When you own a Glock 17, you want to carry it safely and comfortably. But finding the perfect Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) holster can feel like a puzzle. There are so many choices, and not all of them fit your needs. You might worry about security, comfort during long wear, or if the holster will even fit your Glock 17 just right.
Choosing the wrong OWB holster can lead to frustration. Your firearm might not feel secure, or it could be uncomfortable to wear all day. Plus, a poorly designed holster can make drawing your Glock 17 slower than you need it to be. This is where we come in to help you navigate this often confusing market.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes a great OWB holster for your Glock 17. You’ll learn about different materials, features, and how to find one that feels like it was made just for you. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what to look for, saving you time and making your carrying experience much better.
Our Top 5 Owb Holster For Glock 17 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Owb Holster For Glock 17 Detailed Reviews
1. Compatible with Glock 17 Holster
Rating: 9.1/10
The Compatible with Glock 17 Holster is designed for Glock owners who need a reliable and secure way to carry their firearm openly. This outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster is made from tough polymer and fits a wide range of Glock models, including the G17, G19, G22, and many more, across different generations. It offers a strong grip on your handgun and allows for quick, safe drawing.
What We Like:
- It’s made with precision molding for a perfect fit with many Glock models.
- The Level II Retention System with an index finger release keeps your gun secure but lets you draw it quickly when needed.
- The holster has a “POSI-CLICK” locking feedback, so you hear a click when your gun is safely in place.
- The 360-degree adjustable paddle fits different belt sizes and lets you carry in any position you like.
- The company offers great customer service and will help you if you’re not happy with the holster.
What Could Be Improved:
- This holster is only for right-handed shooters.
- It’s an open-carry holster, which might not be suitable for everyone’s needs or local laws.
This holster provides excellent security and adjustability for your Glock. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a dependable open-carry solution.
2. Level 3 Gun Holster for Glock 19/17/19X Gen 1-5
Rating: 8.7/10
This Level 3 Gun Holster is designed for Glock owners who need top-notch security and a fast, reliable draw. It fits a wide range of Glock models, including the 19, 17, 19X, 23, 32, 45, and 44, across many generations. This OWB (Outside the Waistband) paddle holster offers advanced protection with its auto-locking system and thumb-activated retention, making it ideal for law enforcement, security, and shooting sports enthusiasts.
What We Like:
- It fits many Glock models, from Gen 1 to Gen 5.
- The ALS (Auto Locking System) makes sure your firearm stays put with a satisfying click.
- The Level 3 retention means you need your thumb to draw, offering maximum safety.
- You can adjust the tightness of the holster to fit your pistol perfectly.
- The muzzle end can be adjusted to work with different barrel lengths and compensators.
- It’s great for open carry and used by professionals like police and security guards.
What Could Be Improved:
- The paddle attachment might not be ideal for everyone; some prefer belt loops.
- It’s only for right-handed shooters.
This holster provides excellent security and a smooth draw. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable way to carry their Glock.
3. WARRIORLAND OWB Kydex Holster
Rating: 9.2/10
The WARRIORLAND OWB Kydex Holster is built tough and designed for a secure fit for many popular Glock models. It’s made in the USA and offers great protection for your firearm, whether you’re on the range or out and about. This holster is ready for your red dot sights and has a special locking system to keep your gun safe.
What We Like:
- It fits a wide range of Glock models, including those with MOS sights.
- The “Posi-Click” system makes a clear sound when your gun is safely holstered.
- It’s designed to protect your trigger and prevent your gun from getting scratched inside.
- The holster can handle belts up to 1.75 inches wide and stays put.
- It’s optic-ready, meaning you can use it with your red dot sight.
- The open muzzle allows for threaded barrels to fit easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s not compatible with Glock 22/23/31 Gen 5 models or their MOS versions.
- It won’t work with other gun models not listed, or if you have added lasers or lights.
This holster offers excellent security and a good fit for many Glock owners. It’s a solid option for carrying your firearm confidently.
4. OWB Holster for Glock 17/17 MOS/22/31 Gen1–5
Rating: 8.9/10
This OWB holster is made for right-handed Glock owners. It fits many Glock models, including those with Red Dot Sights. The thumb release makes it safer to carry your firearm.
What We Like:
- It fits many Glock 17, 22, and 31 models, including MOS versions.
- The thumb release is a great safety feature. It keeps your gun secure.
- You can use it with most Red Dot Sights.
- It makes a clear “click” sound when you put your gun in, so you know it’s locked.
- The inside is smooth to protect your gun from scratches.
- The paddle can be adjusted to any angle you like.
- It fits different belt sizes, so you can wear it on most belts.
What Could Be Improved:
- It does not fit the Glock 22 Gen5 or Glock 23 Gen5.
- It cannot be used with lights or lasers attached to your gun.
This holster offers good security and adjustability for your Glock. It’s a solid option for everyday carry.
5. OWB Kydex Holster for Glock 19 19x 25 30s 44 45 17 Glock 26 (Gen 1-5) / 22 23 27 31 32 33 (Gen 3-4) Pistol
Rating: 9.5/10
The PoLe.Craft OWB Kydex Holster offers a secure and reliable way to carry your compatible Glock pistol outside your waistband. Designed for a snug fit, this holster ensures your firearm stays put without unnecessary movement, providing confidence during everyday activities.
What We Like:
- Reliable Carry: This holster is built with high-quality .08″ Kydex, making it strong, durable, and resistant to water and sweat. It’s designed to protect your firearm and keep it secure.
- Secure Fit and Retention: The holster is precisely molded for various Glock models, ensuring no wobbling or rattling. You can adjust the retention pressure with a screw to get the perfect draw speed.
- Enhanced Safety: It features a safety lock belt clip that fits 1.5-2 inch belts. This lock prevents accidental disengagement, adding an extra layer of safety. The clip is also adjustable for width, height, and angle.
- User-Friendly Design: The holster has a widened opening, making it easy to insert and remove your pistol without scratching it. It’s also very lightweight, weighing less than 100 grams.
- Peace of Mind: A lifetime warranty is included, so you can trust in the product’s quality and performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Model Fit: While it fits many Glock models, it’s important to double-check compatibility, especially with newer or less common variations.
- Belt Clip Bulk: The robust safety lock on the belt clip might add a bit of bulk for those seeking the slimmest possible profile.
Overall, this holster provides a secure, adjustable, and safe carrying solution for Glock owners. Its durable construction and thoughtful features make it a solid choice for your everyday carry needs.
Your Guide to the Best OWb Holster for Your Glock 17
Why You Need an OWb Holster for Your Glock 17
Carrying your Glock 17 safely and comfortably is important. An Outside the Waistband (OWb) holster is a great choice for this. It sits on the outside of your belt, making it easy to access your firearm. This guide will help you find the perfect OWb holster for your Glock 17.
Key Features to Look For
- Retention: The holster needs to hold your Glock securely. Look for adjustable retention screws. This lets you fine-tune how easily your pistol comes out.
- Adjustable Cant: Cant is the angle of the holster. An adjustable cant lets you position your holster for a more natural draw.
- Belt Attachment: How the holster attaches to your belt matters. You’ll find paddle attachments, belt loops, and belt clips. Belt loops offer the most secure fit.
- Comfort: A good holster won’t dig into your side. Look for holsters with padded backing or a design that contours to your body.
- Durability: Your holster needs to last. Strong materials and good construction are key.
Important Materials
The material of your holster affects its durability, comfort, and how well it holds your Glock. Most high-quality OWb holsters are made from:
- Kydex: This is a hard plastic that is very durable. It molds perfectly to your Glock 17, offering excellent retention. It’s also resistant to sweat and moisture.
- Boltaron: Similar to Kydex, Boltaron is another strong thermoplastic. It offers great durability and retention.
- Leather: Leather holsters can be comfortable and look classic. However, they might not offer the same level of retention as Kydex. They can also be affected by sweat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a holster great?
- Precision Fit: A holster made specifically for the Glock 17 will fit perfectly. This ensures good retention and a smooth draw.
- Quality Hardware: Strong screws, buckles, and clips keep your holster secure and lasting longer.
- Smooth Edges: Rough edges can be uncomfortable and snag on clothing. Well-finished edges are a sign of quality.
What can make a holster not so great?
- Loose Fit: If the holster is too loose, your Glock might fall out. This is a safety risk.
- Poor Retention: If it’s too hard to draw your pistol, it’s not useful in an emergency.
- Flimsy Materials: Cheap plastic or thin leather won’t last long and might not hold your Glock securely.
User Experience and Use Cases
An OWb holster for your Glock 17 is useful for many situations. It’s a popular choice for:
- Open Carry: Many people choose OWb holsters for open carry. The holster keeps your Glock visible and accessible.
- Range Practice: At the shooting range, an OWb holster allows for quick and easy draws from a holster.
- Everyday Carry (with care): Some people use OWb holsters for everyday carry, especially if they wear looser clothing. You need to be aware of local laws regarding open carry.
When using your holster, practice drawing your Glock. Make sure it feels natural and secure. A comfortable holster means you’ll be more likely to carry your firearm safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is an OWb holster?
A: OWb stands for Outside the Waistband. This means the holster attaches to your belt on the outside of your pants.
Q: Is an OWb holster good for concealed carry?
A: OWb holsters are generally better for open carry. They can be harder to conceal than Inside the Waistband (IwB) holsters.
Q: Can I use any OWb holster for my Glock 17?
A: No, you should use a holster specifically made for the Glock 17 model. This ensures a proper fit and secure retention.
Q: How do I clean my Kydex OWb holster?
A: You can clean Kydex holsters with mild soap and water. Make sure to dry it thoroughly.
Q: Will sweat damage my leather OWb holster?
A: Yes, sweat can damage leather over time. It can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
Q: How tight should my OWb holster be?
A: Your Glock 17 should be held securely, but you should be able to draw it with a firm, consistent motion. Adjustable retention screws help with this.
Q: What is “cant” on a holster?
A: Cant is the angle of the holster on your belt. Many holsters allow you to adjust this angle for a more comfortable draw.
Q: Are paddle holsters secure enough for OWb carry?
A: Paddle holsters can be secure, but belt loop attachments generally offer a more stable and reliable connection to your belt.
Q: Do OWb holsters affect my Glock 17’s trigger?
A: A well-made OWb holster covers the trigger guard completely, protecting it from accidental contact.
Q: Where can I buy a good OWb holster for my Glock 17?
A: You can find quality holsters from reputable gun accessory manufacturers and online retailers. Always check reviews.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!