Understanding the Essentials of Concealed Carry
Defining Concealed Carry
The snap of a seatbelt, the jostle of a crowded train, or the simple act of reaching for a cup of coffee. These are everyday moments that take on a new layer of consideration when you choose to carry a concealed firearm. Central to the responsible practice of concealed carry is the right gear, and at the heart of that gear is a dependable and comfortable holster. If you carry a Glock 27, a compact powerhouse known for its concealability and reliability, the choice of your Glock 27 Concealment Holster becomes even more crucial. This article is dedicated to helping you navigate the diverse world of holsters, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and your needs.
The Role of the Holster
Choosing to carry a concealed handgun comes with a responsibility to be informed and prepared. It requires continuous practice and a deep understanding of your weapon, situational awareness, and, crucially, how to present and deploy your firearm safely and efficiently. A significant element of this preparation is choosing the right holster.
A quality holster is an absolute necessity for safe and effective concealed carry. It’s not just about a place to put your gun; it’s a crucial component that protects the firearm, the carrier, and those around them. A good holster provides the following crucial functions:
- Safety: The holster acts as a physical barrier, preventing the trigger from being accidentally pulled. It covers the trigger guard, minimizing the risk of an unintended discharge.
- Retention: A secure holster holds the firearm firmly in place, preventing it from falling out during movement, or from being easily removed by someone else.
- Accessibility: A well-designed holster allows you to draw your firearm quickly and efficiently when needed. It positions the firearm for a smooth and effortless draw stroke.
- Comfort: A comfortable holster encourages consistent carry. If the holster is uncomfortable, you’re less likely to carry your Glock 27 regularly, defeating the purpose of concealed carry.
Of course, before carrying concealed, you must familiarize yourself with all federal, state, and local regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, understanding who is eligible to carry, where concealed carry is permitted, and any specific holster requirements. This article provides general guidance; however, consulting with legal counsel is critical to ensure you’re in compliance with all relevant laws.
Exploring Various Types of Glock 27 Concealment Holsters
The market is overflowing with holster options, offering a diverse range of designs, materials, and features. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding the different types is the first step toward finding the perfect Glock 27 concealment holster for you.
Inside the Waistband Holsters
Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are among the most popular choices for concealed carry. Designed to be worn inside your waistband, these holsters offer excellent concealment potential. The firearm sits closer to your body, reducing the overall profile and minimizing printing – the visible outline of the gun through your clothing.
Pros: Excellent concealment, relatively comfortable with the right design, and can be worn with various types of clothing.
Cons: Can be less comfortable than other options if not properly fitted or if the holster isn’t designed with comfort in mind, requires a slightly larger waist size to accommodate the gun, and may require adjustments to your clothing.
Materials: IWB holsters come in a variety of materials, including Kydex, leather, and hybrid options that combine both. Kydex is known for its durability and water resistance, while leather offers a classic feel and molds to your body over time. Hybrid holsters attempt to offer the best of both worlds.
Specific Recommendations: Brands like Vedder Holsters, known for their comfortable and adjustable IWB models, and Alien Gear Holsters, offering customizable and modular designs, are solid starting points when researching IWB holsters for the Glock 27.
Outside the Waistband Holsters
Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters, as the name suggests, are worn outside of your waistband, attached to your belt. They typically offer faster access to the firearm than IWB holsters but may be less discreet and require a covering garment, such as a jacket or loose shirt, for effective concealment.
Pros: Easier draw, generally more comfortable than IWB, and can be a good choice for range use or open carry (where legal).
Cons: Less concealment, requires a covering garment for concealed carry.
Materials: OWB holsters are commonly made from Kydex, leather, and polymer.
Specific Recommendations: Safariland is known for its duty-grade OWB holsters, featuring advanced retention systems, while Blackhawk! offers a range of OWB options suitable for both duty and recreational use.
Appendix Carry Holsters
Appendix carry involves positioning the holster in front of the hip, typically in the area around the appendix (the lower abdomen). This carry style is becoming increasingly popular due to its speed and concealment potential.
Pros: Fast draw, excellent concealment when done correctly, and is suitable for many body types.
Cons: Requires careful practice and a high level of safety awareness, may not be suitable for everyone, and potential for negligent discharge.
Materials: Appendix carry holsters are primarily made from Kydex for its rigidity and ability to mold to the body.
Specific Recommendations: T.Rex Arms is a well-known brand specializing in appendix carry holsters, offering features like adjustable ride height and cant. Phlster also offers top-tier designs that focus on safety and comfort.
Pocket Holsters
Pocket holsters are designed for discreet carry in a pocket, typically the front pocket of your pants or a jacket pocket. They offer unmatched concealment, as the firearm is entirely concealed, but have some notable drawbacks.
Pros: Extremely discreet, easy to conceal, and convenient.
Cons: Limited draw speed, often only suitable for smaller firearms, and requires a deep pocket to prevent printing or printing issues.
Materials: Pocket holsters can be made from leather, Kydex, or nylon.
Specific Recommendations: DeSantis and Mika are popular choices for pocket holsters, providing a reliable way to carry your Glock 27 in a pocket, ensuring the firearm remains oriented correctly and prevents printing.
Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters are designed to be worn around the ankle, concealing the firearm under your pant leg.
Pros: Great concealment (especially with long pants).
Cons: The slowest draw time, and can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.
Materials: Ankle holsters are typically made from neoprene or leather.
Specific Recommendations: Galco is a well-respected brand that makes quality ankle holsters.
Essential Considerations in Selecting the Right Holster
Beyond the basic types of holsters, several important factors should influence your decision when purchasing a Glock 27 Concealment Holster:
Material Matters
The material of the holster plays a significant role in its performance, durability, and comfort.
Kydex: A thermoplastic material renowned for its ruggedness, water resistance, and ability to be precisely molded to the Glock 27’s shape. Kydex holsters offer excellent retention and are a great choice for everyday carry.
Leather: A classic choice that offers comfort and a premium look. Leather holsters often require a “break-in” period to mold to your firearm and body shape.
Hybrid: These holsters combine Kydex and leather to create a balance between durability and comfort. A Kydex shell provides retention, while a leather backing offers next-to-skin comfort.
Prioritizing Comfort
If your holster is uncomfortable, you won’t carry your Glock 27 consistently.
All-day Carry: Consider how the holster will feel after hours of wear. Features like a sweat guard (a piece of material that prevents the gun from rubbing against your skin) and adjustable ride height can improve comfort.
Belt Clips and Attachments: The type and quality of belt clips are important. Consider a belt clip that sits firmly and won’t come loose during your daily routines.
Material: Different materials can greatly affect the comfort of your holster. Leather is often more comfortable than hard plastics.
Ensuring Concealment
The primary goal of a concealment holster is to keep your firearm hidden.
Ride Height: The height at which the holster sits in relation to your belt and waistband affects concealment. Higher ride heights can make it easier to conceal the firearm under clothing.
Cant: The angle at which the holster positions the gun affects draw speed and concealment. Different cants are better suited for different carry positions.
Belt Loops/Clips: The design of the belt loops or clips helps keep the holster secure and close to your body, minimizing printing.
Retention for Security
The holster needs to securely retain your Glock 27 to prevent it from accidentally falling out.
Level of Retention: Passive retention relies on the holster’s friction and shape to hold the gun. Active retention, usually found in duty holsters, requires a mechanism to be activated before the gun can be drawn.
Adjustability: Look for a holster with adjustable retention, which allows you to customize the level of hold to your preference.
Drawing Speed and Ease of Access
While concealment is important, you need to be able to draw your firearm quickly and efficiently when needed.
Ergonomics: The holster should be designed for a smooth and natural draw stroke.
Easy Grip Access: Make sure you can easily grasp the grip of your Glock 27.
Emphasizing Safety Features
Safety is paramount.
Trigger Coverage: Ensure the holster completely covers the trigger guard, preventing accidental discharge.
Proper Fit: The holster should fit your Glock 27 snugly, without being too tight or too loose.
Budgetary Constraints
Holster prices vary widely.
Price Ranges: Determine your budget and research the best options within that range.
Value: Don’t automatically buy the cheapest option, but consider how the quality and features meet your need.
Considering Your Body Type and Build
What works well for one person may not work for another.
Body Shape: Appendix carry may be challenging for some body types, while IWB might be uncomfortable for others.
Clothing Style: Consider how your typical clothing will affect concealment with different holster types.
Proper Holster Usage and Maintenance
Once you’ve chosen your Glock 27 Concealment Holster, proper usage and maintenance are crucial to ensure its longevity and your safety.
Safe Holstering and Unholstering: Always practice safe holstering and unholstering techniques. Keep your finger off the trigger and ensure the firearm is pointed in a safe direction.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean your holster regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Kydex Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth.
Leather Cleaning: Use leather cleaner and conditioner.
Belt Clips: Inspect and tighten screws regularly.
Break-in Period: Leather holsters might need a break-in period, where you wear the holster to mold the leather to your body.
Regular Inspection: Routinely inspect your holster for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, loose stitching, or worn-out belt attachments. Replace the holster immediately if it becomes damaged or compromised.
Recommendations and Reviews
The best Glock 27 Concealment Holster will be unique to each individual. However, some consistently receive positive reviews.
- Consider IWB options from Vedder and Alien Gear for comfort and concealment.
- Appendix carriers might explore holsters from T.Rex Arms and Phlster for speed and concealment.
- For the convenience of pocket carry, investigate options from DeSantis and Mika.
It is always advisable to read user reviews and gather information from a variety of sources before making your purchase decision.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Fit
Choosing the right Glock 27 Concealment Holster is a crucial step in ensuring the safe, responsible, and comfortable practice of concealed carry. By carefully considering the different holster types, the various features, and the factors discussed in this article, you can find a holster that meets your needs, complements your body type, and provides the peace of mind of being prepared. Don’t hesitate to try different types and models, and spend the time to find the best fit for your unique requirements. Your safety and comfort depend on it.
