A holster is the safest way to carry a handgun in Texas when you prefer to take it or keep it with you. However, a handgun holster will only be beneficial if you’re wearing it properly. Because every handgun owner has different preferences for on-person carrying locations, the gun safety experts from Online Texas LTC, your premier choice for Texas LTC online training, focus on some of the most common types of holsters and how they’re worn.
Chest & Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder and chest holsters allow for convenient cross-body drawing. With these types of holsters, you’ll start by slipping the empty rig on. If you’re wearing a shoulder holster, make sure the straps:
• Cross below your neck area in the back
• Aren’t twisted
• Are tight against your body
With a chest holster, you’ll adjust the strap that goes over the shoulder along with the one that goes across your chest. Do so until you achieve a snug fit. If the holster is movable, slide it into a position that’s comfortable for you. Adjust the angle of the holster and practice drawing with your handgun in the holster.
Waist/Hip & Thigh Holsters
These lower body holsters are worn either at the waist or along the upper thigh of your preferred leg. A waist or hip holster is one that’s usually clipped or looped onto your belt. Adjust its position so it’s comfortable for you when standing and sitting with the handgun in place.
With a thigh holster, you’ll strap it to your preferred thigh. Next, pull the straps up to anchor it. Get into your preferred position before you attach the strap to your belt. Check to make sure the handgun rests comfortably in the holster so you can make any other necessary adjustments.
Leg & Ankle Holsters
Leg holsters are similar to thigh holsters, and they’re often set up and worn the same way. The only difference is that a leg holster generally rests lower on the thigh so the handgun is closer to the knee.
Ankle holsters can be worn inside the leg under jeans or long pants or on the outside of the lower leg near the foot. Texas is an open carry state, so either option is possible. Regardless of which position you prefer, wear an ankle holster properly by:
• Wrapping the strap snugly around your ankle but not so tight that it affects your movement or circulation
• Adjusting the holster so you can access your handgun in a way that’s convenient for you
• Considering the use of an ankle guard to protect your ankle and allow for full ankle motion
Back & Belly Holsters
Drawing from the lower part of the back can be a bit tricky. However, if you prefer to carry your handgun this way, there are holsters that allow for safe carrying in this location. A back holster is usually one with a clip or loop that attaches to your belt in the back or a separate belt that has an attached holster.
A belly holster is worn around the waist and usually includes a wide adjustable band. If the holster is adjustable, place it in a comfortable position in your abdominal area. Some belly holsters have Velcro straps that allow for convenient adjustment depending on whether you’re sitting or standing.
No matter what type of gun you own, safety should be your top priority, and a holster can help you carry your weapon safely. If you’d like to learn more about gun safety, taking a Texas concealed carry class online, or any other aspect of firearm ownership, reach out to the experts at Online Texas LTC today at 512-675-2124.
