The Glock 23 is one of the top choices in the world for concealed carry. Its compact size, suitable firepower, and relentless reliability, on the backdrop of Glock's proven history of performance, makes it an ideal choice for many concealed carriers that need a gun big enough to handle, but small enough to adequately conceal full-time.
It’s not small, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be, as the footprint of the handgun is small enough to achieve the desired result of total concealment, while still offering great gun handling for a majority of shooters.
Because of this obvious prowess in the concealed carry market, a plethora of holsters are made for the Glock 23. This article will seek to help you find the best one for your unique needs.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Glock 23 Holsters
- OUR TOP PICK: Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster
- RUNNER-UP: Fierce Defender IWB Kydex Holster
- SECOND RUNNER-UP: Bianchi 57 Remedy Holster
Comparison of the Best Glock 23 Holsters
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What Makes the Glock 23 a Great Concealed Carry?
There are the obvious reasons that the Glock 23 is a preferred concealed carry handgun, but it goes deeper than just the size and history of the gun.
The actual design of the G23 allows it to continue to be one of the most popular firearms in the United States and a perfect option for carrying concealed.
Glock 23 (Source)
The ability to carry safely with a round in the chamber and still with a safety intact. Even though there are some critics of the trigger safety, the gun has been copied by hundreds of other models due to the innovative trigger that renders the gun essentially in a safe condition, and still in “condition one”, ready for action.
Other important features that makes the Glock a winner from a concealed carry perspective:
- Strong performance history
- A somewhat slim, smaller size compared to a full-sized handgun; yet substantially similar firepower
- Lightweight relative to peers
- Shorter overall length with a still substantial sight plane
- Tons of accessories and holsters available
- Exceptional durability with low maintenance requirements in damp conditions (sweat, etc.)
- Widespread usage
What is the Ideal Type of Holster for the Glock 23?
Holsters that keep the gun tight to the body and balanced by covering the bulk of the mass of the gun is a good choice for a concealed carry advocate utilizing a G23 for daily carry. Those holsters that can adequately support what amounts to being a still substantial gun, despite not being “full-sized”, will also be a good option.
Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster For Concealed Carry
That will mean that the construction quality of the holster will need to be top tier, as the weight of 13+ rounds of .40 S&W inside of a Glock 23 will still weigh over 31 ounces altogether. While not overly heavy, it's not the paltry weight of the comparatively micro and subcompact guns that have become so popular in recent years.
Look for a holster that:
- Secures the ugn well, including a full coverage of the trigger guard
- Allows for unimpeded insertion to maintain the safety afforded by the glock “safe-action” trigger
- Is slim and fits with a tight retention
- Is large enough to control the larger size of the glock 23 (relative to more compact peers)
- Has a full-length sight channel to avoid snags
- Is built to a level or durability that complements the glock brand, so your holster is not the weak link
Review of the Best Glock 23 Holsters
We have picked and reviewed some of the best holsters for Glock 23 available on the market below.
Best Glock 23 Holster:
Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to recent buyers, they had no complaints as far as this holster goes. The concealability was as good as it gets while it was able to provide a great amount of comfort in the process. One user said that it was probably one of the best soft material holsters he’s ever owned. He added that this one didn’t snag or tear on him after some short-term use like his last holster.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is made from high-quality neoprene. And it’s quite comfortable to wear for someone who wants exactly that. Even with a fully loaded pistol, you have something that will fit many Glock pistols including the 23 model. Let’s also not forget one thing: the retention clip is in excellent quality and does a good job holding the holster in position. If you want a holster that is able to slide back and forth from one end of your belt or waistband to the next, you’ll be disappointed.
Slim fitting, and comfortable, this is the holster you should choose if you need the soft stretchy build to ensure a variety of hold positions involving the waistband.
The sure retention of the behind-frame strap guarantees you are an active participant in de-holstering and are aware of the situation – it also keeps your gun in the same position you left it in.
An extra mag pouch sleeve delivers added value. This holster also allows for accessory carry, not just with the extra mag pouch, but in the larger paddle style front-end of the holster sleeve.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are in search of a holster that will fit your Glock 21 (and your other Glocks) while giving you great concealability and comfort, this holster will certainly take the cake. If you are a civilian concealed carry user, you can count on this holster for all of your every day carry purposes. Because you never know if and when danger will strike.
Bottom Line
The Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster is worthy of a lot of praise. And it definitely gets it from the number of concealed carry users who put this to good use. This holster will be very comfortable for most users (and even yourself). For a soft material holster that will never snag on you, this might be right up your alley.
This is a holster that just makes sense for the active crew that needs something that won’t be stiff in its carry and still has adequate overall coverage for the Glock, being larger than some other (sub-compact) peers in the carry field.
The well-built holster champions a soft-sided build that can be much more comfortable to carry for a lot of people in an IWB configuration. Generally, this is a versatile holster, with the ability to fit multiple guns, and the small price point gives big value.
Best Glock 23 Holster Runner-up:
Fierce Defender IWB Kydex Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were really happy with this holster for various reasons. But one of the major reasons that this was a hit was the fact that it was made from Kydex, which has gained quite a bit of popularity over the years. They said that the holster’s structural integrity was perfect and it didn’t allow itself to fall apart or wear and tear. One user said that he was able to draw his holster quickly without dealing with it getting stuck in the holster itself.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Yes, Kydex is one of the best materials that you can find on any holster. How does it stand out against other materials like nylon or leather anyway? For one, Kydex never loses shape. And it doesn’t lose its firmness or quality over time (like leather). Leather can roughen up on the inside of the holster and thus slow down your draw. With a holster made from Kydex, you can use this five years later and it won’t slow you down. If you want consistency in a holster, then you best believe that this one, in particular, is the best you can find that will fit the bill.
They thought of everything with this IWB holster. It truly is the culmination of the recent innovations in holster making and offers a very nice value for the money, considering all of the technology and design efficiency that has gone into the holster.
It starts with the full-length sight channel to keep the snag-free operation intact; while the Kydex material offers rigid, lightweight operation and a slim carrying vessel.
High-quality hardware improves the longevity and durability of the holster and offers secure retention, including the safe, gun-centric full-sized trigger guard cover.
Who Will Use This Most
This is the holster that says “buy this and it will be yours forever”. Think about it, the material is made for no wear or tear, nor will it fall apart on you after years of faithful service. This holster is built for the long-haul. If you want the last holster you’ll ever buy for a primary pistol, you’re looking right at it.
Bottom Line
The Fierce Defender IWB Kydex holster is the smart choice for those who want a holster that is easy to maintain and clean and proven to last you a long time. If you think a nylon or leather holster is going to last you a long time, you may be sadly mistaken. Instead of just buying holster after holster every few years, get this holster and you’ll be set pretty much for life.
For the money, you'd find it difficult to get another holster delivering as much efficiency and innovation as the Fierce Defender IWB. Smart design trumps everything in this holster that subtly addresses most concerns from the Glock 19 and 23 community, given the larger footprint of the handgun.
Full trigger coverage and adjustable tensioning, as well as a full-length plate on the body side of the holster guarantee you won't have snags on clothing or sweat concerns.
Best Glock 23 Holster Second Runner-up:
Bianchi 57 Remedy Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new users had nothing but great things to say about this holster. The design was simple and the overall quality was pretty good as well. This was an excellent fit on most tactical belts and was used by a good number of EDC users while about a third of them used the holster as something to use for safekeeping while at the range (but not using their pistols).
Why it Stands Out to Us
The design is one of the best things that makes this holster stand out. It’s a minimal, low-profile design that is perfect for those looking for minimal to no bulge. And since it’s made from high-quality leather, you can expect this to last you a little longer than average leather holsters that will lose firmness slowly but surely.
One of the original players in the modern concealment market, the Bianchi 57 Remedy holster is an easy choice for traditionalists that need super quick access to their firearm, even if it comes as a slight disadvantage for concealment.
This is an OWB leather holster that not only looks good but is built for a lifetime of service and will fit some of the biggest belts out there to add to its versatility and daily carry potential.
For a leather holster, it also has incredibly low bulk and rides well in numerous positions, though it favors rear hip carry.
Who Will Use This Most
This holster will be the go-to option for anyone looking for a holster that will be great for concealed carry or even range use. This will excel in these applications based on the quick draw that will come in handy if you are using it for self-defense or getting ready for an upcoming shooting competition. The holster is also really comfortable and will never bulge. It’s the best concealability that you can find up to this point.
Bottom Line
The Bianchi 57 Remedy Holster is no slouch when it comes to quality and performance. You will get no bulge carry, easy and quick draw, and the ability to prepare yourself for any dangerous situation that might be close to you (and posing as a significant threat against you or those around you). It’s better to be prepared for the dangers as opposed to not at all.
A traditional look, traditional feel, and lifetime type construction quality means you are getting what the Bianchi name has been trading on for decades: top quality and excellent research and development.
It is still a simple design that favors very fast de-holstering and a snag-free design, with native tension for great retention without impeding a fast draw.
The dual belt slots offer balance and consistent draw position and will fit 1.5-inch belts, which will help carry the weight and bulk of the Glock 23, which, while not overtly heavy, is still nearly two pounds on the hip fully loaded.
Best Glock 23 Concealed Holster:
Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster
Pros
Cons
An audible click helps to ensure great retention and solid holstering protocols, which will ultimately lead to safer handling.
The minimal design and top-tier hardware give great retention and solid rigidity for one of the most consistent draws out of this list for an IWB style holster.
The Kydex is lightweight and durable, and the company offers a 100% unconditional warranty for the lifetime of the product. The adjustability and slim design combined with the notable rigidity offers a variety of positions for carrying including appendix, hip, and cross draw holsters.
Palm style carry on either side will also work and the same OWB configurations are applicable.
Bottom Line
For those that like the versatility and can give up some of the bulk (which ordinarily will add to rigidity and consistency in the draw), this is an excellent holster that barely under-performs some of the top rigid holsters on the market despite being much lighter and more durable while still maintaining a compact footprint.
In all, the trade-off seems more than beneficial for those who need multi-positional carry potential. Add to the mix the solid build quality and you have a real winner for a Glock 23 or 19 for daily carry without the drawbacks of lesser quality hardware and minimal bulk
Best Glock 23 IWB Holster:
Relentless Tactical The Defender Leather IWB Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many new users were looking for an excellent holster that was affordable for most budgets and had a great quality to boot. They certainly were not disappointed when a good number of them found this as the best holster that they could afford as far as quality and performance were concerned. They said it fit a good number of pistols including the Glock 23. The clip quality was good to the point where the holster stayed in their preferred carry positions without sliding around on belts and waistbands.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is perhaps one of the best holsters you can find if and when you need something that will provide the best in concealability. You can carry your Glock 23 without triggering any undue attention and make it look like you are obviously carrying something. The low profile design also allows for superior comfort for all-day use. This holster might be right up your alley if you want something that will keep you ahead of the curve against danger while allowing you to carry every day of the week without a single hint of discomfort.
One of the finest designs for IWB carry with a leather material profile and a no-print design. This is a holster that will not be apparent to onlookers and yet, offers every benefit of all the best IWB holsters on the market.
It is not as fancy as others but it does have significant comfort benefits over others on the market. The thick leather not only acts as a durable, friction fit retention but protects your soft belly from hard gun parts during extended carry situations.
It’s highly-rated because it performs. If you need an IWB and want the fastest draw for such a platform, the Relentless “The Defender” is a perfect option.
Who Will Use This Most
If maximum concealability is what you want, you’ll get that and more with this holster. Your pistol will be out of sight, but you’ll still need to be aware of the fact that you are still carrying and ready for any kind of dangerous situation that may occur. While you may never be able to use a pistol in a self-defense situation, it’s good to have a holster to rely on if and when you are not using your Glock 23.
Bottom Line
The Relentless Tactical Defender Leather IWB holster is one tough cookie. But it will go easy on your wallet if you are looking for something that’s affordable and high-quality at the same time. This holster won’t fall apart on you, nor will it snag when you are going for the quick draw. But you can bet your bottom dollar that it will keep your pistol out of sight and under the radar just in case you need to defend yourself and those around you.
This holster is a premium, friction fit holster that has very few detractors from the perspective of its sweet spot: IWB (inside waistband) carry.
With a full coverage enclosure and absolutely no-printing, this is a solid choice for those who like the carry comfort of leather and know they feel comfortable with a friction fit on an IWB style holster instead of a click retention or other solution.
The full trigger guard coverage and simple sleeve design offer safe, trouble-free holstering/re-holstering.
Best Kydex Holster For Glock 23:
CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster Fits
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
When one user was putting this holster to use for the first time, he said he was able to conceal his pistol without a single hint of bulging. What made it even better for him was that it was also really durable in terms of quality. He said because of the materials, he didn’t have to worry about any snagging every time he practices his quickdraws. To add, he uses this for concealed carry but also uses it for competition shooting as well.
In what seems like a world full of generic plastic holsters, this is something special, and yet, it stealthily hides among the similarly colored, similarly styled competitors that lack what this holster inherently has.
The idea of minimalism is usually overwrought by modern holster makers and still fails to deliver on the promises accompanying the design implementation. Not the case with this CYA Supply holster.
Minimalism is deftly portrayed here, as the coverage of the holster is enough to protect against snags, cover the trigger safely, and still shave enough off of the size to make it carry comfortably and still have a rigid de-holstering procedure.
Top quality hardware means you don’t have to wonder whether the holster will perform, it just does. Adjustable tension and the “Posi-click” snap-in design means you will know whether you are fully seated or not.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The holster is made from a material known as Bolatron. It’s a solid material that is pretty tough and can run with the big boys. In other words, it can stack up against holsters made from other hard materials like polymer and Kydex. This has the ability to secure your pistol inside the holster so it won’t slip out. Furthermore, it will keep your pistol retained so it won’t be accessed by anyone who isn’t supposed to touch a gun (i.e--small children). This gives you concealability, security, and peace of mind in knowing that your Glock 23 can be accessed by you and you alone.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are new to concealed carry, then this holster might just be what you need. It’s a simple design and an easy to use holster for anyone looking to start out with using their pistol for EDC carry purposes. You can use this while you are training for your CCW permit or after when you have a new pistol that you can call your own. Seasoned concealed carry practitioners can put this to good use for the purpose of low-profile, out of sight carrying as well.
Bottom Line
The CYA Supply Co. IWB holster is super tough and can fit a good number of pistols in the process. It’s what makes this holster newbie-friendly and all-around awesome to use. Just put this to the test and you might wind up using it for a few good years (or maybe longer).
If you prefer a super slim IWB holster there aren’t many pretenders to this throne, the reigning king is the CYA IWB in Boltaron (essentially Kydex) material. You get snag-free draws, quick de-holstering, and full coverage for a condition one carry style and no drawbacks to the overall process.
A 100% warranty and an efficient design that favors all day carry for those who need IWB and want minimalism make this a great holster choice.
Best Shoulder Holster for Glock 23:
Galco Classic Lite Shoulder Holster System
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster had new buyers that were separated from two groups: those who used it for primary carry and those who used it for secondary pistols. Most of the new users were using this for carrying their pistols in cool weather conditions while some others were using this while carrying two pistols at the same time. They said the straps were adjustable and the leather was all-around durable. One user said that he was surprised that in cold weather conditions, the leather didn’t even crack once.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Shoulder holsters are a great alternative solution to hip holsters. In fact, there are some security personnel that are required to carry using shoulder holsters. For what reason, you ask? They want to keep the assailants off guard. The latter will assume that you are not carrying. But they’ll find out once they begin threatening those in danger. This holster will not only allow you the opportunity to surprise your attackers, but it’s the kind of holster that will give you excellent concealability and a perfect fit (even for shooters of different sizes).
Simple, slim, and well-built, this is a great partner for seated carry on a daily basis and will literally feel like you aren’t even wearing a gun.
The weight distribution of a shoulder holster combined with the simple design and top-quality hardware means that you can trust the versatility and adjustability of the design because it’s still quite durable.
The rotating back hub will allow a full range of motion without difficulty and reduction in arm movement. The horizontal carry position is generally safe and the full coverage paddle designed retention sleeve ensures you don’t have trigger actuation concerns.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are working professional security or a civilian carrying one or two pistols at a time, this holster will probably be the best solution for you if and when you want to cover your bases when it comes to concealability. Plus, it can fit any Glock pistol you got. Whether it’s a 23 or a 17, if you have a Glock, you have a holster.
Bottom Line
The Galco Classic Lite Shoulder Holster System might be your best option if you are searching for the non-hip holster for your Glock 23 (and yes, there are plenty but this is the best so far). For a comfortable fit and concealability that won’t forsake you or expose your carry position, this holster might just be your cup of coffee.
The ability to carry with ease is more than enough to convince most carriers of the trade-off in full concealment potential. The versatile nature of the holster portion allows more than a single gun to be fit in the carry slot.
The fully pivoting back hub offers comfortable carry and a full range of motion to ensure that duty use can accommodate running and hand-to-hand conflict if needed.
Top-quality weight distribution and comfort mean this is a no-brainer for those who are mostly sitting and wearing a suit jacket daily.
Conclusion
Regardless of what your carry needs are with your Glock 23 pistol, there is a perfect solution on this list.
You can find the finest in rigid carry options with the Kydex offerings that each have their own unique characteristics but all of which offer the benefits of the Kydex concept, and have low weight, stiff de-holstering, and the ultimate in consistency from a positioning and draw perspective.
Any of the Kydex offerings are great choices for those that need the IWB positioning and the sure draw characteristics.
If you want traditional leather styling and a great friction fit which will provide the fastest de-holstering whether in IWB or OWB, the offerings from the two leather companies allow you time-tested, softer options for comfortable carry and great flexibility without sacrificing too much rigidity.
The soft-sided neoprene style we opened the article with is a great choice if you need flexibility with positioning and something that won't print for a great price point.
The shoulder holster that capped off the review section offers the best weight distribution for the Glock 23 given that it is not an extremely small or lightweight gun, despite being a great carry option.
Carrying two pounds of a loaded pistol in a shoulder harness may be easier for those who sit a lot or need good running capability, but can also sacrifice a bit of concealment.
The Glock 23 is a superior option for those that want to be able to handle their pistol well, and still have good capacity from a firepower perspective, and these holsters all accentuate the characteristics of the gun that has made it such a reasonable choice for concealed carriers everywhere for decades.
