Paddle holsters are used by many armed professionals and civilians. However, if you typically use inside-the-waistband (IWB) and pocket holsters, this type of holster will feel like a new territory. Although it's an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster, the paddle it features can confuse you. So, in this post, we'll demystify how a paddle holster works, its major components, how to wear it, and when you should use it.
What is a Paddle Holster?
A paddle holster is an OWB holster with a paddle size device or a piece of polymer that fits on the outside of your belt (waistband). The purpose of the paddle is to keep the holster in place and attached to your belt. This holster doesn't have any loops. Instead, it clips on the inside of your belt and holds a mid or large gun. Through the broad paddle clip, you can take off and put on the holster quickly.
This type of OWB holster is extremely versatile. You can wear it at any position on your waist. It is ideal for detectives or police who want to take their guns off and on quickly. Also, if you are venturing out for a training session, you need not worry about removing your belt every time you change guns with a paddle holster.
Parts of a Paddle Holster and How It Works
A paddle holster consists of a paddle attachment and a holster. A third optional component is retention. The paddle clips inside your waistband, and the holster stays outside on the belt. The design of the paddle prevents unwanted movement of the gun and allows for quick attachment and removal.
If the paddle holster has enough grip, it can be attached not only behind the pants but also to the belt. The holster is made of materials like leather and Kydex. It is usually shaped according to your gun model.
Leather holsters have natural retention because of the pistol-specific molding. Some have an optional thumb break for safety. The paddle holster, as a whole, provides quick access to the firearm and ease of drawing it.
How to Wear A Paddle Holster?
To wear a paddle holster, flex it and attach it to the inside of your belt. After that, adjust the cant angle based on how you draw. You can tilt it forward for a smooth draw. If the holster has active retention, adjust it so it does not feel too tight. When satisfied with the holster's position, practice drawing it and re-holstering it.
Are Paddle Holsters Secure?
Yes. Paddle holsters are secure as long as they have clips that catch on your belt tightly and do not detach. Most of them safely hold the pistol and have strong retention. Some even have a small ledge on the paddle's outside that engages the belt firmly. In turn, this prevents the paddle from being inadvertently taken out.
You need to look at how the paddle attaches to the holster when considering its security. A large paddle supports the holstered pistol nicely. For instance, Wright Leather Works's holsters have a high-end G-Code “Large Paddle.'' It safely balances the weapon in any position on the body. They can also have a straight drop cant, a forward cant, or a reverse cross-draw cant, thus facilitating comfort, ease of use, and security.
Your gun belt should also be sufficiently stiff for the holster to remain securely fixed. Don’t use regular belts to wear a paddle holster, as they will move or snag under the weight of your firearm.
Carry Positions for OWB Holster
A paddle holster is best worn in 3 to 5 o'clock positions and on the strong side. The strong side is the right hip for right-handed shooters and the left hip for lefties. It's best to avoid appendix carry with a paddle holster because the curve of the paddle doesn't fit the body of the user in this position.
If you wear a paddle holster in an appendix style and position it on the front of the waistband, it will compromise its retention and make it difficult to draw.
Here are the major positions you can explore with a paddle holster:
- Strong-Side Carry (3 o'clock position) - In this position, you wear the firearm on the right side of your body against your right hip. This carry style is 9 o'clock if you shoot with your left hand. The strong-side carry position is comfortable and one of the safest for people.
- Behind-the-Hip Carry (4-5 o'clock position) - In the 4 o'clock position, you wear the weapon behind your right hip. If you are left-handed, the position becomes 7-8 o'clock. With this position, you can balance the concealability and accessibility of your gun.
- Cross-draw Carry: In a cross-draw carry, you wear the paddle holster across your body at approximately 9 o'clock position. If you regularly sit, drive, or hunt with a backpack, this position will feel comfortable.
- Small-of-the-Back Carry (6 o'clock position) -In the SOB carry, the pistol is almost in line with your back. This carry position is not very safe nor concealable. It can injure your spine if you fall down. So, use it only when you're engaged in an activity you have complete control over, such as riding a bike.
Can You Use a Paddle Holster for Concealed Carry?
A paddle holster is not as easy to conceal as an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster, but with proper clothing, you can disguise it. Also, leather paddle holsters are much more concealable than those made of Kydex. They are particularly molded to the shape of the firearm, which reduces printing to a significant extent.
For example, the paddle holsters at Wright Leather Works are made of high-quality Hermann Oak leather and feature adjustable cant. This enables the wearer to change the holster's positioning and wear it according to their level of comfort.
Here are some tips to find and make your paddle holster concealable.
- Find and use a paddle holster that is specifically made for your gun.
- Try using a holster with adjustable cant.
- Increase the cant to move the gun's butt up for better concealment.
- Wear loose-fitting shirts and cardigans to disguise the holster.
- Use open-top paddle holsters as they are minimalist and fit tightly.
Final Words
Knowing how a paddle holster works is crucial if you're looking to invest in one. It's perfect when you need to draw your gun quickly or remove and reattach it to your waistband. However, ensure that the paddle is wide, made of a strong material, and clips securely to your belt. For the best experience, invest in a holster customized for your gun. Check out Wright Leather Works' collection of OWB paddle holsters designed to provide maximum comfort, security, and concealability.
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