Belt size for IWB and OWB - M&P Shield and Compact

[Mystery]

I'm looking for a belt, 1.5" width.
Mostly for IWB M&P Shield but will try compact as well.
OWB is only if training/class needs.
I'm ordered a CYA single clip holster that's not too big so do I still get 2" longer belt?
Or should I get 4" longer so I can use it with bigger IWB holster?
My waist is around 35" (I tend to say 34" but need to lose some weight) so 36" will work or need to get 38"?
The belt should have few inches either way to adjust right?
thanks

 

[peterGun]

Belt size for IWB and OWB - M&P Shield and Compact

I carry my Shield9 almost exclusively OWB, $30. Belt Co (steel core) and Safariland 5198 with micro pattle. Belt sized +2” for when I do IWB


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[fiasconva]

If it were me, I'd order the 37" from Beltman and specify 7 holes. The center hole (4th) will be at 37" and the others will be 3/4" apart. You should be able to do both OWB and IWB that way. Beltman makes great belts that will last forever.

 

[ContinentalOp]

The best thing would probably be to take your UNLOADED gun and stick it in your waistband, put a belt on to the tightness you want, then measure according to the belt maker's instructions, maybe round up to accomodate holsters.

1-2" larger than without a gun is usually a good estimate. People are different.

It also depends on how the belt maker sizes the holes. The Beltman belt I'm currently using has 7 holes, 3/4" apart. For me, The difference between no gun and my PX4 Compact in a rather thick Kramer IWB #3 holster (plus an OWB mag pouch on the opposite side) is just one hole.

If you're going to use the same belt for IWB/OWB/no gun, then ideally you'd want the holes you're most likely going to be using to be in the middle of the range of the holes. Most belts will be sized according to the center hole.

Or get a belt like a Wilderness Tactical Instructor belt that uses velcro so you have a range of adjustment.

 

[ContinentalOp]

If it were me, I'd order the 37" from Beltman and specify 7 holes.

I believe Beltman belts now come standard with 7 holes.

 

[URIT]

Step One is to find the gun belt maker you want to order from and follow their directions. Some makers measure from a different point on your existing belt then add an inch or two.

 

[Mystery]

Thanks for replies.
I am thinking of getting a steel core belt.
Is that too thick and overkill for a subcompact gun?

 

[ContinentalOp]

Maybe. One thing to keep in mind is that you may decide at some point to carry a larger, heavier gun, and a reinforced belt can be helpful.

Even for a compact gun, extra support can make it more comfortable. For example, for several years I carried a 642 IWB. I used either a Wilderness Tactical Frequent Flyer belt (5-stitch nylon web belt) or a 1.5" Beltman double-layer leather gun belt. I preferred the Beltman belt for the extra support even with such a lightweight gun.

At the other end, I currently carry a Beretta PX4 Compact in an IWB holster and a spare mag OWB, and I'm using a 1.25" horsehide belt from Beltman (double-layer, no reinforcement) with excellent results.

Ultimately, you won't really know until you try. That's why we all have boxes for holsters, belts, and other related gear. Worst case scenario, you don't like it and end up selling it, then try something else. I certainly don't think it would hurt to get it if you like it.

 

[peterGun]

Thanks for replies.
I am thinking of getting a steel core belt.
Is that too thick and overkill for a subcompact gun?

Using a steel core belt with a light gun like a Shield9 means you don’t need to cinch it tight to get support, with my G23 I’ll go one hole tighter for proper support.


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[fiasconva]

You don't need the steel core belt. I carry a full size M&P and have also carried my 5906 with a regular Beltman and it doesn't sag one bit.

 

[BAM-BAM]

Check out Wilderness Tactical's Instructors and Frequent Flyer belts..... infinitely adjustable ....... been using the FF belts for about 3 years IWB and OWB..... pay the extra $5 and get the five stitch..............

 

[Goblin]

I also recommend the Beltman with no steel core. I prefer the1.25” over an IWB and 1.5” for OWB. Based on what you’ve said, I think you’ll need a 37 or 38, but follow his instructions. I usually wear 34” waist jeans, 36” 1.25” Beltman belt, Milt Sparks Summer Special II and a Kahr CW9, and that combo wears great.

 

[Mystery]

I also recommend the Beltman with no steel core. I prefer the1.25” over an IWB and 1.5” for OWB. Based on what you’ve said, I think you’ll need a 37 or 38, but follow his instructions. I usually wear 34” waist jeans, 36” 1.25” Beltman belt, Milt Sparks Summer Special II and a Kahr CW9, and that combo wears great.

1.25" iwb and 1.5" owb?
Does that mean you have 1.25" holster clip for iwb and 1.5" owb clip or you are using same size clip with two belt widths?

 

[Dvan34]

I moved on to Kore Essential Gun Belts for IWB and OWB. No worry about length or number of holes. Adjustment is automatic. They are beuatiful and secure. I have had one for almost 5 years, just bought another one a couple of months ago, although the first is still as new as when I bought it.
I do carry more IWB than OWB, (People's Republic of Kalifornia).

 

[andy52]

I always carry IWB, when I'm using a leather belt it requires 2 inches longer then my normal belt size. In the summer I generally wear cargo shorts and a tee shirt and use a 1 1/2 military style web belt, those can be adjusted to whatever you need.