Imagine this: you’ve got your trusty Glock 17, a reliable tool for self-defense or sport shooting. But how do you carry it safely and comfortably? The answer lies in the holster, and choosing the wrong one can be a real headache. You want something that keeps your firearm secure, accessible, and fits your lifestyle, whether you’re carrying concealed or at the range.
The sheer variety of Glock 17 holsters out there can be overwhelming. From different materials like Kydex and leather to various carry positions like appendix, hip, or shoulder, it’s easy to feel lost. You might worry about accidental discharges, discomfort during long wear, or your firearm not being readily available when you need it most. Finding that perfect balance of security, comfort, and quick access is the key.
This post is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the most popular types of Glock 17 holsters, discuss their pros and cons, and help you understand what features matter most. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of which holster best suits your needs, ensuring you can carry your Glock 17 with confidence and ease. Let’s dive in and find the ideal home for your firearm.
Our Top 5 Glock 17 Holsters Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Glock 17 Holsters Detailed Reviews
1. Compatible with Glock 17 Holster
Rating: 9.0/10
This Compatible with Glock 17 Holster is a tough and smart choice for carrying your Glock. It fits many Glock models, like the G17, G19, and G23, across different generations. This holster is designed for open carry, meaning you wear it outside your waistband. It has a special release button for your index finger, making it easy and safe to draw your firearm. Plus, you can adjust the paddle to fit your belt and carry angle perfectly.
What We Like:
- Precise Fit: It’s made specifically for your Glock, ensuring a snug and secure fit thanks to its injection molding process.
- Secure Retention: The Level II retention system with an index finger release keeps your firearm locked in place until you’re ready to draw.
- Adjustable Comfort: The 360-degree adjustable paddle fits various belt sizes (1.5, 1.75, 2.0 inches) and lets you find the most comfortable carrying position.
- Clear Feedback: The ‘POSI-CLICK’ system gives a satisfying click when your gun is safely holstered, so you know it’s secure.
- Great Support: The company offers 24/7 customer service, ready to help if you have any questions or issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- Right-Hand Specific: This holster is made for right-handed shooters only. Left-handed users will need a different option.
- Open Carry Notice: As an OWB holster, it’s designed for open carry, which might not be suitable for everyone or in all situations.
This holster offers a secure and customizable way to carry your Glock. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for reliable retention and comfortable carry.
2. Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Combo Holster
Rating: 9.3/10
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Combo Holster is designed for your Glock 17, 22, or 31. It offers a comfortable and secure way to carry your firearm for everyday use. This holster is made with strong, lightweight nylon that resists weather, keeping your gun safe and looking good.
What We Like:
- It’s a combo holster, so you can use it with a paddle or a belt loop.
- The inside is smooth, like suede, so it won’t scratch your gun when you draw it.
- The Safariland ALS system keeps your Glock very secure.
- It’s lightweight and sits close to your body, making it easy to hide.
- The special nylon material protects your gun’s finish from scratches and the elements.
- The paddle fits belts up to 1.75 inches wide.
- The belt loop fits belts from 1.5 to 1.75 inches wide.
What Could Be Improved:
- The suede lining, while great for draws, might collect dust or debris over time, requiring occasional cleaning.
This Safariland holster is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and comfortable way to carry their Glock. It balances security with ease of use, making it a great everyday carry option.
3. POLE.CRAFT IWB Kydex Holster for Glock 17 Gen 1 2 3 4 5 / Glock 22 Glock 31 Gen 3 4 – Inside Waistband Carry Holster – Gun Accessories for G17 G22 G31 (Black
Rating: 9.2/10
The POLE.CRAFT IWB Kydex Holster is designed for Glock owners who want to carry their firearm safely and discreetly. This holster is specifically made for Glock 17 (all generations), Glock 22, and Glock 31 (Gen 3 & 4) and is for right-hand users. It’s built from tough US .08” Kydex, making it strong and reliable for everyday carry. You can adjust how the holster holds your gun and how it angles on your belt for the best comfort and concealment.
What We Like:
- It’s made from durable Kydex that is sweat-proof and waterproof.
- You can easily change how the holster sits on your belt for a better draw.
- The tightness of the holster can be adjusted for a secure fit.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
- It offers good concealment for your Glock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions it can be used OWB (Outside the Waistband) but advises choosing another hand for this purpose, which could be confusing.
- While adaptable, it’s specifically for right-hand carry, limiting options for left-handed users with this particular model.
This POLE.CRAFT holster offers a solid and customizable way to carry your Glock. Its durable construction and adjustable features make it a practical choice for concealed carry.
4. Glock 19 Holster
Rating: 8.6/10
The Forcenter IWB Kydex Holster for Glock pistols offers a secure and comfortable way to carry your firearm. Designed for right-hand draw, this holster is made from premium US-sourced Kydex and fits a wide range of Glock models and generations. It’s built for discreet carry and keeps your pistol safe and protected.
What We Like:
- Made with tough, high-quality Kydex for durability.
- The holster precisely fits many Glock models (17, 19, 19X, 23, 26, 32, 44, 45) for Gen 1-5.
- It fully covers the trigger to prevent accidental firing, making it very safe.
- The smooth inside prevents scratches on your handgun.
- You get a satisfying “click” when your pistol is securely in place.
- The tightness and carry angle can be easily adjusted to your preference.
- It’s designed to be comfortable for inside-the-waistband carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- This holster does not work with laser or light attachments.
- The belt clip is only designed for 1.5-inch belts.
This Forcenter holster is a solid option for Glock owners seeking a reliable and customizable carry solution. It prioritizes safety and firearm protection, making it a worthy addition to your everyday carry gear.
5. WARRIORLAND IWB Hybrid Holster Compatible with Glock 17/19/19X/ 22/23/26 Gen 3-5 & 21/31/ 32/33/34 Gen 3-4 & 44/45 & Select MOS & PSA Dagger Compact
Rating: 8.9/10
The WARRIORLAND IWB Hybrid Holster is a versatile option for concealed carry, designed to fit a wide range of Glock models and the PSA Dagger Compact. It prioritizes comfort and security for everyday wear.
What We Like:
- Broad Compatibility: Fits many popular Glock models (17, 19, 19X, 22, 23, 26 Gen 3-5, 21, 31, 32, 33, 34 Gen 3-4, 44, 45) and the PSA Dagger Compact.
- Optics Ready: Features an optics cut to accommodate most red dot sights for improved aiming.
- Reduced Printing: Includes a removable claw to help keep your firearm hidden under clothing.
- All-Day Comfort: Crafted with soft leather and foam padding for a comfortable feel during extended wear.
- Secure Carry: Offers excellent trigger protection and a full-length sweat guard to keep your firearm dry.
- Quick and Easy Draw: Custom-molded for a smooth draw and reholster, with adjustable cant for faster access.
- Durable Steel Clips: Strong metal clips ensure the holster stays securely attached to your belt.
What Could Be Improved:
- Accessory Incompatibility: Cannot be used with laser or light attachments on your firearm.
- Right-Hand Only: This holster is designed exclusively for right-handed users.
This WARRIORLAND holster offers a comfortable and secure way to carry your firearm. Its compatibility and features make it a solid choice for many concealed carriers.
The Ultimate Glock 17 Holster Buying Guide
Choosing the right holster for your Glock 17 is super important. It keeps your pistol safe and ready. This guide will help you find the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy a Glock 17 holster, look for these main things:
- Retention: This means how well the holster holds your gun. You want it to be secure so it doesn’t fall out, but easy enough to draw when you need it. Some holsters have adjustable retention screws.
- Draw Speed: How fast can you pull your gun out? A good holster lets you draw smoothly and quickly.
- Comfort: You’ll be wearing this holster a lot. It needs to feel good against your body.
- Concealment: If you plan to carry your Glock 17 hidden, the holster should help you do that without printing (your gun showing through your clothes).
- Durability: The holster should be tough and last a long time.
- Adjustability: Some holsters let you change the angle (cant) or how high it sits. This helps you find the most comfortable way to carry.
Important Materials
Holsters are made from different materials. Each has its own pros and cons:
- Kydex: This is a hard plastic. Kydex holsters are very popular because they are durable and hold their shape well. They offer excellent retention.
- Leather: Leather holsters look classic and can be very comfortable. They mold to your body over time. However, leather can wear out faster than Kydex and might not offer as much retention unless it has a thumb break.
- Nylon (Cordura): These holsters are soft and flexible. They are usually less expensive. Nylon holsters might not offer the best retention and can sometimes collapse, making it harder to re-holster your gun.
- Hybrid: These holsters mix materials, often Kydex for the gun shell and leather or nylon for the backing. They aim to give you the best of both worlds – Kydex retention with leather comfort.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a holster great or not so great?
- Good Fit: A holster must be made specifically for the Glock 17. A poorly fitting holster can be unsafe.
- Smooth Edges: Rough edges can be uncomfortable and snag on clothing. Quality holsters have smooth, finished edges.
- Secure Mounting: How the holster attaches to your belt or clothing matters. Strong clips or belt loops keep it in place.
- Coverage: The holster should cover the trigger guard completely to prevent accidental firings.
- Ease of Re-holstering: It should be easy to put your gun back into the holster without looking.
User Experience and Use Cases
How people use their Glock 17 holsters varies.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Many people carry their Glock 17 for self-defense. For this, comfort and concealment are key. Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are popular for EDC because they hide the gun well. Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters are also used, especially for open carry.
- Competition Shooting: In shooting sports, speed is everything. Holsters for competition are designed for the fastest possible draw. They often have adjustable retention and are OWB.
- Range Practice: At the shooting range, you want a holster that is safe and allows for easy drawing and re-holstering. Durability is also important as it will see a lot of use.
- Open Carry: If you plan to carry your Glock 17 openly, you’ll likely use an OWB holster. These are often more secure and can be easier to draw from.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best type of holster for concealed carry?
A: Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are usually best for concealed carry. They tuck your Glock 17 close to your body, making it harder to see.
Q: Does Kydex scratch my Glock 17?
A: Kydex can potentially cause minor cosmetic scratches over time, especially if dirt or grit gets trapped between the gun and the holster. However, it doesn’t affect the firearm’s function.
Q: Can I use a Glock 19 holster for my Glock 17?
A: No, you should not. While they are similar, the Glock 17 is slightly longer. A Glock 19 holster will not fit a Glock 17 properly and can be unsafe.
Q: How do I clean my Kydex holster?
A: You can clean Kydex holsters with mild soap and water. Wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
Q: What does “cant” mean for a holster?
A: Cant is the angle of the holster. A forward cant means the grip of your gun angles forward, which can help with drawing. A neutral cant means it sits straight up and down.
Q: Are leather holsters good for retention?
A: Standard leather holsters might not offer as much retention as Kydex. Some leather holsters have a thumb break strap for added security.
Q: How important is a trigger guard cover?
A: It is very important. A trigger guard cover protects the trigger from being accidentally pulled, which is crucial for safety.
Q: What is “printing” when talking about concealed carry?
A: Printing is when the shape of your concealed firearm shows through your clothing, making it obvious you are carrying a gun.
Q: Can I use my Glock 17 holster for other guns?
A: Generally, no. Holsters are made for specific firearm models to ensure a secure and safe fit.
Q: What are hybrid holsters good for?
A: Hybrid holsters combine the rigidity of Kydex with the comfort of leather or nylon. They offer good retention and are comfortable for all-day wear.
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!