Ever dream about carrying your Glock with you everywhere?
We get it…your Glock 19 is the go-to concealed carry weapon for many.
It’s also the standard sidearm for tons of law enforcement agencies and military organizations around the world.
But if you want to carry your Glock with you, you need a holster.
The Glock 19’s popularity means there’s a huge market of compatible holsters for you to choose from.
Unfortunately, all those options can make it difficult to figure out what’s a good holster at a good price that fits your individual needs.
Fortunately, you’ve got us!
In this guide, we’ll tell you what features any holster needs to have, give you the rundown on the various holster types out there, and finally, give you recommendations for holsters in each category.
Summary of Our Top Picks
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Best Leather HolsterGould & Goodrich B803 Three Slot Pancake Holster
With multiple carrying position slots, the B803 is sure to nestle in that comfortable spot for those prefer leather over Kydex.
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Best Affordable G19 HolsterRounded Gear (Concealment Express) Holsters
Starting at under $40, Rounded Gear holsters are a great value without sacrificing quality.
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Best IWB Kydex HolsterWhile spendy, the Tenicor holsters are slim and cut down on excess material --- making for a fast and comfortable IWB hoslter.
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Editor's PickThe Hidden Hybrid holster was the most comfortable holster we tried with the Glock 19.
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Table of Contents
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Choosing a Good Holster
Your holster’s most basic job is to hold your firearm when you’re not using it. But it also needs to protect your firearm — both from being dropped and from bumps and scrapes.
It also prevents accidental discharge and allows you to quickly draw your firearm when the situation calls for it…whether that’s in competition or a defensive situation.
So how do you make sure that a holster can do all that?
Comfort
Don’t underestimate how important comfort is.
It may seem secondary compared to the other qualities we’ll discuss, but if you’re not comfortable in your holster, you probably won’t wear it.
If you don’t wear your holster, you’ll still be in the position of needing to buy a holster for your Glock 19, plus you’ll have wasted money on a useless holster that just sits around taking up space.
And, if your home is anything like mine, you don’t need any more useless stuff sitting around taking up space.
So, like anything else you wear, try on a potential holster before you buy it, if at all possible. If you can’t try it on, at least make sure you can return it in case you don’t like it.
When trying on a holster, imitate the normal motions you go through during the day.
Make sure the holster doesn’t twist or rub. A little bit of rubbing may seem like it’s not a big deal, but over time it can lead to irritation, bruises, and blisters.
If your holster isn’t comfortable on your skin, you’ll need to wear a barrier between your holster and your skin or opt for a different holster entirely.
Rubbing from holsters made of hard materials will lead to more irritation, and an undershirt may not be enough to prevent it.
You also want to make sure that your holster won’t slip or shift.
Protection
Holsters constructed from durable and protective materials shield your Glock 19 against bumps and abrasion.
Most holsters are made of leather, nylon, or a polymer like Kydex, which all offer plenty of protection.
Retention
Retention just means that your holster won’t allow your gun to fall out of it.
The go-to litmus test for retention is simply turning the holster upside down. If your gun stays firmly in place, you’ve got plenty of retention.
Yes, I know most of you probably won’t be doing cartwheels or headstands in your holster, but what if you’re in an altercation and get knocked down?
The last thing you want is for your gun to slip out of your holster so your assailant can grab it before you recover.
Even outside of a defensive situation, you don’t want your gun to fall out while doing normal daily activities, like running, getting in and out of a vehicle, or using the bathroom.
Holsters use an active retention system, a passive retention system, or both at once.
An active retention system means that the user has to take steps to engage and disengage the retention system.
Common examples of active retention are thumb breaks or straps that the user must release before they can pull their weapon from the holster.
A passive retention system means the scabbard of the holster (the part that actually holds the gun) fits snugly around the gun and is molded to the shape of the gun.
This increases surface area contact, which combines to keep the gun firmly in place using friction.
Typically, passive retention holsters use screws that allow you to adjust how tightly the scabbard fits around the gun, allowing the user to adjust the level of friction and, by extension, the level of retention.
Just remember that while retention is absolutely important, you also need to be able to draw your firearm quickly.
Passive systems typically allow quicker access. But there’s a wide range of active retention holsters available as well.
Concealment
This is exactly what it sounds like…how visible is the holster when you wear it?
It’s difficult to talk about concealability briefly since holster type, shape, and material –in addition to the wearer’s build and clothing choices — all impact that.
You’ll also want to try a variety of different holster types to get an idea of what’s most easily concealed on your unique body type and under the clothes that you like to wear.
If you only plan on carrying openly, you may not need to worry about concealability.
Still, it’s nice to know that you already have a concealable holster should you ever decide that you want to carry concealed after all.
On the other hand, I don’t want to rob you of an excuse to buy another holster. You do you.
Trigger Coverage
This is another factor that’s pretty self-explanatory — your holster needs to cover your Glock 19’s trigger to stop the accidental discharge.
Not all holsters do this, but there’s no reason to risk it.
Positive Grip
This simply means that you should be able to draw your gun with one hand with a ready-to-shoot combat grip regardless of position and even in close quarters.
The holster needs to make this efficient, but you can’t expect it to carry the full burden here. You also need to consistently drill to make sure that you can do this reliably.
Holster Types
Now you know what you need from a holster, so let’s move on to holster types.
Outside the Waistband
Once again, we have something that is exactly what it sounds like.
Outside the waistband (OWB), holsters attach to your waistband or belt and are carried on the outside of it.
This is a very visible style, so it’s usually what people think of when they think of a holster, but it’s actually not a particularly popular holster, precisely because it’s so visible.
Their positioning makes them difficult to hide under clothing because they either peek out from under them or print (show a visible bulge).
On the other hand, OWB holsters tend to be quite comfortable and position your firearm where it can be quickly and easily accessed.
Inside the Waistband
And inside the waistband (IWB), holsters are similar, but they sit — you guessed it; inside of your waistband.
They’re probably the most popular holster type for concealed carry since they are easily hidden under clothing.
The cost is that they can be uncomfortable (though an undershirt goes a long way in helping this), and establishing a positive grip is more difficult.
Shoulder
If you’ve seen just about any movie about spies or law enforcement, then you’ve almost certainly seen a shoulder holster.
They’re actually a popular choice among plainclothes law enforcement in real life, too — but not so much among civilians.
They’re easily concealed under a jacket, but that obviously means that you have to keep your jacket on as long as you want to keep your firearm concealed.
They also conceal well under loose shirts, but this makes it more difficult to access your gun, especially if your shirt is tucked in.
Ankle
While ankle holsters aren’t usually the first choice for concealed carry since they can be uncomfortable, they can be used for backup guns.
With an ankle holster, you’re trading quick and convenient access for deep concealment. Also, remember that running and drawing from this holster is impossible. You will have to stop to get to your gun, which could be problematic depending on the situation.
Nevertheless, if you love a good backup gun or have no other option, this can work in a pinch.
Women-Specific Holsters
Now, women can wear any of the holster types we’ve discussed, but unless indicated otherwise, the vast majority of holsters are designed with men’s bodies in mind.
That means they may not be as comfortable on functional when worn by a woman.
You may not have encountered any problems with non-women-specific holsters, but if you do, you can find holsters of all of the above types that are actually designed for women.
There are also holster types that are generally women-specific, like thigh holsters, carry purses, and purse holsters.
For a more comprehensive look at women’s concealed carry, check out our Guide to Carrying for Women or Best Concealed Carry Gear for Women.
Best Glock 19 Holsters
You asked for it, and we listened — here’s a rundown of some of the best holsters for your Glock 19. We’ve rounded up a few of each type, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Best OWB Holsters
1. Fobus Tactical GLT19
The Fobus Tactical GLT19 offers a low profile for an OWB holster. So, it’s a great option if you want to practice concealed carry but aren’t a fan of IWB holsters.
It’s made of Kydex to offer complete protection and trigger coverage with a paddle-style back to keep the holster in place.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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The GLT19 brings a blended retention system with a safety strap and fits Glock 19s with laser sights as well.
2. Gould & Goodrich B803 Three Slot Pancake Holster
For a more classic look, go with the G&G B803 Three Slot Pancake Holster.
It’s made of genuine, vegetable-dyed leather but is also molded to more securely fit your Glock.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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The B803 is available in both left and right-handed versions and can be positioned straight or canted.
Best IWB Holsters
3. Rounded Gear IWB Kydex Holster
It’s no secret that Rounded Gear (formerly Concealment Express) holsters are popular here at Pew Pew Tactical.
This one, in particular, is lightweight, comfortable, and secure, both in how it attaches to your waistband and in how it retains your gun.
The durable Kydex provides excellent protection.
It’s great for a variety of carry positions but does especially well for appendix carry.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Check out Eric’s more complete review of Concealment Express holsters for more info, pics, and videos of them in action.
4. Tenicor Holsters
If you know you want to carry appendix carry and require the most thought-out holster…check out Tenicor’s Velo.
They shaped the Kydex into something more anatomically pleasing. And it really does feel better.
Plus, the size for their light-bearing Sagax Lux model isn’t too much larger.
Their standard T1 clip is also SUPER retentive — takes longer to put on, but it’s not coming off unless you want it to. Other more standard options are available too.
And, of course…it’s super fast on the draw.
The only downside is the price compared to other pure Kydex. But if you carry for a living and want something super comfortable in the appendix…
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5. Crossbreed SuperTuck
Crossbreed’s SuperTuck is another Kydex IWB holster, but this one is a “hybrid” with a soft leather backing for improved comfort.
It can be comfortably worn with a tucked or untucked shirt and is supposed to be positioned toward the rear of your draw side.
Another one of our favorites.
Plus, the belt clips are powder-coated to protect your belt and allow for adjustable cant and ride height.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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6. Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5
As the name might tell you, the Cloak Tuck 3.5 is a holster with a lot of iteration and development behind it.
We have a complete hands-on review of the 3.0 version, and we liked it a LOT.
The 3.5 version is even better, with improved retention options and better connections to the belt.
Plus, all of the awesome things we loved in the 3.0, such as a cooling neoprene backing, hardshell holster front, and high backing to prevent the handgun from digging into your side, and it’s available for a HUGE range of guns — not JUST the Glock 19.
A great starter (or ender) into the IWB world.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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7. Hidden Hybrid Holsters
Our current favorite hybrid holster uses Amish leather, which makes it super comfy.
Especially when paired with the suede backer.
They have plenty of options for the G19, such as a single clip (for appendix carry) to a double-clip if you want more comfort in the 4-5 o’clock arena. Or you just want a laser/light.
Check out our full review of Hidden Hybrid, where we’ll cover everything you might need to know.
Our Editor’s pick for the comfiest hybrid G19 holster we’ve tried so far.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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What’s your take on Hidden Hybrid Holsters? Rate them below.
Best Shoulder Holsters
8. Galco Gunleather Classic Lite Shoulder Holster
The Classic Lite Shoulder Holster is exactly what you imagine when you think of a shoulder holster.
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It’s made of soft leather for a classic look and comfortable fit and is available for either left or right-handed draw.
A mag holster and gear loop are on the side opposite your gun holster to add utility and keep the holster balanced.
A snap closure keeps your gun securely in place.
Best Ankle Holsters
9. Uncle Mike’s Nylon Ankle Holster
This is probably one of the most widely recommended ankle holsters.
It’s comfortable, with an adjustable velcro wrap that allows it to fit on a variety of leg sizes, while a breathable elastic calf garter keeps the holster securely in place.
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A velcro closure retention strap keeps your gun secure.
The holster is also padded to make it more comfortable. All that said, carrying a G19 on your ankle will take a special effort as this gun isn’t really made for deep concealment.
We recommend a smaller Glock (like the G43 or G26) to make this one work.
Honorable Mentions
10. PHLster IWB & OWB
We couldn’t end this list without talking about PHLster holsters. This company is a smaller shop but one that is dedicated to high-quality, solid holsters that conceal really well.
We personally have tired out their Floodlight IWB and OWB models as well as the newer Enigma system, and we can’t brag enough.
Yes, these are a little pricier than some models, but they are well worth the money!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Final Thoughts
You can’t go wrong with any of these holsters. But, to find the one that works best for you, try on and handle a variety.
Whichever holster or holster you go with, you’ll also need to be sure to drill to get yourself familiar with the holster. Also, continue to practice as long as you continue to use the holster to keep up your muscle memory.
Include drills that practice both drawing and holstering your Glock 19 and, if applicable, your spare magazine or magazines.
Our go-to affordable Kydex option is Concealment Express.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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While our current favorite comfortable option is Hidden Hybrid.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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So what holster did you choose to carry your Glock 19? Do you use one on our list, or have another favorite? Check out our master list of Best Concealed Carry Holsters.
21 Leave a Reply
I used to drive for a living and I got into a lot of not so nice urban neighbourhoods. Sitting in a seat with a seat belt is not exactly conducive to wearing either iwb nor owb or appendix. My solution was ankle carry. The particular one that I used had sheepskin on the inside with a wide stretch band with velcro. Whethet dressed or casual you can find low rise boots. When I was in those neighbourhoods I would unsnap the retention strap and would pull just past that snap and I was ready. Worked pretty well for me, just me, somebody else maybe not so much. If I had to walk or stand it was ok, if I had to sit, just be aware of where you are(you should be anyway). Did that for twelve years. I also used a five shot revolver with one and a half inch barrel. You run from trouble when you can! If you can't, you are going to need fifteen rounds anyway. This is for close-up situations! YMMV.
Well if someone looking for holsters here is the best website to buy:
countrycheapammo. com /holsters/
blackhawk_dot_com/holster-selector/colt-1911-gov.-and.-clones/t-series-l2c/BH-410703BKR.html - I bought this OWB holster for my Glock 19x. Can adjust the gun angle by moving 3 screws to fit it to the belt clip. My two uses are either hip or at my 6 with a 90 degree fitment, and both are a few mins to convert. And the thumb release is smooth! Would recommend!
I've run an ankle holster for a G42 or G43 or even the original Sig P365. I wouldn't recommend one for something bigger and heavier such as the G19. They're good for the 1-pounders, but not the heavier guns. The calf straps can help, but in my opinion it's just one more touch point to possibly irritate the skin. I've also found that without calf straps they tend to slip down so when sitting or bending the knee and your pants ride up a bit, they can become visible. And if they slip down onto the ankle bone it can be downright painful. Definitely best with a black gun in a black holster on black socks under black pants. They work much better if they're above boots... but that also puts them higher and on the thicker part of your calf so sometimes you need an extension. Being higher, they can also bulge more and bring attention to what should be concealed.
Sort of surprised you didn't mention belly bands? There's a few on the market and the newer ones from Vertx are stellar. But even the older Gould & Goodrich ones are good for a small to mid-sized gun and a mag or two. If you're in a business professional office situation and don't want a bulge on your hip or ankle... and don't want a metal or plastic clip showing over your belt, these work well (remember: some people carry even where they aren't permitted to due to dumb laws or policies... and others that carry know what the metal and plastic clips are for... so you can run afoul of both legal and workplace policy issues if the clip is seen and someone calls you out on it). They're sort of like a shoulder holster in terms of how they sit under your arm and on the side, but in my opinion are a bit more comfortable. They're not the easiest to access, but not much harder to draw than any other that requires untucking or pulling up a shirt. I'm actually a fan of the untucked dress shirt and belly bands can work well for that... plus they can make you look slimmer so all the chicks will want you :P Humor aside, I'd rather have one that has a slower draw than to not be armed at all.
I've tried more holster and guns that I can count and in the end it doesn't matter if I'm carrying a 1911 or a 2011 or a G19 or a P365XL... for long term comfort... especially on road trips and sitting for long periods... I absolutely love the SOB (small of back) holsters from DeSantis. I have a few. There's something about the placement over the hip and the butt up position that makes them comfortable when driving, easy to access, and easily concealed (less printing) due to most shirts hanging loose around that part of your body. Some of us with larger bellys print more 'cause our chest isn't further out then our appendix area. But almost all of us that are at least average size dad bods have wider back/shoulders than small of back so printing is less in this area with this style of holster.
Last thing I'll say is Amazon is a good source for buy and try. With each new firearm I tend to buy 10-15 holsters to find the right one(s) then just return the rest. Most of the good brands are on Amazon as well... either directly or thru 3rd parties. Just check the return options. And its a lot easier than returning directly and whippin' out your piece at the local gun store to try and find the perfect fit.
The market is flooded with Kydex holsters. And most all manufacturers of Kydex holsters seem afraid of adding active retention, especially level II retention minimum, to any of their concealed Kydex holsters. Sure, there are a few but not many in Kydex for concealed IWB or OWB unless you go to something like Safariland with their ALS system.
Look, here's the thing about retention: The, basically today, myth in the gun world that no one is going to try to grab for your firearm is just that, a myth. And yes, I know the thing about "but retention slows you down."
So the theory goes that a concealed holster is not seen so its unlikely someone is going to try to grab for it - but did ya ever get into a physical battle with someone attacking you and couldn't break free before they felt your gun? I have. About a year ago now while stopping for gas at a convenience store I got attacked by three guys. It was sudden, swift, and violent. One of them had me in a bear hug from behind before I could react, he felt my firearm and went for it and pulled in right out of the Tenicor passive retention IWB holster under my shirt. He didn't have a solid grip on it and because he had released his hold on me partially by moving his arm away to grab the gun I was able to snatch the gun back from him and twist out of his hold and bring the gun to bear. I didn't fire because there was by this time another car pulling up and was in the line of fire but they ran away anyway when the other car arrived. So I got really lucky.
So the moral of my story is this: In the right situation passive retention can get you killed with your own gun, or get your gun stolen.
I've since switched to Safari Land holsters with their ALS system.
Sure, my experience is not the norm. There are not many stories out there on internet searches where guns have been grabbed from passive retention holsters, especially concealed IWB or OWB, at least not enough to give an impression its a common thing. I used to think this too, like the rest of the general gun world, that it would be extremely rare for someone to try to snatch your gun from either open or concealed carry. But after my incident I started digging and found that it does happen more than the impression that it does not happen and its simply not out there on the internet. Not everything is in a news story on the internet, things like this when reported are treated as basically a 'theft' (and the associated assault too if that's involved) and get placed in a police report but there isn't any news coverage. Even the local cops I asked about this said they had not heard of it happening but when I dug further I found twenty reported incidents in a two month period just in my area alone that had been reported to police.
Sometimes I also open carry to and from the range, and when open carrying, and since my incident, I have become aware of people around me who seem really interested in my gun, not in a 'oh look he has a gun' novelty way either. I had one gang tattoo covered guy about two weeks ago that kept eyeing my gun and trying to get around behind me so I just put my stuff down and left.
So IWB or OWB, the Kydex is so popular and the market is flooded with Kydex holsters with passive retention portrayed like its the most glorious thing and a special built in 'value adding' feature but people don't go farther for retention and maybe they should.
I prefer OWB kydex holsters for any of my carry guns. I am carrying almost anywhere and for any occasion. Kydex holsters usually sit snug on the waist, don't move around, and the gun is easy to draw and re-holster. I even carry my firearms that way with shorts and a T-Shirt or short sleeve shirt. Just make sure that the T-Shirt or shirt is loose fitting. For some activities like hiking or biking, OWB is definitely more comfortable than IWB. I am a small frame person, and I can easily carry even my bigger, geared up P320 X-five with RMR and light all day without problems.
I don't know about the holsters but that is my coffee table...
Looking for choices on ambidextrous iwb/owb holsters for a Glock 19, any ideas??
I get my holsters from Dale Fricke a custom kydex holster maker in Texas. He does an awesome job. It didnt fit perfectly once with the tlr-1hl and I even tried to fix it myself. Then failed haha. Sent it back to him and he fixed it right up and sent it back no charge. The guy makes really great holsters. Check him out.
Anyone know what kind of leather pancake holster that’s pictured. 2 slot close to top of article? Can’t make out the company name on back.
This might be a dumb question but will a G19X fit into a G19 holster? Also, what about a G19 with a threaded barrel? Does that need its own or will that fit the standard ones?
Most holsters I see list both 19 and 19x. The only difference is a longer grip I believe. Were you looking at a specific holster? 19 w/ threaded barrel will fit just about any holster made for G17 or any G19 holster with open barrel/bottom portion
No it won't. The 19x is wider.
How has Phlster, JM custom kydex, Black star gear not made the list? Some of these are rubbish holsters. Not a good list. The only one on here that's even worth the drop is Tenicor
Recommendation: If you are going to be wearing a passive retention IWB holster on your back, get the holster designed for the other hand, i.e., left handed model for a right handed shooter. Your hand doesn't need to travel as far behind your back. It's significantly quicker to draw, especially from a seated position.
I have a Stealth Gear IWB mini. It is the most comfortable holster I have had. Breathes much better than any other holster as well.
I carry only OWB so my perspective is a little different. Is your goal quick access to your pistol or to keep your pistol hidden? The two are mutually exclusive with many holsters. I shoot right-handed, so the holster rides at 4:00 o'clock and a single mag pouch rides at 8:00 o'clock. I carry OWB and rely on a loose t-shirt or jacket for coverage. I don't worry nearly as much about printing since open carry became legal in my state. I used to carry a Colt Commander in a Milt Sparks holster. Since I've converted to plastic pistols, I've also converted to Kydex holsters. My two favorite Kydex manufacturers are Dara Holsters and Blade-Tech. Hard to find a truly custom Kydex holster. Most manufacturers are looking for ways to speed and standardize production, pushing customization off on the end-user. Blade-Tech was the leader in that technique. More money, less time, higher profit margins. Their holsters come in modular, assemble-yourself kits with all kinds of screws and funky attachment devices (e.g., Tek-Lok, ASR, Molle, and variants thereof). You need a mechanical engineering degree to put one together correctly. Dara is better but is moving in the direction of Blade-Tech. I prefer leather from Milt Sparks, Kramer, or Mitch Rosen except their prices are out-of-sight and their lead times are ridiculous. (Six months to a year, if they feel like it.) Most of the Kydex holsters I see on the market today are complicated, over-engineered junk. A great idea that I saw on an old Blade-Tech holster from the late 1990s was Kydex printed with a denim pattern. It would almost disappear against a pair of jeans. I have not seen another manufacturer with a denim-colored holster since. Overall, I am unhappy with most offerings available and have no interest in switching to appendix carry, so my options are limited.
I should add to my earlier comment that I have discovered JM Custom Kydex based down in Texas. Their holsters are similar to the old Blade-Tech holsters from the turn of the century that I liked so much. I am very fond of JM Custom Kydex products and encourage you to take a look. And I stand by my earlier comment that a holster in blue jean color is a great idea, whether IWB or OWB.
Have found Galco King Tuk IWB to be comfortable and surprisingly effective at holding the grip in close to avoid printing. Seems to be a nearly identical product to the Crossbreed Supertuck. I've got 3 different King Tuks at the moment: G20, G17/19/26/etc, 1911.
None of those holsters are worn by veteran shooters
So which ones are?
It's not very helpful to criticize other's ideas if you don't offer better ones.
I recently bought a G19 intending to get a concealed carry permit. In doing research, I've found there's many brands and styles of holster, and many more opinions about them.