Whether in USPSA/IPSC/STEEL CHALLENGE, IDPA or 3 Gun, competition shooting is tough on the body and requires a combination of different equipment. A holster that meets the five most common demands placed on it—materials, sizing, accessibility, carry and deployment—can make all the difference.
Improved Accuracy
Using a holster designed specifically for your firearm improves the weapon’s accuracy. Typically skeletonized and worn on the strong side outside the waistband, competition holsters allow quick presentation by allowing your support hand to “pop” the gun out of its holster. At the same time, your dominant eye looks at the target.
The holster also features an open sight channel to expose the front sight for easy sight alignment. The holster is available in various colors and can be customized with multiple options for passive retention, ride height and carry angle, including clip/mount options.
Less Error
Competing in shooting competitions is a physically taxing sport, so you want to be comfortable while wearing your gun. Look for a holster that doesn’t dig into your hip or cause chafing and has a secure belt attachment so it won’t shift around on your waist during movement.
Good competition holsters will protect your weapon from damage and moisture and provide secure retention, allowing you to draw easily and quickly. Added retention features can be a distraction or an impediment to the drawing stroke, so it’s important to regularly practice disengaging active retention devices with your firearm in a training environment.
Choose a holster with the right passive retention for your needs, and consider adding a mag carrier for increased range time. Select from various ride height and cant angle options, including a tek-lok mount, to customize your holster for different positions – standing, sitting, or prone.
Faster Draw
A fast draw can be critical in IDPA, USPSA and other competitive shooting sports. A slow interest puts you at an ever-so-slight time disadvantage and can make it difficult to bring your handgun up for a sight picture in high-speed drills. A great way to increase your draw speed is to practice your draw stroke while holding the gun in a safe, secure, well-made holster. Look for a comfortable holster for long periods with a belt clip or snap attached to a gun belt or other carrier. Competition holsters are resistant to heat, cold, moisture and ultraviolet light that can damage leather holsters over time. They are adjustable in 1/4″ increments on ride height and cant angle, so you can easily find the perfect settings for any position or drawing stroke.
Better Retention
Competition holsters are designed for durability but are also lightweight and comfortable. They’re designed to conceal well so that you can wear them under your clothes, and they don’t snag on clothing like leather holsters can.
Additionally, they’re designed to fit your handgun precisely so that it’s easier to draw. This will give you an edge in competitive shooting by allowing you to draw your gun faster and more smoothly than your competitors. Additionally, a good quality holster will have active retention, preventing an adversary from defeating it and drawing your weapon. This is why almost all police officers carry holsters with active retention. It’s simply too dangerous for them to go without it.
Durability
The holster must withstand repeated use and the physical stress of competition shooting. A high-quality holster made from durable materials will stand up to this abuse for years.
Holsters are typically a lot more durable. They can also be more comfortable, especially if worn for long periods.
A custom-designed competition holster is an excellent investment for anyone looking to take their practical shooting skills to the next level. A good holster will help you become a better shooter by improving your accuracy, speed, and retention. Choose one that fits your gun and matches your aesthetic preferences to get the most out of your holster. A holster that isn’t properly fitted can cause serious damage to your firearm and may even be dangerous.
