Concealed Handgun Holsters

Few clothing styles and accessories have the versatility and universal appeal to stay relevant across generations. As times changes, so do the fashions. All of the effort that goes into designing, creating and marketing a fashion trend will almost inevitably be tossed to the wayside. From powdered wigs to leopard print spandex, we have countless examples of this tendency.

One staple that has endured over hundreds of years, however, is the leather belt. Cowboys, rock stars and CEOs all have their own way to flaunt this iconic accessory. As fashions seem to change on a week-to-week basis, leather belts have proven adaptable to the style changes.

Traditional holsters that attach to the belt or wrap around the shoulder offer great security for your firearm, but it can be a painstaking process to take them on and off. Professionals who are constantly changing clothes and vehicles, such as detectives, need a mobile holster that is quick and easy to remove. A paddle holster is the ideal option for these individuals.

This holster has a concave shape that goes over pants and stays in place using friction from your body. Generally composed of plastic or stiffened leather, these durable holsters are perfect for people who don’t wear a belt. The obvious disadvantage is that they lack the physical security that a shoulder or belt holster offers.

Those who wish to conceal their firearms for one reason or another have a bevy of options; holsters can be located on the shoulder, on the belt, or even around the ankles. Shoulder holsters fit around the body in a manner similar to a backpack. In order to draw a gun located in a shoulder holster, an individual needs to reach around the front of his body with his strong hand.

Ankle holsters, while especially useful for concealing weapons, can feel bulky and strange. It’s not always practical to have cumbersome weight clinging around one’s limbs. Pocket holsters, quite understandably, remain the classic way to carry pistols. They can be drawn at a moment’s notice, attracting little attention in the process.

The design and effectiveness of firearm cartridges have improved steadily over the centuries, to the point where modern gun owners would barely recognize the rudimentary versions. In the 16th century, European soldiers used muzzle-loading weapons to wage war against other nations. They utilized a charge of gunpowder along with a bullet wrapped in paper tubing, which would be loaded into the weapon from the front.

An arms race soon emerged that predated and in a way predicted the Cold War. Rival militaries sought ways to fire their weapons more rapidly and thereby gain an edge over the competition. By the mid 19th century, American manufacturers had developed full metal cartridges, and soldiers began storing them in a cartridge holder as early as the Civil War. Today, cartridges are form-fit for each unique style and specification of firearm.

The word “cowboy” evokes a series of indelible images: the wide-brimmed hat, the pointed boots with spurs, the sidearms and gleaming belt buckle. But how much of that cowboy mystique has any basis in reality? Could it be that some of the details were embellished later, after the Wild West was relegated to history books? It comes as a shock to some that the cowboy belt buckle did not come into fashion until the early Western movies of the 20th century.

Ranger belts are more a matter or practicality and aesthetics than authenticity. Although these accessories enjoy an astounding level of popularity among modern-day cowboys, they would have been an unknown commodity in the Old West. Wranglers and outlaws stuck to suspenders and more simplistic forms of belt. Some credit the Mexican cowboys for being first to introduce the silver-accented belts that would go on to inspire ranger belts.

An effective holster should offer two things above all other considerations: security and easy access to your firearm. When shopping around for a new holster, it’s important to pay close attention to a number of key factors. For instance, does your gun fit snugly, or is it loose and uncomfortable? Can you wear the holster without straps?

Once you’ve made sure a pocket holster is the right size for your gun, try recreating the holstering process. The holster should stay open after the gun is drawn, allowing for quick and easy reholstering. Additionally, check your belt loops to make sure that the holster corresponds well enough to be worn effectively. The last thing you want is to lose your holster – gun and all – because of an awkward attachment to your belt.

As all hunters and sportsmen know, firearms have a long and storied history. Repeating rifles marked an enormous innovation, allowing for consistent shots made in rapid succession. This would not have been possible without the advent of the magazine. Magazines perform two main functions: They store ammunition and eventually help feed it into the chamber. The modern magazine’s origins may surprise you, however.

The concept of a magazine was first introduced in air rifles of the 18th century. An air reservoir located in the rear of the gun helped fed balls into the chamber. Over time, bolt-action mag rifles gained popularity because of their efficiency during war. Today, some manufacturers even create special accessories to accommodate magazines – such as mag pouches.

In today’s increasingly competitive job market, a person’s appearance often provides that all-important edge. Few employers would hire an unkempt, unshaven applicant, but appropriate clothing choices are crucial as well. Different pants are complemented by corresponding belts, so it’s best to have a variety of preplanned ensembles at the ready.

Black belts match with black pants, but most khaki combos require a brown belt. Because of its versatile nature, there’s a distinct advantage to owning a leather belt. After a successful job interview, the belt can be worn as part of a more casual look. 

Belts are one of the most common and enduring accessories because they are not only fashionable but they are also useful. That’s why they are equally common on the fashion runway and the street. Unlike some fashion accessories, belts actually do serve a very concrete benefit. This is especially true if you’re looking for an easy way to secure your gun. If that’s the case, make sure that you invest in the highest quality belt possible.

If quality is your goal, look into leather belts. Because they are made of leather, they will stand up to daily use very well. Leather, after all, is one of the sturdier materials, and even with constant use and exposure to elements like harsh weather, it will maintain its aesthetic look and its usability. That’s why it’s the common choice of fashion designers and gun holster designers alike.

If you know someone that’s interested in the world of guns or other concealed weapons, you are lucky on the gift front. There are so many different items you could purchase that person in order to enhance or further their existing collection of gun products. If you actually want to purchase them a gun, just make sure that you jump through the appropriate legal red tape.

For one, it’s your responsibility to make sure that person can legally own a firearm. You will be subjected to the rigorous background check, but that doesn’t mean the other person is exempt from these standards. In general, familiarize yourself with the laws as they apply to your state. If you have any questions, always ask beforehand. And if you’re still unsure or uncomfortable about the purchase, you can also purchase something such as a gun holster. With holsters, there are no potential ramifications, and it will still make a thoughtful gift.