The Importance of a Good Belt

There’s always a lot of talk surrounding the importance of finding just the right handgun and a holster that fits your body and your weapon. However, little attention is paid to the holster belt. It is most often all but forgotten.

However, it should not be overlooked. A quality holster is only as good as the belt.

Carrying every day is an ideal situation. If that is the case, then such long-term wear demands a quality belt.

Cheaper belts will wear quickly. Moreover, they may not provide sufficient purchase for an in-the-waistband or an outside-the-waistband holsters. A good belt for a shoulder holster is invaluable.

Why is a good holster belt so vital? Think about a regular belt for your trousers. What happens if that belt is too narrow or flimsy or worn? What will happen if the belt is too tight or too loose? Well, you get my drift.

A good holster belt performs much the same task. You don’t want to be caught in a situation where you reach for your weapon only to discover that the holster came out on your draw with your weapon.

An outside-the-waistband holster’s requirements are much the same as those of an inside-waistband holster. Both demand a tight fit.

In both cases, a quality leather belt  is an excellent choice. Holster belts like Blackhawk’s CQB Riggers Belt provide a secure foundation. Belts with custom Velcro fits work well.

Finding just the right belt is often a trial and error process. Ask anyone. They most likely have a drawer full of belts that just did not work out.

Good outside-the-waistband belts include the DeSantis Speed Scabbard. It can be used successfully with weapons like the SIG Sauer P250 sub compact.

Rigs combine holster and belt. A comfortable rigs is the Galco Jackass rig. It carries a SIG Sauer 228 so well that you could wear it for any occasion—including those black tie affairs that demand a tuxedo>

Another good rig for warmer weather with less cover clothing is the Versacarry. It works great with a Diamondback DB9.

So what separates mediocre gun belts from outstanding ones? What makes a good gun belt last a lifetime?

• Multi-layered

Think about this: If one layer of good quality leather is durable then how much more durable are  multiple layers?

Good leather—like English bridle leather—holds up to tough use. It is  impervious to the elements.

If the leather in your gun belt is double reinforced and made of high quality, durable leather it will hold its shape in the toughest wear. It may also double as an effective back support.

• Steel Reinforced

A reinforcing layer between the layers of leather is like a spring-loaded steel coil. It’s a great guide between the leather. Plastic is often used on the cheaper models. It won’t hold a candle to steel. A steel core combines strength and flexibility.

• Rust-resistant

If metal parts of the gun belt corrode, they are a giant disadvantage. If they resist corrosion they can stand up to windy and rainy conditions. Good metal for a gun belt is nickel plated material for buckles and studs. This means your belt will buckle and unbuckle easily and remain supple.