Holster Claw Vs No Claw

Specification Comparison and Reviews

Holster Claw
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No Claw hostler
No Claw
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In the world of firearms, there are several different types of holsters. One type is known as a “claw” holster. This holster covers the trigger and has a mechanism for locking it in place to prevent accidental discharge, but it still leaves some room for movement so that you can draw your gun with ease. The other type is called a “no claw” holster. It doesn’t have any way to lock the trigger down, which means that if you wear one on an active day at work or school, even as little as sitting down will be enough to make your gun go off accidentally or worse yet – fall out onto someone else’s foot! There are pros and cons to both types of holsters depending on your specific needs and how you plan to use your firearm, but today we want to talk about the difference between the pros and cons of Claw and No Claw Holsters. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Holster Claw vs no claw is a debate that has been going on for decades, but has it ever occurred to you that the pros and cons of each may depend on your specific needs? For instance, if you are looking for an easy way to conceal carry or have small hands, then both options might be good choices. However, one major disadvantage with no-claw holsters is their inability to prevent accidental discharge. If this type of holster does not fit your lifestyle or profession, then it would be best to go with a different option. 

Claw Holster 1

Holster Claw

A holster claw is a device used to hold a gun in place inside of or on top of a holster. The claw is designed with two arms that extend from the base and wrap around the weapon’s handle, securing it into the opening of an open-top holster. The advantage of using this type of device is that it allows for quick and easy access to the weapon without having to remove it completely from its case; simply pull back on one arm while pulling up on the other, and you’ll be able to draw your firearm quickly and easily. Some people also like using these devices because they make carrying their weapons more comfortable as well as easier by not adding extra bulkiness or weight where they don’t need it.

G17/19 Holster, Optic Ready & Claw, IWB Kydex Holster Fit: Glock 17/19/19X/26/44/45 Gen(1-5) & Glock 23/32 Gen(3-4) Pistol, Inside Waistband Condealed Carry, Adj. Cant & Posi-Click Retention, Right
G17/19 Holster, Optic Ready & Claw, IWB Kydex Holster Fit: Glock 17/19/19X/26/44/45 Gen(1-5) & Glock 23/32 Gen(3-4) Pistol, Inside Waistband Condealed Carry, Adj. Cant & Posi-Click Retention, Right
$31.99 $0 0 new from 31.99
in stock
G17/19 Holster, Optic Ready & Claw, IWB Kydex Holster Fit: Glock 17/19/19X/26/44/45 Gen(1-5) & Glock 23/32 Gen(3-4) Pistol, Inside Waistband Condealed Carry, Adj. Cant & Posi-Click Retention, Right

Others find them useful because they keep the gun from digging into their hips or thigh whenever they sit down. The weapon’s handle is held in place by a pair of “arms” that press down on either side of it. The size and design of these arms will vary depending upon the device itself as well as the holster that it is being used with, but the bottom line is that they are always very sturdy. They’re designed to be difficult to pull apart, particularly by someone who doesn’t have the strength necessary to break them open without causing themselves some serious discomfort.

 

There are many different kinds of weapon holster claws on the market today, made by several different companies, and there are also quite a few aftermarket claws that can be used with holsters that don’t come with them or don’t have them in the correct spot. There are also several different materials that they’re made of; some are metal, others are plastic; some are very sturdy and rigid, while others bend much more easily. The backside of a holster claw is usually flat so that it will fit flush against the surface of your holster. This helps to keep it from rubbing up against your waistline, which can be uncomfortable when you’re sitting down or if you have an especially long torso.

Holster Claw 1

Holster claws are most commonly used in open-top holsters made of leather, although some plastic ones come with them pre-installed. For leather holsters, there is a specific spot on the holster where you would attach the claw; this is usually about half an inch away from where your belt will sit on top of it. Depending upon whether or not your case has a tension screw in place, you may want to adjust it so that there is a little bit of space between the claw and the belt, or you might want it to be touching. Many people find that they can conceal their weapons better by attaching holster claws onto their holsters, even if it isn’t something that is normally included with them. This is especially true if your weapon has a laser attached, or if you have a flashlight that goes on the rail.

 

While it certainly isn’t necessary for functionality, adding a claw to your holster can be an easy way to add additional comfort and convenience when you’re carrying your firearm. It should be noted that there is such a thing as too much of a good thing when it comes to weapon holster claws. If you attach one to your holster and it makes it difficult for the gun to fit inside of it, if you have trouble drawing your weapon or if you can’t draw at all, then there is a chance that your claw is too strong. Switching to a weaker version or removing it entirely might solve this problem for you. If this is the case, remember that you can always buy a new holster without one or simply attach the claw onto your existing holster by drilling screws into it. This will require some skill with using tools at home; if you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, ask someone who does to help you!

Pros
  • Better Concealment: When you are carrying concealed, one of the biggest problems with no-claw holsters is that they print (mimic the shape of the firearm). For instance, while wearing an untucked shirt or jacket without printing, it is not a problem, but if you put on a tucked-in T-shirt, the no-claw holster becomes visible. This is not an issue with claw holsters where the shape of the firearm is always concealed
  • Stronger Retention: A very important feature for any serious gun owner should demand. If you are looking to conceal carry or open carry, then a strong level of retention is a must. The claw adds an extra gripping surface to the holster and increases the overall grip of the gun. This makes it very difficult for someone else to snatch your weapon from its holster
  • More Comfortable: Everyday carry will usually involve wearing pants, shirts, and various other items which can cause discomfort when carrying a firearm. The claw rests between the belt and the body which makes it very easy to carry IWB (in the waistband) without discomfort
  • More Concealable: While both no-claw and claw offer great concealment, Claw holsters are better at concealing your firearm. This is because the top of the holster is flush with the top of the belt which rests closer to your body
Cons
  • More Expensive: If you want the benefits of a claw, then you will have to pay more than if you purchase a no-claw holster
  • More Time-Consuming: If you are not familiar with adjusting your holster for the perfect fit, it can be very difficult and time-consuming. The claw must be at just the right angle to maximize concealment. This is why it is important to visit a gun store and try on multiple holsters before buying your weapon
  • Requires Regular Adjustment: If you purchase the holster with the claw, then you will need to adjust the angle periodically. The way that you sit or stand can cause pressure on certain areas of your body which can alter how well your holster will conceal your weapon

No Claw Holster

The most common type of no-claw holster is one that has a single pin through the trigger guard and then slides off easily. Some models have no pins and attach to the belt with either hooks or loops attached to the back of the holster like what you see with the military-style holsters like Uncle Mike’s and Blackhawk. The most important thing about this type of holster is that it needs to be a custom fit. Manufacturers have measurements listed on the product, but those don’t always hold from one person to another or from one manufacturer to another so the consumer needs to do the research and go over all of their options before choosing a holster.

2 Pack Universal Concealed Carry Gun Holster for Women and Men, Inside or Outside The Waistband with Magazine IWB Holsters Right and Left Hand Draw Fits Subcompact Compact Full Size Pistols
2 Pack Universal Concealed Carry Gun Holster for Women and Men, Inside or Outside The Waistband with Magazine IWB Holsters Right and Left Hand Draw Fits Subcompact Compact Full Size Pistols
$13.99 $0 0 new from 13.99
in stock
2 Pack Universal Concealed Carry Gun Holster for Women and Men, Inside or Outside The Waistband with Magazine IWB Holsters Right and Left Hand Draw Fits Subcompact Compact Full Size Pistols

Another type of no-claw holster is a paddle holster. Paddle holsters attach to the waistband using a rubberized paddle that sticks inside of your pants and makes it almost impossible for the gun to get free from the holster by accident. This is achieved by creating friction between the holster and the wearer’s belt. The major drawback of this type of no-claw holster is that it is not as easy to put on and take off as the single-pin models. The bottom line about these types of no-claw holsters, there should be some method for attaching it to your body because you want something that stays in place when you need it and comes out quickly so you can defend yourself.

Desantis Gunhide No Holster Claw

The third type of no-claw holster is the one that uses friction to keep your gun in place, like the single-pin models. This style of no-claw holster does not include any devices for holding onto it so it has been a custom fit for you. It has to be molded around your gun and contour to your body or else it could come out with the gun when you draw your weapon. It keeps the gun close to your body and keeps it out of sight for a more discreet carry option. A fourth style is not technically considered a no-claw holster but it does work just as effectively at releasing the gun and that is the paddle holster with molded retention. This version has the same function as the paddles on the single-pin models but it is molded around your gun for that perfect fit.

 

So when you are looking for a holster, many choose one that has no clip or retention device to keep their gun in place because they want something low profile and easy to take off quickly when they need it most. When you go to buy one for yourself, you want to choose a holster that fits your body and your gun so it stays in place when you need it and comes out quickly when it is time to pull the trigger. The No Claw holster is designed to work with all semi-automatic pistols, revolvers, and auto pistols. It will work with a long list of handguns that includes: Beretta 92 Series, Smith & Wesson Sigma Series, Ruger SR9 Series, Springfield XD9 Series, Taurus PT111 Millennium G2 9mm Pistol, H&K USP Compact .45 ACP Pistol, etc. to purchase an added part to make it functional.

Pros
  • Cheaper: The no-claw holster is much less expensive than the claw. This is because you do not have the no-claw holster is a type of holster that grips the gun from the side with high friction material. This type of holster is typically made from Kydex or plastic and provides a smooth fast draw for a more efficient presentation to the target during a fight. The no-claw feature refers to the lack of an active retention device such as a thumb-break or rotating hood that is found on other holster models
  • Easier to Conceal: Since the overall size of the firearm isn't altered, it is much easier to conceal. In addition to this, there are no added parts which mean less bulk and weight to the holster
  • Less Adjusting Required: No-claw holsters require little to no adjustment after purchase. This is because you do not have extra pieces that need adjusting
  • More Attachments Available: Most no-claw holsters are bigger which means they can accommodate more attachments including weapon-mounted lights, lasers, etc.
  • Easier for Women: As previously mentioned, women have different preferences when it comes to concealed carry. Most of the time this involves bra carry or waistband carry which no-claw holsters support better than claw holsters
Cons
  • Complete Concealment Requires Proper Placement: Because the firearm is smaller, you have to position it properly to keep it concealed. The firearm must also be lower on your waistband/belt line which means a weaker draw. In addition, since these holsters don't hold onto the gun via a clip or pin attachment they rely solely on friction. This can cause the gun to slip out of your holster while drawing or reupholstering if proper technique is not followed
  • Less Security: No-claw holsters offer little to no retention; therefore they do not secure your firearm as a two-pin model would. In addition, their size and material do not provide a tight fit for the gun. Therefore, it is possible that your firearm could come out during an altercation
  • Harder to Grip: Without a clip or pin attachment, no-claw holsters have less surface area on which to grip onto your firearm when drawing or reholstering. This can cause more of a struggle because you need to make sure your grip is solid on the firearm before drawing or reholstering
  • Inconvenient for Some Handguns: This is not always a problem but some no-claw holsters do not work well with certain handguns because of how they are made, mainly pistols that have extended beavertails and/or beavertail safeties
  • Less Functional with Most Clothing: This is especially true for people who wear light, loose clothing often. The lack of attachable hardware and clips makes it so no-claw holsters do not work as well on some clothing because there is less stability on the waistband/beltline

Difference Between Holster Claw Vs No Claw

Both of these holsters provide their users with a distinct benefit. But they also have distinct features. Here are few points of difference about Holster claw vs No claw are: 

Usability

The No-claw holster is easier to conceal and use with women and clothing that hugs the body. This is because it does not have an added “claw” therefore there are no extra parts to be crushed or broken by tight apparel, and therefore offers less rigidity on the holster. However, the claw is more beneficial for self-defense as it makes it easier to grip the firearm when drawing/reholstering in certain cases.

Personal Preference

The No-claw holster offers easier concealment because of the lack of an added part to make it functional, therefore making it more accessible for women and those who like to carry in tighter waistbands. The claw makes it easier to grip certain firearms when drawing or reholstering; this is beneficial for self-defense situations. However, both the claw and the no-claw make it harder for a firearm to fall out of the holster.

Material

Holsters with “claws” are made from plastic while holsters without claws are usually made from Kydex/Boltaron or Leather which is more expensive than the former. The material that you use does not affect how the holster will work, but it does affect the retention of the firearm in case you are involved in an altercation. Although, if your holster is made from Kydex/Boltran or Leather that attaches to metal belt clips then it will be more stable on your waistband/beltline. Also, holsters with claws are usually molded for a particular make/model of a firearm.

Claw Holster

Retention

No-claw holsters are usually molded to the make/model of a firearm which provides better retention than those with claws. However, if your holster is made from Kydex/Boltaron or Leather that attaches to metal belt clips, it will be more stable on your waistband/beltline and therefore provide better retention. This means that you will not have to worry about your firearm falling out of the holster when in an altercation.

Comfort

No-claw holsters are usually molded to the make/model of a firearm which provides better comfort than those with claws. However, if your belt clips are made from plastic, then they will be less comfortable against your waistline than if they were made from metal. This means that you may experience some discomfort when carrying your firearm with a no-claw holster if the belt clips are not properly made to accommodate your needs.

No Claw Holster

Ease of Concealment

Holsters without claws are usually molded to the make/model of a firearm which provides ease of concealment because they follow the natural curve of the body. This is beneficial for concealed carry because people can potentially mistake them for something else, such as a wallet or phone that an individual usually carries in their waistband. In addition, if your holster is molded to the make/model of your firearm then it provides better concealment because no added part protrudes from the firearm. Holsters with claws are usually made from plastic and they may cause a bulge in your waistline if you wear form-fitting clothing which can reveal the outline of your carry firearm.

FAQs

a

What does a concealment claw do?

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

 A concealment claw is a feature on a holster that’s designed to make it easier to draw the gun from the holster. It has a hooked back that grabs onto your clothing or belt and provides extra traction against them so that you can reach for your weapon swiftly and pull the gun out with ease.

a

Which is Better – Holster claw vs No claw?

Important Note:

Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.

That depends on your needs. In my personal opinion, I would choose the Claw because it makes it easier to grip certain firearms when drawing or reholstering, therefore making it easier to use and therefore reducing the chance of a negligent discharge. However, if your lifestyle does not allow you to conceal your firearm well then I would choose a no-claw holster because they offer easy and fast access.

Conclusion

In the end, both the claw and no-claw holster have their pros and cons. It comes down to individual preference and what types of carrying methods you prefer. If you are a woman or you wear tight clothing then I’d recommend getting a no-claw holster because it will conceal much better than your typical claw holster. If you are a man and wear baggy clothing, then I would recommend getting a claw holster because it will conceal much better than your typical no-claw holster.

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Author Profile

Gabriel Tackett
Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.

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