Holsters

A quick internet search for "holsters for women," or "best concealed carry holsters," will land you thousands of results! Where do you even begin? Below, you will find some of my favorite holsters. You can skip ahead, if you want. But if you want to know what to look for in a concealed carry holster and how to choose the best one for you... keep reading first!

Most importantly, whichever holster you choose, HAS to have these THREE things. Non-negotiable.

1. Access: You need to be able to get to your gun quickly if you need it. 

2. Retention: Your gun needs to stay secured on your person for the activity that you're doing. The holster you use while riding horses might be different than shopping at the grocery store. Levels of holster retention can vary based on activity. You might need multiple holsters to accommodate your lifestyle!

3. Safety: Your trigger must be covered 100% of the time. Your holster needs to fit your exact size gun, not too big or too small. Also, make sure the muzzle direction of your holster is not pointed towards the person behind you or next to you!

LOCATION: Where do you want to wear your holster??
Where you wear your holster will often come down to personal preference and there are A LOT of options. Pay attention to your wardrobe and body-type. You want your gun to stay concealed  by your clothing without printing. Printing is what we call it when you can see the outline of your gun through your clothing - don't do it! Some potential options for holster placement: Inside the waistband holsters (IWB), Outside the waistband holster (OWB), shoulder holster, ankle holster, belly band holster, under the bust holster, and concealed carry clothing. Remember the 3 guidelines above and you will be able to carry your gun safely and effectively!

What about off-body carry like concealed carry purses??

Overall, I do not recommend a concealed carry purse as your first option. (Remember: Access, retention, safety). HOWEVER, if you are set on purse carrying, here are additional guidelines that are helpful in choosing the best concealed carry purse.

1. Make it cross-body concealed carry purse. This will promote firearm retention. It is harder for someone to steal a cross body purse, for a child to dig in your purse, or for you to accidentally put it down and leave it unattended. 
2. The concealed carry purse MUST have a built in holster. the section for your gun should only house your gun inside a holster. Not keys or lipgloss or a wallet or pepper spray. Just your gun. Inside a holster that will stay in the purse when you draw.
3. Find a concealed carry purse with a magnetic closure for the gun compartment, not a zipper. Remember, in a high stress situation, you will lose your fine motor skills. Have you ever tried to zip a coat in the winter when your fingers are numb? K. Now your life depends on it. 
4. Extra bonus if you can wear the concealed carry purse and draw from your strongside.

Like a Lady Firearms training is in the process of designing a concealed  carry purse to meet your needs. Sign up for our newsletter to be first in line when it is available!

No matter which holster you choose, you have to PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!! When you first get your new holster, carry your gun completely unloaded  around the house. Complete the activities you normally do. Make sure you know how to use the restroom without removing your holster.  Then add a loaded magazine, but without a round in the chamber. Get used to the weight. Confirm your trigger is protected. Practice drawing from sitting, standing, walking, and other positions. Once you are fully confident drawing consistently, quickly, effectively, safely, then carry fully loaded out in town. (With legal licensing according to your state.) 

Below are a handful of holsters we love that are tried and true. Some, but not all, contain affiliate links. This will not charge you anymore, but is helpful to us!

You are always welcome to CONTACT US with questions and for additional guidance.