A tactical holster gives you quick access to your sidearm when you need it, and it covers a broad range of holsters. Everything from OWB holsters to IWB holsters, concealed carry holsters, belt holsters, paddle holsters, and more can be considered “tactical” models depending on how they are designed and used. Some tactical holsters even use the MOLLE attachment system so that you can keep your EDC handgun secured to your backpack or chest rig. Other tactical handgun holsters may also include mag pouches to give you access to extra magazines when you need them.
While the exact brand and style of holster varies widely, most departments require their police officers to use retention holsters that attach to a duty belt. A retention holster is a tactical gun holster that has multiple methods of retention, or mechanisms that prevent someone other than the intended user from pulling the weapon. This is to ensure that a suspect cannot disarm the officer easily, which could be dangerous.
The term tactical is broad, and it can mean a variety of different things. For example, some people might refer to all concealment holsters as tactical holsters because they conceal weapons from other people. Other times, a tactical holster might specifically refer to a drop-leg holster or shoulder holster, which are typically only worn by military or law enforcement members. However, the term tactical usually just refers to any holster that has extra features than a standard leather pouch that holds a weapon.
The term “AIWB” stands for appendix inside the waistband, and it refers to a type of concealed carry holster that you place against your appendix and inside the waistband of your pants. This allows you to draw it quickly if you need to use it, and there are many high-quality options available. Appendix carry holsters are extremely common in the CCW community because you are less likely to print.
When you need a tactical holster to keep your handgun safe and ready to draw, we have the best selection here at OpticsPlanet. Check out some of the products from our top brands, including Safariland, BlackHawk, and Fobus.