Holsters are often overlooked but are a critical component of your everyday carry (EDC) gear. And when you talk about holsters, you can’t ignore belts—they’re like Laurel and Hardy or Cheech and Chong, inseparable.
This is a vast and daunting subject, one that could easily spiral into a mini-novel. Trust me—I’ve amassed a suitcase full of unused holsters over the years. More on that later. For now, let’s stick to the essentials based on my experience and insights from friends.
Holsters generally fall into two main categories: outside the waistband (OWB) and inside the waistband (IWB). For this article, I’ll focus on EDC or CCW (concealed carry weapon) holsters and belts—the kind you use daily if you legally carry a firearm. Duty holsters, battle belts, or IPSC competition holsters are topics for another time.
The Foundation: Belts
A belt is the foundation of any holster setup, yet not all belts are created equal. Many are just meant to keep your pants up, and while that’s fine for casual wear, it’s inadequate for carrying the weight and rigidity required for a concealed carry firearm and your other EDC gear.. Even some tactical belts fall short when it comes to supporting a firearm.
The defining characteristic of a good CCW belt is rigidity. It must be stiff enough to hold your firearm and any additional gear, such as spare magazines, a flashlight, or a multitool, without sagging. This rigidity is essential for comfort and concealment, as a sagging belt makes it harder to hide your gear under clothing.
Most CCW belts are 1.5 inches wide, as this is the standard size for belt loops on most trousers. Wider belts, like 1.75 inches, are typically used by uniformed personnel, while thinner belts often lack the strength to distribute weight effectively and can become uncomfortable for extended wear.
Adjustability is another key feature. I’m a big fan of ratchet-style or tension belts, which don’t rely on pre-punched holes. These belts allow for precise adjustments to fit your body and posture, unlike traditional belts that are limited by their fixed holes.
The material of the belt is equally important. Leather belts offer a classic, durable option but should be specifically designed for firearms use, with reinforcements to handle the added weight. Synthetic options, such as nylon or polymer, prioritize lightweight durability and rigidity, making them popular among CCW users.
The design of the buckle also matters. Minimalist buckles are ideal, particularly for appendix carry (AIWB), as they take up less space along the beltline and are more comfortable when sitting for long periods. A good buckle should also offer quick adjustment or release for convenience.
Finally, comfort and concealment must be considered. While rigidity is essential, the belt should also fit your lifestyle and blend with your clothing. If you tuck in your shirt, ensure the belt works well with a tuckable holster. Durability is another critical factor, as daily wear and tear can quickly degrade lesser-quality belts.
My personal favorites are ratchet-system EDC belts from Nexbelt. They’re durable, comfortable, and easily adjustable—perfect for when you ate just a little too many sticks of satay! Another favorite is the Zero Belt by Tenicor, which pairs simplicity with a minimalist buckle design, making it ideal for AIWB carry. These high-quality belts are imported and, unfortunately, pricey due to current exchange rates, but they’re worth the investment. Cheaper alternatives exist, but please research thoroughly before spending your hard-earned money.
Holsters: The Other Half of the Equation
The choice of holster is deeply personal, which is why we stock only a small selection at Tycoma Arms. Choosing a holster is like picking a smartphone—some people love Apple, while others swear by Samsung, Huawei, or Oppo. Your holster reflects your personality as much as practical needs.
Concealed carry holsters fall into two categories: inside the waistband (IWB) and outside the waistband (OWB). In Malaysia’s tropical climate, IWB holsters are generally the better choice, as OWB holsters add bulk and are harder to conceal under light clothing. OWB may work in formal settings where a jacket or suit covers the holster, but you’ll need to dress around it carefully to avoid “printing” which is the visible outline of your firearm through clothing.
IWB holsters are more concealable because they sit closer to your body. However, how much your firearm prints will depend on your pistol, holster, belt and clothing.
For tropical climates, I prefer kydex holsters. Leather absorbs sweat, which can lead to odors and deterioration over time. If you do opt for leather, ensure it’s sturdy with a reinforced opening to prevent the opening from collapsing, which will prevent smooth and sometimes one-handed reholstering—a critical feature for safety and usability under stress.
Kydex, a durable thermoplastic, is my material of choice. While it may seem rigid and uncomfortable at first, a well-designed kydex holster that contours to the body and paired with a good belt can provide comfort and stability for extended wear.
Key Considerations for Holsters
When choosing a holster, think about how you plan to carry it. Whether you prefer strong-side hip carry, appendix carry (AIWB), or small of back carry, finding the right holster for your body type and pistol is crucial. Modern holsters often allow for some configuration adjustments to suit different carry positions and preferences.
The cant, or tilt, of the holster can enhance comfort and allow for a smoother draw. Similarly, the ride height—the position of the pistol grip relative to the beltline—impacts both concealment and accessibility. A higher ride height improves grip access but may increase printing, while a lower ride height aids concealment but can make the draw stroke more challenging. The grip is the most difficult part of a pistol to conceal.
Additional features like the type of belt clips used, claws, wedges, or flexible materials can improve concealment and comfort by allowing the holster to better conform to your body shape and sit closer to your body.
Not all holsters are created equal. Quality holsters are carefully designed using real-world user input and high-quality materials. They are built to last, but finding the perfect holster can be an expensive journey of trial and error. Research thoroughly, consider your environment, and choose based on your needs.
Recommendations
For beginners or those on a budget, the Universal Holster by Rounded Gear is a great starting point. It fits over 175 pistol models with an adjustable arm and can be configured for both IWB and OWB carry. This versatility makes it ideal for security forces or and enforcement agencies as it will accommodate most pistols in current inventory. These holsters are available at Tycoma Arms
For more advanced options, I recommend the holsters by Tenicor such as the Velo series for AIWB or the Malus Sol for light-bearing pistols. Tier1Concealed]also make excellent holsters.
Like premium EDC belts, these imported holsters come with a higher price tag, but they’re a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about daily carrying a licensed firearm.
A Note on Off-Body Carry
Off-body carry, such as in a bag, has its proponents but carries significant risks. A bag can be misplaced or stolen, putting your firearm at risk. While off-body carry might be more comfortable for long road trips or extended sitting, I prefer on-body carry for its security and accessibility.
Final Thoughts
Holsters and belts are investments in safety, comfort, and practicality. A quality setup doesn’t come cheap, but it’s worth every ringgit. Take the time to research, test, and find what works best for you. In the end, your EDC system should be tailored to your needs, ensuring both confidence and peace of mind.
If you are interested in the procedure of how to apply for a firearms license in Malaysia, read our article here