Your preference: G17/22/31 OWB Holster

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WrongHanded

WrongHanded

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So what's a good solid choice for an OWB holster for a full-size Glock? I'm not looking for highly concealable, but I want tough with solid retention. Something that can take some abuse. I suppose that might possibly mean a duty holster, but some of those seem a little too bulky. I noticed Red River has one that looks like it's along those lines. But perhaps there are better options?

I'm also not sure if light bearing means the gun must have a light, or if it will work either way. That's be a nice option, but not something I want to have to keep mounted.
 
1KPerDay said:
What does solid retention mean?
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Well, for example: I have a few blade tech holsters for various Sig pistols. One bump up on the grip can dislodge them from the friction retention around the trigger guard. That's just not enough.

I wouldn't be apposed to a level II type of retention, requiring a lever to be pushed. Or a strap of some sort.
 
Some matches require a positive retention, and if a gun falls out while you're crawling, running, or laying prone, it's automatic disqualification for a safety violation. Most competitors just use something like Bianchi UM84. It's reliable and gets the job done. But it's not great for a self-defense gun.

I heard good things about Safariland 7TS with ALS.

Personally, I was well served by Bravo Concealment BCA OWB holster. It's a basic kydex holster, but a quality production.

BTW, most of these 1-stage holsters do not keep the gun in with the friction. They must have some kind of protrusion that locks into the trigger guard. You adjust them so that the retention is as positive as you want it. Even the best Bravo and Perun work on the same principle.
 
WrongHanded said:
I'm also not sure if light bearing means the gun must have a light, or if it will work either way. That's be a nice option, but not something I want to have to keep mounted.
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While there may be some light bearing holsters that will work with or without a light mounted, most light bearing holsters only work with the light attached as the light is used as a retention point.

However, since you seem to be looking for a duty type retention holster, many of those get their retention not from the shape of the holster, but rather from a retention device such as a hood.
 
WrongHanded said:
I'm also not sure if light bearing means the gun must have a light, or if it will work either way. That's be a nice option, but not something I want to have to keep mounted.
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Your best option is a retention holster that will work with or without a light attached. I only know of one at the moment. Blackhawk Omnivore. Will fit the popular Streamlight and Surefire flashlights. Get a separate rail device for the holster to attach onto when you carry without a light. Bonus for you: It works on a wide range of firearms, as long as it has a rail.

https://www.amazon.com/BLACKHAWK-419002BBR-Omnivore-MultiFit-Bearing/dp/B01MDLE4LP

https://www.amazon.com/BLACKHAWK-Omnivore-Attachment-Device-Pistol/dp/B01M635E6Q
 
WrongHanded

Well a G17 will go into a Bianchi M12 holster and definitely pass the retention test but it's a snug fit that's for sure!

8nwoB78.jpg
 
bannockburn said:
WrongHanded

Well a G17 will go into a Bianchi M12 holster and definitely pass the retention test but it's a snug fit that's for sure!

View attachment 877424
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Fits most of my criteria for sure. However, I've always found the metal belt clip very uncomfortable. Perhaps there's a version with a different belt attachment that still allows for the cover flap, but I've yet to see it.

I suppose if I don't find anything better, I can always default to a Blackhawk Serpa. But the search is still on. The Omnivore is interesting though. I'm still looking into that.
 
I know many hate this holster, but I really like, and carry daily, the Blackhawk Serpa. Fantastic retention, quick draw. OWB carry that puts some space between your body and the gun so you always get a good hold on the draw. The release mechanism is quick to learn and is solid. There are those that say the release mechanism puts your finger on the trigger, but that just isn't so, my finger always ends up straight along the frame of the gun right where it should be on the draw. These holsters are tough, I've carried my current Serpa with a Glock 27 for 4 years and I wear it everyday, all day. I do a lot of outside chores including yard work, wood cutting, tractor work, animal care (chickens & donkeys), home and farm maintenance, etc and it has never let my gun out when it wasn't supposed to. It's plastic so is dishwasher safe as well!! Cost is in the $35 range.
I actually use the paddle style.

https://www.amazon.com/BLACKHAWK-SERPA-CQC-Concealment-Holster/dp/B000NJXWBM?th=1&psc=1

OK, maybe not really dishwasher safe, but mine has gone through the cycle a few times.
 
WrongHanded

I suppose if I don't find anything better, I can always default to a Blackhawk Serpa.
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Funny you should mention that as I have a Blackhawk Serpa CQC holster for my G17 as well. Again it has very positive retention and the design allows for a number of adjustments to be made to the positioning of the holster on your belt.

dKiqnoh.jpg
 
Well, I think I'll pick up a Serpa without light bearing capabilities. - Now I'm kind of wishing I hadn't cut the excess off of the G17 sized one I use for my G23. Seemed like a good idea at the time though. - They're pretty cheap and will serve for general use.

Then I'll look harder at light bearing holsters later. I think that's a nice option to have available. Decisions, decisions. But you've all given me some options to consider. Thank you!
 
Honestly, it’s very frustrating to me, as a right handed person, to have to wade through all the great deals on holsters on eBay that are lefty. Often, they are cheaper than comparable righty holsters.
 
WrongHanded said:
Well, for example: I have a few blade tech holsters for various Sig pistols. One bump up on the grip can dislodge them from the friction retention around the trigger guard. That's just not enough.
Click to expand...

WrongHanded said:
And Sold!

For less than $14 including tax, I've got to at least try it.
Click to expand...
Note that on a slide holster, a bump to the muzzle will often launch the gun out of the holster.
 
JTQ said:
Note that on a slide holster, a bump to the muzzle will often launch the gun out of the holster.
Click to expand...

Yes. That holster isn't the solution to the original post, but it may fullfil a concealment roll in certain circumstances.
 
I used a SERPA holster for a very long time with a Beretta M9. You have to be very aware of your finger at all times. I practiced drawing with an empty firearm until I could not get it wrong before I carried it loaded. You might be able to find some light bearing level 2 or 3 holsters floating around used as well.
 
I decided to embrace the taclight idea. I ordered from Red River. https://rrtholsters.com/product/duty-light-bearing-holster/

I went for the stingray belt attachment, but I have a few paddles and tekloks hanging around from bladetech holsters for other guns. I didn't order the hood kit, because I'm assuming with the light on the gun, it should have enough friction to stay in. If it doesn't, I'll see about ordering one.
 
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