AN INTRODUCTION TO HOLSTERS – GUIDE FOR NEW GUN OWNERS

HOLSTERS!  There are literally thousands of options available. Finding the right one is all about personal preference and comfort. We created An Introduction to Holsters – Guide for New Gun Owners because it can be very overwhelming when you’re getting started. It is very easy to end up with a box full of holsters before you find the right fit for you. We hope this series of videos will help you gain a better understanding of some of the options available.

In our last series: The Beginners Guide for New Handgun Owners we went through some of the fundamentals of understanding handgun safety and the basics of learning to shoot. We do encourage you to seek out professional training and continue your firearms education.

The following videos are what we consider the logical next steps.  A holster is an important piece of equipment and hopefully, you’ll have a better understanding by the end of this series. NOTE: In most states, you will need to complete some sort of Concealed Carry Training Course before you can carry a concealed handgun. Understand that these classes are also quite basic and you should pursue further training after completion of your course. 

Once you find your holster, you’re going to need to begin getting comfortable with it. Carrying concealed is a very foreign feeling when you first start out. This is normal. We will be discussing how to dress for concealment as well as how to “clear” your clothing so you can quickly and confidently access your firearm. Again, like all things regarding firearms, this will take practice. Be patient with yourself and spend the time necessary to hone your skills. 

TYPES OF HOLSTERS

HOLSTER TERMS

AIWB: Appendix Inside the Waistband

IWB: Inside the Waistband

OWB: Outside the Waistband

CARRY POSITIONS – APPENDIX CARRY – AIWB

This video covers the basics regarding Appendix Inside the Waistband Carry.  

CARRY POSITIONS – SIDE CARRY (3 O’CLOCK)

This video covers the basics regarding Side-Carry or the 3 O’clock position. 

CARRY POSITIONS – SMALL OF BACK (6 O’CLOCK)

Once you have your grip figured out, your next step is to understand how to properly align the sights on your handgun. Proper sight alignment is an extremely important aspect of accuracy. Where your sights line up is where your bullet will hit. If improperly aligned you will not hit your mark. 

DRESSING FOR CONCEALMENT

Concealed Carry Clothing is something that a lot of new shooters may not consider. Your clothing should be comfortable and provide uninhibited access to your firearms while at the same time it should completely conceal your firearm. The proper clothing will prevent your firearm from Printing. “Printing” a term that refers to your firearms shape/profile being visible to others despite it being concealed on your body.

DRAWING FROM CONCEALMENT + DRILL – CLEARING YOUR CLOTHING

This video goes over how to clear your “cover” and draw your firearm from concealment. At the end of this video, there is a simple drill you can practice this process. 

REHOLSTERING

There is a lot to unpack when it comes to carrying a firearm concealed. This video will go over the basics of re-holstering your pistol. You should not be in a hurry to reholster your handgun. It should be a deliberate act.