Making sure that a holster is clear when holstering your firearm is important, but is it enough to just assume that it’s clear? The truth is, you can’t say for certain that nothing is in the way unless you physically take a look.
Fight me all you want, but these are the facts of life.
First, let’s take a look at some poll results:
We’re going to assume that you’re using a holster that’s properly molded for your firearm. In other words, you’re using something like these:
…instead of something like this:
The holster directly above is made by a company that also makes one of the holsters in the photo above it, but it’s one that we shy away from because it doesn’t have a custom fit for firearms.
Without a gun in the holster, and without that molded support, the two sides will tend to come together, removing that opening for the gun. It creates a moment where the user has to ‘fish’ around to get the muzzle to make it’s way into the holster. It’s not the ideal setup when better options are available.
When going to holster in a concealed position, you’re going to need to move things around. Whether it’s a shirt, jacket, hoodie, etc., things will be in the way that need to be cleared in order to holster your firearm.
Unless you’re looking directly at that holster, how can you be certain that nothing is in the way?
You can’t.
There have been many documented instances where guns go off because the trigger was depressed while the use attempted to holster. The culprit (aside from negligence): Something caught in the trigger guard.
Here’s a video that shows what holsters to check out, and what types to avoid, while also giving an example of holstering gone wrong:
And here’s a negligent discharge in the appendix carry position:
This next one was covered in the first video above, but we have some more imagery to drive the point home. If you’re squeamish, it’s best not to click the following link:
I warned you.
So, we got off topic a little, but it all falls into the same category. As an armed citizen who carries a concealed firearm, it’s important to be mindful of what we’re doing and how we’re doing it.
The conclusion is this; the consensus on best practices while holstering is to get a visual on your holster, both before and during the holstering of your firearm. And, with regards to the actual holster, one that is molded for your firearm with sturdy protection all around is the way to go.
