Starting your concealed or open carry journey is an exciting step—but choosing your first holster can feel overwhelming. With hundreds of styles, materials, and configurations, it’s easy to get stuck in the weeds.
The good news? The perfect holster is one that fits your firearm, suits your daily life, and helps you carry safely and comfortably. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors first-time buyers need to know when selecting a holster—and how to avoid common mistakes.
1. Understand Your Carry Goals
Before you look at materials or brands, ask yourself how you plan to carry:
Concealed Carry (CCW)
- Focused on discretion and daily comfort
- Typically uses IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters
- Prioritizes low-profile gear and minimal printing
Open Carry or Tactical Use
- Prioritizes accessibility and retention
- Usually involves OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters
- Ideal for range use, law enforcement, or gear-intensive situations
Havok Holsters offers premium options for both styles, all custom-fit to your firearm.
2. Choose the Right Holster Type
IWB Holsters: Best for concealed carry, worn inside your waistband.
Pros:
- Excellent concealment
- Lightweight and low profile
- Customizable retention and ride height
OWB Holsters: Worn on the outside of your belt. Best for open carry or training.
Pros:
- Fastest draw speed
- Great for larger firearms or light-bearing setups
- More room for accessories and modularity
Havok's IWB and OWB lines are built from rugged Kydex and feature full customization options during checkout.
3. Ensure Compatibility with Your Firearm
A holster is only as good as its fit. A loose or ill-fitting holster creates safety and retention issues.
Make sure you account for:
- Exact make and model (e.g., Glock 19, Sig P365, Springfield Hellcat)
- Left- or right-hand orientation
- Add-ons like red dot optics, threaded barrels, or light attachments
All Havok Holsters are hand-formed to specific firearm models with light/optic compatibility built in.
4. Evaluate Key Features
Not all holsters are created equal. For your first holster, look for these foundational elements:
- Adjustable Retention
Tension screws let you dial in how tightly the holster grips your gun. - Cant Adjustment
Change the holster’s angle to improve draw comfort and concealment. - Sweat Guard
Protects your firearm from sweat while improving skin comfort. - Attachment Type
Common styles include FOMI clips, soft loops, and Mod Wings (for better concealment). See our attachment comparison chart to explore your options.
5. Consider the Material: Why Kydex?
Kydex is the leading material for holsters today—and for good reason.
- Waterproof and sweat-resistant
- Holds its shape and retention for years
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Allows precision molding for specific firearms
Supports color and pattern customization
All Havok Holsters are made from high-quality Kydex and backed by a lifetime warranty.
6. Think About Comfort and Concealment
The best holster is the one you forget you’re wearing.
- For comfort: Choose a holster with smooth edges, proper cant, and the right ride height for your frame.
- For concealment: Consider Mod Wings or Claw attachments to tuck the grip closer to your body and reduce printing.
- For all-day wear: Go with a sweat guard and choose the right belt attachment to spread pressure evenly.
Havok offers custom-built solutions for carriers of all sizes and needs.
7. Personalize It to Match Your Style
Want your holster to stand out—or blend in? Havok offers a wide selection of color and pattern finishes:
- Solid black, OD green, FDE, gray, and more
- Multicam Black, Kryptek Typhon, and digital camo prints
- Matching mag carriers and accessories
You don’t have to compromise style for performance.
Why Choose Havok Holsters for Your First Setup?
Havok Holsters makes it easy for first-time buyers to get it right:
- Custom-fit Kydex holsters for dozens of firearm models
- Full control over cant, retention, attachments, and finish
- Modular systems that grow with your carry needs
- Made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty
We build gear that real carriers rely on—and that you can trust on day one.