Benefits of a Paddle Holster

Paddle holsters are one of the most popular types of outside the waistband (OWB) holsters. They get their name from the rigid contoured broad clip that's shaped like a paddle, which is used to secure the holster inside the waistline or along the user's belt. Like most holsters, paddle holsters are best worn with a proper gun belt . Here's a closer look at the benefits of a paddle holster and when you should use one.

Best Practices for Using a Paddle Holster

There are many advantages to using a paddle holster over other holster designs. However, no holster is perfect for every situation. Follow these tips to ensure you can securely conceal your weapon whenever you wear it:

• Use a gun belt. Gun belts are stiffer than regular belts, so they won't move or sag under the weight of your weapon. This improves concealment and can improve your comfort.
• Avoid physical activities. Paddle holsters are convenient as they clip right onto your belt, but physical activity, like running, can potentially dislodge the holster. Look for something more secure if you're going to be moving a lot while wearing it.
• Choose a snug-fitting model. The best paddle holster is the one built for your type of weapon. This improves concealment, reduces printing, and helps keep your weapon secure.
• Follow all safety rules. Whenever you're carrying a weapon, you should be alert of your surroundings and avoid having your weapon removed by keeping it concealed and secured at all times.

For daily concealment, a paddle holster is the easy choice for many users; you just need to make sure you select the right holster for your weapon and requirements. Let's dive further into the benefits you'll enjoy when wearing a paddle holster.

Conveniently Conceal Your Weapon

If you're dressed properly, paddle holsters make it easy to conceal your weapon. Proper clothing with a paddle holster means wearing a loose coat, shirt, or jacket is ideal when carrying with a paddle holster, since they project a bit more than belt slide holsters do, leading to a larger print.

Adjust Your Weapon's Position With Ease

Paddle holsters are a popular way of concealing a weapon thanks to their convenience. You can clip the paddle onto anywhere along your waistband, allowing you to adjust it to where it's most comfortable for you. Once in place, paddle holsters are very secure thanks to modern paddle designs.

Easily Remove Your Holster

When removing your holster, simply pull it off your belt and store it somewhere safe. This makes it a quick on-and-off holster for daily use. Just make sure your paddle holster clips firmly to your belt and securely retains your weapon. An improper fit can lead to your holster becoming dislodged accidentally or sticking to your weapon when you try to remove it.

Enjoy a More Comfortable Design

Thanks to its adjustability and overall design, paddle holsters are regarded as one of the most comfortable holsters to wear. The fit of a paddle holster won't lead to your firearm digging into your leg, and most people find it's more comfortable when sitting down compared to other designs. With that said, you need to ensure your holster has a strong retention system in place, with no wiggle room.

Choose From Passive or Active Retention

Regardless of the design you choose, holsters must have adequate retention. With a paddle holster, you can choose from an active or passive retention design, allowing you to enjoy the utmost comfort without compromising security.

• Passive retention holsters use friction to keep the gun inside the holster.
• Active retention holsters use a technical element, like a retaining strap.

Passive retention holsters are often made using leather or similar materials, as they'll hold the gun more tightly and break in overtime, allowing for a better fit. Most leather holsters come with a retention screw that you can adjust to tighten the fit as the leather stretches over time. Plastic holsters molded to your firearm model also tend to be passive and should fit quite snugly.

Active retention holsters, on the other hand, use a retaining strap or hood to cover the hammer, securing the firearm in the holster. The strap or "thumb break" is held by a metal snap, which you can disengage by pushing your thumb up against it. Some active retention holsters also have a trigger guard or button to further secure the weapon from accidental release.

How to Wear a Paddle Holster Properly

In order to enjoy the many benefits of wearing a paddle holster, you need to make sure you're wearing it properly. This means dressing appropriately to ensure your weapon is concealed and pairing your paddle holster with a stiff, proper-fitting gun belt to hold it in place.

Your paddle holster can be easily clipped along any part of your belt or waistband, but is best positioned at the side or front of your body. Placing your holster at the back of your body can put you at a greater risk of having your weapon taken from you before you can react with this type of holster. Always position your holster to maximize concealment and minimize safety threats.

Lastly, test your paddle holster's fit many times. It should be snug on your belt while securely holding your weapon in place. If it doesn't clip firmly to your belt, you might dislodge the holster when removing your weapon. Likewise, if it holds your weapon too firmly, the same problem may occur.

Find The Right Paddle Holster

Concealment Express is proud to carry high-quality paddle holsters that are 100% made in the USA. If you're looking for a paddle holster, look no further than the collection offered by Concealment Express. Durable, molded plastic models will securely hold your weapon in place while the advanced design stays snug on your belt and reduces printing. Explore our selection of paddle holster s today.