Best Hybrid Holster

If you’re looking for a holster that will keep your gun secured and, at the same time, is comfortable to carry, then a hybrid holster is probably what you need. Hybrid holsters combine the convenience of concealed carrying with the ease of use and security of outside-the-waistband (OWB) models. Concerning size, they are designed to accommodate both subcompact and compact versions of the most popular handgun models. Here are some factors  that you should consider when shopping for a hybrid holster:

Retention

You want the holster to keep your gun safe and secure at all times. The best way to check how well a hybrid holster retains the handgun is by practicing drawing from it. You should be able to do it with ease, while the gun should not fall out even if you turn upside down or shake the holster vigorously. You should also consider whether you’d like adjustable or fixed retention. The former allows for loosening and tightening of the screws on either side to set your preferred level of security, while the latter remains as it is right out of the box.

Style

It’s also important that the holster looks and feels good and not like a contraption that nobody would want to wear. By checking out its design and features, such as clip position, loop placement, material type, etc., you should be able to get an idea of whether it will work for you or not. For instance, if you work as a police officer, you might need a holster compatible with duty belts. A belt loop on both sides means that the holster will not only stay in place more securely but also allow for left-handed and right-handed use.

Comfort

You might spend several hours sitting, driving, or standing while wearing the holster; therefore, it should be ergonomically designed. This means that it will not only fit well but also make carrying more accessible and more comfortable. Some hybrid holsters feature foam padding on the back to cushion the blow of the gun’s weight which is especially useful if you plan to carry for extended periods.

Fit

You need to make sure that the holster will fit your handgun. To do so, you’ll have to check whether the weapon is listed among the compatible guns for that specific hybrid holster. Luckily, most brands provide this information in their product descriptions or on their official websites. Regarding size, the holster should fit not only your handgun but also your body. This means that you’ll have to consider whether you need an outside-the-waistband or inside-the-waistband hybrid holster.

Material

You’ll also want to check what type of material the hybrid holster is made out of. Most models are made either from leather or Kydex. Leather provides more protection against moisture, while Kydex is known for being durable and resistant to the elements. Some hybrids combine both materials for better comfort in hot weather and better retention when wet outside.

Price

While all of the factors mentioned above influence how well a hybrid holster will work for you, your budget is probably the most important one. Luckily, there’s a wide array of models to choose from, priced anywhere from $20 to $100 or more. In general, the price directly correlates with the holster’s quality and features. You can find a decent hybrid holster priced between $30 and $75, which will offer you good value for money.

Quality

Your final consideration when buying a hybrid holster is to check its overall quality. This means considering such aspects as stitching, material, finish, and clip strength. While the holster must fit your gun, this doesn’t mean it will work for you if the craftsmanship is poor. You can check what users say by reading product reviews to find out more about the quality of their holsters.