When it comes to everyday carry (EDC), few choices are more important than your holster. It’s not just about comfort—your holster directly impacts your ability to conceal, access, and retain your firearm in a moment that could mean life or death.
At Black Swamp Leather Company LLC, we understand that serious carriers demand serious gear. Whether you're new to concealed carry or a seasoned veteran, this guide will walk you through how to choose the right holster for your needs—built on real-world function, comfort, and craftsmanship.
-The Freedom Holster- OWB- Eagle Scene 1-
The Importance of Carrying with Confidence and Comfort
Carrying every day is a commitment. Whether you're out with the family or on the job, your holster should give you the confidence that your firearm is secure, accessible, and invisible to everyone but you.
What Makes a Great Holster for Daily Carry?
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Secure firearm retention
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All-day comfort
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Minimal printing (visibility through clothing)
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Fast, consistent draw
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Built tough for years of use
An excellent EDC holster balances all these traits—and the right one depends on your body, clothing, firearm, and routine.
Types of Holsters Explained
Understanding carry styles helps you choose what’s best for your daily life.
Inside-the-Waistband (IWB)
IWB holsters tuck inside your waistband, offering maximum concealment. They're ideal for slim profiles and tighter clothing.
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Best for: Concealment-focused carriers
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Pair with: Sturdy EDC belt, fitted shirts, compact to mid-size pistols
-Reinforced Guard/ Retention Leather IWB- Pull The Dot Snap Loops-
Outside-the-Waistband (OWB)
OWB holsters ride on the outside of your belt and tend to be more comfortable and easier to draw from, though slightly harder to conceal.
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Best for: Open carry, colder climates (jackets), range or field use
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Pair with: Longer shirts or jackets, retention-enhanced models
-Kydex OWB- Pancake Style Loops-
Appendix Carry (AIWB)
Carried in the front of the waistband, AIWB is fast and highly concealable when paired with a proper holster and belt.
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Best for: Fast draw, low-profile EDC
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Pair with: Comfortable, contoured holsters with adjustable ride height
Leather, Kydex, or Hybrid?
Each material has strengths—what matters is how well it matches your lifestyle and expectations.
Leather
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Pros: Classic look, forms to your body, extremely comfortable over time
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Best for: Traditionalists, all-day comfort, dress clothes
Kydex
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Pros: Rigid, quick draw, positive click retention, weather-resistant
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Best for: Tactical use, hotter climates, faster draws
Hybrid (Kydex shell on leather backer)
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Pros: Mix of structure and comfort
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Best for: Those who want retention and comfort in one
-The Security Holster/ Versa Carry- LEVEL 2 RETENTION-
Key Features to Look For
1. Retention
Your holster must hold the firearm securely—whether you're walking, sitting, or running. Adjustable retention lets you fine-tune the draw strength.
2. Comfort
If your holster digs, pinches, or shifts, you won’t want to wear it. Look for smooth edges, high-quality materials, and proper fit to your body.
3. Concealment / Printing
A good holster should tuck your firearm in close without bulging under a T-shirt. Holster cant (angle) and ride height impact concealability.
4. Adjustability and Draw Speed
Being able to adjust cant and ride height makes a big difference. You want a natural, repeatable draw stroke.
Matching Holster to Lifestyle
Your job, clothes, and daily movement all play into what holster will work for you.
Workwear
If you’re on your feet all day or wear tactical pants or jeans, a strong OWB or robust IWB setup works well.
Casual Wear
Appendix carry shines with athletic wear or casual button-downs, especially when paired with a stiff EDC belt.
Active Lifestyle
Choose secure retention and moisture-resistant materials like Kydex. Hybrid holsters offer flexibility without giving up performance.
Belt Compatibility
A quality holster demands a strong belt. Our Kydex Core Carry Belt supports even full-sized pistols while maintaining a low profile.
-Retention Leather IWB- Pull The Dot Snap Loops-
Why Handmade American Gear Matters
At Black Swamp Leather Company LLC, every holster is 100% handmade in Northwest Ohio. We don’t outsource. We don’t mass-produce. Every stitch, every edge, every cut is made by hand, ensuring a perfect fit and finish.
How Our Gear Stands Out:
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Molded for retention and comfort
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Built to last a lifetime, not just a season
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Designed with real-world carry in mind
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Personalized craftsmanship you can trust
This isn’t cookie-cutter gear. It’s heirloom-quality craftsmanship, made for those who carry with purpose.
-Kydex OWB Fold Over Style- With Tacticlip-
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned carriers can get it wrong. Avoid these costly missteps:
1. Buying Cheap Holsters
Budget holsters often compromise on safety and comfort. A poorly made holster could fail when you need it most.
2. Ignoring Ride Height
A too-high or too-low holster affects your draw and comfort. Adjustable ride height helps fine-tune your carry.
3. Using the Wrong Belt
Your average department store belt isn’t up to the task. A reinforced carry belt prevents sag and keeps your holster secure.
Final Tips for New and Seasoned Carriers
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Practice with your holster regularly—draw, reholster, move, repeat.
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Dress around your gun—concealed carry is a lifestyle, not a trend.
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Stay aware and ready—mindset is just as important as gear.
The right gear gives you the confidence to protect what matters most—without compromising comfort, concealment, or readiness.
Ready to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry?
Explore our handcrafted IWB and OWB holsters, trusted by everyday Americans who demand rugged reliability.
Need help picking the right setup? Email us at mike@blackswampleather.com for a personalized recommendation—we’ll help you find the right fit.
Looking for a leather IWB? Check out our [Retention IWB Holster]. Prefer OWB? The [Drop Leg Holster] has you covered
Black Swamp Leather Company LLC
Handmade in America. Built to carry.
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