Which holster for backpacking

You also want easy access to your firearm as in any personal protection situation. This would be the same for hunting in the backcountry with a handgun. Though for hunting, you also want access to your weapon to take down your target quickly and easily. Hiking for extended distances with a large backpack on takes knowledge of how backpacks work and how the human body functions while doing so.

Holstering a firearm while hiking for extended distances with a large backpack on takes knowledge of how holsters work and mount with backpacks, and knowledge of different options for drawing from different holster styles.

Armed Service members have the specific training and experience to obtain this knowledge. They also have the right holsters for the job. Though, a civilian like me does not necessarily have the training or need to train for hiking extended distances with a holstered handgun, unless we hunt or hike with one often. This is when we must take it upon ourselves to find out which holster works best for us individually.

For any extended hiking situation, remember that you need easy access to your firearm, maneuverability, and the ability to move quickly without causing discomfort or pain to your body.

From my testing, the shoulder holster style proved to be my number one choice for extended hiking while carrying a large backpack. Though for shorter distances such as a day hike, the drop-leg holster works great. Drawing accessibility, ergonomic feel, and the freedom of motion to my legs all proved the shoulder holster to be my number one choice as the best holster for extended hiking. Let your fellow shooters know — share this article using the Facebook, Twitter and other social media icons below.

The more we all know, the better organized and stronger the shooting and hunting community will be. The Lodge AmmoToGo. Look for tips for the range here. About Us Contact Us. Shop at AmmunitionToGo. For those that enjoy the element of surprise — IWB is still very possible. Whether or not it stays on the waist will depend on body type, pack load, and weight distribution.

For those that cannot tuck an IWB holster into the front of their trousers with a full pack on, the next best solution is going to be a cargo pocket. The great thing about clipped harness IWB holsters is they slide seamlessly into the inside of a cargo pocket. Still accessible, still ready, and out of the way of the waistband of the backpack. And congratulations — it's a CCW version of a drop holster.

For those just going for a day long jaunt, CCW is extremely important. The best configuration will likely be an OWB holster because it offers the least amount of friction while keeping the weapon at a comfortable grip distance.

Unfortunately, ankle holsters can tend to get tricky as the longer the march, the more prone that the difference in weight ounces between the feet may be enough to wear down a person. Most importantly is if the ankle holster chaffs the skin, pulls on tendons, or puts added strain on ankles. One interesting thing is how the body expands and contracts depending on hydration, metabolism, and blood sugar levels. Hikers can often find that boots tied snugly in the morning have to be loosened by mid-day.

An ankle holster attached snugly may give a similar experience. Shoulder holsters similarly run into predicaments when other equipment is attached. Whatever you do — you do not want to have equipment snagging. If you have to drop your pack, you don't want straps pulling against your firearm or impeding your movement. Are you an experienced CCW hiker? Tell us what you've learned in the comments section below.

He is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and private defense contracting in Afghanistan. My Cart. Shop All Holsters. Luckily, smart companies have created plenty of great options for on-body carry. For semi-auto pistols, the Safariland ALS line of holsters fits well into this niche. For revolvers, I like the Galco Phoenix holster , as it combines comfort, retention, and ease of use. One of the problems with belt holsters is that they create a weight imbalance around your hips, which after 5 hours of rucking you will notice.

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