We’ve been field testing leather holsters for a very long time and this guide will help you understand why the finish on your gun rubs off and what holsters will prevent the finish from rubbing off.
Why a firearm’s finish will rub off in a holster – Holsters that are made from leather and kydex have contact points where the holster meets the firearm. Depending on how frequently you draw your firearm, those contact points will create friction and eventually rub the finish off your gun. If you draw your firearm every day, the friction created from the handgun rubbing against the holster while drawing or holstering will eventually rub the polish or finish off of your gun.
How to prevent the polish from rubbing off your gun – If you are concerned that the holster you have is rubbing the finish/polish off your gun, it’s time to get a new one. You’ll want a holster that has a smooth lining, to reduce the amount of friction that is generated from drawing & holstering the firearm. The dense hard plastic used in kydex holsters can be very abrasive and can remove the finish and leave noticeable scratches on your firearm. Leather holsters are usually softer and break in to reduce the amount of force needed to draw the firearm from the holster. We suggest choosing a leather holster that is lined with a very soft and smooth leather, which generally reduces and/or eliminates the threat of abrasive friction.
We recommend viewing these IWB and OWB holsters that are lined with a soft & smooth leather.
FAQs
Leather holsters are usually softer and break in to reduce the amount of force needed to draw the firearm from the holster. We suggest choosing a leather holster that is lined with a very soft and smooth leather, which generally reduces and/or eliminates the threat of abrasive friction.
What holster won't scratch my pistol? ›
Leather holsters, when properly maintained, won't scratch your gun.
Which is a better holster leather or Kydex? ›
There are tradeoffs in each material. You may find a variety of holsters are needed — multiple even for each handgun. The smallest autos are probably best served with Kydex for its rigidity and retention. Larger handguns are more comfortable in leather holsters.
What is a friction holster? ›
For many concealed carry holsters, friction is the primary means of retention. A precise fit of the holster to the gun will often provide enough resistance to prevent a pistol from jumping out of the carry rig.
What are the cons of a Kydex holster? ›
Kydex holsters have their advantages, but they also have several cons that gun owners should be aware of before choosing this type of holster. These include noise, retention issues, discomfort, wear and tear, and limited customization options.
What is the best holster to protect a gun finish? ›
Leather holsters are usually softer and break in to reduce the amount of force needed to draw the firearm from the holster. We suggest choosing a leather holster that is lined with a very soft and smooth leather, which generally reduces and/or eliminates the threat of abrasive friction.
What holster do military police use? ›
The Rapid Force Duty Holster protects your firearm so that you can protect and serve. Engineered to meet the needs of active law enforcement and military service members, Rapid Force features a secure Level 2 or Level 3 retention, a fast and intuitive draw, and extreme durability.
Do police use Kydex holsters? ›
Another popular material for law enforcement holsters is synthetic materials such as Kydex or polymer. These materials are lightweight, offer excellent retention, and require little maintenance.
What are the disadvantages of leather holsters? ›
Primarily the biggest problem is wear and tear, leather holsters lose shape and get compressed out of form over time due to pressure and soaking up moisture or sweat. This makes it difficult to re-holster at times, and often times replacing it is the best option.
What is the best material for a gun holster? ›
Because leather is so tough and resilient, it's been the standard for generations. Leather holsters are flexible and comfortable, and they form to your body over time. Drawing your gun can take a fraction of a second longer than it would with a Kydex holster simply because of the material's friction.
Description. The revolutionary CrossBreed SuperTuck is the most comfortable and concealable inside the waistband (IWB) holster that you'll ever wear. Designed exclusively and patented by CrossBreed Holsters, the flagship SuperTuck Deluxe is hand molded to fit each specific firearm listed.
What is the safest type of holster? ›
Kydex and other rigid plastics are excellent holster materials. They're tough, can be molded into just about any shape and really protect the weapon. Their rigidity also makes them ideal for holsters with retention systems. Usually they're shaped for a specific weapon.
What type of holster is most comfortable? ›
Belly band holster is one of the most versatile and comfortable holsters available in the market. It can be worn in multiple positions on your torso including on your hip, mid back, behind the hip, appendix, etc. Most people get worried about their clothing when they have to carry a gun holster.
Should you keep a gun in a holster? ›
Methods of Carrying Without a Holster
Not only does it not provide secure retention (the gun has a high chance of falling off), there is nothing to protect the trigger guard, which can snag and lead to a negligent discharge, with potentially lethal consequences.
Why is Kydex so popular? ›
Kydex is also known for its high impact resistance and low flammability, making it a popular choice for applications where safety and durability are critical. It is also resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.
Are leather holsters bad for your gun? ›
Not really “scratch” but it may cause some rub marks on contact areas like front of slide and trigger guard area where the holster gets it's retention. Stainless and parkerized will hold its finish better than polished blue..But it is not as bad as what scratches and wear marks you will get with a Kydex holster.
Do I need a holster claw or not? ›
Do I need a holster claw? While a holster claw is not required, if you are concealed carrying a claw is a great addition to your carry system. Holster claws are effective for many gun and holster models.
