OWB Light-Bearing Holsters: A Comprehensive Guide for Concealed Carry Enthusiasts

Concealed carry is a responsible and effective way to protect oneself while carrying a firearm. With the right gear, carrying concealed can be both comfortable and safe. One essential piece of gear for concealed carry is a high-quality OWB light-bearing holster.

OWB stands for "outside the waistband." As the name suggests, an OWB holster is worn on the outside of the waistband, typically on the strong-side hip. Light-bearing holsters are designed to accommodate a firearm with a mounted weapon light. Here's a comprehensive overview of OWB light-bearing holsters, covering everything from materials and construction to benefits and drawbacks.

Types of OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

OWB light-bearing holsters come in various materials and constructions. The most common materials for OWB holsters include:

• Kydex: A popular material for IWB and OWB holsters, Kydex is a durable thermoplastic that is resistant to wear, impact, and moisture. Kydex holsters are often molded to a specific firearm model, providing a secure and precise fit.
• Leather: A traditional choice for holsters, leather offers a classic look and feel. Leather holsters are more comfortable to wear than Kydex holsters, but they are not as durable and require more care.
• Nylon: A lightweight and affordable material, nylon is a good option for concealed carry holsters. Nylon holsters are not as durable as Kydex or leather, but they are comfortable to wear and easy to clean.

OWB light-bearing holsters also come in a variety of construction styles. The most common construction styles include:

• Pancake: Pancake holsters are made of two layers of material that are sewn together around the edges. Pancake holsters are simple and durable, and they provide a good level of concealment.
• Hybrid: Hybrid holsters combine different materials and construction styles. For example, a hybrid holster might have a Kydex exterior with a leather interior. Hybrid holsters offer the best of both worlds, providing durability and comfort.
• Mold: Mold holsters are custom-molded to a specific firearm model. Mold holsters provide the ultimate in fit and retention, but they are also more expensive than other types of holsters.

Benefits of OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

OWB light-bearing holsters offer a number of advantages over other types of holsters:

• Accessibility: OWB holsters are easy to access, even in stressful situations. This is important for self-defense because it allows you to draw your firearm quickly and efficiently.
• Retention: OWB light-bearing holsters provide excellent firearm retention. They are designed to keep your firearm securely in place, even during strenuous activity.
• Durability: OWB light-bearing holsters are made from durable materials that are resistant to wear, impact, and moisture. This ensures that your holster will last for many years to come.
• Comfort: OWB light-bearing holsters are comfortable to wear. They are typically made from materials that are soft against the skin, and they distribute the weight of the firearm evenly.
• Concealment: OWB light-bearing holsters provide a good level of concealment. They are typically worn under a jacket or shirt, and they can be easily concealed with a proper belt.

Downsides of OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

OWB light-bearing holsters also have some disadvantages:

• Bulk: OWB light-bearing holsters are typically larger and bulkier than other types of holsters. This can make them difficult to conceal under clothing.
• Cost: OWB light-bearing holsters are more expensive than other types of holsters. This is because they are made from durable materials and they require specialized construction.
• Print: OWB light-bearing holsters can print through clothing, especially if the firearm is large or the clothing is thin. This can make it easy for others to identify that you are carrying a firearm.

OWB Light-Bearing Holster Buying Guide

When choosing an OWB light-bearing holster, there are a few key things to consider:

• Firearm fit: The holster must be compatible with your firearm and light combination. Make sure to check the manufacturer's website to ensure that the holster will fit your specific firearm.
• Materials and construction: The materials and construction of the holster will determine its durability, comfort, and retention. Kydex is a good choice for durability, while leather is a good choice for comfort.
• Carry position: The holster should be worn in a position that is comfortable for you and that allows you to draw your firearm quickly and efficiently.
• Concealment: The holster should provide a good level of concealment, but it should not be so bulky that it is uncomfortable to wear.
• Price: OWB light-bearing holsters can range in price from $50 to $200. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.

Top 3 OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

Here are three of the top-rated OWB light-bearing holsters on the market:

Tips for Using an OWB Light-Bearing Holster

Here are a few tips for using an OWB light-bearing holster:

• Wear the holster at the proper height and angle. The holster should be worn high enough on the waist so that the firearm is above the belt line. The holster should also be angled so that the firearm is drawn straight up.
• Use a good belt. A good belt will help to keep the holster in place. Choose a belt that is wide enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster.
• Practice drawing your firearm. It is important to practice drawing your firearm from the holster so that you can do so quickly and efficiently in a self-defense situation.
• Be aware of your surroundings. When carrying a firearm, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Be mindful of people who are around you and be prepared to react to potential threats.

Stories

Story 1

A man was walking down the street when he was suddenly attacked by a group of robbers. The man was carrying a concealed firearm, but he was not able to draw it quickly enough. The robbers were able to get away with his money and belongings.

Moral of the story: It is important to practice drawing your firearm from the holster so that you can do so quickly and efficiently in a self-defense situation.

Story 2

A woman was driving home from work when she was followed by a car. The woman was scared, so she called 911. The police were able to track down the car and arrest the driver.

Moral of the story: Be aware of your surroundings when carrying a firearm. Be mindful of people who are around you and be prepared to react to potential threats.

Story 3

A man was carrying a concealed firearm in a crowded shopping mall. The man's firearm accidentally fell out of the holster and onto the ground. The man was embarrassed, but he was also lucky that no one was injured.

Moral of the story: It is important to use a good holster that will keep your firearm securely in place.

Tables

Table 1: Benefits of OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

| Benefit |
|---|---|
| Accessibility |
| Retention |
| Durability |
| Comfort |
| Concealment |

Table 2: Downsides of OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

| Downside |
|---|---|
| Bulk |
| Cost |
| Print |

*Table 3: Top 3 OWB Light-Bearing Holsters

Strategies

Effective Strategies for Concealing an OWB Light-Bearing Holster

• Wear a loose-fitting shirt or jacket. This will help to conceal the holster and firearm.
• Use a holster that is the proper size for your firearm. A holster that is too large or too small will be more likely to print through clothing.
• **Position the holster on the waist