Shop Gun Holsters from Top Brands Like Safariland, Galco, DeSantis — 10,846 products / 62,512 models — Page 1

OpticsPlanet.com carries an extensive offering of holsters for all uses, including duty holsters, concealed carry holsters, and other options to securely and comfortably carry your weapon while on duty or for EDC. The most in-demand devices today can be found in Alien Gear Holsters, Galco Holsters, and Crossbreed Holsters. Below are some popular FAQs to help get you started.

What is a holster?

A holster is a device used to securely hold a firearm, usually a handgun. They are worn on the body, and the location depends on the type you will use. The most popular configuration is to wear it on the waistband. Their main purpose is to keep your firearm secure and on your person to provide quick access when needed.

What is an IWB holster?

An IWB holster, which stands for "inside the waistband”, is designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants, concealed from view. They are popular because they are discreet and secure, and some people find them more comfortable than other options.

What is an OWB holster?

An OWB holster, which stands for "outside the waistband", is designed to be worn outside of the waistband of your pants, usually on the hip. Unlike IWB ones, which are designed to be concealed inside the waistband, these sit on the outside of the waistband and are more visible.

These are generally easier to draw from and are typically used by law enforcement officers and military personnel who need quick access to their firearm. To improve concealment, gun owners often wear theirs with jackets and longer clothing that cover them up.

What is a paddle holster?

A paddle holster is a type of outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster that is attached using a paddle-shaped device that fits against the body. The paddle attachment, which can be made of various materials such as Kydex, plastic, or leather, provides stability and helps keep it in place.

These are considered to be a convenient and versatile option for those who want to carry a firearm in an OWB configuration. The paddle attachment makes it easy to attach and remove it from your waistband, without having to remove your belt or change your pants. Additionally, the paddle design allows it to sit closer to the body for better concealment, making it a good choice for those who want a mix of both open carry and concealed carry.

While IWB, OWB, and paddle designs are the most popular styles, we carry several other options, including ankle holsters, concealment holsters, and shoulder holsters. 

Where can you wear a gun holster?

There are multiple ways to carry a handgun. Some examples are shoulder holsters, concealed carry holsters, and thigh holsters. There are even gun holsters for women designed to fit the female form. However, the most common choices are IWB and OWB. IWB is ideal for concealed carry. OWB holster is ideal for open carry.

Belt Holsters

These are open-carry, visible, and placed on the belt. They are most commonly used by law enforcement and the military and are usually made from a synthetic material or leather.

Thigh Holsters

Also known as tactical or drop leg holsters, this style is popular with law enforcement and store the sidearm on the leg where the hand naturally hangs, providing a fast draw.

Ankle Holsters

These offer excellent concealment and are used by law enforcement officials who wish to carry a secondary weapon to back up their primary firearm. Some users do find that their pistol may "bounce" while being active.

Paddle Holsters

These are used for handguns and utilize a flat, concave-shaped piece of plastic or stiffened leather designed to be worn against the body inside of the pants. The broad surface area of the "paddle" and the material from which it is made use friction to prevent it from being pulled up and away when the handgun is drawn.

Pocket Holsters

These are carried inside your pocket, though some double as inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters, too. These use the pocket or waistband's friction and/or pressure to secure the firearm. The friction offers a smooth draw while leaving it securely in the pocket or waistband.

Shoulder Holsters

These have two straps connected like a backpack and mount to a belt on the right or the left side. They are designed to position the handgun in one of three different ways: a vertical position with the barrel generally pointed toward the ground, an upright position with the barrel generally pointed upward, or a horizontal position with the barrel pointed behind the wearer. This type is comfortable for the wearer, as it distributes the weight across the shoulders instead of directly on the belt. Usually, the leather straps cross over on the shoulders and back.

(IWB) Inside Waistband Holsters

These are tuckable and can be concealed in your pants, effectively concealing your firearm at all times.

Molle Holsters

An acronym for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, MOLLE holsters are used by some NATO armed forces, including the British and the United States Armies.

Belly Band Holsters

Belly bands have a wide elastic belt with a built-in holster. They are usually worn under an untucked shirt for a quick draw.

Fanny Pack/Off Body Carry/Concealed Carry Purses

These off-the-body concealed carry bags can be illegal in some areas. Look into your state and local laws to see if they are legal. Off-body carry options have a significant advantage because of the numerous designs they can be made: purses, fanny packs, backpacks, messenger bags, or sling bags that place them away from your body while still providing a safe way of retaining your firearm.

Buy Gun Holsters at OpticsPlanet

If you need assistance while browsing, check out our guide on How to Buy a Holster to learn more about the different types and their uses. We also carry holster accessories and mag carriers to complete your concealed carry setup. When you’re ready, shop for from some of the best brands like Safariland Holsters, Galco Holsters, DeSantis Holsters, and more. For related products, check out our selection of gun belts, magazine pouches, and ammo.