Finding the Best Holster for Your Glock 43

At Cloudster Pillow, we understand the importance of finding the perfect holster for your Glock 43. A well-chosen holster for Glock 43 enhances comfort, safety, and accessibility for everyday carry.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key features to consider when selecting a holster for Glock 43 and compare popular styles and brands of holster for Glock 43. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision that suits your specific needs and preferences.

Finding the right holster for Glock 43 is crucial for every owner. Choosing the perfect holster for Glock 43 can significantly enhance your overall carrying experience.

What Makes a Great Glock 43 Holster?

A great Glock 43 holster combines several key features to enhance your everyday carry experience. Let’s explore the essential elements that separate exceptional holsters from the rest.

Secure Retention

Top-notch Glock 43 holsters offer rock-solid retention. Your firearm should stay in place until you intentionally draw it. Look for adjustable retention screws that allow you to fine-tune the hold. Some holsters use audible “clicks” to indicate proper seating. Holster retention levels are important whenever carrying a firearm, and especially so when carrying your firearm openly.

Comfort Reigns Supreme

Comfort directly impacts how often you’ll carry. Well-designed holsters distribute weight evenly and minimize pressure points. Consider how the holster feels after hours of wear, not just during initial fitting. (The right holster can make all-day carry a breeze.)

When selecting a holster for Glock 43, consider investing in one that offers a comfortable fit, especially during prolonged use.

Concealment Capabilities

Your holster should work with your body type and clothing choices to keep your Glock 43 hidden. Features like holster claws, wedges, and adjustable ride height can dramatically improve concealment.

A well-designed holster for Glock 43 allows you to carry discreetly and confidently, knowing your firearm is secure.

Material Selection

Kydex and leather are the most common holster materials, each with distinct advantages. Kydex offers durability and moisture resistance, while leather molds to your body over time. Hybrid designs attempt to combine the best of both worlds. Choose a material that can withstand daily wear and tear.

Smooth Draw and Re-holster

Quality holsters allow for consistent, snag-free draws. The holster’s mouth should remain open when the firearm is drawn, facilitating easy one-handed re-holstering. This feature proves essential for both practice sessions and potential real-world scenarios. (Firearm instructor Tom Givens emphasizes that a good holster should allow for a clean draw in under 1.5 seconds from concealment.)

Now that we’ve covered the essential features of a great Glock 43 holster, let’s explore the various holster styles available to find the perfect match for your carry needs.

Understanding each style of holster for Glock 43 can help you decide which option is best suited for your lifestyle.

Which Glock 43 Holster Style Fits Your Needs?

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters

The IWB holster for Glock 43 provides a seamless blend of concealment and accessibility, making it a favorite among many carriers.

IWB holsters top the list for many Glock 43 owners. These holsters tuck the firearm inside your waistband, typically between 3 and 5 o’clock. The Vedder LightTuck stands out with its adjustable ride height featuring three levels of adjustment, allowing you to customize the holster’s position for optimal comfort and minimal printing.

IWB holsters pair best with pants or shorts that have a sturdy gun belt. You might need to size up your pants by 1-2 inches to accommodate the holster comfortably. (Many users find that an undershirt prevents skin irritation from direct holster contact.)

Appendix Carry (AIWB) Holsters

AIWB has surged in popularity, especially among those who prioritize quick access and deep concealment. This style positions the Glock 43 at the front of your body, typically between 12 and 2 o’clock. The Tier 1 Concealed Axis set the standard for comfort and innovation in appendix carry, originally known as the AXIS SLIM.

AIWB can provide incredible comfort when matched with the right holster and accessories. Many carriers find that adding a wedge, like the Cloudster Pillow, significantly enhances comfort and concealment by tilting the grip closer to the body.

Finding the right AIWB holster for Glock 43 can be life-changing for those who prioritize both comfort and concealment.

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters

OWB holsters offer superior comfort and ease of access. They suit open carry or concealed carry under loose-fitting clothing. The Safariland 7378 ALS proves popular, featuring an automatic locking system for enhanced security and combining the security of ALS® with the speed and simplicity of an open-top design.

While OWB holsters conceal less effectively than IWB options, they shine in situations that demand quick access, such as competitive shooting or outdoor activities. (They also serve as a great starting point for those new to carrying, as they tend to feel more comfortable immediately.)

Pocket Holsters

Pocket holsters are an excellent choice for discreet carry options, especially for those with a Glock 43.

For ultimate discretion, pocket holsters take the lead. These holsters excel in situations where traditional IWB or OWB carry becomes impractical. The Desantis Nemesis ranks highly, designed to break up the Glock 43’s outline in your pocket while enabling a clean draw.

Pocket holsters work best with looser-fitting pants or shorts with deep pockets. They offer an excellent option for summer carry or as a backup to your primary carry method. However, they limit you to smaller firearms like the Glock 43, and draw times can lag behind other carry methods.

Your choice of holster style for your Glock 43 hinges on your lifestyle, clothing preferences, and personal comfort. Experimentation with different styles often leads to the best results. The next section will compare popular Glock 43 holster brands to further refine your selection process.

Choosing the right holster for Glock 43 is a personal decision that reflects your unique needs and preferences.

Which Glock 43 Holster Brand Stands Out?

Several brands have earned reputations for quality and innovation in Glock 43 holsters. We’ll examine four popular options to help you make an informed decision.

Vedder Holsters LightTuck: Versatility Meets Precision

The Vedder LightTuck ranks as a top choice for Glock 43 owners. Its full-length sweat guard protects you and your firearm, while the adjustable cant (0-30 degrees) allows for personalized positioning. Users praise its slim profile, which minimizes printing even under light clothing.

The LightTuck’s adjustable retention stands out. You can fine-tune how tightly the holster grips your Glock 43, striking the perfect balance between security and a smooth draw. The holster’s ‘combat cut’ design enables a full firing grip during the draw process, a critical factor in high-stress situations.

Tier 1 Concealed Axis Slim: Integrated Magazine Carry

For many, the right holster for Glock 43 will prioritize comfort, allowing for extended wear without discomfort.

The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Slim offers an innovative solution for those who prioritize having a spare magazine. This appendix carry holster features an attached magazine carrier, connected by a flexible cord. This design allows the holster to conform to your body’s natural curves, enhancing both comfort and concealment.

The Axis Slim’s modular nature sets it apart. You can detach the magazine carrier for situations where you prefer a slimmer profile. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those who alternate between different carry styles based on clothing or activity level. (Some users report that the Axis Slim pairs exceptionally well with the Cloudster Pillow for maximum comfort and concealment.)

Raven Concealment Vanguard 2: Minimalist Trigger Guard

The minimalist design of certain holsters for Glock 43 can provide an ideal solution for those seeking discreet carry options.

The Raven Concealment Vanguard 2 takes a different approach. It covers only the trigger guard rather than encasing the entire firearm. This ultra-minimalist design results in the smallest possible footprint, making it ideal for deep concealment scenarios.

While the Vanguard 2 excels in concealment, it sacrifices some retention and reholstering ease compared to full-kydex options. It suits experienced carriers who prioritize absolute minimalism and feel comfortable with its unique draw technique.

Crossbreed SuperTuck: Hybrid Comfort

The Crossbreed SuperTuck represents the hybrid holster category, combining a leather backing with a kydex shell. This design aims to merge the comfort of leather with the security and precise fit of kydex.

When it comes to comfort, the hybrid design of a holster for Glock 43 can offer the best of both worlds.

Many users report that the SuperTuck excels in all-day comfort, especially for those who carry at the 4-5 o’clock position. The leather backing molds to your body over time, creating a custom fit. However, it trades off slightly more bulk compared to full-kydex options, which may impact concealment for some body types. (Some carriers find that adding a Cloudster Pillow can help offset this bulk and improve overall concealment.)

Final Thoughts

Selecting the perfect holster for Glock 43 requires careful consideration of retention, comfort, and concealment. Your body type, daily activities, and clothing choices influence which holster style works best for you. We recommend you test various holsters to find your ideal match, as many manufacturers offer trial periods or money-back guarantees.

Ultimately, a holster for Glock 43 should balance security and comfort, ensuring you can carry with confidence.

The right holster allows for a smooth draw and easy re-holstering while keeping your firearm secure. Pay attention to how holsters feel during extended wear, how well they conceal under your typical attire, and how smoothly you can draw your firearm. Your holster choice impacts your carry experience significantly, so take time to evaluate different options.

For enhanced comfort and concealment, consider accessories like the Cloudster Pillow. This versatile add-on improves various holster styles, particularly AIWB and IWB setups. (Its adjustable design helps reduce pressure points and minimize printing.) With careful consideration and quality options, you’ll carry your Glock 43 confidently in any situation.

Consider how each holster for Glock 43 complements your daily routine and lifestyle to find the best fit.