When you look at the Ruger LC9s, you are instantly captivated by the minimalism of the piece. When you hold, holster, and shoot it, you are struck further by the realization that this pistol is purpose-built for the concealed carry advocate.
It is one of only a handful of deliberate products that purposefully factor all decision making into the focal point of finding the best harmony within the concealed carry channel.
This article will help you learn about the best holsters for carrying a Ruger LC9s. But it's also an exploration about why the LC9s has already achieved both a cult status and a mainstream following among shooters who carry.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Ruger LC9s Holsters
- OUR TOP PICK: CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster
- RUNNER-UP: LIRISY Inside The Waistband Holster
- SECOND RUNNER-UP: Federal - Ruger LC9s Hip Holster with Magazine Pouch
Comparison of the Best Ruger LC9s Holsters
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What Makes the Ruger LC9s a Great Concealed Carry?
The size, weight, slim profile, and the genuinely useful features that make this a great full-time pistol, rather than just a concealed carry weapon, are the main reasons why the LC9s is so good as a CCW gun. But it’s more than just that.
Ruger LC9s (Source)
It has a certain flair and nuance, and that means it works on more than just the functional level – it works on the form level too. You see this gun, and it’s beautiful for what it can do, but it’s also a study in minimalism and tightly monitored restraint.
Like a dish in a fine dining restaurant that focuses on each component being the best it can be; or the groundbreaking manuscript that only tells the most important parts of the story and allows the ready to find commentary in their own minds, the Ruger LC9s gives the shooter the freedom to enjoy what was left out of the design parameters, as much as what was left in the design parameters of the gun.
CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster Fits (Source)
When you carry concealed, it’s not just about how small or slim a pistol is, it’s about how usable it is; how it helps to make you more effective; it’s about what the gun can do for you in a real-life shooting scenario.
The Ruger LC9s is the type of gun that works for the user, not some primadonna that demands that you treat it with affection and handle it with kid gloves.
Paired with the right holster, the Ruger LC9s becomes an enigma. It becomes a powerhouse.
In the right holster, the LC9s becomes something that cannot be defined by simply the sum of its parts, but something that transcends the concealed carry experience, brings peace of mind and legitimate shooter control, in a gun that won't print, won't betray your holster position and won’t ask for delicate handling when it comes down to using it.
Why Did These Ruger LC9s Holsters Make Our List?
We did not choose these holsters out of complete random. We were able to choose them based on a series of characteristics and features that we believe stood out as the best. It is important that you follow a similar formula when you are looking for a holster of your own. Here are some reasons why these holsters made our list:
Affordability
If you are looking for the best quality and performance that you can afford, then you are bound to find a holster that matches such a quality. Especially when you are on a budget. You don’t need to regulate yourself to cheap and flimsy if you have a tight budget. But quality is one of those things that should always have a higher priority over price.
Durability
We believe that every holster should last a user for a long time. And it will depend on the kind of materials that are being used. For example, you should consider looking for holsters made from polymer, Kydex, or even leather since they are proven to be a lot tougher and can be able to last you a long period of time.
Reliability
If there is one other attribute that should be important, it’s reliability. You want a holster that will support and store your Ruger LC9s at any given time. If you want excellent reliability, then you want to purchase a holster that is made from high-quality materials. Quality and reliability will always go hand in hand. If the quality is lacking, the reliability won’t be the best.
Review of the Best Ruger LC9s Holsters
The following is a list of the eight best Ruger LC9s holsters that are currently on the market thus far. As you go through each one of the holsters on the list, it is important to make notes of any features and characteristics that stand out. This way, you are able to make a more informed decision on which holster will be better for you.
Here are our top picks of the holsters for LC9s on the market. We have looked into the details of each of them for you to pick the right one. Now, let’s begin by taking a look at the first holster on our list:
Best Ruger LC9s Holster:
CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster Fits
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were quite happy with the holster for a few good reasons. One, they said that it was pretty durable from the inside and out. They said the material was great for longevity and it didn’t allow any snagging to occur in the process. One user said drawing his pistol from this holster was a lot faster compared to his old nylon holster, which somehow gave him a ton of grief.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This inside the waistband holster was designed for something that a lot of concealed carry users would love to have: maximum concealability. If you are looking for a holster that will allow for comfortable and under the radar concealed carry, you know that this will be the holster to go with. You won’t experience any bulging or bulkiness with this holster, which of course leads to the undue attention that you get when it’s obvious you are carrying something.
This is like a glove for your gun. A cold, striking, efficient glove. It cradles the polymer glass-filled resin and blued steel of the Ruger LC9s within a custom fitment made from a Kydex sheet that fully encloses the trigger guard and provides a smooth draw experience thanks to the sight channel and the smart manual safety channel.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are in search of the perfect concealed carry holster for yourself, this might be it. It’s got high-quality materials to allow for long life, quick and easy drawing, and it won’t weigh you down when you have a fully loaded Ruger LC9s attached. This might be one of the more popular holsters on the market and for good reason.
Bottom Line
If you want a certain kind of holster for your Ruger LC9s pistol that will definitely stand out as numero uno for most, the CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster will definitely stand out as the best choice. It’s easy to tack on tactical belts and waistbands. Plus, it’s pretty dang durable and reliable. It’s pretty much what you want in a holster for a compact pistol like an LC9s.
An obvious contender for the top spot for the Ruger LC9s, this is about as perfect a compliment that can be found for a gun that is built for form and for function. This holster looks great, draws great, and is safe. It effectively mirrors the characteristics of the Ruger LC9s. The sight and manual safety channel offers a smooth draw while the full trigger guard cover offers safe reholstering.
Best Ruger LC9s Holster Runner-up:
LIRISY Inside The Waistband Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new users were quite happy with this nylon holster and preferred it to their old nylon holsters that felt flimsy in quality. One user said he was so surprised to see a nylon holster that was better in quality and didn’t cause any snagging issues with the draw and re-holster. He added that it was a great fit for his Ruger LC9s pistol amid concerns that he wasn’t sure that it was going to fit in the first place.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We know that nylon holsters get a bad rap from so many concealed carry users. But thankfully, the fine people of LIRISY took note. As a result, they created a better nylon holster that was firmer, tougher, and a whole lot better to use. Of course, it’s an IWB holster that makes concealed carry a whole lot more comfortable for those who use it. If you are dealing with a nylon holster that might be chaffing you in warm weather conditions, then you want a holster that will be easier on the skin (but still made from the same material). This might just be what the doctor ordered.
It is the bargain holster option for those who need a generic option for their Ruger LC9s, because they may need more flexibility to carry it in a variety of positions or in a purse, backpack, or other container.
This is not only a cushioned, soft-sided holster to protect your new investment, but it is a fully enveloping holster that covers the trigger guard and still gives a behind-the-frame retention point.
Who Will Use This Most
If you have a nylon holster that really doesn’t do a good job, maybe it’s time to switch holsters. Or find a better nylon holster that is miles ahead of every holster in its class and provides better quality and reliability. If you want a holster that will be a vast improvement compared to those cheap and flimsy holsters that easily fall apart, then the choice is a no-brainer.
Bottom Line
If you are hellbent on using a nylon holster, then you will probably be better off with the LIRISY Inside The Waistband holster. This is one tough cookie of a holster. But you will find out that this is a way better upgrade compared to any nylon holster you’ve ever used. And let’s not forget one thing, you won’t deal with any looseness or snagging in the process. We consider that a huge win for the user.
You buy this for a backup to your normal holster, and for, yes you guessed it, when you don't know where you will put your Ruger LC9s. This is the inexpensive, workhorse, universal holster that actually doesn’t compromise on safety or concealment.
Best Ruger LC9s Holster Second Runner-up:
Federal - Ruger LC9s Hip Holster with Magazine Pouch
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most users, they said that this holster was probably the closest thing you could get to a perfect EDC holster for those who conceal carry on a regular basis. They said that the pistol fits quite nicely and the retention was pretty good. To add, they said that the pistol didn’t wiggle around or slip out of the holster. And it maintained a good weight without feeling like they were carrying a big heavy metal ball.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We now look at another nylon holster that might just be miles ahead of the pack of other nylon holsters that are proven to be subpar. It’s tougher than most nylon holsters and will surely be the go-to option for anyone that is looking for a simple to use holster that won’t cost them an arm and a leg. With the additional magazine pouch that comes with this, odds are you will have an extra magazine handy so you are able to be prepared for any situation where using your Ruger LC9s is warranted.
A super holster that happens to be reminiscent of the 1990’s style of Cordura/ballistic nylon holsters, and yet, it is surprisingly utilitarian and fits the Ruger LC9s well.
Not the premium choice for concealment, but a very good choice for when you have to remove your holster and stick it in a bag or have in it the car off of your body. The retention strap and magazine pocket are great touches.
Who Will Use This Most
This might be one of the few holsters that might be considered a “starter” holster. If you are new to the whole concealed carry thing and prefer a Ruger LC9 as your pistol of choice, this holster will probably be the first one you ever use. You can put it to good use for a few users or until you are able to afford something better. Either way, you won’t be left hanging without a good holster that supports an LC9s pistol.
Bottom Line
If you want a holster that might be tougher than any other nylon holster you’ve ever owned, the Federal Ruger LC9s hip holster might be the right choice for you. If you want no snags, tough durability, and a reliable retention that no other nylon holster that is cheap and flimsy can have, you will get exactly that assuming you invest in this.
The utility outweighs the old school looks of this holster, and the still small footprint doesn’t alienate the slim gun that fits inside of it.
Sure, it's not the first choice for body carry, but it is easily a contender for those who need easy access at the gym, or in a backpack when you cannot physically wear your gun.
Best Ruger LC9s Holster Third Runner-up:
Sumtop - Ruger LC9s Polymer Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
One of the new users said that he was looking for a holster that wasn’t going to end up disappointing him in the long run. He wanted something with a good amount of retention and allowed for a good amount of concealability while carrying his Ruger LC9s. He surely wasn’t disappointed when he came across this holster. Overall, the new users were happy with the solid construction of this holster. No rips, no snags, no problem for those who wanted quick drawing and comfortable all-day carry.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is hands down one of the more affordable LC9s holsters available on the market. And since it’s high in quality and does a great job doing what it’s supposed to do, this pretty much seals the deal for anyone who is looking for a holster on a budget. In fact, you’d be crazy to pass up the opportunity to give this a closer look. This hits all the sweet spots in what a budget shopper should look for in a holster.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be an ideal starter holster for anyone that is looking for something that is high-quality and affordable. Are you on a budget and want nothing but the best you can afford? Then you are in luck, when you cross paths with a holster like this. And believe us when we tell you that it’s neither cheap nor flimsy.
For proponents of the OWB carry style where they need to get a holster that is equally concerned with keeping the slim Ruger LC9s hidden as Ruger was when they built the gun. This is a bit bulkier but offers sure retention and comfortable de-holstering and re-holstering, with one of the quickest draws on this list.
The holster is exceptionally durable for a polymer holster and the contact point at the front of the trigger guard ensures you don’t get damage to your slide from the internal parts of the slide style holster. The single finger release point follows a natural, safe movement and keeps your finger off of the trigger until it’s right to engage it.
Bottom Line
The Sumtop Ruger LC9s polymer holster will definitely be your huckleberry if you are searching for that kind of holster that won’t suck the life out of your bank account while making sure that your pistol is retained snugly and will be at your side the moment you need it. There is no better way to be prepared than having your trusty LC9s pistol at your side.
Durable and utilitarian, this is just like the gun it is made for. This is an easy-to-clean, easy-to-use, and fast operational control holster that is built specifically to blend the slim profile of the LC9s with the quick access of the OWB style.
You draw fast, and confidently with this holster and it allows you to know exactly what you have to offer in a defensive shooting scenario. Bonus points for solid retention and a full trigger guard cover.
Best Ruger LC9s Holster Fourth Runner-up:
Tactical Scorpion Gear Ruger LC9s Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new users of this holster were law enforcement officers that typically carry compact pistols as a primary or secondary sidearm. They said that the retention was perfect for a holster of its class. And it was perfect for those who wanted quick access to their pistol in case they needed to draw it out in certain situations. Overall, they were able to carry their pistols without feeling weighed down (even with additional tools on their tactical belt).
Why it Stands Out to Us
Paddle holsters are known for having the best retention of any holster on the market. So if you are struggling with keeping a holster in a certain carry position, suffer no longer. These paddle holsters are great for keeping pistols in one place. Furthermore, they are awesome to have when you want to carry outside the waistband and be able to draw your pistol with a little bit more speed compared to those who carry with an IWB holster.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are a member of law enforcement or a civilian looking for a solid holster that won’t slip on you and will keep the pistol in your desired carrying position, this might be what you’re looking for. Once you place this on your side with your trusty LC9s pistol, you will be ready for action when such situations warrant it.
The paddle styling is not for everyone, but it is certainly a less obtuse paddle style than what the rest of the market is offering. This is a great option for those who need sure retention, safe re-holstering, and serious adjustability in a paddle style placement.
The holster can be configured in several different ways, to allow for a change in positioning and for additional tension. The modular concept allows you to place it as a MOLLE attachment; a drop leg holster, or a belt slide style.
The gun part of the holster can be rotated in a full circle (360 degrees) so you can adapt to any scenario with the right holster modules/components.
Bottom Line
The Tactical Scorpion Gear Ruger LC9s Modular Level II Retention Paddle Holster is a pretty solid holster that can last you a good long time if you take the best care of it. It can fit most Ruger pistols with ease and will give you the best quick access possible. And you can draw a bit faster without dealing with snags as well. Not bad for a high-quality holster.
Made for those draws where every second counts and having it right in the same spot every time, being able to rely on shaving seconds off of your draw is incredibly important.
This is a legitimately adjustable holster as well, making it a top choice for those who need to be able to adjust tension, retention, positioning, and protection for your firearm.
Best LC9s Pocket Holster:
BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster for RUGER LC9/LC9 S PRO
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were pretty impressed with this holster for a few good reasons. For one, they said that the holster did a good job retaining their LC9s pistols and didn’t allow any wiggling and slippage in the process. Overall, the drawing ability was quick and consistent. One user said that prior to purchasing this holster, he was aware of the advantages Kydex had over other holsters. The ability to keep a quick draw for years down the road was the deciding factor in purchasing this.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Kydex is perhaps one of the best materials you can find on any pistol holster on the market. What separates this from the rest of the materials? For one, it doesn’t lose firmness and roughens up on the inside. That’s what happens to most leather holsters over time and it really impedes the draw time. On top of that, Kydex doesn’t rip, tear, or snag. And it never changes shape over time.
The quintessential pocket holster concept is harmony for the Ruger LC9s and is a holster that should be considered for those who might put the gun into a locker or need it for an occasional purse inclusion.
If you want the most spartan design of all the LC9s holsters or want the quickest draw for a truly undercover de-holstering, this may be your best bet.
The compact design accentuates the tiny footprint of the gun and the rivets can be utilized to strap the gun into all kinds of configurations.
The full trigger enclosure makes the gun significantly safer too. A thumb/finger relief allows the fastest two-handed or one-handed removal of the LC9s from the holster.
Who Will Use This Most
This holster is for those who want to invest in a holster that will last them a long period of time. We’re talking years or even decades. It’s interesting to see how this will still hold up after a good few years of reliable and consistent use. You’d be pretty surprised that it will still work as new.
Bottom Line
If you want a holster that might be the last one you ever purchase for quite some time, then you may be hard-pressed to find something quite like the BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster. It’s durable, provides maximum concealability, and will really give you peace of mind in knowing that you can be prepared for any dangerous situation that may threaten your life or your family whether you are out and about or at home.
Minimalism and quick-draw from an undercover position make this a significant player for the LC9s, but that same minimalism makes it slightly less widely used. It can be used in the pocket, under the shirt, or in a bag safe and discrete.
Best Ruger LC9s IWB Holster:
Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers said that this holster stood out to them in so many different ways. Of course, considering the fact that it was a Kydex holster they were really happy with the overall quality and construction. This was a perfect fit for anyone looking for a holster that has proven quality and super-fast drawing that is consistent even through the years.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is another one of the Kydex holsters that have been selling like hotcakes as of late because of the material alone. And since it’s an IWB design, this will also prove itself as one of the more comfortable holsters that you can use for every day carry. And yes, Kydex is pretty comfortable when pressed against the skin. If you have sensitive skin issues and want to keep away from some materials, you may want to consider Kydex (and this holster while you’re at it).
Impressive looking and impressively built, this holster features a great 100% unconditional lifetime warranty, but you won't need it because it's built like a tank.
The slim contours and light weight complement the LC9s, but the workhorse mentality of the build and the durable nature of the hardware gives you peace of mind when holstering and de-holstering.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be one of the holsters that will be newbie friendly for those starting out with concealed carry. There is no question that the Ruger LC9s is one of the best pistols you can use when it comes to concealability. But rest assured, it’s something that will stick with you for the long haul.
Bottom Line
The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster will certainly stand out as the go-to choice for many newbie concealed carry practitioners or seasoned vets that are looking for something simple to use along with the ability to carry for the long haul. This holster will probably last you forever, so you may want to consider the idea of getting this if you want something that will be your sidekick in survival situations or every day carry.
You won't ever need the warranty and you will like the attention to detail that was given to the build quality. You will also appreciate the little adjustment leniency that is given by virtue of the subtle design inclusions. The hardware is bulletproof and the slim contoured outline makes this directly in the same vein as the gun it carries. Stealthy, strong, and durable.
Best Ruger LC9s Ankle Holster:
LIRISY Ankle Holster for Concealed Carry
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new users were split between regular concealed carry users and security guards who could carry a service weapon but not on their hip. They were in agreement that the holster provided excellent concealability. One user said that he was using it while working his security guard job to deter a would-be burglar at an apartment complex he was working at. While he didn’t use the pistol itself, drawing it quick enough was just what he needed to do to get the assailant out of the way.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Made from high-quality neoprene, this ankle holster is guaranteed to give you the most comfortable all-day carry. So if you are planning on carrying it even for long hours, you can still feel the neoprene press up against your skin like a soft pillow. Plus, it’s fitting for a good number of compact pistols like the Ruger LC9. If you also want to invoke an element of surprise against attackers that threaten you and those around you, this ankle holster might be what you need.
A perennial favorite for the ankle holster crowd. And what a gun the LC9s is for ankle carry if you need a larger grip frame and nine shots of 9mm. If you can stomach carrying the gun on your ankle, you'll enjoy the dual strap retention system that this holster builds into the design.
You’ll also really like the “easy to cover your trigger guard”, sleeve that retains your firearm. You can run with it and feel confident it’s going nowhere.
Who Will Use This Most
This is the perfect holster for anyone who wants to carry with a bit more discreetness or if they want to carry two pistols at once. Either way, this holster will be working to satisfy all of your concealed carry needs in more ways than one. You can strap this sucker on and forget about it being there on your ankle. But always keep in mind that you are prepared for any dangerous situation, no matter how far away it is from you.
Bottom Line
The LIRSY Ankle Holster might be used as a primary or a backup. But either way, it’s reliable, comfortable, and will increase your concealability (and cleverness) by a lot. You’d be surprised how these holsters hold up even when you are moving around all day long.
We go back to this holster often because it's well made, strong, and able to conceal well. The Ruger LC9s is a great fit for this option and the top-quality materials used, won’t last forever, but they also cost next to nothing to replace if they do wear out. A very comfortable option for a gun that is literally built for ankle carry or other deep concealment.
What is the Best Type of Holster for the Ruger LC9s?
The best way to pick a holster for the LC9s is to pick a holster that mimics the versatility, durability, and concealability of the LC9s.
If you have to choose between a holster with all the bells and whistles and a holster that meets the minimum requirements but does so gracefully and without excess, then you should pick the minimalist holster every time.
Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster (Source)
Such is the way of this firearm. It is made to handle the rigors of everyday carry, while still not being over the top. You need a holster that can adequately meet its reserved, confident style and will accentuate the best qualities of the gun. Namely:
The Slim Profile
You want a holster that can maintain the slim profile of the gun and which will not allow the gun to print, regardless of where you position the gun.
The Striker Fired, Hammerless Design, and the Trigger Safety
You want a holster that can be re-holstered safely, taking into mind the trigger safety and the slim profile that could inadvertently cause a snag on the trigger. You also want a holster that can deftly handle the smooth lines of the gun, including the hammerless back end.
The Moderate Size, That is Still Legitimately Concealable
You don’t want some massive holster getting in the way of the minimalist design or increasing the carry weight or size significantly.
Conclusion
It comes down to more of a cohabitation concept with regards to the holster. Instead of finding something that constrains the Ruger LC9s inside of it; you look for a holster that works in harmony with the firearm because this firearm is made specifically from the ground up as a concealed carry device.
It’s a tool that requires other tools to enhance its operation. With the right holster, it becomes something truly sublime to carry, and it doesn't matter if you like the looks or style of it, or have a complaint about some small issue with the trigger pull. With the right holster, the LC9s becomes something of almost legendary carry status.
Small, slim, minimalist, and effective. These holsters are all these things, and they were picked because the gun they will house is all of those things. Together they become a much better representation of capability than the sum of their individual parts.
