7 Best OWB Holster in 2024: Review and Buying Guide

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Choosing the best OWB (outside the waistband) holster is a big task because these holsters are in high demand among gun users. Most of them have tried other options such as shoulder holsters, ankle holsters, shoulder rigs, and even belly bands but didn’t achieve the success they were expecting. This has only increased interest in OWB holsters.

When it comes to OWB holsters, there are plenty of options available on the market. The best OWB holster for you will depend on your needs and preferences. But, with so many choices available, how do you make the right choice?

As a keen gun enthusiast, I find the importance of a holster is often underrated. I try to make everyone aware of why it’s crucial to holster your gun to avoid accidents. First things first, you should decide whether you want a hard or soft holster. Honestly, there’s not much of a difference between the two. It’s your choice. Do you prefer a stiffer feel that won’t collapse or bend when you draw your firearm? If so, look for a rigid holster made from Kydex or other hard plastic material.

Do you prefer a more flexible holster? If so, a soft holster made from leather or nylon might be a better choice for you. It’s easier to conceal and can be more comfortable if worn for long periods.

Next, you need to decide what kind of retention system best suits your needs. A good retention system will keep your gun in place while in the holster but allow easy access when needed. Some holsters offer adjustable retention systems that let users customize their level of security by tightening or loosening screws on either side of the firearm.

Here Are the Best OWB Holsters (Our Picks)

The best OWB holster is one that securely holds a gun while allowing for an easy draw. It should be comfortable to wear and fit the specific model of gun it is intended for. There are many choices for holsters, so the ideal OWB holster for one person may not be the best for another.

There are two main categories of holsters: paddle and belt-slide. Paddle holsters are attached to the user at only two points, so there is more wiggle in them than belt-slide holsters. Belt-slide holsters are more secure because they are attached to the wearer at many points, but they can be uncomfortable if worn for long periods. When choosing an OWB holster, an individual should consider how they plan on using it and choose the style that offers the most comfort and security. Let’s take a look at the top OWB holsters you can buy.

1. OWB Paddle Holster for Sig Sauer P365

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Designed for outside the waistband carry and perfect for tactical, military, and competition use, the OWB Paddle Holster is a great all-around holster for just about any application. The paddle features a rubberized insert to keep your holster firmly in place while drawing and re-holstering your sidearm. The open-top design features a one-way snap-on retention strap to ensure secure carry.

The paddle attachment is secured in place by an adjustable retention screw to ensure your firearm is held securely on your belt. A soft but durable neoprene backing provides comfort while carrying and  ensures nothing will move around on your belt.

Pros

  • Single clip for easy on and off
  • Snap-lock retention system keeps your pistol secure
  • Perfect for open or concealed carry
  • Made with .093″ Kydex/Boltaron, a solid and durable material perfect for use as a holster
  • Fully adjustable retention pressure & carry angle (cant) 0-15 Degrees w/ Phillips screwdriver (no special tools needed)

Cons

  • Paddle makes it hard to re-holster the gun after drawing it
  • The paddle is uncomfortable

TakeAway

This OWB paddle holster for Sig Sauer P365 offers an easy and smooth draw while still providing excellent retention. These holsters allow you to choose how your weapon is carried by selecting one of three featured cant angles—0°, 15°, or 30°. Mix and match the holster base of your choice with the paddle attachment that works best for you.


 2. OWB Kydex Paddle Holster

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The OWB Optic Ready Kydex paddle holster features an adjustable retention system, which allows you to choose the exact retention setting you prefer.  The paddle design lets you put this holster on or take it off quickly and easily.

The paddle has a curved design that conforms to your hip, providing maximum comfort. Another great thing about this holster is that if you look at the back end of the paddle, you’ll see two holes that allow you to remove the paddle, if you like, and slide it onto your belt in place of wearing it with the paddle, which provides another convenient carry option.

Related Article: Best Concealed Carry Holsters

Made from .08 Kydex for durability, this paddle holster offers a quick-release thumb break for ease of drawing and re-holstering. The body is fastened together with Phillips head screws to allow the holster to be easily modified by the user.

This holster is great! I like the retention of the Kydex and the adjustment that the retention screws allow. I am heavyset, and it conceals very well at 4 o’clock. The holster design allows for just enough body between the belt and the handgun to comfortably conceal with a t-shirt or light jacket.

Pros

  • This OWB Kydex Paddle Holster was designed to fit the Optic Ready configuration of the Sig Sauer P365
  • This holster rides close to the body and features a cant angle of 0° (straight drop)
  • Each holster is handcrafted to your precise gun model to create the perfect fit while maintaining the thinnest profile both in your pants and on your belt

Cons

  • Some models do not have an integrated tension screw

TakeAway

The OWB Kydex Paddle Holster fits a variety of gun models. You see, it has the optic cut design feature, so you can use it even if you have sights that are mounted on your firearm. Its paddle gives an excellent fit to your holster, and its retention screw can be adjusted according to your preference. It’s also equipped with a belt loop that’s adjustable from a particular angle so that you can take advantage of other carry positions, including cross draw, appendix carry, and trim of the back carry.


3. Universal OWB Holster

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The Universal OWB Holster  from CYTAC is designed to accommodate any firearm with a tactical light. It is a right-handed, outside the waistband holster. To draw, release the strap, and push down with your middle finger as you pull your weapon. It’s very comfortable no matter how you carry it and can be worn inside the waistband by simply changing the belt’s loops.

This is a newly designed Universal OWB Holster. The leather is durable and robust but soft to your skin. It is the ultimate right handed outside the waistband holster for your quick draw.

Constructed of strong 800D nylon for durability, the OWB holster features a belt loop with quick-release button  and an adjustable belt clip  that allows you to adjust the cant (can be set up to FBI-spec 15 degree cant).

This OWB Holster was designed as the perfect holster for concealed carry or as a range holster. This holster features a removable retention strap with two-pronged tension screws. These screws allow you to adjust the holster to your liking while providing superior retention and quick draw capabilities.

Pros

  • If you like to buy American, this tactical holster is for you
  • Made of heavy-duty molded polymer, this OWB holster is contoured and comfortable, allowing you to comfortably use it from sunrise to sunset
  • Designed to fit 4″ compact firearms up to large 5″ pistols, with an adjustable retention screw that lets you set your pistol as tight as you want
  • This is a retention holster
  • The holster features the Auto-Lock Active Retention System that engages the pistol with an audible click upon re-holstering, keeping your sidearm firmly in place while remaining easily accessible

Cons

  • Tends to get stuck at times

TakeAway

The OWB Universal Belt Holster is perfect for open carry. It gives you the versatility to carry on your hip or underneath your clothing. With an adjustable thumb break for maximum retention, it keeps your gun safe and secure at all times. The hook & loop backing helps keep the holster from moving.


4. Taurus G2C OWB Holster

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The Taurus G2C OWB Holster is designed for outside the waistband carry for your Taurus G2C. It features a locking Level II retention system that locks the handgun in place until you release it with the thumb break swivel strap. The adjustable tension screws and multi-position holster offer 360 degrees of adjustment. The cant on this holster can be adjusted from 0 to 20 degrees. Made with an injection-molded belt loop that fits belts up to 1.75 inches wide, this holster is built tough and meant to last.

Related Article: 10 Best Appendix Carry Holsters (AIWB Holster) Review

This Taurus G2C OWB Holster, with its built-in retention, is designed to hold tight so your weapon won’t move or pop out. The Level II Retention Locking System fits most firearms and offers a 360 Degree Adjustable Paddle.

This holster is made with a single layer of 0.08″ Kydex for an effective strength and lightweight properties. This minimalist holster can be ordered with or without the pull-the-dot loops as well as a single 1.5″ belt loop, making it compatible with most standard guns that have been on the market for decades.

Pros

  • New Paddle Design for Maximum Comfort & Stability
  • The Taurus G2C OWB Holster is durable and protective
  • With this holster, you get an advanced safety design that locks the weapon in all directions upon holstering with no straps or snaps to manipulate
  • The holster features a 360-degree adjustable cant and fixed retention that can be adjusted with a Phillips screwdriver
  • It comes fitted with durable belt loops made of injection-molded polymer materials

Cons

  • Holstering the weapon takes some getting used to initially

TakeAway

This Taurus Kydex Holster is made out of durable black Kydex and features a minimalist design that is very comfortable and highly concealable. The paddle attachment has a single locking tab at the top of the paddle that attaches to your belt. Simply push the tab in, lift to remove, and re-insert as desired. This holster features an adjustable cant in 30-degree increments (0, 30, 60 degrees), so you can choose your preferred carry angle and ride height. The whole setup was effortless to install and is quite comfortable to wear!


5. G19 OWB Holster

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The G19 OWB Holster is a perfect fit for Glock Models 19, 23, 32, 19X, and 45. This product is made of premium-grade water-resistant nylon with sponge padding inside.

The holster features a retention screw that allows the user to select their retention level. The adjustable soft silicon paddle offers comfort and flexibility. This holster is made out of a very durable polymer plastic (Boltaron) which features excellent impact resistance, flexibility, and elasticity, making it one of the most rigid polymers in the industry today.

This is a level 2 retention holster. The holsters are equipped with an ergonomic 360° adjustable belt soft silicone paddle to fit comfortably on your belt and not interfere with you or your gun. This holster also features passive retention with rapid deployment.

Adjust the tension screw to your drawing preference, while the full-size belt loop allows it to be used on any belt size. Once the weapon is holstered, it “locks” into place, providing an extra security measure and preventing anyone from attempting to forcibly take your weapon. .

Pros

  • The G19 OWB holster with a 360 degree adjustable paddle is designed for concealed carry and outdoor activities
  • Level II retention system
  • Lightweight, soft silicon construction
  • Dynamic retention function
  • Attached with the soft silicone paddle, the holster offers a soft feel when wearing it on the belt. The soft silicone is comfortable against your skin and clothing
  • This OWB Holster can customize to your style with 15 color choices

Cons

  • The paddle is narrower than other holsters

TakeAway

This is a fine-quality holster that can be used for either concealment or open carry. It has a 360 degree adjustable soft silicon paddle for better concealment under thin clothing. The heavy-duty belt clip secures in place when you draw your weapon.

The paddle also features a two-position locking detent to keep the holster in place. It comes with a break release with a reinforced thumb break and double stitches. Your weapon is held in place with an adjustable retention screw.


6. M&P 9mm Full-Size OWB Holster

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The M&P Full Size OWB holster is one of the best I have owned, and I have owned a lot. It fits the weapon perfectly and covers the trigger guard for added safety. The clip fits over my belt perfectly and can be adjusted to suit your needs. There is no printing in these holsters, which is what I prefer. The sweat shield makes reholstering easy. Just know beforehand that they ship with pretty much all of the screws loosened up, so you might want to give them a quick look over before you put it on.

Related Article: 10 Best Drop Leg Holsters (Thigh Holster)

The M&P 9mm Full-Size holster molding and sweat guard have been perfected! I have molded several holsters from various companies with the same results; however, the Kydex used to make these holsters is simply the best.

This outside the waistband holster from M&P Gear is a full-size, open-bottom holster that fits up to a 1.75″ belt. It is made of .080” material for excellent durability and is Kydex molded for a perfect fit. The holster comes with a fully adjustable cant with multiple mounting holes on each side, including mounting hardware.

Pros

  • The M&P 9mm holster is a full-size OWB and made from .08″ Kydex or Boltaron material
  • It uses a proprietary blend of Polymers to achieve the ultimate in durability and retention for your 9mm weapon system
  •  The Trooper standard belt loop configuration is designed to accommodate up to 1.75″ belt widths
  • It comes with an adjustable positive retention system, which allows for adjustment for the user to find their perfect setting as well as being more forgiving with most handguns since the hood will allow for a range of tolerances due to its universal fit design rather than just one specific handgun
  • These are typically available in multiple color options but vary depending on current stock.

Cons

  • The holster doesn’t lock at times

TakeAway

This is a fantastic holster! The fit is excellent, and it offers excellent concealability. The draw is very smooth, and the snap allows for a sufficient audible click to know it is in place.

It fits securely and comfortably. The patented torsion technology allows for a smooth but very secure grip on your gun until it’s time to draw. This holster offers fully adjustable retention that can be tailored to your exact preference.


7. CYTAC OWB Holster

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The CYTAC OWB Holster’s compatibility range for Glock 34 ensures that numerous individuals can use this holster. It also gives a durable finish to the holster, so it’s able to support the weight of your firearm.

This holster is made out of durable and rigid plastic, which is lightweight but still sturdy enough to hold and support your firearm while in the field or at home, or wherever else you might need your gun.

It is designed for outside the waistband and offers comfort and concealment using high-quality leather. This holster is specifically designed for use with the Glock 34 pistol, although it can fit similar models such as the Glock 17, 22, and 35. It fits other pistols with similar dimensions and is best used with a matching belt.

Related Article: 9 Best Holsters for Sig Sauer P365

This is a durable and comfortable option for carrying your firearm. The holster is built with two injection molded polymer belt loops and is adjustable to fit your needs. It is good quality and works well with my Glock 34. The finish is smooth, and the sight channel is not obstructed by any rough edges other than those from the mold.

Pros

  • CYTAC OWB Holster for Glock 34 – Comes with a professional design, safety features, is lightweight & durable
  • Tactical Outside The Waistband Belt Holster with 360°Adjustable Paddle Fits 1911, S&W M&P Shield 45/9mm, Glock 17/19/22
  • This CYTAC holster is made out of durable polymer materials and injection molding technology
  • Standard quality testing like salt spray test is applied on each holster to ensure not only a long-lasting Glock 34 holster but also enhanced durability in a harsh environment
  • CYTAC has been specializing in designing and manufacturing high quality yet cost-effective accessories for military, law enforcement, police, and civilians since 2009
  • With 10 years of experience, CYTAC is always striving to provide customers with the best products and service

Cons

  • It may not fit all generations of a Glock 34

TakeAway

This is an excellent fit holster. With easy on and off, it has retention but not too much where you need to yank the gun out. It’s very comfortable to the body and sits high enough to conceal under my shirt. I use it for the Glock 34 with Trijicon RMR cut.

This holster is designed for everyday carry with your Glock 34. It’s made of durable polymer and can be attached to the thigh or hip area. The 360-degree swivel allows the person wearing it to move quickly without being impeded by the holster. This holster will no doubt be able to hold up under any conditions, even on-duty use. It comes with screws and accessories to easily attach it to your belt so it can fit all sizes perfectly (33mm or 36mm).

Buying Guide: Things to Know Before Buying the Best OWB Holster

A good outside-the-waistband holster will keep your gun in place while you’re moving, running, or jumping. It will also protect your gun from sweat and moisture. The best holsters are custom-made to fit your exact gun, but you can also find universal holster options that will work with various guns.

When it comes to shopping for an OWB holster, there are a lot of factors to consider, including the type of material used to make the holster, the cost, and the functionality.

When looking for a new OWB holster, the process can seem intimidating and chaotic. There are countless options available, each with different features, textures, and sizes. You might feel like you need to be an expert to find the right one for you—but it’s not that hard.

To help you get started, here are some tips on what to look for in an OWB holster:

  • Is it comfortable? Can you wear it all day without feeling like your weapon is about to fall over?
  • Can you access your firearm quickly in case of an emergency?
  • Does the material hold up under heat and moisture?
  • Can you wear it with different clothing styles, such as skirts or suits?

FAQ’s

What Is the Most Comfortable OWB Holster?

The most comfortable OWB holster is the one that fits you best. When choosing a holster, one of the must-have qualities is comfort. If a holster isn’t comfortable to wear, you will likely not choose to wear it as often as you should. So how do you go about finding the most comfortable OWB holster?

First, determine what makes the most sense for your body type, activity level, and wardrobe choices. For example, if you’re petite and carry a handgun for self-defense daily, an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster might be more comfortable for you than an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster since you have to conceal with IWB holsters almost all of the time.

On the other hand, if you’re a taller person with a higher activity level who carries a handgun primarily for recreation or sports shooting purposes, an OWB holster might be more comfortable, given that you can use more durable and less restrictive clothing options when carrying OWB.

The next step is to consider what material will provide comfort and durability over time. Many people choose leather because it’s soft and supple right out of the box and will age beautifully over time without losing its charm.

Can You Use an OWB Holster for Concealed Carry?

Yes, you can use an OWB holster for concealed carry. Although it’s not the best option for most people and situations, a few factors can make it viable and valuable in the right circumstances.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you choose to use an OWB holster for concealed carry, you will want to dress around your gun. You need to make sure that it is fully covered by your clothing at all times so that no one can see it when you move or bend down. This can be challenging and limit what you can wear when carrying it this way.

Final Verdict

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best OWB holster. As a general rule, an OWB holster is most appropriate for situations where you will not have to worry about drawing your firearm immediately if need be. It also helps if the retention device is suited for the environment in which you are wearing your firearm.

As per my experience, the M&P 9mm Full Size OWB Holster is a top model, and I recommend this to everyone looking for a top-class holster with all features. I find that this holster will match the needs and expectations of everyone out there.

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