A holster is usually a metal or plastic device worn around the leg, ankle, or shoulder to hold or limit the undesired motion of a gun, most usually in a holster where it can easily be pulled out for quick use. Most holsters are designed to fasten around the user’s leg, usually around the thigh, but occasionally they can be designed to fasten around a wrist or ankle as well. Holsters may also be worn on the outside of the arm, and they can come equipped with belt loops or other attachment points. The basic purpose of a holster is to provide a stable, safe platform for a gun to be held. This is typically done by providing a firm base on which the gun can be placed, so that the user can aim it at a target and keep it steady as they fire the gun.
There are many different kinds of holsters, and the most common is the ankle holster, sometimes referred to as a “tennis holster”. Ankle holsters are designed to fasten around the ankle and around the top of the wearer’s leg, or between the ankle and the mid-section of their leg. Many times these holsters will include a retention device to keep the gun secure while the person is performing other activities, such as working, driving, or otherwise being restricted in one way or another. An ankle holster is often selected by those who wish to carry a gun for self-defense, or for sports such as paintball, hunting, or other sports. Some individuals may also choose an ankle holster because they prefer holsters that can be worn over pants without having to remove them completely, or having to uncover their gun when in active use, thus creating a more stable platform for the gun.
Belt holsters are typically made from either soft or hard material, and they are often worn as a supplement to standard leather, nylon, or cloth holsters. A belt holster can be worn through the pants, across the tummy, or even under jeans and shorts. These types of holsters can either be worn on their own, or with other items such as a pager, or pocket book. Belt holsters are popular in college life because they allow the wearer to wear their pants outside of the belt. This allows the wearer to continue to perform all of their normal activities while still being able to carry their concealed weapon with them at all times.
Drawstring holsters are also popular, because they are easy to wear and remove, and they can be worn on their own, or as a supplement to pants or shirt holsters. Drawstring holsters will usually have two or three drawstring compartments at the top of the drawstring, or between the drawstring and belt loops on the belt. The drawstring is then looped through a number of loops on the belt, or between belt loops and the grip of the gun. This allows the user to simply draw the gun, place it into place, draw it again, release it, and repeat the action. Since there is no need to remove the gun when it is not being used, this makes these types of holsters extremely convenient.
Waistband holsters are similar to drawstring holsters, except that there is not a belt loop or belt straps on the holsters. Instead, the waist band is sewn directly onto the belt, or to the pants they are being worn with. There is generally only one waistband on the waist, making this type of holster convenient for a wide variety of users.
Internal-carrying holsters are also known as “internal-carrying” holsters, because they are designed to attach to the user’s belt without coming off. This type of holster will usually have either a buckle clip, or hook to attach it to the belt. Internal-carrying holsters can either be worn inside the waist, or along the belt, depending on the user’s needs. They may also be worn outside the belt, but this is not common.