best carrying position for a glock 17

When it comes to carrying a firearm, comfort, accessibility, and safety should be paramount. Among the various carry positions available, the Inside the Waistband (IWB) method stands out as a popular choice for concealed carry enthusiasts. This position offers a number of advantages, including ease of access,良好的concealment, and reduced printing, making it a viable option for both everyday carry and tactical scenarios.

For individuals seeking to carry a Glock 17, the IWB position provides several suitable options. One common method is the appendix carry, where the firearm is positioned in front of the body, typically between the 1 and 2 o’clock positions. This placement offers quick access and minimizes printing, as the firearm is concealed close to the body. However, it is crucial to ensure proper holster selection and training to avoid accidental discharges.

Another IWB option for carrying a Glock 17 is the strong side carry, where the firearm is positioned on the dominant side of the body, typically between the 3 and 4 o’clock positions. This method provides a balance between accessibility and concealment, as the firearm can be drawn quickly while maintaining a relatively low profile. Additionally, strong side carry allows for a more natural draw motion, making it suitable for both experienced and novice shooters.

Inside the Waistband (IWB) at 4:00

Inside the waistband (IWB) at the 4:00 position is a common carry method for the Glock 17. This position offers quick access to the firearm while providing good concealment under most clothing. The 4:00 position refers to the placement of the gun at the front of the hip, slightly to the right side for right-handed shooters and vice versa for left-handed shooters.

To carry IWB at 4:00, the following steps are recommended:

Select a suitable holster: Choose a holster specifically designed for IWB carry at the 4:00 position. It should provide secure retention, comfort, and ease of draw.
Position the holster correctly: Place the holster inside the waistband at the desired position and secure it with the belt or other retention system provided.
Practice concealment: Experiment with different clothing options and accessories to ensure the gun remains concealed while still allowing for quick access.

Specific Considerations for the Glock 17

The Glock 17 is a popular choice for IWB carry at the 4:00 position. However, due to its size, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:

Holster Compatibility: Ensure that the holster is compatible with the Glock 17 and provides the necessary retention features for safe IWB carry.
Clothing Selection: The Glock 17 requires a slightly wider holster than other compact models. Choose clothing with a looser fit or consider using a belt with a larger buckle to accommodate the holster’s dimensions.
Physical Considerations: The Glock 17 is a heavier gun compared to other carry options. Consider your physical abilities and comfort level when choosing to carry IWB at 4:00 for extended periods.

Outside the Waistband (OWB) on the Hip

OWB hip carry is a classic and popular carry position due to its practicality and ease of access. The holster sits on the hip, usually between 3 and 5 o’clock, with the firearm pointing downwards. This position allows for a secure and readily available draw.

Advantages:

Quick and easy access
Comfortable for extended periods
Compatible with a wide range of holsters
Suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters

Disadvantages:

Can be visible under clothing
May not be ideal for concealed carry
Can be uncomfortable when sitting for prolonged periods

Holster Options for OWB Hip Carry:

Holster Type	Description
Pancake	Minimalist design with a single layer of leather or nylon
FBI Cant	Tilted slightly inward for a faster draw
Competition	Designed for speed and stability, often used in competitive shooting
Retention	Features a lock or other mechanism to prevent unauthorized access

Factors to Consider for OWB Hip Carry:

When selecting an OWB holster for hip carry, consider the following factors:

Material: Leather, nylon, and Kydex are common materials for OWB holsters, each offering different levels of comfort and durability.
Fit: Ensure the holster fits the Glock 17 securely to prevent movement or rattling.
Cant: The angle at which the holster is positioned can affect draw speed and comfort.
Belt loops or clips: Choose a holster with sturdy belt loops or clips that securely attach to your belt.

Shoulder Holster

Shoulder holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry, as they offer a number of advantages over other carry methods. Shoulder holsters are relatively easy to conceal, as they can be worn under a jacket or shirt. They also allow for a quick and easy draw, as the firearm is positioned close to the body.

There are a few different types of shoulder holsters available, including vertical shoulder holsters, horizontal shoulder holsters, and cross-draw shoulder holsters. Vertical shoulder holsters are the most common type, and they are worn with the firearm positioned vertically on the body. Horizontal shoulder holsters are worn with the firearm positioned horizontally on the body, and they are often preferred by law enforcement officers. Cross-draw shoulder holsters are worn with the firearm positioned across the body, and they are often used by people who are left-handed.

When choosing a shoulder holster, it is important to consider the following factors:

The type of firearm you will be carrying
Your body type
Your preferred carry position

It is also important to make sure that the shoulder holster you choose is made from high-quality materials and is comfortable to wear.

Pros of Shoulder Holsters

Easy to conceal
Quick and easy draw
Comfortable to wear
Can be used with a variety of firearms

Cons of Shoulder Holsters

Can be difficult to draw from when seated
Can be uncomfortable to wear in hot weather
Can be difficult to conceal under tight clothing

Pros	Cons
Easy to conceal	Difficult to draw from when seated
Quick and easy draw	Uncomfortable to wear in hot weather
Comfortable to wear	Difficult to conceal under tight clothing
Can be used with a variety of firearms

Small of the Back Carry

The small of the back carry is a popular method for concealed carry, but it has some drawbacks. The gun is positioned at the base of the spine, just above the buttocks. This can be a comfortable position for some people, but it can also be difficult to access the gun quickly and easily.

There are several advantages to carrying a Glock 17 in the small of the back. First, it is a very concealable position. The gun is hidden by the waistband and is not easily visible from the front or sides. Second, the small of the back carry allows for a quick and easy draw. The gun is positioned close to the body, and it can be drawn with a simple upward motion.

However, there are also several drawbacks to carrying a Glock 17 in the small of the back. First, it can be uncomfortable for some people. The gun can dig into the body, especially when sitting or bending over. Second, the small of the back carry can make it difficult to access the gun if you are in a seated position. Third, the small of the back carry can be dangerous if you fall or are involved in a physical altercation. The gun can be easily dislodged from its position and could potentially be used against you.

If you are considering carrying a Glock 17 in the small of the back, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. This carry position can be comfortable and concealable, but it also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of.

Here are some tips for carrying a Glock 17 in the small of the back:

Use a good quality holster that is specifically designed for the small of the back carry.
Position the gun high enough so that it does not dig into your body, but low enough so that it is easily accessible.
Practice drawing the gun from the small of the back carry position so that you can do it quickly and smoothly.

Things to Consider

There are several things to consider when choosing a small of the back holster for a Glock 17. First, you will need to decide what type of holster you want. There are two main types of holsters: inside the waistband (IWB) holsters and outside the waistband (OWB) holsters. IWB holsters are worn inside the waistband, while OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband. IWB holsters are more concealable, but they can be more difficult to access. OWB holsters are easier to access, but they are less concealable.

Once you have decided what type of holster you want, you will need to choose a specific model. There are many different models of holsters available, so it is important to do your research and find one that is right for you. Some of the factors you may want to consider include the following:

Comfort
Concealability
Durability
Price

The following table compares the pros and cons of IWB and OWB holsters:

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters	Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters
More concealable	Less concealable
More difficult to access	Easier to access
Can be more comfortable	Can be less comfortable
Less durable	More durable

Ankle Holster

An ankle holster is a popular choice for concealed carry because it allows you to keep your gun close at hand without printing. However, it is important to choose the right ankle holster for your needs and to practice drawing your gun from it regularly.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an ankle holster:

Comfort: The ankle holster should be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Retention: The ankle holster should securely hold your gun in place, even when you are running or jumping.
Concealability: The ankle holster should not be visible under your clothing.

Here are the seven most important factors to consider when choosing an ankle holster for your Glock 17:

Comfort: The ankle holster should be comfortable to wear for extended periods. It should not rub or chafe your skin, and it should not restrict your movement.
Retention: The ankle holster should securely hold your Glock 17 in place, even when you are running or jumping. It should not allow the gun to fall out, and it should not be easy to remove the gun from the holster without your consent.
Concealability: The ankle holster should not be visible under your clothing. It should be small and lightweight, and it should not bulge or print through your pants.
Durability: The ankle holster should be made from durable materials that will withstand wear and tear. It should not rip or tear, and it should not lose its shape over time.
Fit: The ankle holster should fit your ankle snugly. It should not be too loose, or the gun will move around too much. It should not be too tight, or it will be uncomfortable to wear.
Ease of use: The ankle holster should be easy to put on and take off. It should not be so complicated that you need to fumble with it in order to get your gun out.
Price: Ankle holsters range in price from $20 to $200. Choose an ankle holster that fits your budget and your needs.

Belly Band Holster

A belly band holster is a comfortable and versatile option for concealed carry, providing good concealment and accessibility. It wraps around your waist and holds the firearm securely against your body. Belly bands come in different sizes and materials, so you can choose one that fits your body type and lifestyle best.

Pros

Comfortable to wear for extended periods
Conceals the firearm well under clothing
Provides quick access to the firearm

Cons

Can be bulky under tight clothing
May not be suitable for all body types
May not offer the same level of security as other holsters

Positioning

The optimal position for a Glock 17 in a belly band holster is usually between the waist and the rib cage, slightly to the side. This position provides good concealment, accessibility, and comfort. It is important to adjust the band to ensure a secure fit while allowing for a quick draw.

Materials

Belly bands are typically made from breathable materials such as neoprene or spandex. Some bands also include moisture-wicking properties for added comfort. The choice of material will depend on your personal preferences and the type of climate you live in.

Material	Pros	Cons
Neoprene	Comfortable, breathable, moisture-wicking	Can be bulky
Spandex	Lightweight, breathable, stretchy	May not be as durable as neoprene

The Best Carrying Position for a Glock 17

When it comes to carrying a concealed firearm, there are many different factors to consider, including the type of gun you are carrying, your body type, and your lifestyle. For many people, the Glock 17 is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its reliability, accuracy, and capacity. However, finding the best carrying position for a Glock 17 can be a challenge.

There are four main carrying positions for a concealed firearm: inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), appendix carry, and shoulder holster. Each position has its own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best carrying position for a Glock 17 is the one that is most comfortable and allows you to draw your firearm quickly and easily.