One of the classic shooter dilemmas: how do you choose the right holster? We all want something comfortable, practical, safe, and suited for our purpose. And let’s be honest—there’s always room for one more holster.
If you’ve been shooting for a while, chances are you’ve got a drawer full of them. If you’re new, you’re probably wondering which one you actually need.
And with so many options—drop leg, outside-the-waistband, inside-the-waistband, shoulder, pocket—it’s never easy to choose. Some of us want to grab every holster we see: concealed carry, tactical setup, competition rig…
It’s hard to say no to a new holster. So let’s make sure it’s the right one.
In this post, we’ll break down the different types of holsters, what they’re best for, and help you answer one of the most common questions:
Should you go with a drop leg holster or a waistband holster? Let’s find out.
Types of Gun Holsters
There are a lot of holster styles out there: waistband holsters (IWB/OWB), shoulder holsters, ankle holsters, pocket holsters, and more. Each one has its place, depending on how you carry, what you carry, and where you’re headed.
So let’s zoom out for a moment.
Waistband Holsters (IWB & OWB)
These holsters ride at hip level, and they are by far the most popular type of gun holster out there.
Both IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband) keep the gun close to your body. That’s great for security, but it can also make access harder when you’re layered up or moving around. Still, waist holsters are excellent in tight spaces and for close-quarters situations.
Inside the Waistband (IWB):
This is the most common option for concealed carry. IWB holsters fit inside your belt, keeping your firearm well hidden. You’ll want something that feels comfortable and fits both your body type and clothing style.
The main concern with IWB holsters is printing. You’ll also need to figure out what’s the best position. 3 o’clock? 11 o’clock? You can check out our appendix carry guide to find what works best for you.
Outside the Waistband (OWB):
This type of holster rides outside the belt. They’re faster to draw from and more comfortable when you’re on the move. The tradeoff? Not concealed.
But OWB holsters are perfect for the shooting range, competitions, or home defense setups. They look great, feel great. A must for any shooter.
Leg Holsters (Thigh Holsters)
Drop leg holsters or thigh holsters sit just below the waistline and above the knee. They position the gun close to your resting hand, allowing for a quicker draw with less shoulder movement.
There are different styles and custom configurations: low-ride, mid-ride, and high-ride tactical leg holsters. Another thing all tactical leg holsters must have is a strong retention system. You’re moving more down there, and you don’t want bounce, shift, or worse.
Pros of leg holsters are they offer a clear draw path, they are great for gear-heavy loadouts, and provide fast access while standing.
Cons? They tend to be bulkier and more noticeable and add bounce if not fitted right. Also not something suitable for concealed carry or to wear while seated.
Ankle Holsters
These are backup holsters, and probably the best style for deep concealment.
Perfect for civilians who prefer a low-profile carry, or law enforcement who need a secondary option.
Ankle holsters are super discreet, excellent for small sized pistols. These can really save your life in unexpected emergencies.
Still, they have their obvious drawbacks: they work only for small framed guns, offer a slower draw, and definitely you can’t use them with shorts.
So not your primary choice. But as we said, great for backup.
Pocket Holsters
If you are looking for another great option for small-frame pistols, this is it. Pocket holsters cover the trigger guard, reduce printing, and make sure your gun draws the same way every time.
Pocket holsters are a dream for concealed carriers: It sits right in your pocket, hidden and ready.
Just know that it only works with small guns—and drawing while seated isn’t ideal.
Shoulder Holsters
This one always reminds us of Miami Vice, or any of our favorite detective series. Shoulder holsters are worn across the torso and are very comfortable. They’re ideal for larger handguns because they distribute the weight evenly across your upper body.
The main downside of shoulder holsters is visibility. Unless you’re wearing a jacket, they’re not easy to conceal. But for cooler weather or vehicle carry, they’re a solid choice.
Not the fastest draw, but great access when you’re strapped into a seat.
With all that said, let’s get into the two most popular carry types: leg holsters vs waistband holsters—and when to choose one over the other.
Why Choose a Leg Holster?
A leg holster positions your firearm in a natural, ergonomic spot—right where your hand naturally drops. No twisting. No digging under layers. No bulky gear blocking your draw.
That’s why drop leg holsters are a go-to for tactical applications and a favorite among competitive shooters. When you're standing, geared up, and need to move fast, a tactical leg holster gets it done.
Top Benefits of Leg Holsters:
-
Accessibility: Quick draw from a standing position with minimal movement.
-
Comfort: Shifts the weight off your waist—great if you’re already loaded up with gear.
-
Open Carry Ready: Ideal for range training or security detail work.
If you own a Canik and you’re looking for the best drop leg holster out there, check out our 45 Blast COMP Holster. It’s built from durable thermoplastic KYDEX, it’s comfortable, secure, and purpose-built for active use.
Why Choose a Waistband Holster?
Waistband holsters are the most popular because they balance between concealment, speed, and control. But it’s important to know how to choose between inside and outside the waistband.
If you’re going concealed carry, an IWB holster is your go-to.
If you’re heading to the range or dialing in your draw during practice, OWB holsters are a solid choice.
The truth is, waistband holsters are the most versatile setup for everyday carry, law enforcement, and self-defense.
Top Benefits Waistband Holsters:
-
Concealment: IWB holsters are perfect for daily carry. Easy to cover with a shirt, jacket, or duty uniform.
-
Control: Keeps your firearm close to the body, which minimizes printing and limits unwanted movement.
-
Versatility: Works for all kinds of body types, carry angles, and activities—from casual clothes to tactical kits.
If you shoot Canik and you're after a quality waistband setup, check out the IWB and OWB holsters at the 45 Blast Store. We offer high-quality builds with excellent trigger guard protection, all-day comfort, and a secure fit—built for shooters who train hard and carry right
Leg Holsters vs Waistband Holsters: When to Use Each
Now that we’ve compared leg holsters vs waistband holsters, let’s break it down further with real-world scenarios. Sure, it’s easy to say "this one conceals better" or "that one’s more tactical".
But when we actually look at how these holsters perform in different situations, the decision becomes much clearer.
Range Training
Actually, you can use both these types of holsters at the range. Here’s how:
Waistband holsters are great for static range drills. And it’s always smart to practice with the holster you plan to carry day-to-day.
But when it’s time to run dynamic courses, practice transitions, or draw from unconventional positions, a drop leg holster offers better mobility and faster access.
So if you’re serious about advancing your skills, leg holsters will become really interesting when you start tactical training.
Competition Shooting
You’ve probably heard this one: "Leg holsters are faster for competition." Well, that’s true. Thigh holsters are often preferred in 3-Gun or USPSA competitions that allow open carry. The lower ride height allows a quicker draw and clears your belt for other gear.
But it’s different with divisions like IDPA or Carry Optics. On those, you need to replicate real-world concealed carry positions, and that means using a waistband holster.
Bottom line: check the rules of the match before deciding which holster to bring.
Concealed Carry
IWB holsters are the go-to here. They’re easy to conceal under everyday clothing, as long as you find one that suits your body type and wardrobe. Keep printing in check, and you’re good.
One golden tip? Always check the weather. Because no one wants a sweat-covered firearm halfway through a humid day.
Vehicle Carry
Waistband holsters win this one, hands down. Whether it’s appendix or 3 o’clock, waistband holsters offer better access while seated.
Many concealed carriers stick with IWB while driving because it’s both comfortable and easy to reach at the beltline.
Motorcycle Carry
Most riders prefer waistband holsters for better concealment and safety on the road. IWB is the most common, though OWB can work too if you’re open carrying.
For law enforcement on motorbikes, shoulder holsters are also a practical choice. They stay clear of the beltline and allow easier access while seated.
Open Carry and Security
This is where the drop leg holster shines. Security personnel, military, and open carriers often choose thigh holsters for visibility, accessibility, and compatibility with duty belts or body armor.
Plus, a good retention system gives peace of mind in crowded or public environments. It just says, “I’m ready”.
Tactical Drills
In tactical setups, a leg holster drops your firearm below your gear—which clears your draw path and keeps it accessible when you're wearing plate carriers or chest rigs.
That’s something waistband holsters can’t always offer, especially when your torso is covered in kit.
How to Choose the Right Holster: A Quick Buyer’s Guide
You can do a quick search online and instantly get flooded with options—holsters for every brand, model, and purpose under the sun. But before you dive in, here are a few things to keep in mind (besides your gun and body type) to help you make a smarter call:
Adjust Retention the Right Way
Test your holster's retention before hitting the streets. Unload your firearm, place it in the holster, then turn it upside down.
Does it fall out? Try shaking it a little. If the gun drops, you’ll want to tighten the retention until it stays put—but still allows a smooth draw.
Check the Attachment System
Most holsters connect with a hook, clip, or strap. Here just avoid cheap plastic or flimsy hardware. Poor attachments can mess with your draw, dig into your waist, or even fail under pressure. You want something secure, reliable, and built for movement.
Train for the Draw and Reholster
Whether you're carrying for defense or sport, training is non-negotiable. The NRA offers great classes on safe reholstering, draw technique, and defensive movement.
Also—practice your draw drills. We’ve seen beginners pull their gun out with the entire holster still attached. Not ideal. You can check out the Draw and Fire Drill, one of our 10 gun practice drills. Definitely something to practice.
Be Sure To Carry Legal
Last but not least—know your local laws. Make sure the holster you’re buying is legal for your state, activity, and location. Some areas restrict open carry or specific holster styles. So just be sure to stay informed and stay legal—always.
What’s the Best Holster?
The best holster is the one you train with until it feels like second nature. That can be a drop leg, IWB, OWB, or even an ankle holster. It all comes down to how much time you’ve spent running drills with your setup.
If you're looking for a secure fit, strong retention, and a smooth draw, check out our premium holsters at 45 Blast. You'll find top-tier options for Canik IWB, OWB, and drop leg carry, all built for shooters who take their training seriously.
From there, it’s up to you: practice, get sharp, and become the fastest draw on the range.
