Methods of carrying short-barrel firearms, i.e. pistols or revolvers are quite variable. They greatly depend on many factors, such as size and weight of the weapon, type of clothes worn and obviously on the particular situation. In some cases, the most important factor is effective concealment, whereas in others it is the speed of presentment. More often than not, the integral part of those various methods is the holster deployed. Handgun holster is a special device designed to protect, hold and restrict the undesired movement of a handgun, usually in a position where it can be easily and quickly drawn for immediate use.
A good holster has to satisfy many requirements. One of the critical qualities in a holster is the reliable firearm retention coupled with ease of fast withdrawal. A high-quality holster must be relatively light and comfortable to wear, it needs to be as compact as possible and be made from durable and non water-permeable material. In order to reduce condensation and accumulation of dirt inside the holster it is preferable to select a holster with open barrel end.
Holsters are traditionally made out of wood, treated plywood, plastic, synthetic materials or leather. Wood and/or plywood can be employed for special types of holsters that are used not only as a holster, but may also be utilized as a stock that could be attached to the handgun to provide stability. Those materials are practically replaced by plastic in recent times. As the handguns became smaller and lighter the need for attachable stocks has deminished, they are only used for heavier and more powerful weapons. Those types are holsters are usually worn openly on top of clothing.
Synthetic materials are durable, do not absorb liquids, not expensive and therefore widely used in manufacturing of concealed carry holsters. In some cases, though they do not maintain their shape very well and they could be uncomfortable to wear. Lately some of the better manufacturers are using special polymers that have practically eliminated those issues. There is an opinion that due to lesser friction the pistol can be drawn quicker from a plastic rather than leather holster.
But for now the most widely utilized material for holsters is still the leather. Leather is great at keeping its shape for a long time, and depending on tanning process can be either soft or tough, it is usually warm and comfortable when worn close to the body. Leather is used in making all kinds of holsters.