Imagine you own a powerful Glock 23. It’s a great tool for self-defense or sport. But how do you carry it safely and comfortably? Choosing the right holster can feel like a puzzle. There are so many types, and you want one that fits perfectly and keeps your Glock secure.
Finding the best holster for your Glock 23 is super important. It’s not just about holding your gun; it’s about protecting yourself and others. A bad holster can be uncomfortable, make it hard to draw your gun quickly when you need it, or even be unsafe. This can be frustrating, and you might wonder where to even begin looking.
Don’t worry! This blog post will be your guide. We’ll break down all the different holster options for your Glock 23. You’ll learn what makes a good holster and how to pick one that’s just right for you. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and know exactly what to look for. Let’s dive in and find the perfect home for your Glock 23!
Our Top 5 Holster For Glock 23 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Holster For Glock 23 Detailed Reviews
1. POLE.CRAFT IWB Kydex Holster Fits: Glock 19 19X 25 44 45 (Gen 1 2 3 4 5) & Glock 23 32 (Gen 3 4) Case⎜Inside Waistband Carry⎜G19 G19x G23 G25 G32 G44 G45 Holster⎜Right Hand Draw
Rating: 9.2/10
The POLE.CRAFT IWB Kydex Holster is built for Glock owners who want to carry their firearm safely and discreetly. This holster is custom-made for specific Glock models, ensuring a snug and secure fit. It’s designed for inside-the-waistband carry, making it easy to conceal your pistol under clothing.
What We Like:
- It’s made from tough .08” Kydex, which is lightweight, waterproof, and easy to clean.
- The holster protects your gun and keeps it from rubbing against your clothes.
- You can adjust the angle (cant) of the holster for a faster draw.
- You can also adjust how tightly the holster holds your gun for the best fit.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- This specific holster is only for right-hand draw; left-handed shooters need to find a different option.
- While it can be used outside the waistband, it’s primarily designed for inside the waistband carry.
This holster offers a secure and customizable way to carry your Glock. It’s a solid choice for anyone prioritizing a comfortable and concealed carry experience.
2. G19 Holster
Rating: 8.8/10
This G19 Holster, designed for outside the waistband (OWB) carry, offers a secure and comfortable way to carry your Glock firearm. It fits a wide range of Glock models, including popular ones like the Glock 19 and Glock 45, even those with optics. The adjustable cant and quick-release button make drawing your weapon fast and easy. Plus, an auto-locking feature ensures your gun stays put until you need it.
What We Like:
- It fits many Glock models, including optic-ready ones.
- The quick-release button helps you draw your gun smoothly and fast.
- Your firearm automatically locks into the holster for safety.
- It’s made from tough polymer that won’t break easily and resists damage.
- You can adjust the carrying angle to find what’s most comfortable.
- The paddle design is comfortable for all-day wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- It does not fit the Glock 23 Gen 5 model.
- The included Allen key is small and could be easily lost.
This holster is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable OWB option for their Glock. It balances security with quick access, making it suitable for various situations.
3. Gun Holster for Men/Women
Rating: 9.5/10
This versatile black gun holster is designed for both men and women, offering a secure and convenient way to carry a variety of firearms. It’s a great option for everyday carry, providing peace of mind and quick access to your pistol. Whether you own a sub-compact or a full-size handgun, this holster aims to be your go-to solution.
What We Like:
- Universal Fit: This holster is incredibly versatile, fitting a wide range of popular handguns like Glock (17, 19, 23, 26, 27, 42, 43, 43x), 1911, Sig Sauer, S&W M&P, and many more 9mm, .380, and .45 ACP pistols.
- Durable Construction: It’s made from tough, waterproof 1000D nylon and features a strong Zn-Fe plated button with a TPU elastic cord, making it built to last and resist wear and tear.
- Ambidextrous Design: You can easily switch the clip to wear it on your right or left side, catering to your personal preference.
- Secure Retention: The elastic thumb break retention belt keeps your firearm safely in place, preventing it from accidentally falling out, while still allowing for a fast draw when needed.
- Adjustable for a Tighter Fit: If the holster feels a bit loose for a specific gun, there’s a clever way to adjust it by carefully cutting a stitch, ensuring a snug fit for most firearms.
What Could Be Improved:
- Accessory Limitations: Attaching accessories like laser sights or flashlights to your firearm is not recommended with this holster.
- Initial Fit Adjustment: While adjustable, some users might find the initial setup requires a bit of modification to achieve the perfect fit for their specific weapon.
This holster offers a solid balance of versatility and security for many gun owners. It’s a practical choice for those who value durability and a customizable fit for their everyday carry needs.
4. IWB Holster Compatible with Glock 19/ 19X Gen 3 4 5 & Glock 23/32 Gen 3 4 & Glock 44/45 & MOS
Rating: 9.1/10
This IWB Holster is designed for Glock owners who need a reliable and comfortable way to carry their firearm. It fits many popular Glock models, including the 19, 19X, 44, 45, 23, 32, and 26. You can choose from Kydex or Polymer materials, and it even has an option for a “Claw” to help with concealment. This holster focuses on safety and adjustability for your everyday carry needs.
What We Like:
- It fits many Glock models, giving you options.
- The holster completely covers the trigger to prevent accidents.
- You can adjust how the holster tilts for comfortable carrying.
- It makes a “click” sound when you put your gun in, so you know it’s secure.
- You can tighten or loosen the holster for a fast or secure draw.
- The open-ended design works with threaded barrels.
What Could Be Improved:
- It does not work with Glock 23/32 Gen 5 models.
- You cannot use it with optics, lasers, or lights attached to your gun.
This holster offers great security and customization for your Glock. It’s a solid choice for everyday concealed carry.
5. WARRIORLAND IWB Hybrid Holster
Rating: 8.6/10
The WARRIORLAND IWB Hybrid Holster is built for serious concealed carry. It fits a wide range of popular firearms, including many Glock models, the PSA Dagger Compact, and the Ruger RXM. This holster aims to give you a comfortable and secure way to carry your firearm every day.
What We Like:
- Wide Compatibility: It fits a lot of different guns, so it’s a good choice if you own more than one compatible firearm.
- Optics Ready: The holster has a special cut to fit red dot sights, which is great for aiming faster.
- Comfortable Design: It uses soft leather and foam padding, making it comfortable for long periods of wear.
- Reduced Printing: The included “claw” helps keep your gun hidden under your clothes.
- Good Protection: The durable polymer shell protects your trigger, and the sweat guard keeps your gun dry.
- Adjustable Carry: You can change the angle (cant) of the holster for a quicker draw and better concealment.
- Strong Clips: It has sturdy steel clips that hold the holster securely to your belt.
What Could Be Improved:
- Right-Hand Only: This holster is only for right-handed shooters.
- No Light/Laser Compatibility: It cannot be used with firearms that have attached lights or lasers.
This holster offers a lot of features for a comfortable and secure concealed carry experience. It’s a solid option for many gun owners looking for a reliable everyday holster.
Choosing the Best Holster for Your Glock 23
Your Glock 23 is a reliable firearm, and to carry it safely and comfortably, you need the right holster. This guide will help you pick the perfect one. We’ll cover what to look for, what makes a holster good or bad, and how different types work for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a Glock 23 holster, keep these important things in mind:
- **Retention:** This is how well the holster holds your gun. You want a holster that keeps your Glock secure but lets you draw it easily when you need to. Some holsters have adjustable retention screws.
- **Fit:** The holster must fit your Glock 23 perfectly. A loose holster is unsafe, and a too-tight one makes drawing difficult. Look for holsters made specifically for the Glock 23.
- **Comfort:** You’ll be wearing this holster, maybe for hours. It should feel good against your body. Padded straps or breathable materials can make a big difference.
- **Concealment:** If you plan to carry your Glock 23 hidden, the holster needs to keep the gun tucked away and out of sight. The holster’s profile and how it sits against your body matter.
- **Draw Speed:** For self-defense, you need to draw your gun quickly. A good holster allows a smooth, fast draw without snagging.
- **Durability:** Your holster needs to last. It should withstand daily wear and tear.
Important Materials
The material of your holster affects its durability, comfort, and how well it conceals your Glock 23.
- **Kydex:** This is a popular hard plastic. Kydex holsters are very durable and hold their shape well. They offer excellent retention and a consistent draw.
- **Leather:** Leather holsters are classic and can be very comfortable. They mold to your body over time. However, leather can sometimes be less rigid, which might affect retention and concealment.
- **Nylon/Cordura:** These fabric holsters are often softer and more flexible. They can be comfortable and affordable. Some nylon holsters have hard inserts for better retention.
- **Hybrid:** These holsters combine materials, often Kydex shells with a leather or nylon backing. They aim for the best of both worlds: the retention of Kydex and the comfort of softer materials.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain design choices and manufacturing methods make a holster great or not so great.
What Makes a Holster Great:
- **Precision Molding:** A holster molded specifically for the Glock 23 provides a secure fit.
- **Adjustable Cant and Ride Height:** These allow you to position the holster exactly where you want it for comfort and a good draw.
- **Smooth Edges and Finish:** Sharp edges can be uncomfortable and snag clothing.
- **Quality Hardware:** Strong clips, buckles, and screws ensure durability and secure attachment.
- **Breathable Backing (for IWB):** This prevents sweat buildup and increases comfort.
What Reduces Holster Quality:
- **Poor Fit:** A holster that’s too loose or too tight is a major problem.
- **Flimsy Materials:** Cheap plastic or thin fabric won’t last or protect your firearm.
- **Snag Points:** Parts of the holster that catch on clothing or your hand during a draw.
- **Lack of Adjustability:** If you can’t fine-tune how the holster sits, it might not be comfortable for you.
- **Weak Retention:** A gun that falls out easily is extremely dangerous.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your Glock 23 will guide your holster choice.
Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters
These holsters are worn inside your pants. They are great for concealment.
- **Strong Side:** Worn on the same side as your dominant hand. Good for quick draws.
- **Appendix Carry (AIWB):** Worn in the front, near your appendix. Offers excellent concealment but requires practice for a safe draw.
- **Crossdraw:** Worn on the opposite side of your dominant hand. Can be comfortable but might be slower to draw from.
Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters
These holsters are worn on your belt outside your pants. They are often more comfortable and allow for a faster draw.
- **Duty Holsters:** These are very secure and often have extra retention features. They are common for law enforcement.
- **Range Holsters:** Designed for easy access at the shooting range.
- **Concealed Carry OWB:** Some OWB holsters are designed to hug close to the body for better concealment.
Other types include shoulder holsters, ankle holsters, and chest holsters, each with specific benefits for different situations. Think about where you’ll carry, what you’ll be doing, and what feels most comfortable and secure to you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Glock 23 Holsters
Q: What is the most common type of holster for a Glock 23?
A: Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters are very popular for concealed carry. They hide your gun well.
Q: Can I use a Glock 19 holster for my Glock 23?
A: Sometimes. The Glock 23 is slightly wider than the Glock 19 due to its .40 S&W caliber. While some holsters might fit, it’s always best to get one made specifically for the Glock 23 for a perfect fit and secure retention.
Q: How do I clean my Kydex holster?
A: You can clean Kydex with mild soap and water. Use a soft cloth to wipe it down. Make sure it’s completely dry before putting your gun back in.
Q: Is leather or Kydex better for a Glock 23 holster?
A: It depends on your needs. Kydex offers excellent retention and durability. Leather is often more comfortable and molds to your body. Hybrid holsters combine both.
Q: How important is adjustable retention?
A: Adjustable retention is very important. It lets you fine-tune how tightly your Glock 23 stays in the holster, ensuring it won’t fall out but you can still draw it smoothly.
Q: What is “cant” on a holster?
A: Cant refers to the angle of the holster. Adjusting the cant helps you position the grip of your Glock 23 for a more comfortable draw.
Q: How do I know if my holster is safe?
A: A safe holster keeps your gun securely inside. Your trigger guard should be fully covered. The gun should not easily fall out when you move.
Q: Can I wear an OWB holster for concealed carry?
A: Yes, you can. Some OWB holsters are designed to hug your body closely, making them easier to conceal under a jacket or loose shirt.
Q: How does the material affect concealment?
A: Thicker or stiffer materials can sometimes print (show through clothing) more than thinner, more flexible materials. However, a well-designed holster of any material can conceal effectively.
Q: Should I buy a holster with a thumb break or active retention?
A: These features add extra security. They are great if you need maximum retention, like for duty or if you have children around. For everyday concealed carry, many people prefer simpler holsters for faster access.
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.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.