When we consider purchasing a gun we should also consider purchasing a pocket holster.
In terms of practicality, there are few things more essential to the bearing of a gun than the manner it is carried. There are many methods and styles of carrying, not to mention differing state laws regarding concealment.
How can one navigate the vast array of choices and options? This article outlines the benefits and detriments of one specific firearm carry type, pocket holsters.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Pocket Holster
Comparison of the Best Pocket Holsters
How Does a Pocket Holster Work?
There is not much dignity in the careless and negligent bearing of a firearm naked in your pocket. Even if we put aside the potential damage the weapon might sustain without a protective cover, there is the issue of potential self-harm, and perhaps most vital, the issue of disguise.
Many gun carriers desire to conceal their weaponโone practical quality of a pocket holster is its capacity to hide printing, the outline of the gun, as seen from the outside of the pocket. A pocket holster is aptly named due to the fact that it is worn inside a pocket.
Gun in a pocket holster (Source)
From there, it can secure the firearm through friction and pressure. These forces are strong enough to stabilize the firearm, yet simultaneously allow the ability for a smooth draw, all the while leaving the holster in the pocket.
Pocket holsters are ideal for smaller frame handguns. Larger frame pistols may require a different method of carrying.
Choosing the Best Pocket Holster: What You Need to Know
Sometimes even the most meticulous research misses certain vital elements. When it comes to purchasing the right pocket holder for you and your weapon, there are some practical considerations one should not go without.
For instance, it goes without saying it is the responsibility of the gun owner to obey any concealed carry regulations relevant to their home and work locations. It is also good to be mindful of differing state laws when traveling.
TSA agent checking a bag in an airport (Source)
Another practical consideration is the clothing it will be used with. It doesnโt take a genius to realize deep pockets or cargo pants are more compatible with pocket holsters than tight-fitting womenโs jeans. Nevertheless, a pocket holder should function properly regardless of the pocket type.
Another important consideration has to do with drawing. Consider aligning the pocket holder with your dominant hand for preparedness.
The consensus of gun enthusiasts is the most attractive and useful quality of wearing a pocket carrier is its casual โreadyโ access.
When choosing to pocket carry, one chooses the element of surpriseโpocket carry makes it possible to have a full firing grip without attracting attention.
Review of the Best Pocket Holsters
Pocket carry is a useful and viable method of bearing arms, so much so, that the market is saturated with fine and numerous options. There are pros and cons to all products. Below you can discover the qualities of the best pocket carry merchandise to suit your gun.
Best Overall:
UTG 3.9" Ambidextrous Pocket Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Those who have already purchased this holster love how comfortable it is while in use. Many people mention that it stays in place at all times and it fits well in the pocket. It is incredibly high-quality, especially for the price. The outside pocket makes it stand out to users as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The UTG 3.9 inch ambidextrous pocket holster stands out because anyone can use it. There is also convenient front and back storage on this gun holster that can hold your credit cards. The non-slip band that this holster has makes it a product that sets itself apart from the competition.
The UTG 3.9โ ambidextrous pocket holster is one of the best holsters in the market.
It can contain a subcompact 9mm, .40 autos, a Ruger LCR, or similar makes. Arguably, it can store other guns of similar sizes. The size of this model is 3.9โ x 5.6โ.
The UTG 3.9โ ambidextrous pocket holster is imported. In addition to front and back pocket storage, it offers a side pocket to hold small items such as a certificate, license, cash, or cards.
This pocket holster also offers a non-slip band to retain the holster within the wearerโs pocket when the gun is drawn.
Who Will Use This Most
Because of the ambidextrous design, this holster can be used by anyone. Because of its size, it may not be a comfortable fit in women's pants pockets and that is something you may want to keep in mind. It's also a great buy for someone wanting to carry less, as it doubles as a wallet.
Bottom Line
Overall the UTG 3.9 inch pocket holster would be a great buy for just about anybody. It easily fits and stays put in your pocket. You don't have to worry about any slipping with this open-top pocket holster. Lastly, it's incredibly affordable which is always a bonus.
This holster is regarded as highly functional and marked at an excellent price. It also has accommodations such as the side pocket storage which makes it an attractive and inexpensive carry option.
Runner-up:
Sticky Holster LG-6S for Compact Semi-Auto Handguns 3-4"
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Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
People are raving about how this sticky holster fits their weapon perfectly. Even though it's thin, it's comfortable and can hold heavier guns. It makes being armed easy and people enjoy that there isn't any struggle when reaching for their weapon. One thing to note is that it does take two hands to reholster.
Why it Stands Out to Us
First off, we love that it can be kept in your pocket or waistband. That is incredibly convenient for days that you don't have pockets on your clothing. It also is made with non-slip backing, eliminating any concern about it coming off of any surface, including your skin or waistband.
The Sticky Holster LG-6S for compact 3-4โ semi-auto handguns is perfect for concealment.
The sticky holster uses friction and compression to stick to the body or waistband, which enables a smooth draw. There are no bulky clips or straps in this model.
This ambidextrous pocket holster is closed-end, which means that lint and dust will not compromise your weapon.
Likewise, gun oil does not drain onto your body or into your pocket when using this product. It is a U.S. made product backed by a lifetime warranty.
Who Will Use This Most
There are a couple of people who would get more out of this holster than others. First, people who are carrying larger weapons will benefit from this product. Also, if you're someone who doesn't have clothing with a lot of pockets, this is the perfect holster for you to use.
Bottom Line
Many people are apprehensive when it comes to trying a sticky holster. This LG-6S makes it easy to use and is thin enough to be worn anywhere on the body. The non-slip grip helps it to stay put, even through sweat. It's a great buy if you carry a larger gun.
This is an affordable and quality item made in the U.S.A. and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Although there is the possibility of the tack wearing and the need for deep pockets, this is an affordable, quality option for your pocket carry needs.
Best for the Money:
ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers enjoy that the ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holster stays in place at all times, even while withdrawing. There is a built-in leather strip that protects the trigger when the gun isn't being used. People also love how inexpensive this pocket holster is and that it looks like a wallet to others.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out for several reasons. It's small and compact enough to fit in smaller pockets such as purses and backpacks. It disguises itself as a wallet and keeps the gun in place at all times. There are two sizes available that allow this holster to fit most guns.
The ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holster is lightweight and made of neoprene for comfort.
The suede-like coat-cover protects the gun, while the exterior lining ensures the holster retention during a draw. The subcompact holster measures 4โ by 3.25โ, while the compact holster measures 5.75โ by 4โ.
A large variety of guns are compatible with this pocket holster including the Glock 42, 43, Glock 36, 26, 27, 39, 28, and 33, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Ruger LC9s, and many others including Taurus, Kimber, Bersa, Rock Island, Beretta, CZ, Karh, Walther, and more.
It is an ambidextrous pocket holster with a smooth draw and includes a rubber strap to secure the holster inside the pocket.
Who Will Use This Most
The ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holster is best for people who conceal and carry daily. It is lightweight and affordable. This product can easily fit in just about any pocket and is lightweight and comfortable. This is also a great buy for those who rotate between guns and want something that will fit them all.
Bottom Line
This is an incredibly high-quality pocket holster for the price point. If you're wanting a holster that fits in pockets of any size and can hold weapons securely, this is it. It's ambidextrous and makes a smooth draw every time. The leather strap that protects the trigger is also an amazing feature.
This pocket holster comes with a โbuy and try satisfaction guaranteeโ, which makes it truly worthwhile to test. This pocket holster provides a specific kind of aesthetic.
Best Kydex Pocket Holster:
Vedder Holsters Pocket Locker Kydex Pocket Holster - Ruger LCP
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Consumers love that you can hear the gun click into place on the Vedder Locker Kydex Pocket Holster. They also love that you can easily break retention with just one thumb and that it's made of heavy-duty materials. Some people have noted that this holster has fallen out during withdraw.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product stands out because it's designed to be used in larger pockets. There is also a lanyard hole that allows this holster to stay put inside bags, purses, and luggage. It's also sweat-resistant which is a big plus for us. We also love that the trigger is completely guarded.
The Vedder Holsters Pocket Locker is best suited for small framed or โpocket pistolsโ and is worn in the front pocket.
Its most unique attribute is the Kydex materialโs capacity to fit the shape of whatever gun model is placed within.
During drawing, a hook catches the lower part of the pants, ensuring the firearm is drawn free from the holster. As an added bonus, it is an ambidextrous model.
There is also a sweat guard on every holster that covers the pistol and reduces contact with body moisture.
Who Will Use This Most
This pocket holster is best used by people who have larger pockets. It isn't going to fit in small and compact areas. It's also a great buy for those who are nervous about conceal and carry thanks to the trigger being completely covered when your gun is in the holster.
Bottom Line
If you want to invest in a heavy-duty pocket holster and want something that will last a long time, this is a great buy. It's high-quality, can fit in larger pockets, and has custom sight channels. The sweat-resistant feature can come in handy for those who live in warm climates as well.
This is an innovative product that marks a slight departure from the standard model. It is praised by its users but has not yet reached a wider market.
Best Uncle Mikeโs Pocket Holster:
Uncle Mike's Off-Duty and Concealment Nylon Pocket Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Consumers enjoy that this holster is available in several different sizes and price points. The pocket holster stays in place at all times and makes it easy to conceal and carry. Many people praise that there is no printing with this product, even while wearing jeans or dress pants.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love that this holster is sweat resistant. It makes it easy to use no matter what the weather is like where you wear it. The non-slip band is another amazing feature that keeps the holster in place. It is also laminated which protects both the holster and the carrier.
Uncle Mikeโs Off-Duty and Concealment Nylon Pocket Holster is known to conceal your weapon with distinction. It offers a typical non-slip band to retain the holster in the pocket during drawing.
The open-top holster provides grip-up positioning and prevents movement of gun levers, buttons, or catches common to loose pocket carry. The laminate lessens the print and cushions the leg while blocking perspiration.
Who Will Use This Most
If you're looking for a more basic and original design gun holster, Uncle Mike's Off-Duty holster is a great buy! While this holster would work well for anyone, we think that the laminate feature makes it best for those who wear jeans the majority of the time that they're carrying.
Bottom Line
The open-top holster allows the carrier to gain easy access to a firearm when needed. It's made of high-quality materials and prevents any unwanted printing on clothing. This is a holster that can fit in most pockets. The fact that it's available in several sizes is also a big plus.
This is an immensely popular product. A vast majority of customers are pleased with the material and quality of this model.
There are a few complaints regarding anti-printing capacities, but the lack of a lifetime guarantee stands in the way of a purely affirmative recommendation.
Best Cargo Pocket Holster:
Cargo Pocket Holsters
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Though less popular than other models, the Active Pro Gear Cargo Pocket Holster is made in the U.S.A. and functions as advertised. The cost may outweigh its value but its particular qualities and magazine capacity make it well worth examining.What Recent Buyers Report
One of the most common compliments about the Active Pro Gear Cargo pocket holster is that it doesn't move around, even in large cargo pants pockets. Many people also rave that there is no printing with this pocket holster. Consumers also enjoy the convenient slot that fits an extra magazine.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love that this pocket holster is available in both small and medium-size, allowing it to easily fit into most pockets. It is ambidextrous and made right here in the United States. The Active Pro Gear Cargo pocket holster can also carry an extra magazine which is a big plus.
The Active Pro Gear Cargo Pocket Holster has a closed muzzle design to keep the gun clean.
It is constructed from closed-cell waterproof foam padding which allows for both comfortable bearing and protection from moisture.
This pocket holster is lined on either side with Cordura nylon, a material exclusive to Active Pro Gear, which allows for an easy, fast draw.
It is made in the U.S.A. and comes in small and medium sizes, suiting a range from the Ruger LCP and LC9 to the Glock 26.
It also has room for an extra magazine that supports the holster in a larger pocket. The unique design masks the shape of the weapon, to allow for better concealed carry.
Who Will Use This Most?
As you could probably guess, this pocket holster is best for people who wear cargo pants often. It could also be great for other pants or clothing items that have large pockets. It is ambidextrous which allows anyone to easily use this pocket holster. It's also a great choice for those wanting to carry an extra magazine.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that this is easily the best cargo pocket holster on the market. It has closed waterproof cell padding which comes in handy. If you find yourself having trouble finding a pocket holster for larger pockets, give this cargo pocket holster a chance and see what you think.
Though less popular than other models, the Active Pro Gear Cargo Pocket Holster is made in the U.S.A. and functions as advertised. The cost may outweigh its value but its particular qualities and magazine capacity make it well worth examining.
Best Leather Pocket Holster:
Talon Concealed Carry Wallet and Cargo Pocket Leather Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Easily the thing that people rave about most when it comes to the Talon wallet and cargo pocket leather holster is the quality. It has incredible stitch work and is made out of high-quality leather. Many users also mention that this holster does have a breaking in period before it fits comfortably.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster can be custom molded to fit specific types of pistols. It is made with steel-hide leather and was designed by law enforcement professionals. We also enjoy that it is backed by the company's "no bull guarantee" which is a big plus for those purchasing their first pocket holster.
The Talon Concealed Carry Wallet and Cargo Pocket Leather Holster are full concealment holsters with anti-print panels.
They are custom molded to fit specific pistol models and are designed and made in the U.S.A. by U.S. law enforcement professionals.
This model is known to be one of the best options for school staff or students where concealed carry is legal. Holsters may also fit in the rear pocket.
They are made using quality Hermann Oak American Steerhide Leather and are backed by a โNo Bull Guaranteeโ.
Who Will Use This Most
The majority of people who use this pocket holster tend to work in public areas such as schools where it is legal and concert venues. It's a great buy for someone looking for a pocket holster that fits in your front or back pockets, as well as someone who has a specific pistol that needs a holster.
Bottom Line
If you've got a bit of a budget for a pocket holster and want one of the highest quality options on the market, the Talon wallet and cargo pocket leather holster is one of the best products available. It works in just about any pocket and comes in various sizes.
An immensely popular pocket holster which passes the test of reviews. Aesthetically pleasing, interesting, and made in the U.S.A. Though customers are hesitant to criticize this model, it can be considered bulky.
Best Front Pocket Holster:
Allen Baseline Pocket Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers love that the Allen Baseline pocket holster has an extra-large sticky area compared to other pocket holsters. It's nearly impossible to have this pocket holster fall out when you draw. Many people enjoy that it fits in many pocket sizes and it has a removable extra conceal flap.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product fits most two-inch revolvers and comes in both left and right-handed options. We love the extra-large tacky area that helps secure the holster to just about any surface. It also provides a convenient wallet profile and is less likely to create any unwanted printing on jeans.
The Allen Baseline Pocket Holster provides a wallet profile. Even during drawing, the holster stays inside the pocket thanks to a tacky fabric.
The singular removable padded flap helps to conceal the shape of the gun. Most revolvers with a 2โ barrel are suited to this model.
Who Will Use This Most
This is an amazing pocket holster that anyone can get a lot of use out of. It is best for somebody who is looking for a sticky holster and wants a bit of extra security. It's also most beneficial for those who conceal and carry two-inch revolvers and need a holster that will stay in place.
Bottom Line
If you're not too concerned about having a pocket holster with extremely high-quality material, this pocket holster still packs quite a punch. It will stay in place and provide a safe place for your revolver while you conceal and carry. You won't have to worry about printing or the holster coming loose.
This is a product which has not yet taken off and is not made of low-quality fabric. However, it operates as advertised, has a particular aesthetic, and fits a decent range of revolvers.
Conclusion
In an ever-expanding marketplace that produces numerous choice products, it can be difficult to find the best deal.
When dealing with matters of protection it is more vital than ever to navigate those deals with poise and intelligence.
Fortunately, the pocket holsters produced today exceed general standards of quality, while competitors offer more innovative ways of concealing firearms.
However, there is a pocket holster specifically made to match each specific weapon, so take the time to research the best fit for your weapon carrying needs.
