Belly band holsters provide a comfortable, convenient solution for carrying a handgun under light or somewhat tight-fitting clothing. A fitted pocket holds the handgun and shields the trigger, while elastic or a fabric strap keeps the holster in place. You can position it around the hips and waist or up higher on the stomach. Belly holsters allow you to carry concealed during physical activities or in situations where you can't affix a waist holster to your belt.
Chest holsters position a handgun on the upper torso where it can be accessed by cross-drawing. It's a convenient way to carry a handgun as a secondary weapon while hunting or when hiking while wearing a backpack. They come in large sizes for carrying full-size pistols and revolvers chambered in the powerful rounds favored by hunters who frequent bear country.
Drop leg holsters affix a handgun to the outer part of the thigh. They are most often used by military and law enforcement personnel as a means to carry a secondary weapon. For civilians, they're great for home defense or for carrying a handgun while hunting, hiking or engaging in other activities where packs or gear would interfere with drawing from other types of holsters.
Inside the waistband holsters - known to many as IWB holsters - are perhaps the ultimate all-purpose choice for everyday concealed carry. They fit discretely between your body and the waistband of your pants, either on the draw-hand side or along your back. Most stay in place with some type of clip, though bands and other attachments are occasionally used, too. Some IWB holsters can also store an extra magazine.
Outside the waistband, or OWB, holsters allow you to carry just about any size handgun, from sub-compacts up to large revolvers. They're simple, convenient and keep your firearm right where you need it. Smaller holsters and pistols can be concealed under a jacket or shirttail, though OWB holsters are quite often used for open carry. As such, they come in a variety of materials and finishes, from highly styled leather to custom-molded hard plastics. OWB holsters often clip to a belt, or they can clip over the belt and waistband with a flat paddle that rests against your side. They can be situated in multiple positions along your waist for the most comfortable draw.
Thin and discrete, pocket holsters allow you to conceal and carry a compact or sub-compact handgun in your front pants pocket on your draw-hand side. They both cover the trigger for safety and position the firearm with the grip up for an easy, quick, safe draw. The practicality of a pocket holster is directly tied to your attire. Tight-fitting clothing can show off your weapon, negating its concealment. Likewise, if you'll mostly be seated while carrying or are wearing a heavy outer layer, such as an overcoat or work coveralls, you'll likely have a difficult time accessing your handgun. The best bet is to test the fit of your pocket holster with each outfit to make sure your handgun is concealed and easily accessible.
Shoulder holsters allow you to carry just about any size pistol, singly or in tandem, and in some cases with extra magazines. Over-the-shoulder straps secure the holster in place and let you adjust for the proper fit. When concealment is needed, a jacket or coat must be worn over the holster, though shoulder holsters are also a great option for self defense at home or in a vehicle.
