Hello,

I'm new to firearms and conceal carry. I'm having a really hard time finding a holster. I have heard a few people say that the longer I carry the more holsters I will probably accumulate, which is fine but I'm trying to figure out my first holster.

I volunteer on an armed security team and the security director recommended an OWB holster. I'm left-handed and prefer a holster I can wear both OWB AND IWB. I would also prefer a Kydex holster. My forearm is a Smith & Wesson Shield Plus. There are a gabillion options out there and I'm overwhelmed.

Thank You,
Rich

I’ve heard there’s a holster Amberide IWB/OWB on EXXY. Might be worth a look. Best of luck.

It s absolutely true - will and should wind up with several holsters as no one holster is good for everything, in my view.

As a person who has carried for over 45 years I can tell you I have had drawers, closets and boxes full of holsters. Many of them I have not even used a dozen times. I will tell you what I have learned along the way, but most don't want to listen or spend the money. Believe me, in the long run you will actually save a fortune because you won't constantly be buying what appears to be a better holster every few months. Oh - and BTW, I an not bad-mouthing Kydex. I just don't personally care for it. They are viable holsters on a budget, just not my cup of tea. I did receive a few as gifts and quickly gave them away.

To get what you truly want, get a simple strong, well designed and well executed holster made from Horsehide. Horsehide is thinner, stiffer, stronger and stands up much better than any Cowhide I've ever used. Forget the snaps, velcro, screws, clips, flaps, straps and other attachments used to adjust, retain or secure a gun! A properly designed, well made holster of Horsehide is just a simple piece of equipment that will work and last for a lifetime without all the gimmicks!

I have posted many times here that after decades of holster buying and getting custom made, fancy and expensive holsters from many manufacturers, I finally found the best! That is Kramer's Horsehide Belt Scabbard, belt and mag pouches. It is my unbiassed and honest opinion there just isn't any better made - regardless of price, hype and advertising. I have nothing at all to do with Kramer and as I have stated many times, they wouldn't even know who I am! I have 4 holsters, 2 belts multiple magazine and bullet pouches from them and they have been in service for decades. I give them a quick shine with Kiwi or Lincoln black shoe polish once a year and that's that. They still look almost new and are still function and retain as new.

As per Kramer's website I believe their wait time is 14-16 weeks as all their belts, pouches and holsters are made to order. IMHO it is WELL worth the wait! The Horsehide is their signature material and I would no longer consider buying a Cowhide holster from anyone. This of course is just my opinion - everyone has one so this is just mine.

Which variant of the S&W Shield Plus will you be holstering?

There are 9 Shield Plus variants in the 9mm category with either 3.1" and 4" barrels. 30 Super Carry has four with a 3.1" barrel.

Save money and buy one holster OWB that meets your security job demands and another for IWB concealed carry.

My personal preference is leather for IWB with a single clip so I can reposition the holster for either different strong side positions or weak side (crossdraw) carry.

What level of retention are you required to have in the security job holster? I would look to DeSantis for some options. You'll want a good gun belt too.

I would be carrying a full sized pistol (with 2 mags) if I was on any kind of security duty.

And in a OWB holster.


I prefer a leather or horsehide holster for IWB.

OWB either or Kydex or leather.

I've never found a holster that worked well for both.


,

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there is a reason we all have many holsters, the first being many guns. than there are IWB OWB Cross draw ect..
for IWB leather will be more comfortable, Kydex is good for OWB and the wait time is usually shorter for Kydex if you can't find something off the shelf.
Kydex is harder on your gun finish but most don't seem to care as most never train with a holster if at all.
My last holster purchase was a Silent Thunder STX 2.0 (OWB) from Garrett Industries, its a leather lined kydex . I don't remember the wait time but it was very reasonable. my concern was the leather would separate from the kydex but so far so good and I must say the quality has me impressed.
Nothing like your first...
Good luck

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Carry on....

Not sure if DeSantis makes a left handed belt scabbard but if they do it’ll be best $49 u ever spent.

Making left-hand holsters is about as difficult as turning the patterns over before cutting the pieces. However, in my experience, left-hand holsters comprise only about 4% of new holster orders. This probably explains why suppliers maintain limited stock on hand for left handers.

Any reputable maker should be able to provide whichever style you decide upon, but don't be surprised if you have to wait for production.

Best regards.

Edit: I agree with WardenRoss comment above. A holster designed to perform more than one function will seldom do any function best.

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