A cross draw holster has its fans, and it has its vocal detractors - the facts of the matter are this: if a cross draw holster fits your use case, you aren’t going to find another likely to serve you better.
If you cannot see yourself benefitting from a cross draw holster, there are plenty of other holster arrangements/styles available to you.
So how you do know if a cross draw is right for you? Keep Reading: this article will help you understand if a cross draw makes the most sense for your needs.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Cross Draw Holsters
- OUR TOP PICK: IWB Kydex Holster
- RUNNER-UP: Desantis Sky Cop Holster
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: AlphaHolster Belly Band Hand Gun Holster
Comparison of the Best Cross Draw Holsters
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What is a Cross Draw Holster?
Sometimes, the cross draw holster gets a bad rap because it’s not as versatile as other options, but for the niche it fills, it is essentially a “no-brainer” purchase.
A cross draw holster is positioned for you to draw from across the body to reach your firearm.
It is best positioned for use by those who experience restrictive movement on their strong draw side.
The cross draw holster can be positioned on the front or back of your body and used for duty or concealed carry.
Cross Draw Concealed Carry Holster (Source)
The original cross draw holsters, as many shooters might remember, are those that were designed for a comfortable draw while a cowboy, (or an outlaw), was riding a horse. The seated position and better balance orientation made cross draws very popular for those on horseback frequently.
In the same sense, many devout loyalists to the cross draw holster style, are now those on a horse, bike, or in a car for much of their day. This is especially true for professional drivers, law enforcement and officers, and others who would be in a duty car or carrying concealed most of the day while seated.
Considerations When Buying a Cross Draw Holster
There’s nothing really negative to say about a cross draw holster except that it is a situational choice compared to most other styles, especially for concealed carriers. You will likely be better served by looking at a different style if you do not find yourself nodding at the above listed best use cases.
However, as you draw from a cross draw holster, your weapon must sweep across the front of your body, in a wide arc.
Cross draw carry is slower as it must come across the body to be ready to fire. It also makes it easier for an opponent to access your weapon.
Drawing Gun from a Cross Draw Holster (Source)
A cross draw holster should be evaluated by the angle of the positioning relative to your normal positioning; whether it is able to be worn on front, on back, or both, and the general retention of the firearm in the holster.
Some other considerations that may make sense also:
- Is it easy to conceal when wearing?
- Does it have a legitimate retention protocol?
- Is it built using top-quality material that is made to last?
- Are the positioning and belt securing mechanism adjustable?
Review of the Best Cross Draw Holsters
Now that you can reasonably evaluate the use of the cross draw holster; it’s important to find the one that makes the most sense for your specific needs. Why would one be better than others? Use the pros and cons to determine obvious points of concern.
After that, the factors listed in the bottom line will be good secondary comparisons and things like brand value, finish, and texture will become the tertiary comparison metrics. In the end, this list, with the accompanying information from above should help you to narrow down your best choices.
Best Overall:
IWB Kydex Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were really happy with this holster for a few good reasons. To begin, they were super happy with the overall durability of the holster. They said there were no scratches, scuffs, or dents and it allowed for quick drawing and re-holstering without the snags. One user said it was really comfortable in the appendix carry position, which was a step up from a previous holster that he had used awhile back. It was also able to fit so many pistols (most of them compact in size).
Why it Stands Out to Us
Kydex is rising in popularity and continues to be the much better choice compared to holsters with materials made from either nylon or polymer. This is a hard synthetic material that will stand the test of time and so many draws and re-holsters. Unlike some holsters that will lose its quality over time, Kydex will stay the same for many years (or even decades). That’s probably a good reason why many people are flocking to it over other materials. If you’re serious about concealed carry and need a cross draw holster that will allow for the easiest and fastest drawing possible, this just might be the go-to option for you.
This is really more of an IWB (Inside Waistband) holster that has excellent adjustability and can be positioned as a very nicely angled cross draw.
More multi-purpose than other offerings on this list, and is a very nice first choice for those just diving into the cross draw market.
The extreme versatility of this holster is perfect for those who want a dedicated IWB design.
Who Will Use This Most
This holster is a simple IWB holster that will allow for excellent concealed carry all day and every day. If that’s what you want, that’s what you’ll get in a holster like this. It’s not only allowable for maximum, out of sight concealability it will deliver superior comfort that will make all-day carry a lot more bearable. And yes, it won’t trigger any sensitive skin issues either. If all of this doesn’t make for a strong case for Kydex holsters, we don’t know what will.
Bottom Line
This IWB Kydex Holster from Concealment Express is one of the best options you can rely on for cross-drawing your pistol. If you want speed, efficiency, and maximum concealability in one nice little package then you may want to give this holster a go. It will go above and beyond your expectations rather quickly. And it won’t be long until you say that you’ve made the right choice when it comes to finding a holster.
If you need the better weight distribution of the IWB design, and the potential for your weapon digging uncomfortably into your skin during seated situations doesn’t bother you greatly, then there may not be a better choice on this list.
Runner-up:
Desantis Sky Cop Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers loved this holster for so many reasons. For one, the quality was excellent for a leather holster. The feel was really smooth and soft, thus making way for all-day comfortable concealed carry. This holster allowed for excellent all-day carry without a single bulge to speak of. One user said that it was nice to at least carry a pistol without people asking him why he does.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster was designed for law enforcement officers looking to keep a good handle on their sidearm of choice. Or, they can use this for the purpose of keeping a secondary pistol handy in case your primary is nowhere on hand (or if it malfunctions). The leather material allows for excellent durability over the course of time, which is a lot better than some soft materials that tend to snag. Even better, the leather material actually makes IWB concealed carry a lot more comfortable. If you have sensitive skin issues, there’s a good chance that you’ll enjoy carrying this without dealing with any irritation.
Designed under the premise that it would be best suited to an air marshal, or those in a substantially similar position (seated, needing sustained long-term comfort, and having generally allowing time to react), this is a great option for any user of the cross draw style. If you haven’t already determined that you are a candidate for the cross draw holster setup, this is a very nice first choice.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a great law enforcement holster for those who work hard day in and day out to keep their communities safe. But this will also be a great holster for those who conceal carry for the purpose of protecting themselves and those around in their vicinity if and when danger happens. It’s a holster that won’t weigh you down or ever forsake you if and when you need to use it. If you want a cross draw holster that will exceed expectations in comfort and reliability, look no further than this.
Bottom Line
If leather is your thing when it comes to holster material, the Desantis Sky Cop Holster will probably be the best option you can consider. You don’t have to be a member of law enforcement in order to own such a rugged holster that will fulfill all your concealed carry needs. You can fit any good pistol in this holster and use it for EDC carry for as long as it will allow you to.
If you are in need of a long-term, dedicated cross draw holster, this is an excellent choice. The fact that it is not a simple adaptation of existing products from the DeSantis product portfolio speaks volumes about the design philosophy.
The purpose-built design makes this offering very legitimate, especially given the execution the holster delivers for those who are frequently seated and need hardcore concealment.
Best for the Money:
AlphaHolster Belly Band Hand Gun Holster
[amazon fields="B01NBY5B59" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most buyers, this belly band holster was a perfect fit for both men and women users. This was allowable for shooters who had small or average-sized frames. One woman who used this says that she considered it to be really comfortable for carrying her Glock 19. So far, she was able to draw it quickly and re-holster it without a single incident of snagging while target practicing at the range. She added her pistol did not bulge out at all when wearing this holster.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is no ordinary holster that you can attach to your hip or use for appendix carry. This is a belly band holster that will allow for maximum concealability no matter where you are. Whether you are at home or out and about, this will make sure you are prepared for any threats against your life (or threats against others). Made from high-quality neoprene, it’s pretty durable and won’t tear or fray. And it’s pretty dang comfortable when pressed up against the skin. So if you want a holster that will not only fit but won’t give you grief in terms of comfort than you may want to invest your hard-earned dollar into something like this.
This is probably not the best choice for someone who is carrying with a seated position in mind, but certainly a viable option for those who need the utmost in concealability and close-fitting comfort and retention. This is a holster band that features elastic and Velcro components.
It works very well for small and medium-sized firearms. It is better-suited to those who are active, who stand a lot, those who have tighter fitting clothes, or who need to truly conceal deep under clothing.
Who Will Use This Most
If you want to lay off of the typical hip holsters and go for something that is a lot more discreet and will be more comfortable, this will in all likelihood be the go-to option for you. What’s even better is that it’s an affordable option for so many users who want a great cross draw holster but would rather keep it within a certain budget. Don’t regulate yourself to cheap and flimsy, especially when it comes to concealed carry holsters.
Bottom Line
The AlphaHolster Belly Band Gun Holster is a no-brainer option for someone who might need something with a little more comfort and concealability. It will certainly be a huge help for those who are small or average framed shooters that are running out of room in their tactical belts with no place for their pistols to go. This holster will serve its purpose one way or another, no matter which pistol you use.
This holster is for when you need absolute security for your concealed carry firearm, or for when you want a cross draw but don’t need angled or mostly horizontal positioning.
The straight up-and-down orientation of the firearm might be a deal breaker for some dedicated cross draw users, despite the rig being exceptionally good at deep concealment.
Best Cross Draw Holster for Revolvers:
Historical Emporium Western Cross Draw Holster
[amazon fields="B0147JI3B2" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The holster was a perfect fit for users who were either revolver or full-sized pistol owners. The drawing and re-holstering ability were quick and easy and no snagging was reported. One user said that this pistol was way better than the old holster that would often snag on him and had a hard time handling his full-sized revolver. He also added that the leather material added a nice little touch in making it look like a classic, old west holster.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Once again, we take a look at a leather holster that will be reliable in concealed carry. At the same time, it will provide superior comfort as well. Leather has proven to be really comfortable when pressed against your skin. It’s a little better than some synthetic materials that will leave sharp edges that can cause skin irritation (regardless if you have sensitive skin or not). This holster is designed to fit full-sized pistols and revolvers (even some of them with long barrels). If you’re in need of a holster for one of the “big guns”, it’s this one in particular that may provide the solution.
This is the perfect choice for single action revolvers, long hunting revolvers, or those who will be on a horse, ATV/UTV, or on a motorcycle and don’t need the stringent retention protocols of a more dedicated concealed carry holster.
This is an exceptional open carry holster for those who plan on being on horseback, in an open-air vehicle, or frequently dismounting.
Who Will Use This Most
If you love a holster for its looks, this might be a good fit for you. If you don’t care much for looks but want something that will be a guaranteed fit for most larger sized pistols, you may wind up using this holster for the long term. Not too many holsters can handle larger sized pistols or revolvers, so this is your opportunity to own one that will be reliable for as long as you use it.
Bottom Line
No holster can match the performance and quality of the Historical Emporium Western Cross Draw Holster when it comes to handling full-sized pistols or revolvers. It’s going to be a great long-term option for your trusty pistol that you can keep at your side for home defense (or while you are out and about). Strap this on and you’ll feel like the fastest gun in the west. Just leave the quick-drawing and crack shooting to the experts.
A great choice for those who will be on a horse, an ATV, or for times when you want a cross draw during open carry. Make sure to take note of the somewhat loose retention mechanisms and the loose internal construction.
Many holster users that see exactly where this fits and can justify the use case. This is a very well-built holster with a fantastic design for users in need of a very fast draw for big bore or similar revolvers.
Best Cross Draw Western Holster:
DeSantis DOC Holiday Cross Draw Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were super impressed with the aesthetics of the holster. Despite it looking good, it proved its worth as a reliable holster for the new users who carry revolvers and pistols. The fit was comfortable and it didn’t slide around while it was strapped to waistbands. One user said that it was nice to walk around with his pistol intact without the holster sliding all over the place.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Once again, we take a look at a holster that is by far one of the best looking holsters on the market. And it pays homage to the Wild West legends of the past. If you want a holster that will give you quick drawing and re-holstering without snagging, along with excellent support that will keep your pistol nice and snug this is something that will get the job done no matter what you intend to use your pistol for.
A very solid holster option for the cowboy action shooter or the Western enthusiast out there.
This holster has real capabilities for long-term wear and durability and allows fast cross draw capabilities from a proven maker.
This is a very specific niche item that will appeal to the single action army shooter and those who need authenticity in their products without sacrificing modern design features and materials.
Who Will Use This Most
If you hold a deep appreciation for the Wild West look, it will be a good holster for you. It doesn’t have to be a collector’s item. It can be used for carrying your pistol while you are prepared for any dangerous situations that may occur anywhere in your general vicinity. It’s good to be prepared for any threats rather than never at all.
Bottom Line
There is no doubting that the Desantis Doc Holiday Cross Draw Holster that will work hard to provide all your concealed carry needs. If you want something with excellent quality leather that will be easy on your skin and won’t weigh you down, this is the kind of holster that will make sure that your most reliable pistol is at your side no matter where you are (and what you carry).
If you open carry or shoot competition where a cross draw, non-retained holster is sanctioned, this is a legitimate option.
If you are just wanting that old West look, this DeSantis holster will have you covered. The fit is great for fast-draw, single action, army-style revolvers from Colt and Ruger.
Best Leather Cross Draw Holster:
Relentless Tactical - The Ultimate Leather Gun Holster
[amazon fields="B019GJXR3M" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users had nothing but great things to say about this holster. For one, they were able to attach this and carry their favorite pistol of choice without the holster sagging or hanging lower than it should. This was perfect for most concealed carry users that relied on compact sized pistols. It was comfortable and proved to be really sturdy for long-term use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This leather holster might be one of the toughest of the bunch to this point. While it can handle a good deal of pistols for a long time, you can best believe that it can maintain reliability and won’t sag or loosen up over a period of time. Yes, leather holsters tend to do that. But this one won’t after a year or so. If you want a holster that will truly be long-lasting, you may want to consider purchasing this holster.
Easily the best option for those who want a long-term, heavy-duty cross draw with the backbone of a straight up and down pancake build.
This is a robust, and well-built holster made specifically for the 1911. It is made to last and has many design features that improve functionality even though it is simple in its appearance.
Who Will Use This Most
If you want a truly durable holster that will also give you excellent comfort in the process, this might be the one that will stand head above shoulders among the rest. You may not be surprised to find out how great it looks and feels. And that alone might be enough for you to snag this holster for yourself. Just slide your pistol in and you’ll be set and ready for action in terms of every day carrying.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a super durable and exceptionally comfortable cross draw holster, the Relentless Tactical Ultimate Leather Gun Holster might be the answer you have long searched for. There is no denying that this will last longer than most holsters that are made from leather. If you have owned a leather holster in the past that seems to sag after a year, rest assured that you won’t get a repeat performance out of this one.
A serious piece of leather from a proven entity. This is a first rate holster and there are many reasons why.
Even though it is not a dedicated purpose-built cross draw, it can easily be used properly for that and offers fantastic build quality and design.
Best Left Handed Cross Draw Holster:
Galco Dual Action Outdoorsman Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new buyers were revolver owners looking for a holster that might be exclusive to a type of handgun that they have relied on for concealed carry purposes. This holster certainly fit exactly what they needed. They reported this being really durable and had an excellent ability to keep their holsters retained and avoided any slippage as a result. Aesthetically, they were pretty pleased with how good it looked.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is a reminder of a Wild West holster. While it may not make you the fastest gun in the West or a bad outlaw, it will do a good job of keeping your revolver in place without it moving around. It’s rough and tough, meaning it will maintain its reliability for the long-term. You’ll be quite impressed with the quick draw and re-holster ability with this holster. And best of all, you won’t get a single snagging incident out of the whole thing.
Perhaps the finest hunting handgun holster for the 686 Smith & Wesson Revolver in 6” configuration.
This is a very adjustable, form-fitting, seriously well-made piece of gear.
It’s specific in its purpose, but it is a serious holster that will give you the upper hand if you encounter a game animal that needs to be dispatched up close for hunter safety or for when you need a quick draw for other concerns in the field.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a good holster that will be best used by revolver owners. It’s at the right size to fit all kinds of compact or full-sized holsters (especially some of the ones with long barrels. It will also be great for a comfortable concealed carry and quick cross-drawing. If this holster checks off any boxes that you look for in a holster, your search might just end here.
Bottom Line
The Galco Dual Action Outdoorsman Holster will be one of the best looking holsters on the market. But don’t let it be the only reason why you got it. It’s proven durability gives way to superior reliability that won’t downgrade itself over time. It’s a superb holster that will make sure it will handle your favorite revolver for a long time.
Galco makes excellent products. Paired with your S&W 686 6-inch revolver, this will up your game for concealed carry, open carry, or just for range or hunting use (where it is particularly excellent).
Best Cross Draw Shoulder Holster:
Generic Tactical Cross Draw Shoulder Holster
[amazon fields="B002DS1F2E" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster was mostly used by two kinds of buyers: security guards and those who carry in cold weather or for secondary pistols. This provided a good amount of comfort along with the ability to easily adjust for a perfect fit. It was a great holster for many shooters across different sizes. Even one user who is a security guard says that it fit his full-sized Glock pistol with ease and provided a comfortable fit that didn’t feel too loose or too tight.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you want a holster that will be excellent in concealability, a shoulder holster might be the best option. This is one holster that won’t be one of those “one size fits all” kinds. Once you adjust it for a snug fit, it will be business as usual. What’s even cooler about a holster like this is you are able to use this for the purpose of throwing off your assailants and take them by surprise if they decide to attack you. Especially when you are a security guard. They’ll assume that you are not carrying, but they’re in for a rude awakening once the time comes for them to cause trouble.
If concealment is not of primary concern, and you want the ultimate in comfort for an office seated position, when frequently transitioning from sitting to standing, or active to not active scenarios, this is a serious bargain for a holster.
This is a great, adjustable shoulder holster rig that can be easily customized and has many design features that make good sense for those who can genuinely benefit from cross draw setups.
Who Will Use This Most
This is an ideal cross draw holster that will work well with security personnel or anyone who is using a secondary pistol for concealed carrying. No matter how you use it, you’ll get superior no-bulge concealability and the feeling of a perfect fit. And it won’t feel like it’s tight anywhere like some other shoulder holster.
Bottom Line
The Generic Tactical Cross Draw Shoulder Holster will fit most pistols with ease and provide superior comfort and concealability no matter where you go with it. Since it will fit most pistols, you will have no trouble carrying it so long as you are prepared to put it to good use.
For those who want premium adjustability and wear a suit jacket or don’t have the tolerance for a waist mounted firearm, this is a very solid option.
The versatility, good quality build, and universal design are premium features, considering this is a budget-friendly option.
Despite the lower inherent concealability, this can be a great choice for the dedicated cross drawer.
Perks of Using a Cross Draw Holster
Cross draw holsters are loaded with benefits, but they mostly center around comfort and accessibility for when a straight arm, strong side draw would be impeded.
The following would receive good benefits from cross draw holsters:
- A car-based duty officer, concealed carrier, or someone who would likely find themselves frequently carrying in a vehicle, on horseback, on a motorcycle, or on a bicycle.
- Someone seated in a chair most of the day who prefers the comfort of a holster that is positioned for use while seated.
- Those who may be able to delay their draw, or who are not required to have the fastest draw, but who could be impeded on a straight draw.
- People who are good candidates for a shoulder holster rig, but need better full-time concealment.
The cross draw is essentially about comfort, logistics, and the ability to access the gun considering potential obstacles, while still maintaining a credible level of concealment.
Of course, duty officers won’t often have the need for dedicated concealment, but many opt for the cross draw to avoid being caught up or stopped by the seat belt or buckle in the car.
Conclusion
Yes, the cross draw holster has largely been relegated to a niche product for very specific use cases, but in general, you don’t have to believe everything you hear on gun forums or from friends.
Evaluate the cross draw design on your own terms and use the information from this article to determine if the use cases that best fit a cross draw selection are a good fit for you.
A cross draw is a fantastic second holster or a first-rate primary choice for those who often sit, ride, or frequently need great concealability with comfortable carry. It’s up to you to determine if this is a perfect first choice style or if you need it as more of a secondary option.
Either way, the cross draw holster can appeal to a wide audience, as long as they understand what it is, and what it isn’t. At the very least, the cross draw holster doesn’t pretend to be something it is not.
