best Belly Band Holster
- Type: Belly Band
- Material: Hybrid – Nylon and Kydex
- Handgun Models Available: Over 3000!
- Return Policy: 30 Days
- Warranty Policy: 5 Years
- MSRP: $99.95
The Falco Kydex Reinforced Belly Band Holster is our pick for the best belly band holster.
Our team member Kristin often uses a belly band holster when she can’t carry an IWB or OWB holster.
Here is her experience with this holster:
This is one of the most comfortable ways to conceal my P365XL regardless of what I am wearing. The breathable nylon does not irritate my skin like some other belly bands I have tried.
I like that this belly band has a full Kydex holster for my handgun. Others just have a fabric pocket of sorts, and I don’t feel like they are a safe way to carry a firearm. This holster keeps the gun from moving when I am active and fully covers the trigger. When I go to draw it, it is always in the same place.
The band on this holster is wide, so it stays in place. This also makes it more comfortable. Thinner bands, I have found, do not distribute the pressure of the band and cause irritation. I either can’t get them tight enough, or they dig into my skin.
I also like all of the extra pockets that this belly band has. There are two for extra magazines, one for my phone, and two for other items like my ID, credit cards, or cash. I can carry everything I need, and it is nicely concealed under my clothes.
In very hot weather, this band can get warm and will collect sweat. However, I like that I can remove the Kydex holster and have the band dry-cleaned.
Falco is one of the few that has holsters that accommodate pistol lights. I was happy to see that they had holsters for 38 different lights that fit my Sig. It is hard to find a good holster that accommodates a pistol light, let alone a belly band holster that has that many.
Recommended for:
The Falco Kydex Reinforced Belly Band Holster is for anyone who wants to be able to carry a concealed firearm without it depending on what clothes they are wearing.
PROS
Breathable Material
Full Kydex Holster
Multiple Pockets
Light Bearing Models
CONS
Warm in Hot Weather
A Video guide to the Falco Belly Band Holster
This one is a little goofy, but entertaining at the same time….
1791 Gunleather 4 Way Holster – Best Value
- Type: IWB and OWB
- Material: Hybrid – Leather
- Handgun Models Available: Universal
- Return Policy: 30 Days
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $49.99
The 1791 Gunleather 4 Way Holster is one of the most unique holsters and the best value we have found.
What makes this leather holster stand out is it can be used in 4 different ways. IWB, OWB Vertical, OWB Horizontal, and OWB cross-draw.
It is made from soft, double-stitched durable leather, so carrying it IWB is comfortable. The metal clip on the front is sturdy and hooks over a standard 1.5” belt.
To carry it in the traditional OWB position on my hip, I simply thread my belt through the back leather panel. Similarly, to carry it in the small of my back, I run my belt through it in the opposite direction through the cutouts.
For the cross-draw position, there is an angled cutout in the back of the holster to run my belt through. I like to carry in the cross-draw position when I am working on my property and getting on and off a vehicle or tractor a lot.
This holster is 100% leather but is stiffly molded, so it does not collapse when I draw my handgun.
I found that I did have to follow the break-in instructions that came with the holster. Both inserting my gun and running my belt through the holster were difficult the first time. But over a few days, it loosened up and formed around my gun. It is much easier to work with now.
Unfortunately, I cannot adjust anything on this holster. Since it is 100% leather, the clip and the belt loops can’t move. This was not an issue for us but could be depending on your body shape. It is also a little more bulky than other holsters, but you are getting additional flexibility.
This holster does present great value for the price. It is a very well-made full leather holster that can be used multiple ways and is one of the most affordable on our list.
Recommended for:
The 1791 Gunleather 4 Way Holster is for anyone who is not sure how they want to carry their concealed carry handgun. This holster provides an affordable way to try nearly every carry position easily.
PROS
Four Carry Positions
Soft and Durable
Affordable
High Quality Molded Leather
CONS
Not Adjustable
Video of the 1791 Gunleather 4 way holster
Craft Holsters Eagle Shoulder Rig – Best Shoulder Holster
- Type: Shoulder or OWB
- Material: Leather
- Handgun Models Available: Over 100
- Return Policy: 30 Days
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $169.00
The Craft Holsters Eagle Shoulder Holster is one of the best shoulder holsters we have tried.
What sets this holster apart from the others is the quality of the leather and the ability to convert it to three more carry positions.
I like that I can remove the screws that attach the shoulder harness to the holster and wear it strong side OWB on my hip. I can also wear it OWB in the cross draw position and OWB horizontally in the small of my back.
When I load full magazines into the magazine pouches, it balances out the shoulder rig. I have found that shoulder holsters tend to be uncomfortable when they are not balanced.
The magazine pouches also have a strap that I can attach to my belt. This gives the magazine pouches more stability when I try to retrieve a magazine. Without the strap attached to my belt, I found that I tended to chase them around more during reloads.
The other thing I like about this shoulder holster is where the shoulder rig crosses my back. I have found this area to be uncomfortable with other shoulder holsters, especially when carrying a heavy handgun and two spare mags.
With this holster, the cross is a wide flat piece of flexible plastic that holds its shape and doesn’t bunch up. The straps are fully adjustable, and it stays comfortable all day, especially when I am active.
I found that this holster does require some breaking in. It came with great instructions, and it was an easy process. Some of the snaps were pretty stiff, but after some time, they got easier to open and close.
The leather does require periodic maintenance. I have Craft Holster’s leather care kit that has everything I need to break in the holster and care for it long-term.
While a shoulder holster isn’t for everyone, this one is great when you want an option to carry a larger gun under a sports coat or jacket. The quality of the leather and the craftmanship is top-notch.
Recommended for:
The Craft Holsters Eagle Shoulder Holster is for anyone looking for a top-quality shoulder holster. The quality of the leather is amazing, and it is very comfortable.
PROS
Quality Craftmanship
Multiple Carry Positions
Comfortable
Magazine Pouch Strap
CONS
Leather Requires Maintenance
Video of the Craft Shoulder Holster
Stealth Gear Ventcore OWB – Best OWB
- Type: OWB
- Material: Hybrid
- Handgun Models Available: Over 75
- Return Policy: 30 Days
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $129.00
The Stealth Gear Ventcore OWB holster is the best OWB holster we have found on the market.
I have been using this holster during the cooler months for the past five years.
The flexible design of this holster really makes it stand out. Not only does this make it comfortable, but it also makes it conceal better than other OWB Holsters.
The “wings” of the holster allow it conform to different body shapes and also keep the holster and handgun snug against my body. In August of 2022, Stealth gear changed to an even more flexible material for the wings, which is not shown on my holster.
I also really like the belt clips on this holster. They are a hook-type polymer that I can attach to my belt without unbuckling it. When I am in my vehicle, for example, I can quickly take the holster on and off without removing my handgun.
The retention, ride height, and cant angle are fully adjustable, so I can get it perfectly adjusted to my body. I have had a few screws back out over time, so make sure to locktite the screws as you are making adjustments.
Stealth Gear has a ton of handgun models available and also supports light-bearing pistols. The new 2.0 model offers even more adjustment and has a narrower width, making it even more concealable.
Recommended for:
The Stealth Gear Ventcore OWB holster is for anyone looking for a concealable and comfortable OWB holster. The flexible and breathable design makes this one of the best.
PROS
Hybrid Design
Flexible and Comfortable
Many Gun Models
Adjustable
CONS
Price
Video of the Stealth Gear Ventcore OWB Holster
Cross Breed Reckoning Holster – Best Hybrid
- Type: IWB or OWB
- Material: Hybrid
- Handgun Models Available: Over 75
- Return Policy: 2 Week
- Warranty Policy: Lifetime
- MSRP: $76.95
The Cross Breed Reckoning Holster is one of the best Hybrid holsters we have found. What makes it stand out is how flexible it is.
This holster can be used IWB, OWB, and I can attach a side car mag carrier when wearing it in the appendix position.
It is a hybrid holster, so it has a comfortable leather backing and a Kydex shell with adjustable retention.
There are actually three different leather options available when you order, from regular leather to premium super soft horsehide.
In both IWB and OWB configurations, the clips are adjustable for both ride height and cant angle.
I like that Crossbreed offers a variety of accessories for this holster. From different clips to a concealment claw, I can configure it in multiple ways.
The number of different models that are available is astounding, I got tired of counting. They have holsters for over 20 different handgun manufacturers, multiple models of each, and light/laser options. If you can’t find a holster for your gun here, you probably need a different gun.
In the OWB configuration, it did feel to me like the ride height was a little too high. That may just be my preference, but I didn’t feel like I could adjust it low enough.
Recommended for:
The Cross Breed Reckoning Holster is for anyone looking for a comfortable hybrid holster that can be used in virtually every IWB or OWB configuration.
PROS
Hybrid Design
Soft Leather
Many Gun Models
Side Car Mag Carrier Ready
CONS
OWB Ride Height
Video of the Crossbreed Reckoning Holster
What is the Best Concealed Carry Holster for You?
First, you must decide which concealed carry position you would like to carry your handgun. For help with this, see our guide on the best concealed carry position.
Then, review our guide on how to choose a concealed carry holster. As we discussed there, there are a few features to look for in a concealed carry holster.
- A Safe Holster
- Good Passive Retention
- Concealability
- Comfort
- Allows a Full Grip
- Adjustability
- Easy Holstering
- Value
All of the holsters we tested above meet these criteria.
In the how to choose guide we also discussed materials and holster designs, review it if you are trying to decide between Kydex, leather, or a hybrid design.
Lifestyle, your body shape, and the clothes you typically wear all come into play here as well. Think about your situation and don’t rush into it.
If you have settled on carrying IWB, also check out our Best IWB Concealed Carry Holsters Guide as well as our Best Appendix Concealed Carry Holsters Guide.
If you have a Glock 19, check out our Best Concealed Carry Holsters for the Glock 19 guide.
Choose Your Concealed Carry Holster
Choosing a holster, especially for concealed carry, is a personal decision. It depends on so many factors, as well as personal preference. We have included holsters that we have personal experience with across everyone on our team. We are confident between these and the holsters in our other guides, that you will find the perfect one for you.
For me, I find that having multiple options works great for me. I live in a climate that has all four seasons, and the clothing I wear and the activities I do vary throughout the year.
Having some options allows me to have the most comfortable carry options depending on my day and the weather. I may carry a appendix holster for warm weather, or an OWB holster in cool weather.
Keep in mind that it may take you a few tries to get the best holster for you. I started out trying what someone said was the best but kept finding it wasn’t the best for me.
Even if the holster you choose is not good for you, all of the manufacturers we have reviewed have a great return policy. But before you send one back, make sure to get your replacement first. Otherwise, you may regret sending the first one back.
Our favorite holster is the Hidden Hybrid Double Clip Holster, but any of the holsters on this list will serve you well. They are all high quality, work well, and are the best of the best.
Now, keep reading our concealed carry holster guides and the rest of our concealed carry guide!
Best IWB Concealed Carry Holsters
Best Appendix Concealed Carry Holsters
Best Glock 19 Concealed Carry Holsters
Go Back: Concealed Carry Guide
