Carrying your M&P Shield 9mm shouldn’t feel like a burden. Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to carry your firearm comfortably and securely without it getting in the way of your daily life? Many gun owners face this exact challenge when looking for the perfect Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) holster.
Finding the right OWB holster for your M&P Shield 9mm can be tough. You want something that keeps your pistol safe, allows for a quick draw when you need it, and feels good to wear all day. Too many choices can make your head spin, and you might worry about getting a holster that doesn’t fit well or compromises your safety.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great OWB holster for your M&P Shield 9mm. We’ll explore the key features to look for and help you understand the differences between various types. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently pick a holster that meets your needs and makes carrying your Shield a breeze.
Our Top 5 Owb Holster For M&P Shield 9Mm Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
 |
OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm EZ/Shield 380 EZ & Equalizer | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
M&P Shield 9mm Holster fit 3.1″ Barrel Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus 9mm/40 | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
 |
WARRIORLAND OWB Kydex Holster | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 |
OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm EZ | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Owb Holster For M&P Shield 9Mm Detailed Reviews
1. OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm
Rating: 8.5/10
For Smith & Wesson M&P Shield owners looking for a reliable way to carry their firearm, this OWB (Outside Waistband) Polymer Belt Holster is a solid option. It’s designed for a secure fit and quick access to your M&P Shield 9mm or .40 S&W, including the M2.0 version with a 3.1-inch barrel. This holster keeps your weapon safely outside your waistband, making it accessible for various situations.
What We Like:
- Secure Fit: The auto-locking system provides Level II retention, meaning your firearm clicks securely into place. This makes it safe and prevents accidental drops.
- Easy Draw and Re-holster: A simple press of the release button with your index finger lets you draw your firearm quickly. Putting it back in is just as easy.
- Adjustable Comfort: The open-type belt clip lets you easily slide it on and off your belt. You can adjust the holster’s angle from 0 to 60 degrees using an Allen key. This helps you find a comfortable position and prevents the gun from digging into your leg. It fits duty belts up to 2 inches wide.
- Tough and Reliable: Made from military-grade polymer, this holster is waterproof and durable. It’s built to handle tough conditions and requires very little upkeep.
- Keeps Firearm Away: The design keeps your firearm slightly away from your body. This helps you get a firm grip and draw smoothly without any snags.
What Could Be Improved:
- No Laser/Sight Compatibility: This holster is designed for M&P Shields without lasers or sights. If your firearm has these attachments, you’ll need a different holster.
- Right-Handed Only: The holster is made for right-handed shooters. Left-handed users will need to look elsewhere.
This holster offers good security and adjustability for your M&P Shield. It’s a practical choice for law enforcement, security, and sport shooting enthusiasts.
2. OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm EZ/Shield 380 EZ & Equalizer
Rating: 9.0/10
This OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster is designed specifically for your Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm EZ, Shield 380 EZ, and Equalizer pistols. It’s built for comfort and quick access, making it a solid choice for everyday carry. The holster securely holds your firearm and is ready for your red dot sight, offering a reliable way to carry your pistol.
What We Like:
- It fits your Shield EZ or Equalizer perfectly, even with a red dot sight attached.
- The index finger release makes drawing your pistol fast and easy.
- You can adjust the paddle to carry your gun comfortably at your hip, appendix, or cross-draw position.
- It works with belts from 1.5 to 2.25 inches wide.
- The holster is made from strong, lightweight plastic that will last a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- It won’t fit Shield EZ models with lasers or lights.
- This holster is only for right-hand shooters.
This holster offers a secure and adjustable way to carry your compatible Smith & Wesson pistol. It’s a practical option for those who want quick access and a comfortable carry experience.
3. M&P Shield 9mm Holster fit 3.1″ Barrel Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus 9mm/40
Rating: 9.0/10
For any right-handed owner of a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm or .40 caliber pistol, this OWB (Outside the Waistband) paddle holster is designed to offer secure and accessible carry. It fits various models, including the Shield Plus and Shield 2.0, even those with optics. The holster aims to make drawing your firearm quick and easy while keeping it safely locked.
What We Like:
- This holster securely fits your M&P Shield 9mm or .40, including models with optics, for a 3.1″ barrel.
- It features a quick-release button that helps you draw your pistol smoothly and quickly.
- Your firearm automatically locks into place when you reholster it, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Made from tough, lightweight polymer, it can handle impact, heat, and scratches, making it great for many uses.
- You can adjust the carrying angle to your preference, up to 60 degrees, using the included Allen key.
What Could Be Improved:
- This holster will not fit your firearm if it has a laser or light attached.
This holster provides a secure and adaptable way to carry your M&P Shield. It’s a solid option for anyone prioritizing both accessibility and safety.
4. WARRIORLAND OWB Kydex Holster
Rating: 8.9/10
The WARRIORLAND OWB Kydex Holster is made for your S&W M&P Shield pistol. It’s designed for right-handed shooters and fits models like the Shield Plus, Shield M2.0, and Shield M1.0. This holster is for pistols with a 3-inch barrel in 9mm or .40 caliber. It’s a strong and reliable option for carrying your firearm.
What We Like:
- It fits your S&W M&P Shield 9mm and .40 pistol perfectly.
- The Posi-Click system lets you know when your gun is securely in place with a satisfying click.
- It has a special cut so you can use it with red dot sights on your pistol.
- The open muzzle design means you can use it even if your barrel is a little longer.
- It works with belts that are 1.5 inches or 1.75 inches wide.
- The holster fully covers the trigger to keep it safe and prevent accidents.
- Its smooth inside won’t scratch your pistol.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can trust the quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only fits specific S&W Shield models and won’t work with others, like the Shield EZ or models with lights or lasers attached.
This holster offers great protection and a secure fit for your S&W M&P Shield. It’s a solid choice for everyday carry.
5. OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm EZ
Rating: 9.0/10
The OWB Holster for M&P Shield 9mm EZ is a solid choice for anyone who carries a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm or .380 EZ M2.0. This outside-the-waistband holster is designed for right-handed shooters and offers a secure way to carry your firearm. It features a Level II retention system that clicks when the gun is holstered, keeping it safely in place. The open-type belt clip is easy to use and stays put on your belt, which can be up to 2 inches wide. You can also adjust the cant, or angle, of the holster from 0 to 60 degrees to find the most comfortable carrying position. This helps prevent the gun from digging into your leg.
What We Like:
- Custom molded fit for the S&W M&P Shield 9mm/.380 EZ M2.0 pistol ensures a snug and secure hold.
- Level II retention with an auto-locking system provides excellent weapon security.
- The quick-release button allows for fast and easy drawing of your firearm.
- The 60° adjustable open-type belt clip offers a simple on-and-off design and customizable cant for comfort.
- Made from durable, military-grade polymer that can handle tough conditions.
- The design keeps the firearm away from your hip for a better grip and smoother draw.
- Suitable for a wide range of users, including law enforcement, security, military, and sport shooters.
What Could Be Improved:
- This holster will not fit pistols that have been modified with lasers or sights.
This holster offers strong security and adjustable comfort for your M&P Shield EZ. It’s a reliable option for everyday carry and various professional uses.
Your Guide to the Best OWB Holster for Your M&P Shield 9mm
Choosing the right Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) holster for your Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm is important. It needs to keep your pistol safe and accessible. This guide will help you find the perfect fit.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an OWB holster, think about these important things.
- Retention: This means how well the holster holds your gun. You want it to be snug. It shouldn’t let your gun fall out, but you should be able to draw it easily.
- Adjustability: Some holsters let you change how your gun sits. You might be able to adjust the angle or how tight it is. This helps you find what feels best for you.
- Comfort: You’ll wear this holster for a while. It should feel comfortable against your body. Look for holsters with soft edges or padding.
- Concealment: Even though it’s OWB, you might still want to hide your gun. Some designs are better at keeping your pistol tucked in.
- Durability: A good holster should last a long time. It needs to handle daily use without breaking.
Important Materials
The material of your holster matters a lot.
- Kydex: This is a very popular choice. Kydex is a hard plastic. It’s strong and holds its shape well. It also molds to your gun for a secure fit.
- Leather: Leather holsters can look nice. They are often comfortable and mold to your body over time. However, leather can be more sensitive to sweat and weather.
- Nylon/Cordura: These are fabric materials. They are usually lighter and more flexible than Kydex. They can be a good budget option.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a holster great or not so great?
- Good Fit: A holster made specifically for the M&P Shield 9mm will fit best. A universal holster might not be as secure.
- Smooth Draw: The inside of the holster should be smooth. This lets you pull your gun out quickly and without snagging.
- Secure Attachment: How the holster attaches to your belt is key. Strong belt loops or clips keep it in place.
- Poor Construction: Cheap materials or bad stitching can make a holster fall apart. A holster that doesn’t fit your gun well is also low quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use these holsters?
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Many people use OWB holsters for carrying their Shield 9mm every day. They can be worn with a jacket or untucked shirt.
- Range Practice: OWB holsters are great for the shooting range. They allow for quick draws and easy reholstering.
- Open Carry: If you live in a place where open carry is allowed, an OWB holster is the standard choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for OWB Holsters for M&P Shield 9mm
Q: What does OWB stand for?
A: OWB stands for Outside-the-Waistband. This means the holster is worn on the outside of your pants, usually on a belt.
Q: Is an OWB holster good for concealed carry?
A: Yes, an OWB holster can be used for concealed carry, especially if you wear a loose shirt, jacket, or vest over it. It’s generally easier to conceal than a full-size pistol, but still requires some attention to clothing.
Q: How do I know if a holster will fit my M&P Shield 9mm?
A: Always check the product description. It should specifically state that it is made for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm. Some holsters might fit multiple models, but a dedicated one is best.
Q: What is the best material for an OWB holster?
A: Kydex is often considered the best material because it is durable, holds its shape, and provides excellent retention. Leather is also a good option for comfort and style, but requires more care.
Q: How do I attach an OWB holster to my belt?
A: Most OWB holsters use belt loops or clips. Belt loops slide over your belt and offer a secure attachment. Some have paddle attachments that clip onto the waistband.
Q: Can I adjust the cant on an OWB holster?
A: Many OWB holsters allow you to adjust the cant, which is the angle of the holster. This lets you position your gun for a more comfortable draw.
Q: Will sweat damage my Kydex holster?
A: Kydex is generally resistant to sweat. However, keeping your holster clean will help it last longer.
Q: How important is retention for an OWB holster?
A: Retention is very important. Your gun must stay securely in the holster during movement but still allow for a smooth, quick draw when needed.
Q: What is a “smooth draw”?
A: A smooth draw means you can pull your pistol out of the holster without it catching or snagging. This is important for self-defense and for practice at the range.
Q: Should I buy a holster with a thumb break or retention strap?
A: Some OWB holsters have a thumb break or retention strap for extra security. This can be good for active situations or if you want added peace of mind, but it can slow down your draw time.
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.