Finding the Perfect Glock 19 Holster for You

Finding the perfect Glock 19 holster can be a game-changer for concealed carriers. At Cloudster Pillow, we understand the importance of comfort and security when it comes to your everyday carry setup.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a Glock 19 holster, popular styles, and top brands that deliver exceptional performance. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or looking to upgrade your current setup, we’ve got you covered.

What Makes a Great Glock 19 Holster?

Material Considerations

The choice between Kydex and leather holsters remains a hot topic among concealed carriers. Kydex, a durable thermoplastic, maintains its shape and resists water. It provides a distinct ‘click’ when holstering, indicating secure retention. Leather offers unmatched comfort and molds to your body over time. However, it may wear out faster and become sticky in humid weather.

Hybrid holsters (combining a Kydex shell with a leather backing) offer a compelling middle ground. These holsters provide the rigidity of Kydex with the comfort of leather against the skin.

Retention and Adjustability

A top-notch holster must keep your Glock 19 secure. Adjustable retention screws allow you to set the perfect draw tension. Some holsters include active retention devices (such as thumb breaks or finger releases) for enhanced security.

Adjustability extends beyond retention. Cant angle and ride height adjustments can significantly enhance comfort and concealment. The Vedder LightTuck, for example, offers adjustable ride height featuring three levels of adjustment, allowing you to find your ideal carry position.

Comfort: The Ultimate Priority

A holster’s quality becomes irrelevant if it causes discomfort. Features like sweat guards protect your skin from the firearm, while rounded edges prevent chafing.

For appendix carry, a wedge can transform your experience. The Cloudster Pillow stands out as the top choice, designed to soften the feel of your holster while enhancing concealment for any AIWB or IWB holster setup.

Concealment Features

An excellent holster should disappear under your clothing. Try to find designs with a minimal footprint and features that pull the gun’s grip close to your body. Quality clips (like Vedder’s Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clips) can enhance concealment by allowing the holster to sit closer to your body.

The Importance of Trial and Error

Finding your perfect holster often requires experimentation. Don’t hesitate to try different styles and brands until you discover what works best for you and your Glock 19.

As we move forward, let’s explore the various popular Glock 19 holster styles that cater to different carry preferences and situations.

Which Glock 19 Holster Style Fits Your Needs?

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters

IWB holsters top the list for Glock 19 carriers due to their excellent concealment. These holsters sit between your pants and body, typically at the 3-5 o’clock position for right-handed shooters. The Vedder LightTuck is made in the USA from .080′′ Kydex, offering a solid yet lightweight feel with nicely contoured edges.

IWB holsters excel in warm weather when light clothing prevails. However, they might require pants one size larger to accommodate the firearm comfortably. New IWB carriers should start with shorter wear periods to adjust to the feeling.

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters

OWB holsters shine in cooler months when jackets and loose-fitting shirts become common. They provide easier access and often more comfort than IWB options. The Safariland ALS series utilizes sturdy hardware components that are easy to adjust, and the ALS system is rugged enough to withstand years of use.

For concealed carry, select OWB holsters with a slight inward cant and a slim profile. This keeps the grip close to your body, which reduces printing. OWB carry typically requires more careful wardrobe planning to ensure effective concealment.

Appendix Carry Holsters

Appendix carry has gained popularity, especially among those who prioritize quick access and concealment. Worn at the 1 o’clock position (just right of the belly button for right-handed shooters), these holsters offer a fast, natural draw stroke.

The Tenicor Velo4 features a big wedge that keeps your gun tucked in vertically toward your belly, with its roundness contributing to comfort. For maximum comfort in appendix carry, try pairing your holster with a Cloudster Pillow wedge. This accessory improves comfort and concealment for any AIWB or IWB setup.

When selecting an appendix holster, focus on those with features like adjustable ride height and cant. These allow you to position the firearm for optimal concealment and a clean draw, even when seated.

Shoulder Holsters

Shoulder holsters offer a unique carry option, especially for those who spend a lot of time seated or driving. They distribute the weight of the firearm across the shoulders, which can increase comfort during extended wear periods. However, they require specific clothing choices (usually a jacket or open-front shirt) to conceal effectively.

Ankle Holsters

While not as common for a firearm the size of a Glock 19, ankle holsters can serve as an excellent backup option or for specific professions where deep concealment is necessary. They work best with looser-fitting pants and require practice to master quick and efficient draws.

As we explore these various holster styles, it becomes clear that each offers distinct advantages. Your lifestyle, body type, and carry preferences will ultimately determine which style suits you best. Let’s now turn our attention to some of the top Glock 19 holster options that have earned high praise from concealed carriers.

Which Glock 19 Holsters Stand Out?

Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite

The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite revolutionizes appendix carry. This holster combines a firearm holster with a spare magazine carrier in a sidecar design. Its flexible center conforms to your body, which increases comfort for long-term wear.

The Axis Elite’s modularity sets it apart. Users can detach the magazine carrier for a slimmer profile when needed. The holster is fastened together with military-grade shock cord, allowing the firearm and magazine to flex independently. This creates a more natural fit to your body. Many users pair it with a Cloudster Pillow wedge for maximum comfort.

Vedder LightTuck

The Vedder LightTuck has become a popular choice for many Glock 19 carriers due to its versatility and minimalist design. Made from 0.080″ Kydex, it offers durability without adding bulk. The LightTuck excels in adjustability, with a full 30 degrees of cant adjustment and multiple ride height options.

Vedder’s patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip stands out as a key feature. This clip provides excellent retention on your belt while remaining easy to remove when needed. The LightTuck also includes a sweat guard to protect your firearm from moisture during all-day carry. Weighing only a few ounces, it adds minimal weight to your carry gun.

CrossBreed SuperTuck

The CrossBreed SuperTuck caters to those who prioritize all-day comfort. Its hybrid design combines a Kydex shell with a leather backing. This combination provides the security of Kydex with the comfort of leather against your skin.

The SuperTuck’s wide leather panel distributes the weight of your Glock 19 across a larger area, which reduces pressure points. Its dual clip design enhances stability and allows for tuckable carry, making it an excellent choice for those who need to dress formally. It’s considered one of the most comfortable and concealable inside the waistband (IWB) holsters available.

Tenicor Velo4

The Tenicor Velo4 has gained a strong following among appendix carry enthusiasts. Its unique design incorporates a built-in wedge and camming bar, which work together to enhance concealment and comfort. The wedge tilts the grip of your Glock 19 into your body, while the camming bar applies pressure to the muzzle end, which further reduces printing.

Tenicor’s attention to detail shows in the Velo4’s clip design. The clips angle to pull the holster tight against your body, which improves concealment. The holster also accommodates optics and threaded barrels, making it a versatile choice for various Glock 19 setups.

These holsters represent some of the top options available, but personal preference plays a significant role in holster selection. What works perfectly for one carrier might not suit another. Try multiple options to find your ideal setup.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the perfect Glock 19 holster requires careful consideration of material, retention, adjustability, comfort, and concealment features. Popular styles like IWB, OWB, and appendix carry holsters offer unique advantages for different situations and preferences. Top-tier options such as the Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite, Vedder LightTuck, CrossBreed SuperTuck, and Tenicor Velo4 have earned their reputations through thoughtful design and quality construction.

We encourage you to test different holsters to find what works best for you. Many manufacturers offer trial periods or money-back guarantees, allowing you to experiment without financial risk. Regular practice is essential once you’ve found your ideal Glock 19 holster (familiarize yourself with drawing from concealment, practicing safe and efficient movements).

For maximum comfort and concealment, especially with appendix or IWB carry, consider adding a Cloudster Pillow to your setup. This innovative accessory enhances comfort by reducing pressure points and improves concealment by minimizing printing. Your journey to find the right Glock 19 holster is personal, but prioritizing safety, comfort, and practicality will help you discover a carry solution that seamlessly integrates into your daily life.