Best Glock 42 Holsters – 2022 Guide

The Glock 42 is the perfect small handgun for Everyday Carry (EDC). It’s lightweight and ideal for Inside the Waist Band (IWB) holsters. Nevertheless, this .380 semi-automatic pistol is the smallest Glock makes, and finding the appropriate holster can be a challenge. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at eight of the best Glock 42 holsters on the market. Let’s get to it!

Comparison of the Best Glock 42 Holsters

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Very slim profile and sits tight against the body
  • Sweat shield and cant adjustable up to 15 degrees
  • Smooth edges, super comfortable and nice snug fit
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  • Pocket holster guaranteed to be in upright position
  • Allows loading/unloading/mag change when slid on
  • Innovative minimalist holster design reduces weight
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  • Fully molded leather pancake style holster
  • Dual loop slots fit belts up to 1.5 inches in width
  • Low-profile and high-ride design for concealment
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  • Coarse but soft exterior maintains position
  • Closed end design keeps lint, dust & oil out
  • Fits compact/medium pistols up to 3.5 in barrels
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  • IWB holster with adjustable cant and retention
  • Slim profile for concealment. Many carry positions
  • Lightweight and durable molded kydex construction
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  • Specially designed IWB holster for Glock 42 pistol
  • Top grain leather with double stitched construction
  • Reinforced top flare retains shape for easy re-holster
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  • One-sided holster only design with thick strap
  • Fabric doesn’t absorb moisture and is cushioned
  • Horizontal dacron holster with adjustable belt strap
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What Size of Holster Do I Need?

The thing that makes the Glock 42 popular is the same thing that makes finding a holster a challenge: its size. While the Glock 42 is easily concealable and can be carried all day without discomfort, it requires a holster with a snug fit. In larger holsters, the Glock 42 may move around too much and even fall out, potentially leading to disaster.

BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster

The truth is, holsters are one of the most complicated firearm accessories you can get. There are so many different variations, including holsters for firearms with attachments, that it’s crucial to choose one that’s designed for your gun, comfortable, secure, and accessible. 

Review of the Best Glock 42 Holsters

When looking for a holster for a Glock 42, it’s essential to consider its lightweight frame, size, and intended use. The holster should fit snugly and securely while still meeting your style and preferred carry method.

Best Overall:
Multi Holsters Elite IWB

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Pros

  • Adjustable fit
  • Made in the USA
  • Click feature for a secure hold
  • Comes in several different colors
  • Available for right hand or left-hand users

Cons

  • Not as slim as it could be
  • May be a tight fit for some

What Recent Buyers Report

For our overall best pick, we’ve chosen Multi Holsters Elite IWB. It has a simple design and gets the job done. Buyers report this holster provides a perfect fit for the Glock 42. It fits tightly and securely, making it an IWB holster that can be carried while wearing jeans and a T-shirt.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We like this holster because it has a reputation for being exceptionally strong. It will remain secure and never come off your belt when you draw. It also provides a complete barrier between your firearm and your skin, so you won’t have uncomfortable rubbing or damage your weapon with sweat and oil.

However, perhaps its largest selling point is the Accu Press Click feature that makes an audible click sound when you holster your firearm. This feature ensures security, and the reverse tag enables a smooth draw. What’s more, it comes in several colors, including Desert Tan and Hot Pink (if that’s your style).

Bottom Line

The Multi Holsters Elite IWB is a comfortable and effective holster. It’s exceptionally strong, holds the Glock 42 securely, and is designed for a smooth draw. It’s ideal for both concealed and open carry, with an adjustable fit for the size and weight of the Glock 42.

Runner-up:
BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster

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Pros

  • Has a trigger guard
  • Enables easy access
  • Easy to conceal and minimal printing
  • Provides a smooth drawing experience
  • Does not cover the magazine release or hinder the slide, so reloading is swift

Cons

  • The trigger guard is weak towards the top end
  • Does not completely cover the gun, so debris can be an issue

What Recent Buyers Report

The BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster is a simple holster that makes concealed carry easy. Customers like its slim profile and how it minimizes printing. However, some report that this holster is too tight and can come off when drawing the gun. That said, many like how it mimics the weight and feel of carrying a wallet or smartphone in your pocket. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

One of the primary features of this holster is that it enables you to load and unload your gun while it remains holstered. This added level of safety helps to prevent negligent discharges during loading. It also improves the overall handling of your firearm.

The BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster is an economical option offering a simple solution. It flattens the profile of your Glock 42 and provides quick access should the need arise. Plus, it fits the Glock 42 like a glove, preventing slips and providing a safe means to conceal-carry your firearm.

Bottom Line

For those who prefer pocket carry holsters, the BORAII Eagle Pocket Holster is a solid choice. While it’s simple and doesn’t have add frills, it gets the job done in a concealed carry situation, and being able to load and unload your firearm while it’s still holstered makes this a highly recommended pocket holster.

Best for the Money:
Bianchi Remedy Holster - Model 57

Pros

  • Minimal design elements
  • Fits the Glock 42 perfectly
  • Provides a slim profile for your gun
  • Made of leather for durability and comfort
  • Completely encases the trigger mechanism

Cons

  • No extra frills
  • May fit your firearm too tightly, slowing your draw

What Recent Buyers Report

In general, buyers have reviewed the Bianchi Remedy Holster favorability. They report it being comfortable while still securely holding the gun. It also provides the ideal angle of draw. They like the quality of the leather, as well as the look and finish. One buyer even called it a “pancake” holder because of how flat it is.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Bianchi Remedy Holster is a belt slide holster with minimal design. It fits securely on your belt, and your Glock 42 slides into it with ease. However, what makes this holster interesting is how it snuggly holds only half of the gun, leaving the other half exposed for quick and efficient draws.

That said, it’s slim enough not to draw attention to itself and can be easily concealed beneath a regular T-shirt. Nonetheless, what we like about this holster is the quality of its craftsmanship. The leather has a top-notch feel and finish. Plus, it’s designed to offer exactly what you need in a holster and nothing more.

Bottom Line

The Bianchi Remedy Holster is an elegant solution for carrying your Glock 42. It offers a snug fit, encasing your firearm in quality materials and craftsmanship while completely covering the trigger mechanism.

Best Glock 42 Pocket Holster:
Sticky Holsters MD-1

Pros

  • Discrete and lightweight 
  • Contours to the shape of your gun
  • Protects your gun from dirt and sand
  • Made from a unique non-slip material
  • Versatile solution that can be used as a pocket holster or elsewhere

Cons

  • Offer very little retention
  • Not easy to holster or draw your weapon

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers like the Sticky Holster for its simplicity and light weight. The material Sticky Holsters are made out of sticks to all types of fabric, so when it is placed in your pocket, you can draw your weapon without the holster coming too. That said, buyers also report problems with it slipping, and some feel it is cheaply made.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Sticky Holster MD-1 is a unique product that takes advantage of a custom-made material for convenience and ease of use. That said, this is not a traditional holster. It’s soft and encases your Glock in a snug material that molds to the shape of your gun, preventing printing. 

For small handguns like the Glock 42, it’s a solid option if you’re looking for something comfortable and safe. It’s also an excellent holster for concealed carrying.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for something different, Sticky Holsters are worth considering. This product offers a unique solution that’s growing in popularity. It also works as an IWB holster.

Best Glock 42 Kydex Holster:
Concealment Express Glock IWB KYDEX Holster

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Has adjustable retention
  • Provides several carrying options
  • PrRetains its shape for a consistent draw experience
  • Made of KYDEX material that is durable and lightweight

Cons

  • Adjustable retention can cause issues
  • Some report screws scratching the slide

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers like the Concealment Express Glock IWB KYDEX Holster, recommending it for daily use. They like how it fits and can be concealed easily. It’s durable and adjustable, making it perfect for a Glock 42.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This holster is made from KYDEX material, a type of plastic that is lightweight and durable. It’s the same material that is used in the construction of bulkheads on aircraft. As such, this holster encases your Glock in a rigid material, protecting your weapon while retaining its shape.

Nevertheless, one of the biggest selling points of this holster is its versatility. You can carry it AIWB, IWB, and SOB. 

Bottom Line

The Concealment Express Glock IWB KYDEX Holster is lightweight and easily concealed. It’s made from high-quality materials you can count on to last for years to come.

Best Glock 42 Leather Holster and IWB Holster:
The Holster Store Pro Carry HD IWB Holster

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Pros

  • Classic leather look
  • Holds firearm securely
  • Made from quality leather
  • Designed for concealed carry
  • Provides easy access to your gun

Cons

  • May be uncomfortable until it’s broken in
  • Leather changes over time, which may affect drawing consistency

What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers feel this is an excellent holster if you’re looking for a classic look and feel. It’s comfortable, sturdy, and maintains a minimal profile for concealment. The only issue buyers report is the leather wearing over time.

Why it Stands Out to Us

We like this holster because of its classic leather appeal and the fact that it can be worn as an IWB holster. It’s easy to conceal and holds the Glock 42 tightly. This is an excellent holster to carry in situations where you might be running, as it’s designed for mobility.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a holster that will be comfortable to wear in an athletic situation, this one is an excellent choice. You’ll find the leather molds to your body and enable you to conceal-carry your Glock 42 in almost any situation.

Best Glock 42 Shoulder Holster:
Glock Shoulder Gun Holster

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Pros

  • Easy to conceal
  • Comfortable straps
  • Designed for small firearms
  • Holster fits the Glock 42 snuggly
  • Adjustable for different-sized arms

Cons

  • Some report the snaps breaking
  • Not made for large-framed people

What Recent Buyers Report

Overall, buyers report that the Glock Shoulder Gun Holster is an excellent buy. Most find it comfortable and appreciate how it can be adjusted to fit. That said, there are reports of snaps breaking, and this product is not designed for large-framed people.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product is an excellent way to experiment with this method of gun carrying. With a shoulder strap, you can easily conceal your Glock 42 without losing the use of one of your pockets or having an obvious bulge on the side of your waist. 

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a shoulder strap to carry your Glock 42, but you’re not sure if this method is right for you, give this product a try. It’s sturdy, lightweight, and gets the job done.

Best Glock 42 OWB Holster:
Winthrop Holsters OWB Pancake Leather Holster

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Pros

  • Built to last
  • Has a nice fit
  • Enables conceal-carry
  • Made of premium leather
  • Balance weight distribution

Cons

  • Could carry a little higher
  • Takes up a lot of room on your belt

What Recent Buyers Report

Most buyers are happy with their purchase of this holster. They say it’s excellent quality for the price and appreciate its premium leather construction. It does have to be broken in, which is something some like and others don’t. Some report a plastic feel and don’t like the stiff leather.

Why it Stands Out to Us

If you’re looking for an OWB holster, this is an economical choice that gets the job done. The leather has a lasting feel, and once you break it in, your Glock 42 will fit snugly and securely. The drawing is smooth, and this holster can easily be concealed by wearing a top over it.

Bottom Line

The Winthrop Holsters OWB Pancake Leather Holster has a nice look and gets the job done. It is wet-molded so that your Glock 42 will fit snugly and comfortably while still providing the friction necessary for safety.

Why Did These Holsters Make Our List?

The following holsters made the cut and are featured in this article are due to many factors. For starters, you’ll need to assess your purpose in getting a holster. Is it for competitions or concealed carry? From there, you should consider the following:

Durability

For starters, durability is crucial. A good holster should provide years of reliable service. Look for an everyday service life measured in years for every holster you consider. You should be able to count on a durable holster for years to come.

That said, hard-case holsters and those made from quality fabrics can both provide a durable service life. When choosing a holster, consider how you intend to use it. If it’s likely your gun will be knocked about, then a hard-case holster may protect your firearm and prolong its life. 

Photo credit: thegunzone.com

Concealment

One of the major selling points of the Glock 42 is concealment. Its compact design is ideal for this purpose, but you’ll need a quality holster to conceal your weapon correctly and safely. The holster should be slim and avoid printing (revealing the shape of a gun through your clothing).

Fortunately, some of the best holsters for the Glock 42 are Inside the Waist Band (IWB) holsters or pocket carry ones. If concealment is important to you, there are certainly some effective holsters you can choose from.

Retention

Retention refers to how snuggly the holster grips your firearm. You want a holster that prevents your Glock 42 from moving around and falling out from either normal or rigorous movement. Also, it should not be easy for an assailant to grab.

Bianchi Remedy Holster - Model 57

Security

Going hand in hand with retention, the holster should be secure. Your holster should fit your Glock 42 precisely, so look for adjustable retention screws. You should also look for the trigger guard mechanism. This guard should protect the trigger mechanism while the weapon is holstered to prevent accidental discharge.

Advantages of Investing in a Quality Holster

It is your responsibility to ensure your Glock 42 is securely stored and handled safely while still being accessible in times of danger. Investing in a quality holster offers some essential benefits, including comfort, longevity, and safety.

For starters, high-quality construction ensures your holster will last for years to come, even under prolonged inclement environments and heavy use. There’s nothing worse than a cheap holster that can fray and rip, making it so that you have to buy a replacement every year, not to mention potentially compromising safe gun handling.

Bianchi Remedy Holster - Model 57

A quality holster will also provide the proper retention for your firearm, ensuring it can’t be knocked loose during an altercation or grabbed and used against you by an assailant. It should also protect your weapon from damaging sweat while offering a comfortable fit and protecting the lifespan of your gun.

What’s more, a quality holster can prevent printing and enable you to effectively manage a concealed carry weapon. It should also complement your style and preferred carrying method, whether you choose a pocket holster, belt attachment, or a canted back holster for Everyday Carry (EDC).

With the right holster, you should be able to safely and consistently draw your firearm. In a critical situation, you’ll be thankful for your investment in a quality holster.

Conclusion

A quality holster is just as important as the firearm it’s carrying. As such, you should put as much thought and consideration into purchasing holsters as you do the firearms themselves. When looking at holsters for the Glock 42 specifically, ensure it provides a snug fit, proper retention, security, and durability. 

Photo credit: defensivecarry.com

People Also Ask

Before we go, we thought we’d answer a few of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to holsters for the Glock 42. We know how challenging it can be to find the product that is right for you. Hopefully, the following answers will help to clarify some things.

Will Glock 43 Fit 42 Holsters?

The Glock 43 is a different size than the Glock 42. As such, the slightly larger G43 will not fit in a G42 holster. It’s critical to always use a proper holster for individual firearms to ensure safety, reliability, and performance.

Are Leather Holsters Bad For Your Gun?

No. Leather holsters walk the line between comfort and durability. For this reason, many prefer leather holsters over those made from nylon and other materials. The downside of leather holsters, besides being a little more expensive, is that they become softer and more pliable over time, which can cause safety issues.

Photo credit: 1791gunleather.com

Is it Safe to Appendix Carry a Glock?

Appendix carry holsters provide comfort, easy access, speed, and concealment. With the proper holster, it’s perfectly safe to appendix carry a Glock. That said, to do so safely, ensure that your holster covers the trigger.

When Did the Glock 42 Come Out?

The Glock 42 is a .380 auto caliber pistol that became available to the American market in 2014. It remains Glock’s smallest and lightest handgun, and many prefer it for its quality and reliability.



Michael Lutes

Michael Lutes is the managing editor and owner at Gun Mann. He is a veteran, gun enthusiast, 3 gun competitor, and 2a advocate. Mike has a passion for innovation and education across the industry to create great content, training, and insights from the best and brightest.