Illuminate Your Darkness: The Ultimate Guide to Light Bearing Holsters for Glock 19

In the realm of self-defense and concealed carry, choosing the right holster for your firearm is paramount. When it comes to the legendary Glock 19, a handgun renowned for its reliability and versatility, a light bearing holster emerges as an indispensable tool for those seeking enhanced illumination and situational awareness.

Types of Light Bearing Holsters

Light bearing holsters offer a wide array of options, catering to specific preferences and tactical scenarios.

• Inside the Waistband (IWB): These holsters conceal the handgun and light securely beneath the waistband, providing a discreet and efficient carry method.
• Outside the Waistband (OWB): OWB holsters position the firearm and light outside the waistband, allowing for faster access while maintaining stability.
• Appendix Carry: Appendix carry holsters place the handgun at the front of the waistband, offering maximum concealment but potentially slower draw times.

Benefits of Light Bearing Holsters

• Enhanced Situational Awareness: Illuminating your target and its surroundings with a mounted light provides a decisive advantage in low-light conditions.
• Rapid Target Identification: Quickly identifying your opponent's location and intentions can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.
• Non-Lethal Deterrent: The sudden burst of light from a mounted light can act as a non-lethal deterrent against potential attackers.

Choosing the Right Light Bearing Holster

When selecting a light bearing holster for your Glock 19, consider the following factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure that the holster is specifically designed to accommodate the Glock 19 and the specific light model you intend to use.
• Retention: The holster should provide a secure hold on both the firearm and light, preventing involuntary release during movement or combat.
• Comfort: A comfortable holster will enable extended wearability without causing undue discomfort or irritation.

Top-Rated Light Bearing Holsters for Glock 19

The market offers a plethora of excellent light bearing holsters for the Glock 19. Here are a few top-rated options:

• Safariland 6378RDS: Engineered for both IWB and OWB carry, this holster features a superior locking system and a built-in light compatible with various models.
• G-Code Incog Eclipse: Designed for concealed carry, the Incog Eclipse provides excellent protection and retention while maintaining a low profile.
• Vedder LightTuck: The LightTuck offers a comfortable and versatile IWB holster, suitable for both appendix and side carry positions.

Best Lights for Glock 19 Holsters

Completing your light bearing holster setup requires selecting a compatible weapon light. Consider the following options:

• Streamlight TLR-1 HL: Delivering 1,000 lumens, the TLR-1 HL is a dependable and powerful light source for self-defense and tactical applications.
• SureFire X300 Ultra: Boasting 1,000 lumens, the X300 Ultra provides exceptional brightness and an extended battery life.
• Olight PL-Mini 2: With 600 lumens, the PL-Mini 2 offers a compact and lightweight option without sacrificing performance.

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

• The Case of the Inverted Holster: One officer accidentally inverted his light bearing holster, mounting the firearm upside down. This resulted in an evening of amusement for his colleagues and a valuable lesson on the importance of checking your gear before hitting the streets.
• The Glowing Leg: During a late-night patrol, an officer's weapon light inadvertently turned on while he was walking. The result was an illuminated leg that attracted the attention of passersby and raised a few eyebrows.
• The Dancing Holster: A trainee officer experienced a wardrobe malfunction when his light bearing holster began to sway and bounce excessively during a foot chase. This taught him the importance of ensuring a secure fit and proper belt tension.

Tips and Tricks

• Practice Regularly: As with any firearm, proficiency with a light bearing holster requires consistent practice and training.
• Choose the Right Light Intensity: Opt for a light intensity that provides adequate illumination without impairing your night vision.
• Consider Ambidextrous Options: If you anticipate switching hands or shooting with either hand, consider ambidextrous holsters for maximum flexibility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect Holster Fit: Ensuring a snug and secure fit is crucial for both firearm retention and comfort.
• Improper Light Mounting: Incorrectly mounting the light can compromise its functionality and effectiveness.
• Overreliance on Light: While a mounted light is a valuable tool, it should supplement your situational awareness, not replace it.

Advanced Features

Some light bearing holsters may offer advanced features to enhance performance and versatility:

• Retention Adjustment: Adjustable retention systems allow you to customize the holster's grip on the firearm for optimal draw speed and security.
• Light Activation Button: Some holsters incorporate integrated light activation buttons for quick and easy access to illumination.
• Passive Release: Passive release holsters automatically release the firearm when the grip is relaxed, eliminating the need for manual manipulation.

Conclusion

Equipping your Glock 19 with a light bearing holster is an investment in your safety and situational awareness. By choosing the right holster and light, you can effectively enhance your ability to respond to threats in challenging lighting conditions, providing you with a tactical advantage in times of need.

Table 1: Leading Light Bearing Holsters for Glock 19

Table 2: Recommended Weapon Lights for Glock 19 Holsters

Table 3: Market Share of Light Bearing Holster Manufacturers