If you’re like me, you spent a lot of time reading up on finding a good carry gun. Reading up on different calibers, brands, sizes, and features – even going to a gun show and picking up hand gun after hand gun. I did that exact thing as soon as I turned 21. Heck, I was at gun shows looking at handguns before I even turned 21, frustrated a few salesmen when I told them I wasn’t 21 yet and was just looking. Finally, I settled on a Walther P99 in .40cal. My goodness I was in love.
Right after acquiring my first handgun, I searched around for a holster I liked back at the gun show. As someone barely making any money, I was drawn to a nylon universal fit holster. Upon trying it on I instantly realized that this is not something to skimp on as it was uncomfortable as all get out. So I went to every holster stand at the shop trying all sorts of holsters before finally settling on a leather Galco holster for $80. It was quite comfortable and I proceeded to carry it every day for over five years. The holster held up very nicely and was very comfortable despite what some people on the internet say about Galco. In all those years I’d periodically try a different holster at a shop or show and never found a holster I liked more.
But despite all of this research and experimentation into both the handgun and the holster, I still used the same belt I always did – until earlier this year.
My First Gun Belt
After reading a thread online about someone who upgraded to a proper gun belt for the umpteenth time, I decided to join the club and picked up a Volund Gearworks ATLAS Cobra Gun Belt.
Holy crap is it awesome.
Instantly carrying was more comfortable. I felt the firearm and holster a lot less as the weight was more evenly distributed around my waist.
It really is difficult to describe how much of a difference a gun belt can make, so I simply recommend getting one. Most gun belts will run you from $40 to $80 and there are a variety of styles available, including traditional leather that doesn’t scream “gun belt.”
A conceal carry gun belt will even help out your shooting competition endeavors!
What Makes a Good Gun Belt?
The primary reason to wear a gun belt lies in its rigidity. A good gun belt will be stiff, preventing your belt and it’s assorted accessories from sagging unevenly. Also, a good gun belt will be more fine tune adjustable than a standard belt. Both of which helps seat your gun at a consistent and snug position.
Finding a Gun Belt
While I cannot endorse all of these belts, here’s a by no means comprehensive list of companies that make gun belts for you to look into, in alphabetical order.
- 5.11 Tactical
- AG Custom Gun Leather
- Ares Gear
- Bison Designs
- Boxer Tactical
- Bullhide Belts
- Orion Leather Company
- Saddleback Leather Co
- Special Operations Equipment
- The Belt Man
- The Wilderness
- Volund Gearworks
If you conceal carry, get a gun belt, seriously.
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