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10 Best Concealed Carry Holsters 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

VNSH Belly Band Holster – Comfortable, Secure & Discreet | Concealed Carry Fit for 99% of Handguns with Built-in Mag Pouches

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,491
Comfort
Retention
Material

Most important from
861 reviews

Comfort
Extremely comfortable and secure, staying in place even during long wear without causing irritation.
Retention
Holds the handgun safely while still allowing for a smooth and quick draw.
Material
Soft yet durable material makes it practical for everyday concealed carry.
Carry Position
Fits a wide range of handguns perfectly, offering versatile carry positions including front, side, and back.
Concealability
Discreet under clothing, providing peace of mind while carrying.

The VNSH Belly Band Holster is a versatile option for those looking to carry a handgun discreetly and comfortably. Made from durable Cordura polyester, it offers a strong build that can handle daily wear, ideal for active users. Its design fits about 99% of handguns, from small subcompacts to full-sized models, which means it works well for many popular guns including Glock and Smith & Wesson. You can wear it in various positions—front, side, or back—and it suits both left and right-handed users, giving you flexibility in how you carry.

Comfort is a strong point here, thanks to the soft Velcro closure that avoids poking or irritation, allowing you to wear it all day under different clothing without discomfort. Concealability is also good because the band wraps securely around your waist and stays low-profile under clothes. Plus, the built-in dual magazine pouches make it convenient to carry extra ammo for quick reloads, which is a thoughtful addition.

As a belly band style, it might not provide the same quick draw speed as a traditional hard holster, especially if you’re not used to this carry method. Retention relies mostly on the snug fit and Velcro, which may feel less secure compared to holsters with rigid locking mechanisms. While it fits a wide range of sizes, the XL size is designed for waists up to 68 inches, so those outside this range might need to look for different sizes. This holster is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing comfort and discretion over ultra-fast access. It works well for everyday concealed carry and for people who want flexibility in how they carry their handgun and magazines.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,491
Comfort
Retention
Material

Most important from
861 reviews

Comfort
Extremely comfortable and secure, staying in place even during long wear without causing irritation.
Retention
Holds the handgun safely while still allowing for a smooth and quick draw.
Material
Soft yet durable material makes it practical for everyday concealed carry.
Carry Position
Fits a wide range of handguns perfectly, offering versatile carry positions including front, side, and back.
Concealability
Discreet under clothing, providing peace of mind while carrying.
#2

Alien Gear Photon Holster – IWB & OWB – No Light – Fits Glock 17 (Gen 1–5)/22 (Gen 1–4), Glock 47, Shadow Systems DR920/MR920L, Zev OZ9, LTD17 – Ambidextrous – Optic Compatible

Rating
8.2
Carry Position
Retention

Most important from
515 reviews

Carry Position
The holster is versatile, allowing both inside and outside waistband carry.
Retention
For those with the 365 Axg Legion, the holster might be too tight and may require spacers.

The Alien Gear Photon Holster offers a solid option for those seeking a versatile and customizable concealed carry holster. Made from durable Boltaron material, it provides a secure fit for multiple firearm models, including the Springfield Hellcat Pro, Sig P320, and Glock 17. The holster supports both inside waistband (IWB) and outside waistband (OWB) carry positions, catering to both right and left-handed users, which enhances its versatility for various carry preferences and situations.

One of its standout features is the adjustable ride height, cant, and retention, allowing users to personalize their setup for optimal comfort and concealment. This adjustability helps in achieving a quicker draw speed, which is essential in critical situations. Additionally, the holster is compatible with optic and suppressor height sights, accommodating advanced firearm setups. The sidecar compatibility adds to its practicality, providing extra storage for ammunition.

However, while the holster offers many benefits, it is important to note its limitations. Its non-light-bearing design might be a drawback for those who require a holster for a firearm with a light attachment. Also, some users might find the ambidextrous design less tailored compared to holsters specifically designed for one hand orientation. The holster is relatively lightweight at 0.28 kilograms and has a compact size, making it suitable for everyday use. The Alien Gear Photon Holster is a reliable and adaptable choice for concealed carry enthusiasts, especially those who value customization and versatility.

Rating
8.2
Carry Position
Retention

Most important from
515 reviews

Carry Position
The holster is versatile, allowing both inside and outside waistband carry.
Retention
For those with the 365 Axg Legion, the holster might be too tight and may require spacers.
#3

Blackhawk, Omnivore MultiFit, Streamlight TLR 1 & 2, Gun Holster

Rating
8.2
Material
Retention
Comfort

Most important from
4637 reviews

Material
A universal fit that accommodates over 150 handgun models, including those with accessory rails and lights, makes it highly versatile and cost-effective.
Retention
The pistol stays securely in place with an intuitive thumb-activated draw, balancing safety and quick access effectively.
Comfort
Despite its bulk, the holster remains comfortable to wear even during low sitting positions and daily activities, especially with the paddle attachment.
Concealability
The design cleverly disguises the bulk, so it doesn’t obviously look like a gun when peeking out from under clothing, though it’s not meant for tight concealment.

The Blackhawk Omnivore MultiFit Holster is designed for outside-the-waistband carry and fits over 150 semi-automatic pistols with accessory rails, specifically supporting Streamlight TLR 1 and 2 lights. Made from durable polymer, it offers a lightweight yet sturdy build that should withstand daily use. The ambidextrous design suits both left and right-handed users, adding flexibility. Its standout feature is the active retention system, which uses an ergonomic thumb-activated mechanism combined with level 2 retention, meaning the firearm is held securely but can be quickly drawn when needed. The free-floating design locks onto the pistol's rail rather than the frame, preventing wear on the gun’s finish.

The outside-the-waistband style generally means it is less concealable than inside-waistband options, but it tends to be more comfortable for some users and allows faster draw speeds, which is beneficial in urgent situations. However, its bulkier profile might make concealment under light clothing more challenging.

With a solid user rating around 4.3 out of 5 from over 3,000 reviews, this holster is popular among those who prioritize reliability, retention, and compatibility with light-bearing pistols. It is a versatile, secure holster that's easy to access and fits many gun models, especially suitable for those who don’t mind carrying outside the waistband. If maximum concealability is your top priority, slimmer inside-waistband options might be preferable.

Rating
8.2
Material
Retention
Comfort

Most important from
4637 reviews

Material
A universal fit that accommodates over 150 handgun models, including those with accessory rails and lights, makes it highly versatile and cost-effective.
Retention
The pistol stays securely in place with an intuitive thumb-activated draw, balancing safety and quick access effectively.
Comfort
Despite its bulk, the holster remains comfortable to wear even during low sitting positions and daily activities, especially with the paddle attachment.
Concealability
The design cleverly disguises the bulk, so it doesn’t obviously look like a gun when peeking out from under clothing, though it’s not meant for tight concealment.

Buying Guide for the Best Concealed Carry Holsters

Choosing the right concealed carry holster is crucial for both safety and comfort. A good holster should securely hold your firearm, allow for a smooth draw, and be comfortable enough for everyday wear. When selecting a holster, consider factors such as the type of firearm you carry, your preferred carry position, and your daily activities. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
MaterialThe material of the holster affects its durability, comfort, and concealability. Common materials include leather, Kydex, and nylon. Leather holsters are comfortable and mold to your body over time, but they may require more maintenance. Kydex holsters are durable, retain their shape, and offer a quick draw, but they can be less comfortable against the skin. Nylon holsters are lightweight and affordable, but they may not offer the same level of retention as leather or Kydex. Choose a material that balances comfort and functionality based on your daily activities and personal preferences.
Carry PositionThe carry position refers to where on your body you will wear the holster. Common positions include inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), appendix carry, and shoulder carry. IWB holsters are popular for their concealability but may be less comfortable for some users. OWB holsters are more comfortable and allow for a faster draw but are harder to conceal. Appendix carry offers quick access but can be uncomfortable when sitting. Shoulder holsters distribute weight evenly but require a cover garment. Consider your daily routine and clothing style to determine the best carry position for you.
RetentionRetention refers to how securely the holster holds your firearm. Good retention ensures that your firearm stays in place during movement and prevents accidental discharges. Holsters can have passive retention, which relies on the fit of the holster, or active retention, which includes mechanisms like thumb breaks or retention straps. Passive retention is usually sufficient for everyday carry, but active retention may be necessary for more rigorous activities. Assess your level of activity and the importance of quick access to determine the right retention level for your needs.
ComfortComfort is a critical factor, especially if you plan to carry your firearm for extended periods. A comfortable holster should distribute the weight of the firearm evenly and not cause irritation or pressure points. Features like adjustable cant, padding, and sweat guards can enhance comfort. Try wearing the holster for a few hours to see how it feels and make adjustments as needed. Your comfort level will directly impact your willingness to carry consistently, so prioritize finding a holster that feels good to wear.
ConcealabilityConcealability is essential for maintaining discretion while carrying a firearm. A good concealed carry holster should minimize printing (the outline of the firearm showing through clothing) and be easy to hide under your typical wardrobe. Slimmer holsters and those designed for IWB or appendix carry tend to offer better concealability. Consider your body type, clothing style, and the size of your firearm when evaluating a holster's concealability. The goal is to carry your firearm without drawing attention to it.
Draw SpeedDraw speed refers to how quickly you can access and draw your firearm from the holster. A holster that allows for a smooth and fast draw can be crucial in self-defense situations. Factors affecting draw speed include the holster's design, retention mechanisms, and carry position. Practice drawing from your holster regularly to ensure you can do so quickly and efficiently. Choose a holster that balances draw speed with retention and comfort to meet your self-defense needs.

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