The concealed-carry holster should be chosen as carefully as the carry gun or defense load. There isn’t a shortage of manufacturers and custom makers, but gun owners continue to choose holsters that are cheaply made and that do not perform well. Cant, angle, and drop have a bearing on how well the handgun rides on the belt. The holster must carry the pistol as comfortably as possible while maintaining a balance of speed and retention. That is a tall order.
Gun Tests Magazine has reviewed dozens of concealed-carry holsters over the last few years. In this listicle, we’ve selected the best of each major type.
The holster must offer a speedy draw while also maintaining a firm hold on the firearm during movement. A floppy holster is worthless as far as both speed and retention is concerned. Passive retention is simply the natural retention of a holster, designed into the holster by offering a hold on the long bearing surfaces of the handgun. Active retention is additional protection, including a safety strap, thumb break, or other device. The more retention, the more movement that’s required to free the handgun from the holster. A balance should be struck. Some holsters use a thumb break, while some feature a button or plunger to release the handgun safely.
Happily, we encountered very few failed products that were dangerous to use, but we did find a few favorites that were listed as Best Buys or Our Picks, the latter category not being constrained by price. As always, you can read the full review about a holster in the monthly issues cited in each listing. — Todd Woodard
Bullard Leather Belt Slide Holster, $100 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A-
Belt-slide holsters are a staple for compact pistols like the SIG P365. While not as concealable as an inside-the-waistband holster when you have a short-slide pistol such as the SIG P365, you have a good candidate for concealed carry among those shooters who cannot tolerate an IWB design. The Bullard Leather Belt Slide (BullardLeather.com) features double stitching, an important reinforcement in a leather holster. The design is blocked and molded properly and has a sweat guard. Edging, the part of the holster where the two halves meet and are glued together, is flawless. Draw speed is sharp. You may have to budge the holster mouth a bit with the muzzle on re-holstering, and we rated the holster down a half grade on that respect. If you are transitioning from 1911s and leather to a modern polymer-frame gun, this holster will have much appeal.
DeSantis Slim-Tuk Optics-Ready Holster, $40 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
This is a holster designed with a supple leather backing and a strong Kydex shell. It is among the most popular styles and a strong seller for every major holster company offering a variation. The QuickTuk Cloud features excellent fit and finish. The holster is properly molded. There is some adjustment in the belt clip. As one rater noted, the belt clip takes a firm bite on the belt. The holster performs well in the optics-ready version. There is really no discernible difference in performance when using an optics-ready pistol. However, when using a full-size Glock 17, the face of the optic hit the seam of the trousers. The handgun may not be completely holstered if the pistol is holstered while the holster is inside the waistband. If holstered first and then attached to the belt, this is a superior product. This isn’t an issue with the holster but the handgun. Either carefully tuck the red dot in, or adjust the belt loop. We found the QuickTuk Cloud to be a well-made and versatile holster. Comfort is high on the list. This holster is available from GalcoGunLeather.com.
Galco VHS 4.0, $279 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
We tested a single shoulder holster, the Galco Vertical Holster System, which has been reviewed previously. The holster is well designed, affordable, and offers a nice load-bearing device for getting the weight of a handgun and spare magazines off the belt. Some vertical shoulder holsters feature a design that butts the slide into the holster itself. With the vertical design of the Galco holster, the design work was undertaken to make the holster optics ready. The slide cut-out allows easy clearance. The holster body offers good retention, and a security strap improves the holster’s hold on the handgun as well. Available from GalcoGunLeather.com.
Crossbreed The Reckoning Holster, $58 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A
Suitable for the SIG P365, the Reckoning hybrid holster (CrossbreedHolsters.com) has a hard Kydex holster mated to a supple leather backing. The Kydex holster is actually a half shell with the leather backing retaining the handgun as well. The half-shell design allows the shooter to get a good firing grip. The hard shell provides retention while the leather backing offers good comfort. The Reckoning’s belt clips are adjustable and take a good bite of the belt for security. There is some adjustment for drop, either a high ride or low ride, by moving the belt clips. Retention may be adjusted by tightening the shell against the backing. The Reckoning is designed for tuckable carry. This isn’t an option we recommend, but in that role, The Reckoning is as good as any. We tested as an IWB. We drew from the holster several times with a good, sharp draw. There was no difficulty in re-holstering. The backing is comfortable and seems to spread weight out well. The Reckoning is affordable and does exactly what it was designed to do.
Safariland 126GLS Assent Holster, $91 (November 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
Our Pick. Safariland and Bianchi are now branches of the same company. This higher-retention holster is the most expensive tested. By the same token, you get your money’s worth. The leather work and stitching are excellent. Our example is the size 750. We used a Sphinx compact 9mm during the test program. The pistol worked much the same as the Safariland; however, due to the OTW construction, the draw was sharper. One of the raters felt that there is very little penalty in actuating the GLS switch — practice is the key, but the movement is natural. He felt the GLS lock moves the holster into usefulness when hiking or doing outdoors work. We like this holster very much. Unless you have a pressing need for ITW carry, this is a good choice for concealed carry. We rated the construction far above the paddle holsters for concealed carry. With price as no object for our testers, this is the top retention holster. Find it at BianchiLeather.com.
Galco Hornet, $99 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Hornet (GalcoGunLeather.com) is a crossdraw OWB especially designed for small-frame automatics like the SIG P365 and revolvers. The Hornet is cut from high-quality leather. The tanning is well done. The crossdraw requires a specific geometry. It doesn’t work to simply take a standard holster and wear it on the wrong side. The Hornet is well designed of good material and cut at the correct angles. The belt loop keeps the holster cinched tight to the belt. The tunnel loop is a welcome feature that results in a good, tight fit to the belt and cinches the pistol in rigidly. This tightness results in a good fit and keeps the gun butt angled properly and tight against the body. A crossdraw that allows the gun butt to tilt forward isn’t well suited to concealed carry. Drawing and re-holstering the pistol went smoothly. The Hornet offers good concealment under a light jacket or unbuttoned sport shirt. An OWB is never as discreet as the IWB. The Hornet is best suited to those who are often seated at work or who drive most of the day. This is a good choice for certain situations.
DeSantis Uni-Tuk, $101 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Uni-Tuk is a highly developed inside-the-waistband holster for the SIG P365. It is also useful as a tuckable type. The Uni-Tuk features an adjustable belt loop with a strong hook to ensure stability. The belt hook is behind the half-shell polymer holster. This makes for less bulk in concealed carry compared to a holster with the belt loop on the front of the holster. This design also brings the holstered handgun into the body more closely. The Uni-Tuk features hybrid construction. The holster shell is Kydex, while the backing is a foam-filled design. This backing is well suited to constant carry in humid climates. Since a Kydex shell cannot collapse, there is no need for a holstering welt. The holster body itself features a tab to one side of the belt loop that seems to prevent rollout when carried in the appendix position. We found the Uni-Tuk equally well suited to inside-the-waistband, tucked under a shirt, or appendix carry. This is easily the most versatile holster tested.
Galco Summer Comfort Thumb Break Holster, $82 (November 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Galco Summer Comfort is among the best values in an ITW holster. Quality is practically the same compared to a custom-shop holster. The molding to the handgun is good, and the higher-retention holster features a reinforced holstering welt. This means that the holster does not collapse after the handgun is drawn. The handgun may be holstered without adjusting the belt or trousers. One of the raters wears an open-top IWB for most of the summer. During the winter, when he bikes and hikes, he likes more retention. The Summer Comfort has a thumb-break option. It is very important that the thumb break is reinforced. If not, the leather extension will bind on the belt and body at some angles, making a draw difficult. The Galco design is reinforced properly with a spring-steel clip and heavy molding. We find the thumb break IWB from Galco to be a good option. As for draw speed, several of the raters tested the holster and felt it needed a modest break in. Compared to an open-top holster, there is perhaps 0.2 second difference in draw speed, depending on how much practice the user has. Check it out at GalcoGunLeather.com.
Falco Appendix A909 Holster, $140 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A
There are options on the Falco website (FalcoHolsters.com) that may affect the final price. Our holster as delivered for the SIG P365 is the priciest holster of the test. We don’t see how it could have been less expensive considering the work that goes into the A909. This holster is all-round comfortable design with the Kydex shell covered in calf skin overlay. The backing is supple leather, very well finished. While the Kydex component is prominent, there is plenty of give to wrap the holster under the belt line. It features a removable anti-roll-out foot. The belt loop rides over the holster and a clip rides near the magazine carrier. The ability to carry the gun and magazine together by simply fitting the holster to the belt is a good feature. It is best to use a sweat guard in this type of rig. This protuberance behind the holster protects the gun from perspiration and the body from oil, solvent, and discomfort. In this case, both the holster and the magazine carrier feature sweat guards. A minor concern is that you may need to bump the sweat guard to the rear as you holster. It is simple enough to slightly angle the muzzle into the holster. We find this to be a credible combination. While pricey, there is a lifetime warranty.
Tulster Contour, $80 (November 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The higher-retention holster is certainly low profile. The Contour is an outside-the-waistband (OTW) holster. It rides high and offers an option for those who cannot find comfort with the inside-the-waistband (ITW) style. We tested two examples, one for the Glock 19 size and the other for a Smith & Wesson Military & Police 2.0 Compact. The standard version is optics friendly. The pistol features asymmetrical wings that ride close to the body. The Tulster features a Retention Adjustment Slot. Simply adjust the slide vertically and then tighten the slot for added retention. The holster may also be adjusted for ride height. The Kydex material is .08 inch thick. This holster is a good choice for those who want a bit more retention. The draw may be fast enough, but the movement requires a solid tug — still faster than detaching a security device. After setting the holster up for maximum retention, we used an unloaded handgun and jumped up and down, and one of the raters did a back flip, all without losing the gun. If you are not comfortable with an IWB type holster, consider the Contour. Available at Tulster.com.
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HONORABLE MENTIONS
DeSantis Criss-Cross Crossdraw Holster, $80 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A-
The Criss-Cross is a leather cross-draw design suitable for the SIG P365. The leather is nicely tanned. Linen stitching makes for a nice contrast. We like the draw angle; it allows sitting at a table or desk with your hand practically on the gun butt. When driving, the holster is easily accessible. Fit is good. On the reverse side, you can see double-stitched saddle-blocked linen thread. The Criss-Cross features a retention adjustment screw. This works well for adjusting tension and also for tightening it up as the holster leather becomes worn in daily use. A good feature is a heavily reinforced holstering welt. No problems in drawing and re-holstering with the Criss-Cross. This is a well-thought-out holster. DeSantisHolster.com.
Galco Stow-N-Go, $40 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A-
The Stow-N-Go is a leather inside-the-waistband holster intended to offer an IWB holster for the SIG P365. The holster welt or holster mouth is reinforced and did not collapse when the pistol is drawn. Re-holstering generally went fine; occasionally, we had to tuck the muzzle into the holster and slightly budge the holstering welt open. A plastic belt clip is well designed, anchoring the holster to the belt during movement. We think the Stow-N-Go is an affordable alternative to pricier holsters such as the Summer Comfort. We rated it down a half grade on the holstering welt, but gave it a Best Buy.
Galco Walkabout, $60 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A-
The Walkabout is similar to the Stow-N-Go, the primary difference being that the Walkabout features a magazine holder. The advantages of the Stow-N-Go are retained. The holster features a reinforced holstering welt. The fit is good, and in our example accommodated both the SIG P365 and the slightly larger Hellcat. If worn as an appendix-style holster, the magazine carrier is an asset. If worn as a conventional IWB holster, the magazine carrier is on the wrong side for a rapid acquisition. However, the point may be made that some shooters would not bother to carry a spare magazine without a holster/carrier combination. It is slower to change the gun to the weak hand, draw the magazine, and then swap hands again, but better than digging in the pocket for a magazine or not having a spare magazine. If worn as an appendix holster, the Walkabout is more affordable than purchasing a holster and a carrier. A tester made the point that if worn as a tuckable with the optional supplied tuckable clip, once the shirt is pulled out, the magazine carrier is exposed as well, a good point. The draw angle is nearly infinitely adjustable by means of an adjustable belt clip. We almost made this holster the Best Buy, but the lower price of the Stow-N-Go won out.
Mission First Tactical (MFT) Inside-The-Waistband Holster, $55 (April 2025)
Gun Tests Grade: A-
This MFT holster features a 1.5-inch belt clip. The clip takes a good hold on the belt. Surprisingly, the MFT holster features adjustable cant for the SIG P365. One of the mounting holes is large enough to allow some adjustment. There is also a retention screw. The holster is manufactured of 0.08-inch-thick Boltaron Kydex. The holster is equally suited to right-hand or left-hand carry. While advertised as suitable for appendix carry, it depends on the user’s build and whether or not rollout is an issue. The holster also may be used OWB if you order an MFT paddle. We wore the MFT design for two days with the SIG P365. It rides well and offers a good draw. Re-holster isn’t a problem. One rater noted that the sight track is nicely developed. The sights did not snag in any other holster, but the MFT features a prominent sight track. One of the raters felt the belt clip had too much flex, but going back and testing the other holsters, all have a bit of give. The large belt clip of the MFT holster has more leverage; it is wider than most. We sometimes tested a holster and went back to others to confirm our opinion. The MFT holster is a good choice, well worth the money. We would like thicker material at 0.10 inch, and we rated the holster down a half grade on this mark. MissionFirstTactical.com.
Safariland GLS Pro-Fit, $48-68 (November 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Grip Locking System (GLS) is an ITW design. Safariland has an enviable reputation in law enforcement and has been a recognized leader in security holsters for many years. The GLS polymer higher-retention holster is designed to fit a range of handguns and may be manually adjusted. As an example, the Glock 19 and S&W M&P Compact may be worn in the same holster with appropriate adjustment. The Safariland grip locking technology holds the handgun with high retention, but the handgun can be released immediately by the proper action. Using a triple-checked unloaded firearm, we found the pistol could not be shaken from the holster. Upside down, or attempting to lever the gun butt against a chair, nothing worked to dislodge the handgun. Yet the pistol could be instantly released by pressure on the grip-lock lever. Cant is also adjustable. When ordering this holster, there are four sizes, from subcompact up and at least four types of mounting hardware for different-size belts and paddle or belt attachment. See it at Safariland.com.
Hogue ARS Carbon Fiber Paddle Holster, $30 to $59 (November 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A-
The carbon-fiber construction is attractive. If you like paddle holsters, this one works well. The paddle is broad enough for security, but is fairly compact. There is good adjustment. The primary concern is the ARS locking device, which works by applying thumb pressure. Get a firm grip and press inward with the thumb to release. The lock is automatic, not applying a thumb strap or anything such as that. You don’t have to think about the retention device, and you should not have to think about releasing the device if you have several hundred draws under your belt. We found the Hogue holster to be well made and useful. The draw was reasonably fast. While we prefer the Safariland system, this holster may be the preferred type for some shooters. We rated it primarily on the usefulness of the lock mechanism. We don’t like the paddle offset for concealed carry.
Wright Leather Works Predator Pancake Holster, $105 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
Making a holster adapt to an optic demands some thought. Wright has accomplished this neatly.
Galco QuickTuk Cloud, $69 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
This is a holster designed with a supple leather backing and a strong Kydex shell. It is among the most popular styles and a strong seller for every major holster company offering a variation. The QuickTuk Cloud features excellent fit and finish. The holster is properly molded. Either carefully tuck the red dot in, or adjust the belt loop. We found the QuickTuk Cloud to be a well-made and versatile holster. Comfort is high on the list. This holster is available from GalcoGunLeather.com.
DeSantis Speed Scabbard, $83 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
This is a semi-pancake-type holster. The Speed Scabbard features three belt slots for cant or angle adjustment. The holster is molded for specific handguns and features slight variations in geometry for each handgun. This is a holster designed with care and which serves well for concealed carry. There is also a tension screw to adjust tightness on the handgun and to tighten the holster up when it becomes worn. Available from DeSantisHolster.com.
DeSantis Veiled Partner, $42 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: B-
This is another holster that exhibits the advantages of Kydex. The good points include that the holster hugs the body. In that way, it is similar to a leather pancake holster. The holster offers plenty of adjustment for drop, rake, and cant. The holster rides high, and we experienced a few problems with stability. This one is available from DeSantisHolster.com.
Wright Leather Works Predator Pancake Holster, $105 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
Making a holster adapt to an optic demands some thought. Wright Leather Works has accomplished this neatly with judicious modifications. The Predator is a pancake-style strongside holster. The fit and molding are far superior to a standard pancake. Many pancakes are not molded as well as this one. The holster rides close to the body, and the result is good concealment. Available from WrightLeatherWorks.com.
Wright Leather Works Cruiser IWB Clip Holster, $105 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Cruiser is a single belt clip inside-the-waistband holster. The holster is well designed, secure, and offers a sharp draw. The balance of speed and retention is good. One of the raters owns three he uses with handguns ranging from a 32 ACP to a Commander 45. So, the question was, how do you convert a relatively compact holster to take an optics-ready handgun? Wright doesn’t let the red dot/reflex optic touch the holster body. The offset is slight, but when the handgun is holstered, there is plenty of retention while the red dot offset from the holster is perhaps 1⁄8 inch. This is a neat trick, and the system works well. Available from WrightLeatherWorks.com.
Galco Corvus Optics-Ready Holster, $89 (July 2022)
Gun Tests Grade: A
The Corvus holster is a versatile rig with belt loops that allow both on-the-belt and inside-the-waistband carry.
Don Hume Leathergoods D.A.H. Belt Holster, $78 (July 2021)
Gun Tests Grade: A
On the DonHume.com site, we ordered the D.A.H. for a Smith & Wesson Model 36 Chief’s Special 2-inch-barrel revolver. The holster is an interesting design, with three belt loops for use as an SOB holster or as a high-ride strong-side holster. When worn in the small-of-the-back configuration just behind the hip, the holster offered a reasonably fast draw. The snubnose 38 Special doesn’t take up a lot of belt space. The holster angle is decent, and the D.A.H. makes a viable holster. However, when worn in the strong-side attitude, the D.A.H. was not as secure. The grip frame is handle heavy in the Smith & Wesson, and the holster tilts too much. We would not use the holster as a strong-side choice. With the belt loops in the SOB position, the holster works well.
