A belt holster is just one option for a concealed carry holster.
If you have your concealed carry permit, you'll need a holster for your gun. A holster protects the trigger, prevents accidents and protects the gun from damage. Whether you choose to carry a firearm for self-defense or are simply exercising your right to bear arms, choose the type of rig that fits your lifestyle and is the most comfortable for you.
Belt Holsters
A belt holster loops through your belt and is a common way to carry your firearm. Two options exist: inside the waistband (IWB) holsters and outside the waistband holsters (OWB). IWB holsters are worn so that the firearm is tucked inside your waistband, next to your body. OWB holsters are worn outside the belt. If you choose an IWB hostler, your pants should be at least one inch bigger in the waist than you'd normally wear to accommodate the gun and holster. With an IWB holster, you can tuck in your shirt and still conceal your firearm.
An OWB holster requires that you wear a cover garment: an untucked shirt that's large enough to conceal your firearm.
Both IWB and OWB holsters are constructed in a variety of materials: nylon, leather and Kydex, a rigid, thermoplastic material. If you chose a nylon or leather option, you can purchase a holster made for your exact gun make and model, or you can select a holster that fits the barrel length. Kydex holsters are sold for specific gun makes and model. If your gun is rare, you may not find a Kydex holster to fit your firearm. If you chose to use a belt holster, invest in a gun belt. Gun belts are made of thick leather and can support the weight of your firearm.
Pocket Holsters
A pocket holster can conceal your weapon if you don't want to wear a cover garment. These holsters are made of leather or nylon and have no clasps or loops to attach to anything. Simply put the gun in the holster and place it in your pocket. Generic holsters and make/model-specific pocket holsters are available. Your gun must be small enough to fit in your pocket. A Berretta 92 is too large for pocket carry. A Kel-Tek .32 or a .38 Special are small enough to conceal in a coat, pants or vest pocket.
Off-Body Carry Holsters
Several choices exist if you choose to carry your firearm off-body. Many manufacturers make gun purses, brief cases, waist packs and shoulder bags designed with a built-in holster. These built-in holders have extra padding, straps to secure your gun, and some have padlocks to prevent your weapon from falling into the wrong hands.
Carrying your gun off-body isn't always as safe as carrying it on your person; you may inadvertently set the bag down, leaving the firearm unattended. The gun may wind up in a child's hands. Should you need to draw your gun, retrieving your firearm out of a purse or briefcase can be slow and awkward.
Never place your gun in a purse without securing it in its built-in holster; the gun could bounce around inside. A stray pen could could lodge itself next to the trigger, causing a shot to fire.
Tags: your firearm, belt holster, conceal your, built-in holster, carry your, carry your firearm
