FAQs

What is a KYDEX holster?

A KYDEX holster is built from a rugged thermoplastic material known for being tough, lightweight, and dependable. Each one is molded to fit your exact firearm, giving you a secure, snug fit every time you carry.

Here’s why KYDEX gets the job done better than leather or nylon:

• Built to Last: KYDEX stands up to moisture, grit, and hard use without wearing down or losing shape.

• Consistent Draw: It won’t stretch or soften over time, so your draw stays sharp and reliable.

• Lightweight Gear: Strong doesn’t have to mean heavy. KYDEX keeps your setup light and comfortable.

• Easy to Clean: A quick wipe-down is all it takes to keep it in top shape.

• Made Your Way: Choose your colors, patterns, and attachments — your holster, your style.

At Patriot Holsters, we don’t just use KYDEX — we make it work harder.

What is an OWB holster?

An OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster is designed to ride on the outside of your belt for fast access and all-day comfort. It’s a favorite for open carry, range use, or concealed carry with a jacket or loose shirt.

OWB holsters offer solid retention, quick draw, and less bulk inside your waistband — making them a great option for larger firearms or anyone who prefers an easier carry setup.

At Patriot Holsters, our OWB holsters are custom-molded to your specific firearm, built tough from quality KYDEX, and made to last — whether you’re carrying every day or just hitting the range.

Comfortable. Accessible. Built to work.

What is an IWB holster?

An IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster is designed to sit inside your waistband for low-profile, concealed carry. It’s a top choice for everyday carriers who want to keep their firearm secure and out of sight.

IWB holsters offer excellent concealment under a shirt or jacket, and while larger guns can take some adjustment, the right holster makes all the difference. Our IWB holsters are hybrid-built — rugged KYDEX on the outside for retention, and comfortable leather on the inside where it matters most.

Tough. Comfortable. Easy to conceal.
That’s how Patriot Holsters does IWB.

Determining whether you need an Inside the Waistband (IWB) holster or an Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster depends on several factors, including your personal preferences, comfort, concealment needs, and the type of clothing you typically wear. Here's a comparison to help you decide:

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holster:

1. Concealment: IWB holsters are generally better for concealed carry because they are worn inside the waistband, with the firearm positioned between your body and your clothing. This can help minimize printing and make it easier to conceal the firearm under a shirt or jacket.
2. Comfort: Some people find IWB holsters to be more comfortable, especially if they have a slim profile and are made from materials that don't dig into the skin. However, wearing an IWB holster may take some getting used to, especially if you're not accustomed to carrying inside the waistband.
3. Accessibility: With an IWB holster, the firearm is positioned closer to your body, which may make it slightly more difficult to access quickly compared to an OWB holster. However, many IWB holsters offer adjustable cant and ride height to optimize draw speed and comfort.

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holster:

1. Accessibility: OWB holsters typically offer faster and easier access to your firearm compared to IWB holsters because the firearm is carried outside the waistband, allowing for a more natural and unobstructed draw.
2. Comfort: Some users find OWB holsters to be more comfortable, especially for extended periods of wear, as the firearm is not pressing against the body. OWB holsters also tend to provide better weight distribution, particularly for larger firearms.
3. Concealment: While OWB holsters are generally less ideal for concealed carry compared to IWB holsters, they can still be concealed effectively with the right clothing and accessories, such as a loose-fitting shirt or jacket.

Which hip curvature should I choose?
Hip curvature refers to how your holster contours to the shape of your body for all-day comfort. No two bodies are the same.

To make sure your holster fits comfortably against your body, select the hip curvature that matches your waist measurement:

• Small: 20–30"

• Medium: 30–45"

• Large: 45"+

If you fall between sizes, we recommend choosing the smaller curvature for a snugger fit.

We use this info to customize your holster’s shape so it fits snug and comfortable against your hip, making it easy to wear all day, every day.

Comfort that moves with you — that’s how Patriot Holsters rolls.

Paddle holsters are made from 2 pieces of KYDEX riveted together. They are tougher, stronger, and more flexible making them more comfortable to wear daily all day. Taco holsters are single-piece KYDEX bent around the firearm. Taco holsters are extremely rigid and not as strong. Most people do not like the rigidity as they are less comfortable. While both paddle holsters and taco holsters serve the purpose of securely carrying a firearm, they differ in their design, attachment method, comfort level, and retention mechanism. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences, carry style, and comfort needs.

Deciding whether to purchase a Patriot holster or opt for another brand depends on various factors, including your specific needs, preferences, and the features offered by each brand. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a Patriot holster over another brand:

1. Quality Materials: Patriot holsters are made from high-quality materials, such as durable KYDEX, which offers excellent retention and protection for your firearm.
2. Customization Options: All Patriot holsters offer customization options, allowing you to choose from different colors, patterns, and attachment methods to suit your preferences and carry style.
3. Comfort and Fit: Patriot holsters are designed with comfort and fit in mind, featuring smooth edges and snug retention to provide a secure and comfortable fit for your firearm.
4. American-Made: As the name suggests, Patriot Holsters are manufactured in the United States, supporting American businesses and ensuring high standards of craftsmanship and quality control.
5. Customer Satisfaction: Patriot holsters has a strong reputation for customer satisfaction, with many users praising their reliability, durability, and performance in various carrying situations.

Ultimately, the best holster for you will be one that fits your firearm securely, offers comfortable carry, and aligns with your personal preferences and requirements.

Why don’t some people use a holster — and why they should.

Some folks skip the holster, but that’s a risky move — and one we don’t recommend. Carrying a firearm without a proper holster creates serious safety and comfort issues.

Here’s why a holster isn’t optional — it’s essential:

• Trigger Protection: Without a holster, your trigger is exposed. That means anything — keys, clothing, even your hand — can cause an accidental discharge.

• No Retention: Holsters keep your firearm locked in place. No shifting, no falling out, and much harder for someone else to grab.

• All-Day Comfort: Metal and sharp edges against your body? No thanks. A well-built holster makes carrying safer and more comfortable.

• Protects Your Firearm: Without a holster, your gun’s more likely to get scratched, dented, or damaged from rubbing against whatever else you’re carrying.

• Legal & Safe: Some states require holsters for lawful carry. Even where it’s not required, unsafe carry can still lead to legal trouble.

At the end of the day, a quality holster is peace of mind. It keeps you safe, protects your firearm, and makes everyday carry a whole lot more practical.

Patriot Holsters — Built to Work. Built to Last. Built to Carry Right.

I already have a box of holsters I don’t like. Why should I buy another?

We hear this a lot — folks burned by cheap, ill-fitting holsters that just don’t work. That’s exactly why Patriot Holsters was built: to do things right the first time.

Here’s why ours are different — and why this might be the last holster you need:

• Custom Fit, Every Time: Our holsters are molded specifically to your firearm — no one-size-fits-all nonsense. That means rock-solid retention and a clean, consistent draw.

• Comfort You Can Count On: With smooth edges and a slim profile, our holsters are made for all-day wear — without the bulk or discomfort of those generic rigs.

• Tough as Nails: Made from high-quality KYDEX, our holsters won’t sag, stretch, or fall apart. They’re built to handle everyday carry, rough use, and long haul durability.

• Your Carry, Your Way: Left-handed? Right-handed? IWB or OWB? We make your holster to order, with your preferred setup and style — down to the color and pattern.

You don’t need another holster — you need the right one.

Patriot Holsters — Built to Work. Built to Last. Built to End the Holster Box.

How Is a Patriot Holster made?

At Patriot Holsters, we don’t follow the same slow, outdated methods most others do. We’ve built our own process — fast, efficient, and laser-focused on precision. Every holster is custom-made for your firearm and built to perform.

Here’s how we do it:

• CNC-Cut for Precision: Each holster starts with a KYDEX blank, cut to spec using a CNC router. We drill exact mounting points for belt hardware and smooth all edges so nothing snags or digs.

• Heat & Mold: The KYDEX is heated until it’s just right, then molded around a precise firearm form using high-pressure foam for a perfect, consistent fit.

• Cool & Lock It In: Once molded, the holster is cooled to hold its shape — locking in retention and structure for the long haul.

• Final Assembly: We install your chosen belt attachment —Speed Clips, Monoblock, UltiTuck — and fasten everything with heavy-duty hardware.

• Hands-On Quality Check: Every holster gets inspected for proper fit, finish, and function before it ever leaves our shop. If it’s not right, it doesn’t ship.

At Patriot Holsters, we combine high-end tools with hands-on craftsmanship to deliver a holster that fits right, carries right, and lasts.

Built to work. Built to last. Built for you.

Other holster companies are 4–6 weeks (or more) behind. How long will it take to get my Patriot Holster?

We’re proud to offer one of the fastest turnarounds in the industry — most orders ship within 72 hours of being placed.

That timeline depends on having all materials in stock and our team at the bench — we take weekends off, so orders placed on Friday usually ship out Tuesday. Once it leaves our shop, delivery time is in the hands of the carrier (USPS, UPS, or FedEx).

No waiting around for weeks or months — just fast, reliable gear made the right way.

Built to work. Built to last. Built fast.

What does the insurance charge cover?

The insurance protects 100% of your order. It’s optional, but highly recommended.

If your holster is lost, damaged, or not delivered and you kept the insurance on your order, we’ll remake and reship your holster at no extra cost to you. No hassle — we handle it.

If you remove insurance, you’ll need to file a claim directly with the shipping carrier (USPS, UPS, or FedEx) if something goes wrong.

Bottom line: Keep insurance for peace of mind. We've got your back.

Does Patriot Holsters have a return policy?

Because every Patriot Holster is custom-made to your exact specs, we do not accept returns or exchanges if the order was built exactly as requested.

If you accidentally select the wrong firearm or carry side — we built what you ordered. That part’s on you.

But if we made a mistake — like sending a right-hand holster when you ordered left-hand — that’s on us. And we’ll make it right.

Got questions before you order? Reach out. We’re happy to help you get it right the first time.
📞 Call us or 📧 email anytime.

Built to your specs. Built to last.

What do I do if my firearm doesn’t fit the holster?

First, give us a call at 435-319-6014 or send an email to sales@patriotholsters.com. We’ll likely set up a quick video call to see exactly what’s going on and understand why the fit isn’t right. From there, we’ll figure out the best way to get you squared away.

Our team is available Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM (local time) to assist you.

At Patriot Holsters, customer satisfaction is our top priority — and we’re committed to making it right.

Where are Patriot Holsters made?

Patriot Holsters are proudly crafted right here in the USA — born and built in the great state of Utah. By keeping production local, we support American workers and maintain the highest standards of quality control to deliver holsters you can trust.

Ready to carry American-made quality? Browse our custom holsters today.

What kind of warranty does a Patriot Holster have?

Every Patriot Holster comes with a Lifetime Warranty against defects in fit, form, and materials. If something’s wrong on our end, we’ve got you covered.

That said, this warranty does not cover cosmetic blemishes, damage from excessive heat, normal wear and tear, or issues caused by misuse. Hardware like screws and attachments aren’t covered once your holster ships.

Bottom line: Holsters take a beating in daily use. Take care of yours, and it’ll take care of you.

Patriot Holsters — built tough, guaranteed solid.

Will KYDEX damage the finish of my firearm?

KYDEX holsters are generally safe for your firearm’s finish. The material is rigid, durable, and designed to hold your gun securely without rubbing it down like leather can.

That said, dirt, dust, or debris caught between your firearm and holster can cause wear over time, so regular cleaning and inspection are a smart move.

Leather is much softer than KYDEX — but it also tends to rub off your firearm’s finish faster. Truth is, anything you carry your gun in — even foam or cloth cases — can wear the finish eventually.

Patriot Holsters use quality KYDEX molded to fit your firearm precisely, minimizing friction and protecting your gun as best as possible.

How do you clean your holster?

Cleaning your Patriot Holster is simple — just like washing your dishes. Our KYDEX is waterproof, washable, and won’t rot like leather.

Here’s how to keep it in top shape:

1. Disassemble if needed: Remove belt clips, screws, or other parts if your holster has them.

2. Unload and remove your firearm: Safety first. Make sure your gun is out before cleaning.

3. Check for debris: Use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to clear dirt from tight spots.

4. Wash with mild soap and water: Use dish soap or hand soap and lukewarm water. Wipe the holster inside and out with a soft cloth or sponge.

5. Rinse thoroughly: Remove all soap residue with clean water.

6. Dry completely: Wipe dry with a clean cloth, making sure no moisture remains.

7. Reassemble: Put everything back together once dry.

8. Store properly: Keep your holster in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme heat.

Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, and heat sources — these can damage or warp your KYDEX holster.

Regular cleaning helps your holster last longer and perform flawlessly every day.

Does Patriot Holsters make a universal holster to fit multiple firearms?

No, we don’t offer universal holsters. Every Patriot Holster is custom-made and precision-molded to fit a specific firearm model. That means your holster is designed to hold your gun with a secure, exact fit — no wobble, no shifting, no guesswork.

Universal holsters might sound convenient, but they often sacrifice retention, comfort, and reliability. At Patriot Holsters, we believe your carry gear should be built for your firearm, not the other way around.

If you carry multiple guns, we recommend getting a holster for each to ensure the best fit and performance.

Are Patriot Holsters adjustable?

Yes — you can adjust the cant (angle) of your holster with different belt attachments to find the most comfortable and accessible carry position.

But the fit itself is fixed and custom-molded to your specific firearm model. This means your holster won’t adjust to fit flashlights, lasers, or other accessories not included in the order.

Why fixed fit? Because a precise, snug fit is key to reliable retention and a smooth, consistent draw. Adjustable fitment often compromises security and comfort, which isn’t something we settle for at Patriot Holsters.

Built tight. Built right. Built to last.

How thick is the KYDEX Patriot Holsters uses?

We use .08-inch KYDEX — tough and durable without being bulky. Thinner holsters (.06") can flex or wear out faster, while thicker ones (.10"+) add unnecessary weight.

.08" hits the sweet spot for lasting protection and comfortable carry.

Does Patriot Holsters have a sweat guard?

Yes. Our holsters feature a built-in sweat guard that creates a barrier between your firearm and your body. This helps keep sweat off your gun, protecting the finish and preventing moisture buildup.

Plus, it adds a bit of extra comfort by reducing direct contact, making all-day carry easier.

Protect your gear. Stay comfortable. Carry with confidence.

How many different firearm options does Patriot Holsters carry?

Right now, we offer holsters for over 250 different firearm models — and that number keeps growing every week.

Don’t see your model listed? Check back often, or reach out to us. We’re always adding more.

What if Patriot Holsters doesn’t list my firearm?

No problem — we’ve got you covered with two easy options:

1. Send us your firearm for a custom holster fit. Since Patriot Holsters is a licensed Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), we can legally receive firearms shipped via UPS, FedEx, or USPS. Once we get your gun, we’ll custom-make your holster and ship it back quickly — usually within 24 hours of receipt.

2. Request we source your firearm model. If your firearm isn’t listed, just ask. We’ll purchase the model you need, add it to our lineup, and have holsters ready for you and others carrying that gun.

We handle all the paperwork and legal requirements on our end to make this process smooth and hassle-free.

At Patriot Holsters, it’s all about precision fit, fast turnaround, and making sure you get exactly what you need.

What colors and pattern options does Patriot Holsters carry?

We stock 50+ colors and patterns at any given time — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With hundreds of options overall, we’ve got something to match just about every style and taste.

Don’t see exactly what you want? Just ask! If you want it, chances are someone else will too — and we’ll make sure to add it to our lineup.

Your holster, your style — no compromises.

Can I have a specific picture or logo added to a holster?

Absolutely! We can print custom pictures, logos, and designs on your holster. Whether it’s your company logo, LEO badge, military mascot, or something personal — just ask!

At Patriot Holsters, we’re here to help you carry your style with pride.

How do I know my firearm is secure in my Patriot Holster?

When you insert your firearm into a Patriot Holster, you’ll hear a satisfying “click.” That audible snap is the sound of proper retention — your weapon is locked in and secure.

For added peace of mind, you can perform a shake test (with your firearm unloaded and the holster off your body). Give it a gentle shake to simulate everyday movement. Your firearm should stay firmly in place with no rattling or shifting.

At Patriot Holsters, we don’t just build for speed — we build for security, confidence, and all-day carry.

What size belt clips or loops does Patriot Holsters carry?

We carry both 1.5" and 1.75" belt clips and loops, the two most common sizes for everyday carry belts. Just pick the size that matches your belt for a secure, no-slip fit.

Need to switch sizes later? No problem — our attachments are easy to swap out. Just contact us and we’ll help get you set up with the right hardware.

Fit matters. We’ll make sure your holster rides right — every time.

What options does Patriot Holsters have if I don't wear a belt — or want to take it off easily?

We’ve got options for every carry style — even if a belt’s not part of your wardrobe:

• Speed Clips: Great for quick on/off without removing your belt. Perfect for convenience and versatility.

• Paddle Attachments: Slide securely inside your waistband — no belt required. Easy on, easy off.

• UltiClips: Ideal for leggings, gym shorts, or sweatpants. These clips attach directly to your waistband and hold tight, no belt needed.

Whatever you wear, Patriot Holsters has a carry solution built to keep up with you.

What kind of testing has Patriot Holsters done on their holsters?

Patriot Holsters are field-tested and proven by those who rely on their gear the most — including military personnel, law enforcement officers, private contractors, competition shooters, and everyday carriers across the country.

We also rely on direct customer feedback to fine-tune our designs and ensure real-world reliability. From daily wear to high-stress scenarios, our holsters are built to handle it all.

Stress tested. Field tested. Customer approved. That’s the Patriot Holsters standard.

Does Patriot Holsters have options for flashlights or lasers?

Yes! We can custom-mold your holster to fit your firearm with a flashlight or laser attached. Just select your specific light or laser model when placing your order, and we’ll build it to fit — no guesswork, no compromises.

Custom fit means confident carry — even with attachments.

Does Patriot Holsters have options for red dots?

Yes — all Patriot Holsters, both OWB and IWB, are red dot ready. We custom mold your holster to fit your firearm with a red dot optic already installed, so there's no need to remove your setup or make modifications.

Whether you carry with an optic now or plan to add one later, your Patriot Holster is built to be ready.

No extra charge. No guesswork. Just a perfect fit.

Does Patriot Holsters make magazine holsters?

Yes, we do! Patriot Holsters offers magazine holsters designed for single magazines, double stack mags, and AR magazines — all crafted with the same precision and durability you expect from us.

Find them under the Magazine tab in the Shop menu.