The Glock 21 combines the best of all worlds when it comes to semi-automatic handguns. It provides the stopping power of the .45 AUTO round, but it also uses cutting edge engineering to reduce recoil, and create a comfortable, lightweight package. With a 13-round standard magazine, and a construction that can endure any kind of weather (no matter how inclement), Glock’s reputation for making durable, workhorse pistols is definitely one that’s been earned.
It’s also created a loyal customer base that comes back to the Glock time and time again.
While there are civilians, law enforcement, and even military personnel who swear by the Glock 21, holding it up as the standard all sidearms should strive for, having a good weapon is only one part of the equation. If you’re going to carry a Glock 21, then you need to have a holster as well. And while that sounds simple, it’s all too easy to put a superb weapon into a subpar holster, and hamstring your capabilities in the field. Which is why if you carry the Glock 21, you should consider some of the following models.
#1: Blackhawk SERPA Concealment Holster
If Glock is the go-to name in firearms, then Blackhawk is the industry standard when it comes to holsters for those firearms. Known far and wide for providing quality holsters in a wide variety of styles and sizes, one of the highest-rated holsters for the Glock 21 is the SERPA concealment holster. This holster has a passive retention mechanism, meaning that despite its hard plastic exterior your weapon won’t bounce out if you run, fall, or otherwise move quickly. There’s even an audible click to let you know your weapon is properly holstered. This system also makes it very difficult for anyone else to draw your weapon, which is an advantage we all want to have when we’re in the field (though the draw will take some getting used to if you aren’t familiar with Blackhawk’s hard top holsters and their passive retention capabilities).
It is important to keep in mind that this holster is designed for concealed carry. It’s a hip holster with both a paddle and a belt loop, and it’s meant to be hidden beneath a jacket. That doesn’t mean you can’t wear your weapon openly, it just means that’s not the primary purpose this holster was designed for. Lastly, remember that these holsters are designed to fit one hand, so pay close attention to ensure you get the right holster for your draw.
#2: Barsony OWB Belt Holster With Magazine Pouch
Unlike the Blackhawk model above, the Barsony OWB belt holster is designed to accommodate several different models of firearm. Made from laminate cordura nylon, this holster will fit any full-size nine millimeter, .40, or .45 caliber weapon. It has a clip that makes it easy to wear on any belt between 1.5 and 1.75 inches, and it has a basic retention strap with a simple thumb break to make drawing fast and easy.
One of the biggest draws for this holster, so to speak, is the accessory pouch along the front of it. This pouch is large enough to hold a spare magazine for your weapon, thus saving space and ensuring you don’t have to carry backup rounds in a separate pouch. This is a big space and energy saver for those who intend on wearing a duty belt, or who want to conserve their waistline real estate as much as possible while carrying.
#3: King Tactical Shoulder Holster
Not everyone wants to carry their weapon on their hip. Whether it’s for comfort or concealment, there are a lot of people who favor a shoulder holster over a traditional hip one. If you want something that fits the Glock 21 like a glove, then you need to take a look at the King tactical shoulder holster.
The rig is fairly simple. It has dual loops that fit around your shoulders, and it anchors at the left and right sides of your belt. The standard model has a holster under the left arm for a right-hand cross-body draw, and a pouch that holds two spare magazines under the right arm. Users who are left-handed can easily change the locations, making it more comfortable for their dominant hands. This holster is made from tough, durable nylon, and it can be adjusted to fit each user for height, weight, etc. A classic model, built to last for long hours of wear in the field.
#4: Gould & Goodrich B803 Belt Holster
While most of the holsters for the Glock 21 are tactical in nature, made from either hard plastic or chemically-treated nylon, sometimes it’s hard to beat a classic leather holster. The B803 from Gould & Goodrich offers classic style, but with modern sensibilities. Made to fit both the Glock 20 and 21 models, this holster is contoured to the curves of the weapon, and it provides a tight grip. Top grain, vegetable tanned leather provides a comfortable place to stow your weapon, and the retention strap can be removed with a flick of the thumb.
What makes this model a good fit for those who want a belt holster is that it can be worn in two different ways. So whether you prefer your weapon tilted forward, or perpendicular to the ground, you can adjust the fit based on which belt loop you use. However, like all leather holsters, this model may take some time to properly break in. It should also be rubbed down to make sure the dye doesn’t leak onto your pants or shirt during early use.
#5: Safariland ALS Concealment Paddle Holster
The Safariland ALS concealment paddle holster is meant to be a safe, secure, and comfortable holster for those who want the security of carrying their Glock 21, but who want to avoid the discomfort an ill-fitted holster often brings. This holster will hold a Glock 20 or 21, and the automatic locking system retains the weapon without the need of a strap. The holster itself is thermal molded plastic, and it has a suede lining to ensure that your weapon isn’t scratched, dinged, or otherwise damaged in the course of everyday carry.
In addition to being secure, though, this Safariland model comes with an ergonomically designed nylon paddle that fits inside your belt. This serves the dual function of making the holster more comfortable to wear, as well as providing added stability for it as a platform for your weapon.
#6: Blade Tech Industries Revolution Belt Holster
If you prefer a minimalist holster style, you can’t do better than the Blade Tech Industries Revolution model. These holsters fit the Glock 20 and 21 models, and they’re a simple, straightforward molded plastic holster. These holsters are bare bones in the extreme, though, which is why it’s important to consider their use very carefully. They might be fine for going to the range, target shooting, or for casual carry, but they’re far from ideal for an on-the-job holster. With that said, though, they get the job done without any bells and whistles, which is a major advantage for Glock owners who like a straightforward holster.
#7: Desantis Mini Slide Holster
Speaking of bare bones holsters, the Desantis Mini Slide model is just what the doctor ordered if you like the comfort and security of a classic leather holster, but you prefer the streamlined, stripped-down contours of more modern holsters as well. The holster bears a resemblance to old-fashioned leather frogs, which allowed swordsmen to carry their blades without actually providing a scabbard. You simply slide the holster onto your belt, and slip your Glock 21 into it. The weight of the weapon holds it in place, as there’s no retention strap or locking mechanism. The holster grips your weapon, providing resistance that won’t be overcome by everyday movements.
This particular holster is good for casual carry, but if you have an active profession that requires you to keep a weapon on your person, it might not be the best option. It is, however, comfortable, and barely bigger than a cell phone case for those who prefer a basic holster.
You’re The One Who Defines “Best”
While there are a lot of options out there for Glock 21 owners, it’s important to remember that even the “best” holsters might not suit you and your needs. Because you’re the only one who can decide what is best for you, and how you prefer to carry your weapon.
That’s why it’s important to try several different models, materials, and carrying styles to see what works best for you. Because even if a few hundred, or a few thousand, people gave a particular holster a 5-star rating, that doesn’t mean you will have the same experience they’ve had.
You might, though, and if you’re looking for somewhere to start then customer reviews and overall ratings are a solid judge of what’s worked for other people. You simply won’t know until you try it for yourself.
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