What is an OWB Holster and Why You Might Want One
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When it comes to carrying a firearm, there are a number of different holster options available. One of the most popular choices is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster. OWB holsters are designed to be worn on the belt, outside of your clothing. They offer a number of advantages over other types of holsters, including quick and easy access to your firearm, good retention, and comfort.
In this article, we will take a closer look at OWB holsters. We will discuss the different types of OWB holsters available, the advantages and disadvantages of OWB holsters, and how to choose the right OWB holster for your needs.
We will also provide some tips on how to safely and effectively carry a firearm in an OWB holster. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of OWB holsters and be able to make an informed decision about whether or not an OWB holster is right for you.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
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| What is an OWB Holster? | An OWB holster is a type of holster that is worn outside of the waistband. | OWB holsters are typically used for concealed carry, as they allow for quick and easy access to the firearm. |
| Benefits of OWB Holsters |
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| OWB holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry. They offer a number of benefits, but there are also some drawbacks to consider. Ultimately, the best holster for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. |
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What is an OWB Holster?
An OWB holster, also known as an outside-the-waistband holster, is a type of holster that is worn on the outside of the waistband of a pair of pants. OWB holsters are typically made of leather or nylon, and they are designed to hold a handgun securely in place while allowing for easy access.
OWB holsters are popular among law enforcement officers and concealed carry permit holders because they provide a number of advantages over other types of holsters. First, OWB holsters are very easy to draw from, even when wearing a heavy coat or jacket. Second, OWB holsters offer excellent retention, making it difficult for an attacker to remove the gun from the holster. Third, OWB holsters are typically very durable and can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
However, OWB holsters also have some disadvantages. First, OWB holsters are more visible than other types of holsters, which can make it more difficult to conceal a firearm. Second, OWB holsters can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time, especially if they are not properly fitted. Third, OWB holsters can interfere with the movement of the wearer’s arms, which can be a problem if the wearer is engaged in physical activity.
Overall, OWB holsters are a good choice for law enforcement officers and concealed carry permit holders who are looking for a holster that provides excellent retention, easy access, and durability. However, OWB holsters are not as concealable as other types of holsters, and they can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Types of OWB Holsters
There are a number of different types of OWB holsters available on the market, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular types of OWB holsters include:
- Belt slide holsters: Belt slide holsters are the most basic type of OWB holster. They consist of a simple holster body that is attached to a belt slide, which allows the holster to be moved up and down the belt. Belt slide holsters are typically very affordable, and they are easy to use and draw from. However, they do not offer as much retention as other types of OWB holsters.
- Snap-on holsters: Snap-on holsters are similar to belt slide holsters, but they use a snap-release mechanism to secure the holster to the belt. Snap-on holsters are typically more secure than belt slide holsters, but they can be more difficult to draw from.
- Tuckable holsters: Tuckable holsters are designed to be worn with a tucked-in shirt. They typically have a low profile and are made of materials that will not wrinkle or damage clothing. Tuckable holsters are very concealable, but they can be difficult to draw from.
- Hybrid holsters: Hybrid holsters combine the features of two or more different types of OWB holsters. For example, a hybrid holster might have a belt slide holster body with a snap-release mechanism. Hybrid holsters offer the best of both worlds, providing excellent retention, easy access, and concealability.
When choosing an OWB holster, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of firearm you will be carrying: The size and shape of your firearm will determine the size and shape of the holster you need.
- The level of retention you need: The level of retention refers to how difficult it is to remove the firearm from the holster. If you are concerned about the firearm being stolen, you will need a holster with a high level of retention.
- The amount of concealability you need: The amount of concealability refers to how well the holster can be hidden under clothing. If you need to conceal your firearm in a professional setting, you will need a holster that is very concealable.
- Your budget: The price of an OWB holster can vary significantly, depending on the materials used and the features included.
By considering these factors, you can choose an OWB holster that meets your individual needs.
What Is an OWB Holster?
An outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster is a type of holster that is worn on the outside of the waistband of a pair of pants. OWB holsters are typically made of leather or Kydex, and they can be either open-top or closed-top. Open-top holsters allow the user to draw their firearm quickly, while closed-top holsters provide more security and protection from the elements.
OWB holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry, as they are relatively easy to conceal and draw from. However, they can also be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time, and they may not be as secure as other types of holsters.
Benefits of OWB Holsters
There are a number of benefits to using an OWB holster, including:
- Easy to conceal: OWB holsters are relatively easy to conceal, as they are worn on the outside of the waistband. This makes them a good option for people who need to conceal their firearm in a variety of settings.
- Quick to draw: OWB holsters allow the user to draw their firearm quickly. This is important for self-defense, as it allows the user to respond to a threat as quickly as possible.
- Versatile: OWB holsters can be used in a variety of different situations. They can be worn with a variety of different types of clothing, and they can be used for both concealed carry and open carry.
Drawbacks of OWB Holsters
There are also a number of drawbacks to using an OWB holster, including:
- Uncomfortable to wear: OWB holsters can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. This is because they are worn on the outside of the waistband, which can put pressure on the hips and waist.
- Not as secure as other holsters: OWB holsters are not as secure as other types of holsters, such as inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters. This is because they are not as close to the body, and they are more exposed to the elements.
- More likely to snag: OWB holsters are more likely to snag on clothing or other objects than other types of holsters. This is because they are worn on the outside of the waistband, and they are not as close to the body.
OWB holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry, as they are relatively easy to conceal and draw from. However, they can also be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time, and they may not be as secure as other types of holsters. Ultimately, the best way to decide if an OWB holster is right for you is to try one out for yourself.
What is an OWB holster?
An OWB holster, or outside-the-waistband holster, is a type of holster that is worn on the belt, outside of the waistband of the pants. It is typically used for carrying a handgun, and is often preferred by law enforcement officers and other individuals who need to be able to access their weapon quickly.
What are the advantages of using an OWB holster?
There are a number of advantages to using an OWB holster, including:
- Quick access: OWB holsters are typically easier to access than other types of holsters, such as IWB holsters. This is because they are located on the outside of the waistband, and can be drawn from without having to remove the belt or clothing.
- Comfort: OWB holsters can be more comfortable to wear than other types of holsters, such as IWB holsters. This is because they do not need to be worn close to the body, and can therefore help to reduce sweating and discomfort.
- Visibility: OWB holsters are more visible than other types of holsters, such as IWB holsters. This can be an advantage for law enforcement officers and other individuals who need to be able to show that they are armed.
What are the disadvantages of using an OWB holster?
There are also a few disadvantages to using an OWB holster, including:
- Increased visibility: OWB holsters are more visible than other types of holsters, such as IWB holsters. This can be a disadvantage for individuals who want to conceal their weapon.
- Increased printing: OWB holsters can sometimes cause the gun to “print” through the clothing, which can make it visible to others. This can be a disadvantage for individuals who want to conceal their weapon.
- Increased risk of snagging: OWB holsters can sometimes snag on clothing or other objects, which can make it difficult to draw the weapon quickly. This can be a disadvantage for law enforcement officers and other individuals who need to be able to access their weapon quickly.
What are the different types of OWB holsters?
There are a number of different types of OWB holsters, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of OWB holsters include:
- Belt holsters: Belt holsters are the most common type of OWB holster. They are typically made of leather or nylon, and are designed to be worn on the belt.
- Drop-leg holsters: Drop-leg holsters are designed to be worn on the thigh. They are typically used for carrying long guns, such as rifles and shotguns.
- Shoulder holsters: Shoulder holsters are designed to be worn on the shoulder. They are typically used for carrying handguns, and can be more comfortable to wear than other types of OWB holsters.
How do you choose the right OWB holster for you?
When choosing an OWB holster, there are a number of factors to consider, including:
- The type of gun you will be carrying: The size and shape of your gun will determine the size and shape of the holster you need.
- The type of activities you will be doing: If you will be doing a lot of physical activity, you will need a holster that is comfortable to wear and that will not interfere with your movement.
- Your personal preferences: Some people prefer leather holsters, while others prefer nylon holsters. Some people prefer belt holsters, while others prefer drop-leg holsters or shoulder holsters.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right OWB holster for your needs.
Additional resources
- [OWB Holsters: A Guide for Beginners](https://www.activeresponsetraining.com/owb-holsters-a-guide-for-beginners)
- [The Best OWB Holsters for 2023](https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/best-owb-holsters-for-2023/451440)
- [How to Choose the Right OWB Holster](https://www.concealedcarry.com/how-to-choose-the-right-owb-holster/)
an OWB holster is a type of holster that is worn outside of the waistband. It is typically made of leather or nylon and has a belt loop that allows it to be attached to the wearer’s belt. OWB holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry because they are easy to access and provide a secure hold on the firearm. However, they can also be more visible than other types of holsters, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your needs.