The rigors of daily life keep you on the constant move. Unless of course you’re like me and glued to the seat in your cubicle. Regardless, normal movement throughout the day can cause your holster to shift. For many this is a point of contention since you practice religiously with your holster in one position. So, how do you keep your holster from sliding around? Honestly, there are many considerations to be had. Below are 7 tips to help keep your holster in place and prevent it from sliding.
- Check that your belt and the holster loops fit snugly. (OWB)
- Position the holster between belt loops. (OWB/IWB)
- Get a holster with multiple clips. (IWB)
- Swap plastic clips for metal ones. (IWB)
- Anchor the holster using string or other device (OWB/IWB)
- Eat more to fill in the waistline of your belt (IWB)
- Use non-slip padding to modify the holster (IWB)
Table of Contents
Problems With OWB Holsters Sliding
Different holster configurations come with different problems. Therefore, I’ve broken down the problems commonly found in outside the waistband (OWB) and inside the waistband (IWB) holsters. Below are common problems with OWB holsters and the solutions for preventing your holster from sliding around.
Belt Fitment With Holster Loops
One of the most common problem with (outside the waistband) OWB holsters is the belt width is smaller than the loops on the holster. However, even the slightest amount of play can allow the holster to slide along the belt with normal activity. Therefore, make sure the belt fits snugly in the loops of your holster. Above are examples of both good and bad fits.
Position The Holster Between Pant Loops
Another solution to prevent holster movement is choosing the correct position of the holster along the waistline of your pants. The belt loops on your pants act as a natural barrier to prevent your holster from sliding. Generally, the holster will straddle the belt loops as seen above.
Struggles Of IWB Shifting
The biggest problem with IWB holster shift is due to improper pant size. However, even with the proper pant fit, some holsters will still move around. In order to prevent this, there are a number of solutions.
Increase Clip Count To Prevent Holster Shift
Sometimes, the best solution to solve holster movement is to pick up a new holster. I’ve found that single clip holsters are more apt to slide freely along the waistline. However, holsters with multiple clips tend to not move as easily. Generally, you can seat the holster clips between belt loops which help stabilize the holster.
Holster Clip Material: Metal FTW
Another issue I have seen with holster slide is because of the clip material or belt clip size. For instance, the Comptac Infidel has both an oversize clip that requires a larger belt. In my experience, metal clips offer a better grip on your belt. Because metal clips can flex better than plastic and therefore have a tighter fit. The more surface area in contact with your belt and tighter the clip fit, the less likely the holster will slide.
DIY Solutions For Stubborn Holsters
If none of the above has worked for you, fret not. There are a few tricks you can try to help anchor your holster in place. While not the most elegant solutions, they may save you a few bucks on a new holster.
Anchor That Shifting Holster In Place
If you have an aversion to trying new holsters, you can try to fabricate a fix for holster slide yourself. Using a string or small carabiner, attach the holster to belt loop to prevent movement. Pictured above is a small carabiner used in conjunction with the CompTac Infidel holster. However, you can use this with various different holsters, but the size of your carabiner may vary. Alternatively, you could use a velcro loop to keep your holster from sliding.
Pack On A Few Pounds
My favorite way to keep a holster from sliding is to just pack on a few pounds. Of course, eating your way in to proper fitment will take time. Inevitably, you’ll also need to maintain the same weight for this to be a viable solution. Personally, I think that proper pant sizing couple with another one of these methods is a better choice.
Add Friction To Prevent Holster Movement
Another cost-effective method of preventing holster movement is to modify the holster. Using some form of non-slip material (e.g. rubber) you can modify the shell, clip, or holster backing. Isolating the cause of the holster movement is key to the success of this method. Once you’ve narrowed down the problem piece, use some double-sided tape or other adhesive to attach a non-stick material.
Parting Shots
Hopefully some of these tips will help you find the key to keep your holster from sliding around. However, if you still aren’t able to keep your holster anchored in place, it may be worth checking out a new holster. Reliability is key, and if you practice with your holster in one position, you should be able to maintain that location throughout the day. Do you have a method that helped you that isn’t listed here? Please leave a comment so that others can give it a shot.
