When it comes to selecting holsters for carrying your preferred sidearm there are a lot of options on the market from a multitude of manufacturers. Most of them are geared or motivated towards concealed carry: Ankle, IWB (Inside-the-Waistband), Appendix, OWB (Outside-the-Waistband), and SOB (Small-of-the-Back). Other potential options people might employ if they are OK with open carry or their firearm profiling Shoulder Rigs and Drop Leg holsters. Out of every carry option out there the probably most mysterious one, or the carry position with the least amount of information are Drop Leg Holsters. Why is that?
Well, one reason why Drop Leg holsters are not very common and are more difficult to source is that they require a lot of pieces to complete their puzzle. You might order a custom holster from a company like ANR Design, but that is simply the beginning. Then, you will need a thigh strap to secure to holster to your leg. You will also need a ‘backer’ of sorts for your holster. The most common being the QLS options from Safariland. Then, to bridge the gap from belt and holster to your thigh strap you might also need another cloth segment to align everything properly. We are not making the argument to not use a Drop Leg holster, but flatly pointing out that with so many components needed it is not surprising that many local gun shops do not tailor towards this style of carry.
How about the performance of a Drop Leg holster? Pros and cons? If you have elected to use a Drop Leg holster like I did on a recent hunting trip, you likely are OK with open carrying your sidearm – whatever the scenario may be for you day. Some of the positives to this style of carry is that it gets your firearm off of your waistline. This is positive because you have more room about your waist. Moreover, if you are carrying a backpack or need to access your wallet in your butt pocket, then you are not banging gear or your hands into your sidearm. It frees up movement, and freedom of movement is a good thing. Also, by lower the position of your pistol when you draw it, it is easier to draw. You do not need to be hyper-mobile drawing your sidearm high into your armpit to get it to clear your holster. An easier draw-stroke is good for everyone.
Now, negatives. If you are a person who carries your car keys, wallet, cell phone, or any other valuables on your strong side (where the Drop Leg holster would be going) the Drop Leg completes obstructs and cover your front pocket. Between the thigh strap and other components that comprise the Drop Leg you will lose access to your front pocket. This was a surprise to me, but an easy adaptation. Just rotate your valuables to other preferred pockets while carrying.
So, if you have been contemplating a Drop Leg holster for awhile… Go for it! It does have a lot of benefits if you want to open carry for hunting, hiking, camping, walking your dog, etc. Just bear in mind a Drop Leg holster is a lot more elaborate than people think. As always, let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below. We love it when you participate in our articles and keep the conversation going!
