Introduction
The Glock 20: a powerhouse of a handgun, a testament to robust engineering, and a favorite among those who value stopping power. Chambered in 10mm Auto, the Glock 20 delivers a significant punch, making it ideal for self-defense, hunting, and general outdoor activities. But owning a Glock 20 is only half the battle. To safely and effectively utilize this formidable weapon, a quality holster is absolutely essential. This article will guide you through the intricacies of selecting the ideal holster for your Glock 20, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision that prioritizes safety, comfort, and ready access.
A well-chosen holster isn’t merely an accessory; it’s a critical component of responsible firearm ownership. It’s the crucial interface between you and your handgun, a guardian of safety that protects you, your firearm, and those around you. A properly fitted holster secures the Glock 20, preventing accidental discharges and protecting the trigger from inadvertent contact. It allows for comfortable carry throughout the day, whether you’re navigating a busy street or traversing a rugged terrain. And perhaps most importantly, a quality holster provides rapid and efficient access to your firearm when seconds matter.
Understanding Your Glock 20 and Its Holster Requirements
The Glock 20 is a full-size, striker-fired pistol. Its dimensions and weight are significant, necessitating careful consideration when choosing a holster. The Glock 20’s larger frame and hefty weight compared to compact or subcompact handguns present unique challenges for concealed carry and overall comfort.
The primary challenge is distributing the weight effectively to avoid discomfort, sagging, or printing (the outline of the gun showing through your clothing). This can lead to poor concealment and possibly even alert others that you’re carrying. The holster you choose must contribute to load distribution, rather than merely be a vessel for carrying the gun.
Another crucial aspect is the overall ease of access. While size makes the Glock 20 manageable to hold, drawing from your holster must be smooth, reliable, and practiced. The best holster facilitates a swift and uncluttered draw stroke, allowing you to efficiently present your Glock 20 when needed. The ideal holster should offer secure retention, preventing unintentional dislodgement of your firearm during routine activities, yet still provide immediate access when required.
Types of Holsters for the Glock 20
The market offers a plethora of holster designs, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these variations is the first step toward choosing the right one for your specific needs.
Inside the Waistband Holsters
Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry. They are designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants, typically positioned between your hip and your belt. This placement offers excellent concealability, as the firearm is close to your body and largely hidden by your clothing.
The primary advantage of an IWB holster is its concealment potential. However, IWB holsters may require you to size up your pants to accommodate the holster and handgun, potentially impacting comfort and making the gun print on the clothes. The overall comfort can also be a challenge, depending on the holster material, your body type, and the length of wear.
IWB holsters are commonly crafted from a variety of materials, each boasting different benefits and drawbacks.
Kydex
Kydex is a durable, thermoplastic material renowned for its rigidity and excellent retention. Kydex holsters are often custom-molded to the exact specifications of the Glock 20, ensuring a snug and secure fit. They are highly resistant to moisture and wear and tear and require minimal maintenance. However, some individuals find Kydex holsters to be less comfortable than other materials, particularly during extended periods of wear.
Leather
Leather holsters provide a classic look and can be quite comfortable, as they conform to your body over time. Leather is often considered aesthetically pleasing and offers a degree of flexibility. However, leather can be more prone to wear and tear, especially when exposed to moisture, and may require more maintenance, such as regular conditioning.
Hybrid (Kydex/Leather)
Hybrid holsters combine the rigid structure of Kydex for the holster body with a leather backing for comfort against the body. This offers a balance between secure retention, good concealment, and wearing comfort. These holsters often incorporate a Kydex shell to maintain retention, while the leather backing provides the comfort.
Examples of reputable IWB holster brands and models include Vedder Holsters’ ProDraw IWB, known for its custom-molded Kydex construction and adjustable cant, and Comp-Tac’s Minotaur, a hybrid option combining Kydex and leather for enhanced comfort.
Outside the Waistband Holsters
Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters are worn outside the waistband, attaching directly to your belt. They are often preferred for range use, open carry (where legal), and situations where rapid access is paramount.
OWB holsters typically offer easier access to the firearm compared to IWB holsters. They also tend to be more comfortable, as the holster does not directly contact the body. However, OWB holsters are generally less concealable than IWB holsters, particularly with lighter clothing.
OWB holsters are also commonly made from the same materials: Kydex, Leather, and the combination. These materials provide great choices when deciding on the right OWB holster.
Popular OWB holsters models include Safariland’s Model 7378, renowned for its ALS (Automatic Locking System) retention, and Blackhawk!’s Serpa, known for its speed and security features.
Appendix Carry Holsters
Appendix Carry (AIWB) holsters are designed for carrying the firearm in front of the hip, in the area near the abdomen. Appendix carry offers excellent concealment potential, and with the right holster, it allows for a very fast draw stroke.
However, AIWB can be less comfortable for some body types, especially when seated. It is vital that AIWB holsters have a trigger guard that completely covers the trigger to eliminate the possibility of accidental discharge.
Appendix carry necessitates a holster meticulously designed for that specific carry position, with safety features that take precedence.
Chest Holsters
Chest holsters are typically worn across the chest, using straps that secure around the shoulders and torso. They are a good option for activities such as hiking, hunting, or horseback riding.
The primary advantage of a chest holster is its accessibility, even when sitting or lying down. They provide relatively easy access to the firearm, even when wearing bulky clothing. However, chest holsters may not be ideal for concealed carry or certain activities.
Chest holsters offer weather resistance and are designed to be durable.
Drop Leg Holsters
Drop leg holsters attach to your belt and are secured around the leg with straps. They position the firearm lower than your waist, offering increased accessibility, especially in tactical environments.
Drop leg holsters are often favored by law enforcement and military personnel. They provide a stable platform and allow for a quick draw. However, they can be less practical for everyday carry and may be susceptible to snagging on obstacles.
Drop leg holsters should be adjustable to provide the right ride height.
Shoulder Holsters
Shoulder holsters consist of a harness that is worn over the shoulders, with the firearm positioned under the arm. Shoulder holsters are effective for concealed carry under jackets.
Shoulder holsters offer comfort when seated for extended periods and are suitable for situations where IWB or OWB carry is not practical. Drawing from a shoulder holster requires more practice compared to other holster types.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Glock 20 Holster
Choosing the right holster extends beyond just the type; several features play an essential role in functionality, safety, and your overall experience.
Material
The material of your holster significantly impacts its durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance. Kydex, leather, and hybrid constructions have different properties. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each material is important. The choice greatly affects the long-term use.
Retention
Retention refers to how securely the holster holds the firearm.
Passive Retention
Passive Retention: Utilizes friction or a molding process to hold the gun in place.
Active Retention
Active Retention: Uses mechanical locking mechanisms (e.g., levers, buttons) to securely lock the firearm in the holster. Active retention offers a greater level of security.
The level of retention you require will vary depending on your intended use case.
Concealability
Concealability is paramount for concealed carry. The shape and design of the holster affect how well the firearm conceals. The position of the holster and the clothing worn also influence concealment.
Comfort
A comfortable holster encourages consistent carry. Consider how the holster feels against your body. Look for features like a body shield on IWB holsters. Comfort is crucial if you plan to carry the Glock 20 for extended periods.
Accessibility
The ability to draw the firearm quickly and efficiently is another crucial factor. The holster’s design should facilitate a smooth and unhindered draw stroke.
Safety
Safety is the most crucial consideration. Ensure the holster provides comprehensive trigger guard coverage to prevent accidental discharges. Consider features like a body shield.
Adjustability
Look for holsters that offer cant (the angle of the holster) and ride height adjustments. These features enable you to tailor the holster to your body type and preferred carry position.
Compatibility with Accessories
If your Glock 20 has accessories such as lights or optics, ensure the holster is designed to accommodate them. This is essential for functionality and fit.
Holster Brands and Models Recommendations
Choosing the right holster depends on your particular needs. Here are a few popular holster brands and models.
Highly-rated IWB Holsters
- Vedder Holsters ProDraw IWB: Custom-molded Kydex, adjustable cant, excellent retention.
- Comp-Tac Minotaur: Hybrid design for enhanced comfort.
Highly-rated OWB Holsters
- Safariland Model 7378: Features the ALS retention system.
- Blackhawk! Serpa: Combines speed with security.
Tips for Choosing and Using Your Holster
Proper fit and sizing are non-negotiable for safety and performance. Break in leather holsters, allowing them to conform to the shape of your Glock 20.
Practice your draw frequently in a safe environment. Regularly clean and maintain your holster to ensure its longevity and proper function. Inspect it for signs of wear and tear.
Always be aware of and abide by your local laws regarding concealed carry and holster regulations.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect holster for your Glock 20 is an important step in responsible gun ownership. The best choice considers your specific needs, preferences, and carry style. It is important to prioritize safety, comfort, and accessibility. Researching and trying out different holsters can help you find the ideal fit.
Finally, remember that safety should always be the top priority.
Call to Action
We encourage you to share your holster experiences, and your favorite models in the comments below!
If you would like to find specific holster for the Glock 20, check out the retailers.
Remember, responsible firearm ownership is a journey, not a destination.
