IDPA, or the International Defensive Pistol Association, is a foundation established in 1996, in Berryville, Arkansas. It is an international community of shooters and organizes pistol shooting competitions based upon real-life defense situations.
IDPA is a fast-growing sport with a lot of buzz going around the shooter community. IDPA has its specific set of rules, related to weapons, tasks, ammunition and the gear to be used. Even the holsters.
Here we’ll be talking about these IDPA rules pertaining to a holster, and what qualities should a holster possess to perform well at IDPA. We will also review the best IDPA holsters for different types of handguns available on the market. Helping you out with your next IDPA competitions.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for IDPA Holsters
- OUR TOP PICK: Comp-Tac International OWB Kydex Modular Mount
- RUNNER-UP: Uncle Mike's Tactical Reflex Competition Holster
- BEST GLOCK 17 HOLSTER IDPA: Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear IDPA Pro Competition Holster
Best IDPA Holsters Comparison Chart
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What are IDPA Holster Rules?
Blatantly speaking, the IDPA holster rules are very simple.
Don’t bring anything fancy! That’s it.
The IDPA competitions were designed to simulate real-life self-defense situations. Which is obviously deduced from the fact that you have to use a basic weapon and gear in real life situations.
The holster is a part of the gear and accessories, so it is bound by certain rules.
IDPA Competition (Source)First of all, you must use your holster on the dominant side. No cross draws are allowed.
Secondly, your holster must be an IWB or OWB. Shoulder, ankle, chest or any other kind of holsters are not allowed.
Third, your holster must be comfortable for everyday wear and must cover the trigger and trigger guard while the gun is holstered.
Fourth, the holster must be concealed. However, there is an exception for law enforcement officers who can use an open carry holster with all of their additional gear (cuffs, baton, etc.).
Fifth, any retention devices on the holster must either be used or permanently disabled.
That’s pretty much it. Sounds like real life simulation, huh?
Qualities of the Best IDPA Holsters
The rules of the IDPA regarding holsters are quite simple. Pertaining to the strenuous and tactical environment of an IDPA competition, a holster must possess several qualities to assist the shooter in winning. A few of these qualities may be:
Concealment
Concealment is a prerequisite of an IDPA competition and your holster must abide by it. A properly concealable weapon will not only ensure your entry into IDPA competitions, but it will also help you with your day to day carry.
Quick Draw and Safe Retention
Such holsters must have a quick draw so you can choose and shoot targets quickly, as every second counts in an IDPA match. Additionally, the holster must have good retention with some locking mechanism, or precise adjustments of the screw.
Comfortable
IDPA competitions demand you to move around quite a lot. Plus, you’ll have to carry around your weapon all day as the competition proceeds. Thus, a comfortable holster is quite necessary.
Adjustable
Needless to say, a participant plays to win. A holster with a modular mounting system and adjustable cant options can give you an edge over your competitors.
Material
These days, kydex is a good choice of material for IDPA holsters. As it is waterproof and durable and doesn’t get worn out after numerous draws and holds in an IDPA match.
Are all IDPA Holsters the Same?
Of course not.
Even if ten different holsters used by different people in an IDPA match abide by the rules, it doesn’t mean that all of them are the same.
People make their choices based on their discretion, ability, and comprehension. A holster that suits someone else might not be the perfect one for you.
After all, IDPA competitions are a test of ability and skill. Where you have the option of choosing the gear that suits you well.
For example, two holsters might be the same in material, designs, locks, and everything else, but one may have a more flared and wide opening than the other, affecting the retention time.
Similarly, a holster with an ALS lock mechanism might look good at first (which it is). But it might end up not so well for someone who cannot draw in time.
Some holsters allow, whereas some don’t, to make cant or mounting adjustments, which might end up being a deterrent flaw during a match, depending on the shooters ability and scenario.
Review of the Best IDPA Holsters
Now, that we know about the qualities to look for in an IDPA compliant holster and the qualities that make it an ideal one. Let’s review the best IDPA holsters on the market for different handguns.
This list has been carefully compiled based upon the above-mentioned qualities and features of an ideal IDPA holster.
Best IDPA Holster:
Comp-Tac International OWB Kydex Modular Mount
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new users were happy with the holster in so many ways. For one, they were able to draw their pistols (and re-holster them) much faster. On top of that, the quality was outstanding and it didn’t scratch or scuff up easily. Even with a fully loaded pistol, the carrying was light and didn’t feel like it was being dragged or pulled down. One user said that he was quite comfortable with wearing this holster, even if it wasn’t his original choice.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is made from high-quality Kydex. This material is growing in popularity and might be one of the more preferred materials at some point in the near future. That’s because it won’t sag or re-shape itself over time, nor will it allow for any kind of snagging like some materials. You get consistently fast drawing and re-holstering each and every time no matter how long you wind up using it. If you want a holster that will be excellent in quality and reliability, this might be exactly what you are looking for.
The Comp-tac holster has been made from kydex which is lightweight and durable, and will not stretch or sag over time.
The OWB design features three different mount options. Namely, Belt Mount, Paddle Mount, and Drop Offset Piece.
The holster also has a .5” tall sight rail space to fit most optic sights. The cant of the holster is adjustable, and retention can be adjusted using two screws near the base.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a great holster for those who conceal carry on a regular basis and prefer gaining quicker access to their pistol. Yes, an OWB holster will give you the advantage in that regard. And it will give you a good deal of lightweight, concealable carry for as long as you use it. If you need a great OWB holster that will look sharp on a belt or waistband, this could be what you need.
Bottom Line
The Comp-Tac International OWB Kydex Modular Mount is perhaps one of the best holsters that you can find if you want quick, non-snag drawing. It will keep itself in position and never slide around, plus it can make sure that your holster will last a long time through all the numerous draws and re-holstering.
The Comp-tac holster has been designed for tactical and competitive use. It has a wide range of mounting and adjustment options which make it quite versatile and perfect for IDPA. Fits most handguns.
Best IDPA Holster Runner-up:
Uncle Mike's Tactical Reflex Competition Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new users say that this pistol was simple in design and definitely got the job done by keeping their favorite pistols secure without any wiggling or slippage. The holster was lightweight but really durable in quality. Other users say that it allowed for excellent IWB concealability and not once did they experience any bulging or discomfort just by wearing it. Overall, it can handle a fully loaded pistol without any bowing or breakage, making it satisfying to wear and durable for long term use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster may not look like the rest of them. But it’s got a simple and open design that will make sure that your pistol is easily accessible to you and only you when it comes time to draw. What makes it even better is that you won’t have to worry about all that extra material. That means less bulging (which equals no undue attention because you are obviously carrying something). If you want a pistol that is light in weight and simple in design, you’d be hard-pressed to find a holster quite like this anywhere else.
Uncle Mike’s Tactical Reflex Holster is a good choice for IDPA competitions. The holster is made from kydex material and attached to your waist using a simple clip (offset design).
The holster has two height adjustment settings so the shooter can feel comfortable with height.
The integrated locking mechanism needs the user to twist the firearm sideways to draw, which is an extra security feature for self-defense. The grip is widely visible which prevents fumbling.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a great holster for those who like to be minimalistic with their approach to concealed carrying. It’s a holster that is made to reduce bulging and reduce any excess weight that might come with conceal carrying a loaded pistol. It’s lightweight and will allow for quick drawing and re-holstering without having to struggle with any kind of snagging.
Bottom Line
The design of the Uncle Mike’s Tactical Holster is interesting enough. But is it the future of concealed carry holsters? Only time will tell. But if you want a quick drawing, easy carrying, and a holster that won’t weigh you down and never forsake you in any survival situation this is the go-to option for you and many of your fellow pistol owners.
Uncle Mike’s holster offers a good offset position for tactical shooting, and the design prevents fumbling. Although, the draw lock might affect some people. Limited adjustment capabilities are also a limiting factor.
Best Glock 17 Holster IDPA:
Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear IDPA Pro Competition Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many of the new buyers were looking for a holster that would be wearable while their pistol was not in use at the range. This holster was hardcore in construction and quality while providing super-fast drawing and re-holstering for competitive shooters. One user said that this holster was way better than his previous holster that was made from nylon. His drawing time was much faster and didn’t snag at all.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster might just be excellent for competitive shooters, but its durable quality and ability to allow for fast drawing has also made this a favorite among those who conceal carry on a regular basis. Even most law enforcement personnel have found this holster to be super useful across various applications. When you have an edge on the competition or ahead of the threats that make every tactical situation highly intense, this holster will definitely handle your sidearm of choice. If you want durability and reliability in one holster, this could just be the best option you can find.
This Black Scorpion has been intentionally designed to holster a Glock 17. The OWB type holster has been designed using carbon fiber material with different levels of height adjustments for the shooter.
The retention can be adjusted using two retention screws on the holster. Features a simple design, good concealment but limited functionality.
Who Will Use This Most
This holster is made for all kinds of different applications. It doesn’t matter if you are a competitive shooter, a police officer, or someone who conceal carries on a regular basis this is the holster that can be of service if you want excellent durability, no-snag reliability, and something that is ridiculously comfortable to wear. There really isn’t much left to be said. This holster will be worth every penny should you invest in this.
Bottom Line
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear IDPA Pro Competition Holster will undoubtedly be one of the best choices for those searching for a multi-purpose holster. If quick drawing and re-holstering along with a lightweight, easy to access carry is what you need, then rest assured this might be the holster that you’ve been looking for. It can handle fully loaded pistols with ease and will definitely stick around for the long term.
The Black Scorpion tactical has a simple and robust design and is good for tactical use. The Holster complies with IDPA rules and is a good choice for users.
Best Glock 34 Holster IDPA:
USPSA IPSC Holster Pro Competition IDPA
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new users were owners of various Glock pistols. They found this holster to fit their pistols like a glove. Plus, their pistols remained in place and didn’t slip or wiggle around. They were also happy with the ability for the pistol to draw quickly and not once did it snag. One user said that he had heard of Kydex before purchasing this holster, but after finding out how great it was in quality he didn’t resist the idea of purchasing a Kydex holster for his own use (this one specifically).
Why it Stands Out to Us
Once again, we are looking at a holster that was built for the competitive shooter. And what would a competitive shooter want in a holster? Quick drawing and re-holstering? Yep. It’s got it. Superior quality? Indeed it does. Lightweight concealed carry for when you don’t need your pistol at the moment? Done and done. This holster has proven itself beyond a doubt that it can hang with the big boys. And it can make sure you have an edge on the competition so you no longer have to deal with slow, dragging draws that will cause you to lose focus. And no competitive shooter wants to deal with that when the contest certainly gets intense.
This is the best IDPA holster for the Glock 34 and 35 model. The holster features a kydex body and height adjustments for the shooter.
The OWB design is good for IDPA, and 3 gun shooting competitions. The height of the holster is adjustable, and so is the retention.
The holster is large enough to hold the larger Glock models without compromise.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are new to competitive shooting or need a holster that will give you a greater edge over the competition, then you’re probably going to enjoy using this holster. It will hold up pretty good and certainly be able to handle your pistol of choice. A competitor like yourself needs a high-quality holster that will last them years or even decades. This holster might fulfill that demand. If you yearn for a holster like this, there’s no point in delaying your decision.
Bottom Line
The USPA IPSC Holster Pro Competition IPDA will certainly give competitive shooters like yourself an edge. When the contest heats up, you’ll be ready and have an edge on the competitors that are looking for the top prize. With quick drawing at your disposal, you won’t have to struggle with bad draws or snagging ever again.
This holster is good for the Glock 34 and 35 models and will hold them with ease, without compromising on function. However, the holster is too big for smaller handguns.
Best 1911 IDPA Holster:
USPSA IPSC OWB Kydex Holster Pro Competition IDPA: Fits 1911
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This was the perfect holster for those who use their Colt 1911 pistols for concealed carry or competitive shooting purposes. Right away, they were able to point out the overall durability thanks to the carbon fiber Kydex that made for quick drawing and re-holstering. The holster was light in weight and didn’t feel like it was dragging them down even with a loaded pistol. One user said that he was looking for a holster that was not only durable but able to handle a fully loaded pistol without pulling down his belt. He got his wish and then some with this holster in particular.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Colt 1911 has long been one of the most versatile multi-purpose pistols out there. It’s easy to shoot and super accurate, making it an excellent pistol for the sake of self-defense and even competitive shooting as well. They’ve been around for a long time and still to this day lives up to being one of the most dependable pistols bar none. If you want a holster that will take the best care of your pistol for any given situation, this one might be what you are looking for. It’s superior quality and overall build makes this one of the best long-term options you can find in a holster. Kydex doesn’t take shape, nor does it sag or rip apart. You can use this for the rest of your life if you want to.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are looking for a holster that will be great for any kind of purpose, you may want to consider giving this one a closer look. Yes, it’s outside of the waistband and will allow for the quickest access to your pistol. And it can certainly make sure that you will be able to get an even faster draw compared to other holsters. But make no mistake, this holster will fulfill all your concealed carry needs as well as making sure you are one step ahead of the competition.
Bottom Line
If you just want a simple OWB holster that will carry your pistol of choice, then you’re probably going to want a holster like the USPSA IPSC OWB Kydex Holster for 1911 pistols. You get the best material you can find in a holster along with quick drawing and re-holstering and a secure, reliable hold that will keep your pistol intact and not slipping out like some other holsters tend to do.
This holster, however, fits many different guns. But it has been found out to work best with 1911.
This OWB holster is made up of bolatron, and kydex which makes it durable and helps retain its shape.
The holster is adjustable for height and cant within the permissible IDPA limits. The retention is governed by a couple of tension screws.
Bottom Line
This holster suits 1911 pistols perfectly and is ideal for using them in IDPA competitions. Offers Robust adjustments and proper comfort.
Best Comp-Tac IDPA Holster:
Comp-Tac Paddle Holster - Straight Drop
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many of the new users were using this holster for both concealed carry and competitive shooting purposes. They were able to quickly draw their holsters and re-holster them securely allowing for a snug fit. No slippage or wiggling around at all. One user said that the holster design as a whole was simple and straightforward, thus making it one of the main reasons why he bought it. It didn’t bulge or create any undue attention and he was more than comfortable with carrying it outside of the waistband even when covering it up with a shirt and making it really easy to conceal.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Paddle holsters are not too large or small in size. But they do take up a bit of room. However, you shouldn’t let that discourage you in the slightest. It allows for superior comfort while being able to store your pistol in a safe place if and when you are not using it. To top it off, it’s a pretty good holster that won’t shift or sag over the years like some materials. And it’s a good reason why you should always favor hard synthetic materials over soft materials any day of the week when it comes to holsters.
This one from Comp-Tac is a straight draw IDPA holster which has to be simply tucked down the belt on the waistline. The holster is made up of kydex and offers enough area to holster a gun with sights mounted.
Retention can be adjusted using two screws near the base. This holster is perfect even for people with a small body (especially women). The nylon padding on the rear makes it comfortable for the user.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be a great holster for newbies starting out with concealed carrying, competitive shooting or both. The holster has the right kind of material and is tough enough to handle a good number of loaded pistols. Plus, the design will allow for the perfect fit (which is better than making adjustments to ensure a better fit or finding a different holster). If you have a full-sized or compact pistol, this might be a holster worth considering.
Bottom Line
If you want a newbie-friendly holster that might end up being one of the best holsters you’ve owned for its quality and reliability, the Comp-Tac Paddle Holster could possibly be the one you’ll wind up using. Obviously, it stands the test of time and so many instances of drawing and re-holstering. Strap this to your belt or waistband and you will be set for a concealed carry experience that just might last you years.
The Comp-Tac holster is just like any other IDPA holster, with the only drawback being the limited straight draw position. The holster sits close to the body and is quite comfortable even after using it for long durations.
Best IDPA Revolver Holster:
Speed Beez OWB 686 4” Tactical Revolver Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were looking for a holster that would allow for consistently quick drawing. Sure enough, this holster did not disappoint in that regard. Most of the new users were ditching their old nylon holsters that tend to snag in favor with a holster like this for flawless, lightning-quick drawing. Aside from that, they managed to get a holster that handled a good number of pistols and was able to hold itself up each and every time the pistol was in place.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster was built for revolvers that are used for concealed carry and competitive shooting. Either way, it’s at the right size to handle all kinds of revolvers across many calibers. Plus, it’s made from a high-quality polymer that ensures excellent durability that will make using this holster for the long-term more than a possibility. If you want high-quality materials, you got it. If you want a holster that will make sure your pistol is easy to draw and re-holster, you’re probably looking right at it at this moment.
The Speed Beez OWB holster has been specifically designed to holster all tactical revolvers with a 4” S&W frame. The holster is a three in one package which includes a belt mount, paddle mount and offset mount, where the belt width can be adjusted for each mount.
The all Kydex body will not bend or stretch over time and is impervious to sweat and solvents. The holder has 8 mounting holes to adjust it to the cant. Overall, it is the perfect IDPA holster for all revolvers with a 4” frame.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be perfect for concealed carry users and competitive shooters looking to put time in their favor in survival or competitive situations. You can draw your revolver as fast as you can and be ready to shoot at a moment’s notice. And it can (and possibly will) outperform any other revolver compatible holster on the market. If reliability and fast drawing are two things you look for in a holster, you’d be insane to pass up the opportunity to give this holster a closer look.
Bottom Line
If speed is your thing, then get a holster that will make drawing your pistol a lot quicker and easier compared to some of the others out there. The Speed Beez Outside The Waistband Tactical Holster is exactly what you may need for quickly drawing your revolver and getting a shot off faster than your competitors or when you are facing off against an attacker threatening your life.
This holster has been intentionally designed to fit revolvers during IDPA competitions. The Kydex material makes the frame durable, and the multiple adjustments make the holster more versatile, and useful for competition and self-defense. Even with a revolver.
Best IDPA Revolver Holster Runner-up:
Speed Beez OWB Revolver Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New users were able to quickly draw their pistols from this holster better than their previous holsters. On top of the quick drawing, they were also able to keep their revolvers secure without a hint of slippage or wiggling around. This gave one user a good amount of confidence in knowing that this holster will hold up so much better than a cheap, flimsy holster he bought and lasted a couple of months.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a regular holster compared to the previous Speed Beez holster we’ve reviewed. This one is the best fit for the larger sized holsters but will still make sure that you get the quickest drawing out of it. It’s made from high-quality polymer and is strong enough to hold any fully loaded revolver in place without any sagging or dragging taking place when you carry it. If you want a holster that will hold its own while making sure your draw times are cut in half, this holster will be an excellent choice for the revolver owner.
This Speed Beez OWB holster is an entire package, exactly the same as the one mentioned above. The holster is meant for revolvers with a 2.50 to the 2.65-inch frame. Or in other words, smaller revolvers.
The package includes different mounts, each of which features adjustments for belt width and cant. It complies with all rules of the IDPA and offers a quick draw for competitive shooting.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be an excellent holster for those who own larger sized revolvers and want nothing more than lightning-quick drawing and sturdy, secure holstering. Yes, revolvers do come in all shapes and sizes. And not every holster designed for revolvers is created equal. If you want a holster that will handle the larger and even heavier revolvers while making sure you get quick, consistent drawing this holster might just fit the bill.
Bottom Line
The Speed Beez OWB Revolver Holster is a surefire way to speed up your drawing time and ensures that you can quickly access your pistol with the greatest of ease. It’s got the right kind of materials and the ability to hold a full-sized revolver in place without allowing it to slip out. If you want a holster that might just make you the “fastest gunslinger”, then you might get one and use it right away.
This holster, as described, is perfect for smaller revolvers. The OWB design with modular mounting options and adjustment options, allows the user to adjust it according to their convenience.
Best Blade Tech IDPA Holster:
Blade-Tech IDPA Competition Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
One of the things that most users pointed out was the minimalistic design. It allowed for less bulging and excellent concealability when worn. It also allowed for consistently quick drawing and re-holstering that usually tends to drag compared to other holsters. One user said that he was using this one day compared to the last concealed carry holster that he currently uses. Despite trying out both of them in terms of draw times, it was this holster that gave him a slightly quicker edge. As a result, he uses this holster for competitive purposes only (and sometimes for concealed carry).
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is made from high-quality materials that won’t allow for wearing or tearing. This also means that you won’t have to deal with snagging as well. Look, some nylon holsters out there aren’t too bad. But sometimes, soft material holsters will definitely cause you some grief in certain aspects (like snagging while drawing or re-holstering). If the timing of your draw during competitions is what you need to improve, it might take changing out your holster to be the solution.
The Blade Tech IDPA holster offers a one-of-a-kind package in this IDPA holster. The package includes a kydex holster, a magazine pouch, and a paddle attachment, both manufactured from injection molded polymer.
The cant is adjustable to three different angles, and the holster has a flared base. The holster is a good choice if you are just starting out with IDPA.
Who Will Use This Most
If you need a holster that will be simple to use and allows for easy carrying and drawing, then look no further than a holster like this. Also, it might be a great holster for you if you are looking for something on a budget. And believe us, nothing is more exciting than getting a holster at a steal of a deal knowing that it has excellent quality and performance that would make the price a lot higher than it should.
Bottom Line
The Blade-Tech IDPA Competition Shooters Pack is the perfect competition holster for Smith and Wesson pistols. For a pistol that is reliable in use, it needs a holster that’s equally as reliable while allowing you to quickly access the pistol and get faster drawing each time. You’d be hard-pressed to find a holster quite like this anywhere else.
The Blade Tech holster offers a three-in-one package offering more value for money and is perfect for IDPA competitions. However, the holster is only available for right-handed shooters.
Conclusion
IDPA competitions simulate real-life self-defense situations, so they require the participants to use a simple holster with very basic functionalities. The IDPA has defined specific rules for using a holster in its competitions. A good IDPA holster must be comfortable, comply with the rules, concealable, and easily adjustable.
