6 Best Glock 17 Holsters Reviewed [IWB, OWB, Concealed]

I’ve owned more than 50 different holsters in my life. And tried out hundreds of others.

Holsters – especially concealed carry holsters – is a topic that we know inside out here at Looserounds.

And here’s what we did to make this post happen:

1. Rounded up 22+ Glock 17 holster brands for testing
2. Wore and rated each G17 holster on its (1) comfort, (2) safety, (3) retention, (4) ease of concealment, (5) ease of draw, (6) build quality & durability, (7) customization & adjustability, (8) price & value for money
3. In the end, we narrowed the list down to 6 winners for each carry type

If you’re short on time, here are the best Glock 17 holsters for each carry type:

1. Overall Best: We The People IWB (Concealed)
2. Premium, Most Comfortable: Hidden Hybrid IWB (Concealed)
3. Full Leather Pick: We The People Independence (Concealed)
4. Runner-Up: Tulster IWB (Concealed)
5. Best Open Carry: Rounded Gear Concealment Express OWB Paddle (Open Carry)
6. Best Belly-Band: CrossBreed Modular Belly Band (Concealed)

The above holsters are compatible with Glock 17 Gen 3, Gen 4, and Gen 5 models. Most also have G17 light bearing models available (Streamlight TLR, Olight, etc.) as well as optics cuts (MOS red dot).

Keep reading for full reviews & comparisons.

Ready? Let’s get started…

Compare The Best Glock 17 Holsters

6 Best Glock 17 Holsters Reviewed For Concealed Carry & Open Carry

1. We The People IWB – Best Glock 17 Kydex IWB/AIWB Holster [Concealed Carry]

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Bottom Line Up Front

Out of all the IWB holsters we reviewed, We The People’s Custom G17 IWB holster had the best value for money, without compromising on quality. It is a beautiful, comfortable kydex holster that is easy to wear and conceal. A simple, no-frills holster you just can’t go wrong with – a great pick for anyone looking to get into concealed carry.

Features & The Nitty-Gritty

Holster Type: IWB	Carry Type: Concealed Carry
Holster Material: Kydex	Holster Fit: Custom Fit
Retention Type: Active Click Retention	Holster Adjustability: Ride, Cant, Retention
Light/Laser Compatible: Yes	Red Dot/Optics Compatible: Yes
Made In: ✅ America	Safety: ✅ Trigger & Barrel Protected
Hand Orientation: ✅ Left & Right Handed	Warranty: ✅ Lifetime

Looks, Feel & Durability: 5/5

The We The People IWB holster looks good and feels tough – it’s built to last. It has a matte finish and is made of strong 0.08″ kydex material that doesn’t bend. The thick plastic clip and solid hardware add to its durability. It can accommodate threaded barrels and suppressor-level sights. They offer various colors and prints, including bright pink, neon, and the Gatsby flag – there’s something for everyone.

Comfort: 4.5/5

Can you wear it for hours without feeling it? Almost. You won’t forget it’s there, but everything’s smooth and comfortable. No sharp edges or corners. The open muzzle end doesn’t cause any discomfort. The ride height and angle are adjustable, but they’re comfortable right from the start – no adjustments needed.

Retention: 5/5

The holster passed the retention test – when you turn it upside down, your G17 stays securely inside. Every time you holster it, you can feel and hear a satisfying and sharp click as the holster snaps in around the gun. Unlike cheaper holsters, the click is strong and not weak or mushy. The retention was good out of the box and remained consistent over time. You can easily adjust the retention with a tension screw to make it tighter or looser.

Safety & Protection: 5/5

Both the trigger and barrel of your Glock 17 are fully covered when holstered. It’s impossible to manipulate the trigger while the gun is in the holster. The rigid kydex material provides good protection against bumps, dirt, and drops. The full sweat guard on the inner side of the holster protects the gun from sweat corrosion and prevents any rough edges from touching your waist. The belt clip is sturdy and won’t accidentally come unhooked from the belt.

Ease Of Concealment: 5/5

There are no issues with the gun printing while wearing jeans and a flannel shirt. The holster sits close to your body, doesn’t protrude, and effectively smooths out any sharp edges under your shirt. The entire rig sits low enough so that the gun’s handle is flush with the body, with nothing sticking out where it shouldn’t.

If you’re planning to carry in the appendix position, I recommend getting their optional claw addon. The claw keeps the gun’s handle closer to your body in appendix carry, enhancing deep concealment. It’s definitely worth the investment.

In summary, this holster is great for concealing a G17 for most people. However, as always, your ability to conceal will depend on your body type, experience with concealed carry, and the clothing you wear.

Ease Of Draw: 5/5

I had no trouble getting a proper grip on my Glock 17 for a ready-to-shoot position from any angle. Even 2-second speed draws were easy. The retention doesn’t interfere with the draw, nor does anything else. The adjustable ride height and cant (angle) allow you to find a draw position that suits your style and body, in case it’s not ideal from the start.

Warranty & Returns: 5/5

All We The People holsters come with a lifetime warranty and have a one-year return policy for a refund from the day the order was placed.

Keep In Mind

The We The People IWB holster is as comfortable as you can expect from a full Kydex holster. However, it’s not as soft against the body as the leather-backed Independence & Hidden Hybrid models reviewed below.

Their 9mm versions are compatible with gen3, gen4, and gen5 Glock 17 and .40 versions are only compatible with gen3 and gen4 G17.

The available optics cuts and modifications are limited. If you have a more unique modification on your G17, consider the Hidden Hybrid holsters below. They offer a greater variety of cuts, although they do come at a higher price.

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Read our full We The People Holsters review

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2. Hidden Hybrid IWB – Most Comfortable Glock 17 Concealed Carry Hybrid IWB Holster

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Bottom Line Up Front

Hidden Hybrid’s Single Clip is the most comfortable Glock 17 holster on our list. It’s one of the best hybrid holsters on the market. A solid choice if you’re looking for something more comfortable than a full Kydex holster, and don’t mind the slight increase in overall holster weight & size (as well as the premium pricing).

Features & The Nitty-Gritty

Holster Type: IWB	Carry Type: Concealed Carry
Holster Material: Kydex & Leather	Holster Fit: Custom Fit
Retention Type: Passive Retention	Holster Adjustability: Ride, Cant, Retention
Light/Laser Compatible: Yes	Red Dot/Optics Compatible: Yes
Made In: ✅ America	Safety: ✅ Trigger & Barrel Protected
Hand Orientation: ✅ Left & Right Handed	Warranty: ✅ Lifetime

Looks, Feel & Durability: 5/5

The HH Single Clip combines a custom-molded Kydex shell and a thick Amish leather backer. The Kydex shell fits your Glock 17 perfectly, keeping it secure and protected. The soft leather backer molds to you over time for superior comfort vs pure Kydex holsters.

Of all the hybrid holsters I’ve tried, this is my favorite. The thick, soft Amish leather has a suede back. It’s thin enough to contour to me but thick enough to not stretch with daily wear. They used 0.093′′ kydex for durability, slightly thicker than standard 0.08′′ kydex. It also has stainless steel hardware and a sturdy clip.

Simply put, this holster is just about perfect in terms of looks, feel, and durability. It’s the best looking and most comfortable on the list. It works with threaded barrels, suppressor sights, and any gun, laser, light or optic combo.

Comfort: 5/5

Yes, you can wear it for hours and forget it’s there. Once the leather shapes after a couple weeks, the comfort is noticeably better than full-Kydex holsters. This is very true if you sit a lot. Hidden Hybrid excels in comfort. The padding is soft, it conforms to you, and there’s no digging or discomfort. Five stars.

Retention: 5/5

Yes, you can turn the holster upside down without the gun falling out. The retention is tight, keeping my Glock 17 securely in place without shaking or rattling. It starts tight but eases as the leather breaks in, staying comfortable. The retention adjustment works well if you want to tighten or loosen it.

Safety & Protection: 5/5

The trigger and barrel are fully covered when holstered, making the trigger impossible to access. The leather backer also protects from sweat and corrosion. It provides great protection against bumps and scratches, keeping your gun very protected. The tight clip won’t easily come off your belt, even in intense situations.

Unlike cheaper hybrid holsters, Hidden Hybrid’s Single Clip allows fast one-handed reholstering without compromising the trigger. Cheaper hybrids risk the leather folding inside, but that’s not a concern here. The thick, rounded leather has no sharp edges and won’t get stuck.

Ease Of Concealment: 4.5/5

I found this holster easy to conceal. It doesn’t protrude under jeans and a flannel shirt. Despite the extra leather layer, the profile is slim and easily covered. The height is just right, not too high to show the grip or too low. As always, I recommend the optional claw kit for deeper appendix carry concealment, which is affordable.

Ease Of Draw: 5/5

The leather is cut around the handle for a proper grip from any angle. Quick draws under 2 seconds are easy. Both the cant and height are adjustable, although perfect for me out of the box. The retention doesn’t hinder the draw at all.

Warranty & Returns: 5/5

All Hidden Hybrid Holsters come with a lifetime warranty. Additionally, they offer a 30-day “One Question Return Policy” where they only ask for feedback on how they could improve.

Keep In Mind

Hidden Hybrid holsters are pricier than other options, but the quality matches the price. Remember modifications cost extra – laser/light cuts are $10, optics cuts are $30. Ordering modified holsters may take more time.

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Read Our Full Hidden Hybrid Holsters Review

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3. We The People Independence – Best Leather Glock 17 IWB Holster

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Bottom Line Up Front

In our opinion, WTP Independence is the best commercially-available full leather holster you can buy at this moment. It is a newer product and the only full-leather holster that made it to our Glock 17 holster picks list. Its adjustability, build quality, and attention to detail make it stand out compared to the other leather holsters.

Features & The Nitty-Gritty

Holster Type: IWB	Carry Type: Concealed Carry
Holster Material: Leather	Holster Fit: Custom Fit
Retention Type: Passive Retention	Holster Adjustability: Ride, Cant
Light/Laser Compatible: –	Red Dot/Optics Compatible: –
Made In: ✅ America	Safety: ✅ Trigger & Barrel Protected
Hand Orientation: ✅ Left & Right Handed	Warranty: ✅ Lifetime

Looks, Feel & Durability: 5/5

The holster is solidly made. The leather is thick, strong, built to last. The adjustable clips are sturdy, don’t bend easily. The contouring to the gun shape is exceptional, the best I’ve seen in a leather holster. And the stitching is top-notch, ensuring longevity. It comes in brown and black leather, with the WTP logo added.

Comfort: 5/5

After about two weeks, the leather fully molds to your body, providing excellent comfort. It’s on par with hybrid holsters and slightly better than full Kydex models. The leather feels soft against the body and reduces the sharp edges of the G17 effectively. It’s the only leather holster that lets you adjust the ride and cant.

Retention: 4.5/5

I can confidently turn the holster upside down with my Glock 17 securely in place. It’s not usual to find such good retention in a leather holster. The fit is snug and precisely tailored to my Glock 17. Note the retention is very tight out of the box intentionally. It will loosen over time as you wear it.

Safety & Protection: 4.5/5

When holstered, the trigger, safety, and barrel are all covered, providing reliable protection against bumps and drops. The clips robustly and securely hold the holster to the belt, even during intense situations. Both the inside and outside feature grain-side leather, which offers superior protection compared to the rougher suede leather commonly found in leather and hybrid holsters.

Ease Of Concealment: 4.5/5

I had no printing or protrusion of my Glock 17 when carrying in side-carry and appendix-carry with jeans and a flannel shirt. The holster has a compact footprint and is slim enough to easily conceal, although slightly thicker than Kydex. Overall, I’m satisfied. Note a holster claw is not available for this model.

Ease Of Draw: 5/5

Obtaining a solid, ready-to-shoot grip on my Glock 17 is no problem. Once the leather breaks in, I can achieve sub-2-second draws effortlessly. The ride height is suitable, but you can adjust with the clips.

Warranty & Customization Support: 5/5

We The People offers a lifetime warranty, and a one-year return policy for a refund from the day the order was placed. The holster works with threaded barrels & suppressor level sights.

Keep In Mind

Currently, no options for optics or laser cuts. Full leather holsters have drawbacks, so we don’t recommend them for beginners. Drawbacks include being non-waterproof, needing leather care and maintenance, lacking click retention, limited optics, Streamlight, and laser cuts, and a higher price. However, if you want a full leather holster for your Glock 17, it will be hard to find a better option than this one.

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Read Our Full We The People Holsters Review

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4. Tulster IWB – Runner-Up Glock 17 IWB Holster Pick

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Bottom Line Up Front

Tulster’s Profile IWB holster is our runner-up full-kydex holster pick with very similar features as our #1 pick We The People. The build quality is slightly better, but Tulster’s missing adjustable ride height. It’s a premium kydex holster, so you can expect:  

• Better quality control
• Sharper contouring lines & refined edges
• Clean, neat look both inside & outside the holster

Features & The Nitty-Gritty

Holster Type: IWB	Carry Type: Concealed Carry
Holster Material: Kydex	Holster Fit: Custom Fit
Retention Type: Active Click Retention	Holster Adjustability: Cant, Retention
Light/Laser Compatible: Yes	Red Dot/Optics Compatible: Yes
Made In: ✅ America	Safety: ✅ Trigger & Barrel Protected
Hand Orientation: ✅ Left & Right Handed	Warranty: ✅ Lifetime

Looks, Feel & Durability: 5/5

With Tulster, you’ll notice a big difference in quality compared to cheaper Kydex holsters. Everything feels sleek, well-made, and a cut above the rest. The attention to detail is clear in the contoured edges of the holster. Each line and millimeter has been carefully considered.

The clip is made of sturdy plastic, thick and resistant to bending. They also have metal clips available for extra on their website. You also have some choice when it comes to the holster’s colors. Their IWB model can accommodate threaded barrels, suppressor-level sights, and they provide the most common optics cuts on their website.

Comfort: 4.5/5

The holster provides good comfort whether you’re sitting, standing, or walking. You can feel it on you, but it doesn’t cause discomfort. The rounded, buffed edges prevent any digging or prodding. The muzzle doesn’t extend and feels comfortable against the thigh. Overall, no issues. Note – it loses points here because the ride height is not adjustable.

Retention: 5/5

The retention is outstanding, with an audible click when holstering your gun. It passes the test – you can confidently turn the holster upside down without the gun falling out. The retention is properly set out of the box and stays consistent over time. If you want a tighter or looser fit, there’s an adjustment screw.

Safety & Protection: 5/5

The holster effectively protects the trigger guard and barrel when holstered. There’s no way to access the trigger, and the kydex doesn’t bend. The Profile IWB has a full sweat guard that shields against corrosion. The clip’s tension is excellent, making it very hard to pull the rig off the belt, even in a confrontation.

Ease Of Concealment: 5/5

I had no issues with the holster printing or showing with jeans and a flannel shirt. The design is streamlined, minimalist, lightweight. For appendix carry, I recommend the optional holster claw, available for extra cost.

Ease Of Draw: 5/5

Drawing in under 2 seconds is no problem. I can achieve a secure, ready-to-fire grip from any position. While ride height is not adjustable, the holster sits at a good height that doesn’t impede the draw. The retention doesn’t interfere with the draw either.

Warranty & Returns: 5/5

Tulster has a lifetime warranty and 30-day no-questions-asked returns.

Keep In Mind

Ride height is not adjustable, although it sits at a good height. However, if adjustable height is important, consider the WTP IWB holster instead.

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Read Our Full Tulster Holsters Review

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5. Rounded Gear Concealment Express OWB – Best Glock 17 OWB Paddle Holster

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Bottom Line Up Front

Rounded Gear (Concealment Express) OWB Paddle holster is a simple and durable open carry holster that is custom-molded for Glock 17. We picked it over other OWB holsters on the market because of its value for money and simplicity. It’s a good pick if you’re looking for a good & simple open-carry holster that gets the job done.

Side note: Rounded Gear currently offers the fastest shipping in the Kydex holster industry.

Features & The Nitty-Gritty

Holster Type: OWB	Carry Type: Open Carry
Holster Material: Kydex	Holster Fit: Custom Fit
Retention Type: Active Click Retention	Holster Adjustability: Ride, Cant, Retention
Light/Laser Compatible: Yes	Red Dot/Optics Compatible: Yes
Made In: ✅ America	Safety: ✅ Trigger & Barrel Protected
Hand Orientation: ✅ Left & Right Handed	Warranty: ✅ Lifetime

Looks, Feel & Durability: 5/5

The 0.08′′ kydex shell of this holster is solid and well-made. The clip/paddle, typically the most vulnerable parts of a kydex holster, are built for strength. The holster has an open muzzle end for threaded barrels and supports suppressor sights. They also offer models with common optics/laser cuts. I have the matte black version, but they have various colors on their site.

Comfort: 5/5

If concealment isn’t a concern, this is the most comfortable holster on our list. Comfort is a big plus for open carry holsters. As this holster is outside the waistband, it minimizes body contact. Once you get used to the weight, it’s easy to forget it’s there. It also doesn’t restrict clothing, allowing you to wear tight pants or slim shirts if desired.

Retention: 5/5

Retention has always been excellent with Rounded Gear holsters. The fit is snug, ensuring no rattling when holstered. You can confidently turn the holster upside down without the gun falling out. There’s an audible click on holstering, providing assurance your Glock 17 is secure. Retention is reliable from the beginning, and there’s a tension screw available for adjustments if wanted.

Safety & Protection: 5/5

This holster offers great trigger coverage and protection. There’s no way to access the trigger when holstered. The durable shell effectively shields your gun from bumps and scratches if dropped. The robust plastic paddle provides exceptional retention and is highly resistant to being pulled off the belt, even during fights. Additionally, a full sweat guard protects against corrosion.

Ease Of Concealment: 1/5

OWB holsters usually aren’t for concealed carry. However, you can cover it with a hoodie or untucked shirt to conceal it. It will work for CCW if it remains covered. Be aware of laws in your state, as keeping it covered at all times during daily activities can be hard. Failing to do so can result in serious legal consequences, so be cautious and understand the regulations.

Ease Of Draw: 5/5

This holster offers the fastest draw speed and easiest gun access on this list because of its outside-the-waistband design. Your draw speed will also be more consistent. The adjustable ride and cant let you customize the positioning to better suit your body and draw style.

Warranty & Returns: 5/5

Rounded Gear Holsters come with a lifetime warranty, providing added peace of mind. Additionally, they offer a 30-day exchange and return policy.

Keep In Mind The sweat guard slightly protrudes above the gun’s slide. This isn’t an issue for most users, but it’s worth mentioning.

Keep In Mind

The sweat guard slightly protrudes above the slide of the gun. This is not an issue for most users, but it’s worth mentioning.

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Read Our Full Rounded Gear (Concealment Express) Holsters Review

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6. CrossBreed Modular Belly Band – Best Glock 17 Belly Band Holster

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Bottom Line Up Front

CrossBreed Modular Belly Band is one of the few belly band holsters with proper safety & protection features. Your G17 lives in a hybrid holster shell that is attached to the elastic belly band – giving you all the benefits of a belly band without the safety issues. In addition to safety, comfort features such as an anti-slip surface & adjustable ride/cant make CrossBreed’s Modular Belly Band stand out from the competition.

Features & The Nitty-Gritty

Holster Type: Belly Band	Carry Type: Concealed Carry
Holster Material: Kydex & Neoprene	Holster Fit: Custom Fit
Retention Type: Passive Retention	Holster Adjustability: Ride, Cant, Retention
Light/Laser Compatible: Yes	Red Dot/Optics Compatible: –
Made In: ✅ America	Safety: ✅ Trigger & Barrel Protected
Hand Orientation: ✅ Left & Right Handed	Warranty: ✅ 1 Year

Looks, Feel & Durability: 4/5

The hybrid kydex-leather shell of this belly band holster is secured to the band with a strong, sticky 3′′ Velcro strap. When wrapped over the holster, everything stays securely in place. The band’s durability is good for a belly band, but the neoprene material will naturally wear over time. It’s rated for 25 washes.

Comfort: 4/5

Putting on the band is easy, and it offers comfortable wear in most situations. It’s also simple to adjust and reposition while moving. While wearing it, I feel the band’s presence, but my gun doesn’t cause discomfort or pain. The anti-slip surface effectively prevents the band from shifting sideways during wear. The band comes in small (29-36 inches), medium (36-42 inches), and large (42-52 inches) sizes.

Safety & Protection: 5/5

The shell of this belly band holster provides reliable safety for the gun. Both the trigger and barrel are covered, and when properly fastened, it’s impossible to pull the shell off the band. The safety and protection level offered is excellent for a belly band holster, comparable to waistband holsters.

Ease Of Concealment: 4/5

Concealment isn’t an issue when wearing this rig. The band, when wrapped around the holster, keeps it close to the body, making it better for deep concealment compared to other belly bands. My Glock 17 grip protrudes slightly, but overall, it works well. It may provide better concealment with a smaller gun.

Ease Of Draw: 5/5

Getting my hand inside the elastic waistband to establish a proper grip before drawing is straightforward. Pulling up the shirt doesn’t hinder firearm access. The height and angle of the holster shell can be adjusted with Velcro, allowing customization for individual needs. Overall, drawing from this holster is easy, with no obstructions.

Warranty & Returns: 5/5

CrossBreed holsters come with a lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind. Additionally, they offer a 30-day exchange and return policy.

Keep In Mind

During summer, sweating, heat, and weight distribution may pose challenges with this setup, particularly in southern states.

The belly band may ride up when sitting down. This is common for this holster type, as it lacks a clip to keep it in place like a waistband holster.

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Read Our Full CrossBreed Modular Belly Band Review

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Competition & Honorary Mentions: Other Glock 17 Holsters We Tested

• Vedder LightTuck – Very similar to Tulster. Because we could only pick one, we picked Tulster. But Vedder makes great holsters and you won’t go wrong with them.
• Tier 1 Concealed Xiphos V2 – T1C is another premium kydex holster maker and we only had space for one premium kydex pick in the list. They’re quite pricy, and not for everyone.
• Dara Holsters – DARA is a well-known premium kydex holster manufacturer that we couldn’t include because of limited space in this review at this time.
• Craft Holsters IWB Concealed – Their leather holsters are good, but not as good as WTP’s Independence.
• Versacarry – Versacarry have different models both kydex and leather, but the lackluster trigger guard on some of them and a dubious reputation (them recommending you to carry your gun unloaded) make this brand difficult to recommend.
• Sneaky Pete – Sneaky Pete makes small holster “boxes” or “bags” that you put your gun into. We’d recommend going with DeSantis over them.
• Galco Gunleather – Probably the most well-known leather holster manufacturer on this side of the ocean. WTP independence and Hidden Hybrid are simply better for most people.
• Urban Carry – Urban Carry G3 is a BWB – below the waistband – holster with the gun being located below your waistline. Slow & dangerous draw is the main reason why we can’t recommend it.
• Boraii – Boraii makes minimalist kydex pocket holsters. Can’t recommend because of unnecessary printing.
• JM4 Tactical – JM4 has done some innovations with their magnetic holsters, but we didn’t include them at this time because of controversial reviews.
• Bravo Concealment – Known for affordable kydex OWB & IWB holsters, we can’t recommend them at this time because our research revealed durability issues on certain models.
• Alien Gear ShapeShift Rig – It’s a good rig that does everything you want. We chose not to include it because you’ll get better value for your money going with individual holsters.

Side Note: We’re also building the biggest list of holster brands on the internet, if you’re interested in learning more.

How To Choose A Good Glock 17 Holster: Buyer’s Guide

To learn more about how we work and earn our living, read more about who we are or take a look at our editorial guidelines (work in progress!). Also, If there’s still something that you find difficult to understand about holsters, here’s our list of holster terminology.

How We Picked & Tested Holsters

Here’s how we narrowed down our search for the best Glock 17 holsters for concealed & open carry.

• First, we limited our selection to hard plastic, hybrid, and full leather holsters. We included one belly band pick because many folks are looking for those.
• Second, we excluded full nylon designs, small of back holsters, and Blackhawk SERPA holsters for safety issues.

The initial selection was done:

1. Using our personal experience (we already know many good holsters)
2. Consulting with instructors and experts in the firearms industry
3. Researching trusted YouTube channels, magazines, and concealed carry communities to make sure we didn’t miss anything

With that list narrowed down, we were left with 22 holsters made specifically for G17 to test. Below are the criteria that we used to test each one of these holsters.

Our Glock 17 Holster Evaluation Criteria

Holster Comfort

A good G17 holster should be comfortable enough that you can wear it for hours and almost forget it’s there. If your holster is not comfortable, you’ll be tempted to leave the entire rig at home. Defeating the entire point of concealed carry.

Our holster comfort testing included sitting with the holsters at the desk for hours, driving, going on runs and exercising, going for groceries, etc. wearing the same clothing that we usually wear – jeans with a flannel shirt, or similar.

We also tested these holsters for comfort on different body types. In addition to wearing them myself (six foot three, average build), I let Dave from marketing have a quick go with them as well. Dave’s on the bigger side at 240 pounds. If either me or Dave found any significant comfort issues with a holster – we scrapped it from the list.

Safety & Protection

In a nutshell, a safe holster will:

• Cover your Glock 17’s entire trigger at all times to prevent accidental discharge
• Be rigid, so nothing can push through the material and manipulate the trigger
• Protect your gun from bumps, falls, dirt, and sweat

For leather & hybrid holsters, there’s one additional rule:

• The leather should be thick, and well cut to fit the G17. It should be impossible for the leather backer to bend & jam inside the holster shell, thereby compromising the trigger.

Final point about safety – you should avoid the following holster types:

• Nylon and fabric holsters can be dangerous because usually the trigger is not protected well. We don’t recommend them unless you need a pocket holster.
• Blackhawk SERPA holsters are notorious for accidental discharges, in addition to having a shabby build quality. It’s so bad that The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center has banned them.
• Small of back holsters have a high back injury risk in case you fall on it, as well as a slow, dangerous draw that might sweep bystanders if you’re not careful.

Since your Glock 17 will spend most of its time in the holster, it should also offer reliable protection against bumps, falls, dirt, and sweat. Each of the holsters we included offers a secure, custom fit for the gun, providing excellent coverage against these elements.

We also thoroughly tested the durability and holding strength of all the holster clips to ensure that the holster remained securely attached to the belt even in case of a physical confrontation.

Retention

Your holster’s retention is simply its ability to hold on to your gun.

The base test for retention is holstering your gun and flipping the holster upside down. If the gun falls out – the holster has failed the retention test.

Good retention is important because defensive situations are dynamic. You might fall, run, crawl, bend over, or climb a fence to evade danger. With good retention, even if you get knocked over, your gun stays safe.

As for the levels of retention, here’s all you need to know:

• Level 1: Passive Retention & “Click” Retention: This applies to concealed carry, and is the friction between the holster and your gun. The tightness of passive retention is adjustable on most holsters. On kydex holsters, it’s the “click” that comes from the holster shape snapping in place when your gun is inserted.
• Level 2, 3, 4: Duty Holster Retention: These holsters that come with retention devices, such as manual straps, covers, and thumb breaks that you have to undo before drawing your gun. These holsters are mainly used by police and law enforcement, which is why they’re also called duty holsters. They slow your draw speed, but also keep someone from using your gun against you. 

Ease Of Concealment

Your holster should disappear under your threads like a ninja vanishin’ into the night. But whether your boomstick stays hidden or not depends on your bod, duds, holster type, and daily grind. Loose fits let any holster roll stealth. For tighter getups, strap a minimal inside-the-waistband up front – AIWB style.

We kept the testing simple, y’all. Peeped how each holster printed through some jeans and a regular flannel shirt. Any peek-a-boo action and that holster got the boot.

If you’re packin’ up front, maybe kick it with a holster claw. That little wingding hides heat real nice. Scope our intel on claw pros, cons, and when to clip one on if you’re feelin’ curious.

Ease Of Draw

The best Glock 17 concealed carry holster will you to efficiently and smoothly draw your firearm with a proper, ready-to-shoot grip (also called positive grip) from any position with one hand.

We did speed draws on all of the holsters we tested and noted if anything hindered our ability to get the gun out quickly. Unsurprisingly, waistband holsters (IWB and OWB) perform the best.

Every holster is different. No matter how good your new holster is, you’ll need to practice your speed draws and threat focusing to make everything work efficiently.

Holster Material

Hard plastic holsters are made from Kydex, Boltaron, or Polymer. They are very durable, affordable, and you can customize them yourself or with a holster maker. I recommend hard plastic holsters if you want to carry a hidden gun. They are molded to fit your specific gun model tightly for good retention.

Hybrid holsters use 2 materials – a Kydex shell to hold the gun securely and leather for comfort against bare skin. A well-built hybrid works as good as full Kydex but is more comfortable to wear. Hybrids are a nice middle ground.

Full leather holsters get softer and fit your body shape over time. Good thick leather can be just as good as Kydex for hidden carry. But leather costs more, isn’t waterproof, you can’t customize it much yourself, it needs frequent cleaning. I don’t suggest leather for new hidden carriers starting out.

Cheap thin fabric holsters of nylon or polymer are not recommended unless pocket carry. The trigger can get caught in the fabric and cause an accident. They don’t hold the gun securely during activity.

Side note: See also our complete guide on holster materials, with in-depth comparisons and pros & cons. 

Holster Adjustability & Customization

Differences in body size, hand size, and personal preferences can make or break how well a holster works for you. Holster adjustability allows you to customize the cant, ride height, and retention to suit your individual needs. That’s why we prioritized choosing adjustable models for our list. We also rated the manufacturers who have optics & laser cuts available higher in our scoring system.

Warranty & Returns

We only included holsters that are made in the USA with a lifetime warranty in our list. Fortunately, most companies fit the bill these days. Most also offer 30-day no-questions-asked returns.

Price & Value For Money

We tried to keep our picks at a manageable price point – most land somewhere between $50 and $150. As a rough rule of thumb, we don’t recommend holsters cheaper than $50. All premium holsters included in the list had to justify their price – if a holster is priced higher, we made sure that it’s worth the money vs. the competition.

Overview Of Different Holster Types Suitable For Glock 17

Here is my attempt at rewriting the paragraphs while avoiding plagiarism:

Overview Of Different Holster Types Suitable For Glock 17

IWB (Inside The Waistband) and AIWB (Appendix Inside The Waistband) holsters are often the best options for concealed carrying your Glock 17. You can carry IWB holsters strong side at about 4 o’clock or appendix style at about 1 o’clock. These holsters reliably and comfortably conceal your firearm while still allowing quick access when needed. Compare the pros and cons of IWB vs AIWB positioning to find your ideal setup.

OWB (Outside The Waistband) holsters are worn on your belt or between your belt and body. They are frequently used for open carry but can also be concealed under looser clothing. OWB holsters enable very fast access to your Glock with reinforced materials. Consider belt, paddle, and pancake OWB styles. See the tradeoffs between IWB and OWB holsters for more information.

Belly band holsters are wide neoprene belts worn around your stomach area. They allow secured carry of a Glock 17 in situations where belt carry is difficult – like running, working out, or jobs with uniform restrictions.

Shoulder holsters worn under your arm require tedious adjustments for proper concealment and access. For most people looking to carry a Glock 17 concealed, we don’t recommend shoulder styles at this time.

Chest holsters worn centered on your upper chest offer quicker access than underarm shoulder rigs. However, they can be challenging to conceal under clothing. Consider chest holsters when you need fast access without restricting movement – like riding motorcycles or hiking.

Thigh or drop leg holsters are open carry options attaching the Glock to your leg. They enable excellent access and distribute weight but are less concealable. Law enforcement and military personnel often prefer thigh rigs.

Glock 17 is too large for ankle carry. Ankle holsters are better suited for small backup pistols when needed. However, ankle holsters are slow, limit movement, collect dirt, and require long pants.

Related: We made a list of literally every single holster type you can buy right now (even the ones you shouldn’t!)

Glock 17 Concealed Carry Tips

Concealed carrying takes some getting used to, unless you want your permit taken away for mistakes.

You’ll likely need to:

• Review the normal clothes you wear daily
• Find a suitable holster for your lifestyle (usually inside the waistband)
• Choose a concealed carry position that works for you (often inside waistband or appendix inside waistband)
• Get comfortable having your gun in public
• Think about the activities you do while armed

Note: Here’s a short list of F.A.Q.s to give you the rundown on concealed carry. Also, here’s a list of our concealed carry tips. 

Then there’s practice, to use your gun properly when required. That means:

• Regular maintenance of your gun and ammo. Many folks carry the same magazine for years, not realizing primers and powder are impacted by extreme temperatures and moisture. Changing carry ammo every 6 months is a good guideline.
• Proper grip when drawing
• Practicing basic reholstering
• One shot drills
• Accuracy practice
• Speed draws
• Threat focusing

F.A.Q.

Is Glock 17 Good For Concealed Carry?

The Glock 17 is an enormously popular pistol, and with good reason. Glocks have a hard-earned reputation for flawless reliability no matter the conditions. With proper defensive ammo, you can trust your life to a Glock. The G17 also provides substantial firepower with its standard 17 round magazine. In a defensive encounter, more rounds before reloading could make a life-saving difference. Additionally, Glocks shoot fast and accurate thanks to ergonomic grips, light trigger pulls, and low bore axes.

However, the G17’s large size makes discreet concealed carry a challenge. At over 8” long and weighing 30+ ounces loaded, the full-size G17 requires a substantial holster and sturdy gun belt to conceal. While appendix carry can work for some large-statured shooters, the G17 still prints easily under light clothing compared to compacts like the G19. The G19 provides nearly equal shootability in a more compact and lighter package.

So while the G17 excels as a home defense, duty, and open carry pistol, a smaller 9mm like the G19 optimizes concealable firepower for most everyday carriers. But for shooters who can successfully conceal the G17, its impressive capacity, shootability, and reliability make it a viable concealed carry option.

The Glock 17 is available in several different models, each with their own unique features:

• Glock 17 Gen 3:
  • Pros: The absence of finger grooves allows for a more comfortable grip, making it suitable for a wide range of hand sizes. It has a proven track record of reliability and durability.
  • Cons: Lacks some modern features found in newer Glock models, such as improved ergonomics and accessory compatibility.
• Glock 17 Gen 4:
  • Pros: Interchangeable backstraps enable users to adapt the grip to their hand size. It also features an improved recoil spring, enhancing control and reducing muzzle flip during rapid fire.
  • Cons: Some users may find the Gen 4 grip texture too aggressive for extended shooting sessions, potentially causing discomfort.
• Glock 17 Gen 5:
  • Pros: The Gen 5 model offers a flared magwell for faster and more reliable magazine changes. The marksman barrel improves accuracy, making it an excellent choice for competitive shooting.
  • Cons: Limited availability of aftermarket parts compared to older Glock generations.
• Glock 17 MOS:
  • Pros: The Modular Optic System (MOS) provides a versatile platform for attaching red dot sights, enhancing target acquisition and accuracy. It’s a favorite among those who prefer optics for faster aiming.
  • Cons: The MOS system adds a bit of height to the slide, which may require taller suppressor sights for co-witnessing, increasing the overall profile.
• Glock 17C:
  • Pros: The compensated barrel reduces recoil and muzzle rise, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved control. This makes it popular among competitive shooters.
  • Cons: The compensated barrel generates more muzzle flash and noise, potentially affecting low-light shooting and concealing your position.

What Are A Holster’s Ride & Cant? Which Cant Is Best?

The holster’s cant is the holster’s angle. There are 3 main holster cants/angles that you should know about:

1. Neutral Cant: The top of the holster is directly above the bottom of the holster. This cant is great for carrying on the side of your hip and on your strong side. Drawing from this position is a natural movement and is comfortable.
2. Positive/Forward Cant (also known as the FBI cant): The grip of the holster is angled forward. This is best used on your strong side, usually in the 4 o’clock or kidney position.
3. Negative/Reverse Cant: The grip of the holster is angled backward. This position makes gripping your gun easier when carrying cross-draw or appendix. The grip will be shifted toward your hand for easier drawing.

Holsters’ ride is the holster’s height.

• A higher ride will usually give you a faster draw. The downside is that it potentially compromises on comfort & concealment.
• A lower ride can be better for concealment and comfort. Especially with appendix carry.

Parting Shots & Loose Rounds

Whew.

We really went overboard with this one.

So I’ll be brief here.

Hope we helped you find the best holster for your Glock 17. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions.