Finding the best revolver holster might be a challenge. Yet, the search may be a little less difficult if you have an idea of what you may want in a holster, in terms of quality and performance. Most concealed-carry users will certainly want a holster that will allow them to safely carry their holsters with them every single day.
In fact, it’s a requirement for you to have a holster, should you choose to conceal carry. While there are a lot of holsters for revolvers flooding the market, only ten stand as the best, out in our opinion. That’s why we put together a list so we can review each one. Hopefully, one of them will make a strong enough case for you to make a decision.
Before we get to the list, let’s talk about the types of revolver holsters and how you can choose one for your own personal use.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Revolver Holster
- OUR TOP PICK: Alien Gear Holsters ShapeShift 4.0
- Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holster
Comparison of the Best Revolver Holsters
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Types of Revolver Holsters
Keep in mind that there are a few types of revolver holsters out there. And you’ll eventually find one that will stand out as something that can be used for the long term. Consider the following types of holsters and you may decide on one that will fit you best. Here are the top three types:
Outside-the-Waistband (OWB)
First, we’ll be taking a look at the outside-the-waistband or OWB holsters. These are situated outside of the waistband of your pants. Specifically, they will be used for some larger-sized revolvers. Most of them will give you maximum coverage, so the revolver isn’t exposed and can’t be easily accessed by anyone trying to reach for your revolver.
Inside-the-Waistband (IWB)
IWB holsters, of course, are located inside the waistband. Typically, most of them are clipped onto tactical belts. Furthermore, they are designed to provide you with more concealability and keep it more out of sight. These are preferable for smaller-sized revolvers and should not be recommended if your revolver has a light trigger pull weight.
Chest Holsters
If you need a holster that isn’t located on the waistband of your pants, then you may need a chest holster. Not only are they great due to the proximity of reach, but they are also more convenient if you need to wear a jacket (due to a work dress code or when it’s cold outside). Granted, chest holsters will be a lot more discreet than waistband holsters. And they won’t bulge most of the time.
How to Choose a Revolver Holster
Knowing the characteristics and features of each revolver will be key. This way, you’ll be able to distinguish a great holster from one that is considered unreliable and crappy in terms of performance and quality. Here are a few things to look for while you are shopping around for a revolver holster:
Price
The price tag will likely be looked at by budget shoppers. The thing is, they shouldn’t worry about the price so much, especially if they are in search of a budget holster. What they need to focus more on are quality and performance. You should invest in the best quality available (even if it means spending a few extra dollars). The value should always be more important, so consider your choices wisely if you find a few that are affordable.
Which Type is Best For You?
It’s important for you to find a holster that will fulfill your personal needs and preferences. If you want a holster that will give you total concealability, then you’d be hard-pressed to find a holster that is anything but an IWB holster. If you have a bit of a larger revolver or one with a light trigger pull weight, ideally an OWB holster will do. Assess your personal needs and preferences along with your revolver’s abilities and you’ll probably come up with a good idea of which holster type will work for you.
Find Quality Materials
A holster should be able to last you a long time. It all comes down to the possibility of finding one that is made from the best materials. Materials like polymer, Kydex, or even leather are just a few of the finest materials you can use to your advantage if you want a holster to last you a long period of time.
Review of the Best Revolver Holsters
The following is a list of the ten best revolver holsters currently available on the market. As you go through each one, it is important for you to note each feature and characteristic. If you have a good idea of what your ideal holster would look like, you might find one that is close enough to match your description.
Now, let’s begin by unveiling our best overall choice:
Best Overall:
Alien Gear Holsters ShapeShift 4.0
[amazon fields="B076L28NCF" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new buyers say they were impressed. This holster is made from excellent materials that are proven to be durable and is super-difficult to wear down. These owners were people who prefer OWB holsters over different types. They managed to quickly draw their revolvers in a matter of seconds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster may look a little large in size, but it’s at the right size where you can securely store your revolver. The holster is made with neoprene and different synthetic materials designed to give you all kinds of protection against bumps and bangs. Simply put, it’s built like a tank. So if you want something that will last you quite awhile and won’t rip and tear like some soft materials, this holster could do you some good.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a great OWB holster for those who want something that is tough, easy to strap to your tactical belt, and can give you years of lifetime service. So if you want a holster that will be the best of the best when it comes to quality and performance, this might be what you’ll need. Don’t be shocked if you end up using it for a few years or more.
Bottom Line
The Alien Gear Holster is tough and will certainly be the kind of holster that will make security and concealability a reality. Since it’s not made from soft materials, the good news is that it won’t rip apart. If you hold quality to a high standard, this just might be right up your alley.
Runner-up:
Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5
[amazon fields="B07BZBQ5B6" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This was a hit with new buyers. Most of them were actual fans of the IWB holsters. They wanted something that gave them maximum concealability and comfort. They managed to strap this onto their tactical belts with ease and had no issues in terms of carrying or reliability. One user said it was a comfortable fit and didn’t create any bulges.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is an IWB version of the previous Alien Gear Holster. It’s pretty much got some of the same features and characteristics, but it’s a bit more of a comfortable fit for those who want better concealability. So if you don’t want to attract any undue attention because you carry a revolver, this might be the type of holster that could fit your personal needs and preferences.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be the ideal IWB holster for those who want to keep their revolvers out of sight. In a sense, it would be great for EDC users that will blend in with the rest of the crowd while in public, but always on alert for any threats or danger nearby. If you want something that will give you a better chance to prepare for dangerous situations, this holster will be the one you’ll rely on for a long time.
Bottom Line
The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck is perhaps a perfect IWB holster that you can depend on for maximum concealability. It’s great for EDC purposes and will certainly give you the best opportunity to prepare for any kind of life and death situation. This holster will make sure that you’re prepared and is a revolver you can depend on in terms of keeping yourself out of danger.
Best for the Money:
ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holster
[amazon fields="B0711WX72W" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new users were pretty happy with the holster itself. Not only were they satisfied with the fit, but they loved the overall durability. It was designed to fit most pockets, thus, making concealability much better than ever. One user said he found this to be much better some IWB holsters he has used in the past.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is made from soft, high-quality materials that are proven to stay tough through long-term use. You won’t have to worry about this fraying and tearing apart due to consistently pulling out your revolver and placing it back in the holster. It’s perfect for keeping your revolver out of plain sight. If you have a smaller-sized revolver, this will likely be a great holster to use.
Who Will Use This Most
This would obviously be the best choice for those in search of a holster while on a budget. Not to mention, it’s perhaps one of the best-concealed carry holsters money can buy. So if you want something that will be great in value and will last you quite a long time, this could be the kind of holster worth trying out. Do you want a revolver holster that won’t suck the life out of your bank account? This might be the one to consider in terms of what’s available within your budget.
Bottom Line
The ComfortTac Ultimate Pocket Holder will be your best affordable option if you want a durable, long-lasting holster. You will definitely have a holster that will work hard and get the job done for many years. It just might be the perfect holster for those starting out with concealed carry.
Best Revolver Shoulder Holsters:
UTG Deluxe Universal Horizontal Shoulder Holster
[amazon fields="B001BQZOAS" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new buyers purchased this for the sake of cold weather concealed carry. However, there are some other users who use this because it’s required. One user said he is a security guard that has to dress professionally and needed a holster to carry on his shoulders for easy access. So far, he was able to fit it on him with little to no adjustments. He said it felt quite comfortable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is one holsters that will probably be put to good use if you want a holster to wear somewhere other than on a waistband. But the holster will give you a better chance of concealing your revolver and leaving it out of plain sight (and getting rid of undue attention just for carrying a revolver). If you want a holster that will be perfect for your occupation or to boost concealability, this just might be right up your alley.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are a security guard or someone who needs a holster that is not attached to the waistband, this just might be the revolver holster you can put to good use. If you are of average size or taller, this will be a pretty good holster to wear over your shoulder. You’ll even have quicker access to your revolver if and when you are in a dangerous situation.
Bottom Line
The UTG LE Grade Universal Shoulder Holster might be a great additional holster to have on hand if you are looking for something for an extra concealed carry firearm. Or you might need it as a replacement holster when it’s too cold to carry against your waist. Either way, this specific holster will definitely give you the best option to store your revolver and allow for quick drawing.
Best Kydex Revolver Holster:
Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster
[amazon fields="B07YF461DZ" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers said they were happy with this holster. A lot of people were satisfied with the overall quality and said it didn’t stand a chance of falling apart after long-term use. One user said he has never seen a holster quite like it. Overall, they had no complaints about the overall fit and were able to fit their favorite revolver.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Kydex is one of the best synthetic materials when it comes to holsters. Next to polymer, it’s one of the most durable materials on the market. It’s the softer version of polymer. If you are someone that holds durability to a higher standard, this could be the holster that will give you more of that. Furthermore, it’s great for smaller revolvers. So if you want a holster that will be one of the best for the purpose of concealed carry, you’ll definitely want to consider giving this one, in particular, a closer look.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are in search of the best quality when it comes to soft materials, this might just be the holster that can secure your revolver easily. You can carry this inside your waistband without creating any undue attention. You’ll get maximum concealability without any issues with what you’re wearing.
Bottom Line
The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster will definitely be the type that can last you a long period of time. It might be one of the toughest soft materials that won’t be rip or fray after a short period of time. Don’t be shocked if you end up using this for many years down the road.
Best Revolver Chest Holster:
BLACKHAWK! Universal Spec-Ops Pistol Harness
[amazon fields="B002KIGGM6" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new users say that this chest holster was perfect for cold weather concealed carry. On top of that, this is also a great holster for maximum concealability. In other words, it’s a holster that will be exactly what you need if you want to prevent any bulges. Most new buyers were security guards that were looking for a holster suitable for their jobs. They were not disappointed when they noticed the “no print” carry this holster provided.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This chest holster may seem a little unusual. But make no mistake, it can certainly be a blessing for those who want to conceal carry without the use of a waistband holster. Furthermore, it’s a holster that will give you all kinds of maximum concealed carry use. So if you don’t want to attract attention because of your revolver, this could be the kind of holster you’ll need.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be an ideal holster for security guards that need something for their jobs. If you’re carrying as a civilian, this would be ideal if it’s too cold for carrying outside the waistband. Either way, this holster will be perfect for any kind of concealed carry application.
Bottom Line
The Blackhawk Universal Holster is the perfect chest holster to fulfill all kinds of concealed carry needs and preferences. Whether you have to use one for your occupation or just for more discreet carrying, this might be a holster that’s right up your alley.
Best IWB Revolver Holster:
Crossbreed Supertuck
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster was popular with new buyers who wanted a really good IWB holster for excellent concealability. Most new users reported that the overall fit and comfort were superb. In fact, one user said he can carry this revolver without anyone noticing.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This IWB holster is made with Kydex. It’s the best material you can use if you want something that is easy on the skin and won’t irritate it at all. This holster is easy to attach on tactical belts or their waistbands with the use of a clip. Either way, it doesn’t wiggle around and stays in place all the time.
Who Will Use This Most
This is perfect for users that want the best in concealability. On top of that, it’s perfect for revolvers that have trigger pulls that are a little heavier. So if you want the perfect IWB holster that won’t bulk up and won’t irritate the skin, this might be your cup of coffee.
Bottom Line
The Crossbreed Supertuck is perhaps the only IWB holster you need for no-bulge concealability. If you really want to go unnoticed while carrying a revolver, you should consider an IWB holster like this to ensure you can make the most out of carrying your revolver every day. When you are prepared for whatever dangerous situation comes your way, you’ll be confident in knowing that you are well-armed and ready for battle.
Best .38 Special Revolver Holster:
Concealed Carry Fobus Holster
[amazon fields="B00A0MMWCW" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new users were members of law enforcement or professional security officers. They were satisfied with the overall quality of the holster and managed to keep their revolvers intact without any wiggle room or the revolver falling out on. One user who is a police officer said he uses his revolver as a secondary service arm and uses this holster whenever he gets the opportunity. So far, he has no complaints.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Made from high-quality polymer, this holster is proven to handle all kinds of heavy-duty applications. So if you are always on the go and find yourself in high-stress situations due to your occupation, this concealed carry holster will handle it all. Even if you are a civilian, you’ll have a tactical-style revolver that will work hard to keep your revolver concealed and secure so it won’t slip out and fall to the ground.
Who Will Use This Most
Of course, this will be a great revolver holster for those in law enforcement or security. It is also suitable for civilian use, as well. No matter what your occupation or purpose, you’ll have a holster that will be built to take on the bumps and bangs and will be your best concealability option for your .38 Special for years to come.
Bottom Line
The Concealed Carry Fobus Holster is a .38 Special owner's best friend when it comes to holster options. Use this to your advantage in everyday applications or if you are out and about in dangerous situations (assuming you are in law enforcement). It’s built to give you safety, security, and the best fit for your revolver.
Best .357 Magnum Revolver Holster:
Houston IWB Revolver Holster
[amazon fields="B06XSW9LPZ" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, a lot of users were pretty happy with the holster, in general. They said the fitting was perfect and didn’t cause any of their revolvers to bulge up. One user said it was probably one of the best IWB holsters he has used in quite awhile. He even added that he found this way better than his previous holster which he ditched due to some discomfort.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This high-quality holster definitely stands out as the best in terms of holding onto a .357 revolver. This caliber is a force to be reckoned with and it’s quickly growing as one of the most popular for concealed carry. So if you want something that will be perfect for target shooting and self-defense, this just could be the kind of holster you’re looking for.
Who Will Use This Most
Expect this to be an EDC holster, but also perfect for those who want to target shoot on a casual basis at the range. Of course, some other users will probably use it to keep their revolver close by when they are waiting for their turn to compete. In short, it’s a great all-around holster for your favorite .357 revolver.
Bottom Line
The Houston IWB Revolver Holster is perfect for a .357 revolver, and for good reason. It’s at the right size, it won’t bulge, and it will give you the best concealability for a revolver that can be powerful enough to do some serious damage. Plus, it won’t irritate your skin, so that’s a plus.
Best 6-Inch Revolver Holster:
Federal 6" Revolver Holster
[amazon fields="B003TKXCRG" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new buyers were satisfied with the holster. On top of that, they were pleased with how they could handle the larger and longer-sized revolvers. One user said he was satisfied in knowing that he finally found a holster to perfectly fit his revolver after searching high and low for one. He said some holsters he’s tried were too short.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster measures at about six inches long. So it’s perfect for longer-barreled revolvers. Plus, it’s made from heavy nylon that won’t snag or rip whenever it’s dealing with the consistent drawing and replacement of the revolver itself. Furthermore, it’s easy to attach on most waistbands or belts. Simply put, it’s a holster that is easy to use. Nothing more or less.
Who Will Use This Most
This holster will certainly stand out as your favorite if you have long suffered from searching for one that is going to fit your long-barreled revolver. It’s high in quality and will certainly stand out as the type of holster that will last you quite awhile. If you want a holster made from a type of nylon that never quits, this just might be what you need.
Bottom Line
The Federal 6-inch Revolver Holster will be exactly what you’ll need for your bigger-sized revolvers. You can rejoice in the fact that you don’t have to leave your revolver at home because it’s too large in size. You can take it just about anywhere you’d like if you intend to conceal carry.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a New Holster?
Before purchasing a new holster, you’ll want to consider a few additional aspects prior to making a final decision. Furthermore, you also need to know some information that may be vital to your search. Here’s what you should know:
Not All Holsters Are The Same
Some holsters are the right size for smaller revolvers and some are large enough to handle the ones with longer barrels. It’s up to you to find one that is at the right size so you can conceal carry anywhere you go (if you so choose). Also, not all holsters are made with the same materials. Choose wisely if you want one that will last you a long time.
Some Types Won’t Be Suitable
If you are in search of a holster that will handle your light trigger pull revolver, you’ll need to be aware that an IWB holster may not be suitable. This means you’ll be limited to OWB designs, since they will be the much safer option. If that is the case, find an OWB holster that will be best for your kind of revolver.
A Holster is Pretty Much Required
In states where concealed carry is legal, you should know that owning a holster for that purpose is required. Especially if you are out and about in a public area. This way, it will ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. Plus, there are holsters with a security feature to deter anyone from attempting to steal your revolver.
Conclusion
The best revolver holster is out there. It’s important that you find the perfect one for you so you can keep it close by in any given application. There are different types available for different calibers. Know your revolver well and you’ll be bound to find a holster that will stick with you for a long time.
People Also Ask
The following are three frequently asked questions regarding revolver holsters. Use this Q&A section to give you a better understanding of how revolver holsters work. Here are the following questions:
Is Kydex Bad For Guns?
Short answer: no. Kydex is one of the most durable materials used for holsters. It is designed to handle all kinds of handguns and is less likely to create any snagging problems.
What Side Do You Wear a Gun Holster?
It depends on the hand you use to shoot with. So if you are left-handed, obviously it should be positioned on the left side of your body (and vice versa). If you are really coordinated, you can cross-body draw and place the holster opposite of your dominant hand.
Do You Have to Carry Your Gun in a Holster?
Yes. As mentioned earlier, it is required to carry a gun in your holster when you are concealed carrying. This is to ensure that your gun will be secure and won’t accidentally end up in the wrong hands.
