Do you want to paddle? In this article, we will take an in depth look at paddle holsters and how they are best worn.
Paddle in Paddle Holsters
When most people think of a paddle, they're probably thinking about water. So, what is a paddle in a holster?
Image courtesy of Legacy Firearms Co
The paddle in a holster serves a few purposes:
- It is a form of a belt clip that can attach to your waistline and provide retention.
- The paddle helps support the weight of the gun and provides stability.
- The paddle provides a protective layer that wraps naturally around the curve of the body to shield us from our guns.
How to Use Paddle Holsters
Paddle holsters are carried on the outside of the waistband (OWB) by inserting the the paddle part of the holster inside of the waistline.
The actual holster remains outside of the waistline.
Paddle holsters can not be carried on the inside of your waistband (IWB).
Most paddle holsters have hooks on the paddle which provide retention by hooking to the the belt or the inside of the waistline.
Image Provided by Radiant Home Studios
Paddle Holster Retention System
The Paddle by design provides retention by hooking on the inside of the waistline. This passive form of retention can be improved by wearing a strong belt.
Unless you're wearing pants with a really strong waistline, it is highly recommended that your wear a EDC belt to help support the weight of the gun and provide retention.
The holster itself, like most, can provide active (such as a thumb release) or passive retention for your handgun depending on your preference.
Can You Conceal Carry with Paddle Holsters
Simple answer is yes. But, keep in mind that paddle holsters are carried on the outside of the waistband (OWB) so it may not be the most effective method to conceal carry your gun.
Check out the best ways to conceal carry inside of a car.
How to Conceal Carry with Paddle Holsters
- Printing is more visible when you carry holsters OWB.
- You will need to wear an outer garment to help conceal your holster, which may not be comfortable during hot summer days.
If you need a recommendation for a great concealed carry holster visit our holsters page.
When to Use Paddle Holsters
- Professional environments such as law enforcement when full size duty holsters may not always be practical. Paddle holsters can provide comfort for those long work days.
- Whenever you're able to wear outer garments which can easily conceal your paddle holster.
Should You Paddle or Not
I've personally used a paddle holster pretty much my whole career as a police officer whenever a full size duty holsters was not practical.
For me, paddle holster provide good support for carrying the typical weight of a full size duty gun, which in my case was a Glock 17.
It was also comfortable enough to carry for a long duty days, which consisted of walking, running, bending over, squatting and more, without causing bruising or discomfort.
If you're looking for comfort, this holster is defiantly a great option, but it will have limitations when you conceal carry.
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