The Ultimate Guide to Gun Belts for Men: Everything You Need to Know
The Ultimate Gun Guide is Here.
A trusted, reliable, and well-made gun belt is an essential piece of equipment for any gun owner, especially those who carry concealed. A proper gun belt not only provides support and comfort for the weight of your gun and accessories, but also helps ensure safety and security by keeping your holster in place. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That's why our crew created "The Ultimate Guide to Gun Belts for Men: Everything You Need to Know" post to help take our years of knowledge, interviews with top gun-belt makers, and our own in depth gun-belt reviews, to equip you for your carry. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose, wear, and maintain a high-quality gun belt. Whether you're a seasoned gun owner or just starting out, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to make an informed decision about your next gun belt purchase.
What this Guide Covers
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about gun belts for men. From the various types of gun belts available to the factors to consider when selecting one, we will cover it all. We'll also provide you with tips on how to wear and adjust your gun belt for maximum comfort and security, and how to look for the right sized belt for your carry needs. Whether you're new to gun ownership or a seasoned professional, this guide is a must-read for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality gun belt. This guide is broken down into some key elements to consider when exploring your next purchase. We will cover the following:
Table of Contents:
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01. Introduction to Gun Belts
A gun belt is a specialized type of belt designed for gun owners to carry their firearm and accessories securely and comfortably. Unlike a regular belt, a gun belt is made with sturdier materials and designed to support the weight of a gun and holster without sagging or shifting. A proper gun belt is essential for anyone who carries a firearm, whether for self-defense or recreation. A good gun belt not only provides support and comfort but also ensures safety and security by keeping the holster in place. Without a reliable gun belt, the holster may shift, move or even fall off, causing the gun to become unstable or potentially dangerous. In addition, a poorly designed or inadequate gun belt may cause discomfort or even pain, making carrying a firearm an unpleasant experience.
Types of Gun Belts- Materials
There are 2 main types of Gun Belt materials out there- Nylon and Leather. While some would argue there are blends of the two, belts made of other sourced material like Parachord, the main materials found in most gun belts are leather and nylon.
Leather Gun Belts: Leather gun belts are among the most popular types of gun belts on the market. They are made from high-quality leather, which makes them durable and long-lasting. Leather gun belts come in a range of thicknesses and widths, allowing you to choose the right belt for your particular firearm. Many leather gun belts also have a reinforced core, which provides additional support and prevents the belt from sagging.
Nylon Gun Belts: Nylon gun belts are another popular option, particularly for those who prefer a more lightweight and flexible option. Nylon belts are typically made from a high-quality synthetic material that is designed to be durable and long-lasting. Some nylon gun belts also feature a reinforced core, which provides additional support and helps prevent the belt from sagging.
Belt Buckle Systems: There are a few types of belt buckle systmes:
Traditional hole belts are the most common type of belt system. They have a series of evenly spaced holes along the length of the belt, and the buckle prong is inserted through the desired hole to fasten the belt. Some belts feature a click or “snap” together system like Cobra Belts
Ratchet systems, also known as “click belts” or track belts, are a newer type of belt system that uses a ratcheting mechanism to adjust the fit. The Ratchet belt has a series of teeth on the underside, and the buckle has a tab that clicks into the desired tooth to fasten the belt. This system allows for more precise adjustability and can provide a more comfortable fit for users who fall between traditional hole spacings.
Ratchet systems also have the added benefit of not requiring as much tension to hold the belt in place, which can reduce discomfort from a tight belt. They can also be adjusted more easily on the fly, making them a convenient option for those who need to adjust their belt throughout the day.
Velcro- Some belts, use velcro to adjust the belt sizing. This is more common in competition belts or other non-EDC type belts.
Overall, traditional hole belts and ratchet systems have their benefits and drawbacks, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. It's a good idea to try on both types of belt systems to see which one feels most comfortable and secure for you.
Grab the essentials- KORE Essentials
Types of Gun Belts- Styles
When it comes to choosing the type of gun belt to get, it's important to consider your specific needs based on your intended use and carry style. Here are some different types of gun belts based on carry style:
Everyday carry (EDC): An EDC gun belt is designed for everyday use and can support a compact or subcompact firearm for daily carry. These belts are typically made of leather or nylon and are adjustable for a comfortable fit.
Concealed Carry: A concealed carry gun belt is designed for those who want to carry a firearm for personal protection without drawing attention to themselves. These belts are often thicker and stiffer than EDC belts to support the weight of a larger firearm and reduce printing.
Range: A Range or heavy-duty gun belt is designed for those who need to carry a large, heavy firearm and accessories for extended periods. These belts are typically wider and thicker than other types of gun belts and can provide maximum support and stability.
Duty: Duty belts are most often seen worn by police, probation, or security details that need the support of a belt that can hold several add-on accessories to their carry.
Tactical: A tactical gun belt is designed for military or law enforcement use and can support a variety of accessories such as holsters, magazine pouches, and flashlights. These belts are typically made of nylon and have a sturdy buckle for maximum security.
Competition: A competition gun belt is designed for use in shooting competitions and can support a variety of accessories such as holsters, magazine pouches, and shotshell carriers. These belts are often adjustable and lightweight for maximum mobility.
02. Why Gun Belts Are Important for Concealed Carry (CCW)
Carrying a concealed firearm comes with a lot of responsibility, and it's important to do it safely and comfortably. One of the key factors in achieving this is selecting the right gun belt. Many people overlook the importance of a good gun belt, but it's a critical piece of equipment that can make or break your concealed carry experience. Some online gun forums, Google questions, and Gun enthusiast posts contain the long asked question- Why is a gun belt so important when it comes to my carry? You can find the answer here:
Support and Stability
One of the main reasons why gun belts are important for concealed carry is that they provide the necessary support and stability to safely carry a firearm. A regular belt may not be strong enough to support the weight of a gun and holster, causing it to sag or shift around. This can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, as the gun may become dislodged or misaligned. A good gun belt is designed to distribute the weight of the gun evenly, preventing it from shifting or bouncing around. It should be made from sturdy materials such as leather or nylon, and have a sufficient width and thickness to support the weight of the gun and holster.
Concealment
Another important factor to consider when selecting a gun belt for concealed carry is concealment. A properly designed gun belt will keep your firearm close to your body and prevent it from printing or bulging under your clothing. This is important for maintaining your privacy and avoiding unwanted attention.
Accessibility
A good gun belt should also allow for easy access to your firearm in case of an emergency. This means that the belt should be adjustable and secure, but also easy to remove quickly if needed. A belt that is too tight or difficult to adjust can slow down your response time and compromise your safety.
Comfort
Finally, comfort is another important factor to consider when selecting a gun belt for concealed carry. A belt that is too tight, too loose, or made from an uncomfortable material can be distracting and make carrying a firearm unpleasant. A good gun belt should be comfortable enough to wear all day, without causing any chafing, pinching, or discomfort.
03. The Importance of Proper Fit/Adjustment for Your Gun Belt
+How to Choose the Right Gun Belt for Your Needs
When it comes to concealed carry, a lot of attention is given to the firearm itself, but not enough is given to the supporting equipment, such as the gun belt. A properly fitting and adjusted gun belt is critical for both comfort and safety when carrying a firearm. Here we dive into The Importance of Proper Fit/Adjustment for Your Gun Belt as well as how to choose the right belt for your needs.
Support
As mentioned a few times- support is key when carrying a firearm on your waist. A gun belt that is too loose will not provide the necessary support to keep your firearm in place. This can cause discomfort, as the weight of the gun will shift around as you move. A loose gun belt also increases the risk of the firearm coming loose, potentially causing injury or embarrassment should it disengage from the holster. On the other hand, if a gun belt is too tight, this can cause an uncomfortable carry and may even impede your ability to draw your firearm quickly in an emergency. It can also cause chafing or other skin irritation.
How to Choose: Look for belts that offer good sizing options. Many traditional hole belts can give you enough spacing, but ratchet belts can help with the exact size based on your waist and carry preference.
Concealment
A properly fitting gun belt is also important for concealment. A loose or ill-fitting gun belt can cause your firearm to print, or become visible through your clothing. This can draw unwanted attention and potentially compromise your safety.
How to Choose: Look for belts that offer good material quality. If a belt is made cheap, the belt could loosen too much over time and cause sag or a loose fit, resulting in exposure while carrying.
Adjustment
Adjusting your gun belt to fit properly is essential for both comfort and safety. Most gun belts come with several holes to adjust the size, but it's important to find the right fit. A good rule of thumb is to choose a belt that is one size larger than your pants size. This will give you enough room to comfortably fit your holster and firearm.
Once you have your belt, you need to adjust it to fit your body properly. The belt should be snug, but not so tight that it's uncomfortable or difficult to move. It should sit at your waistline and should not be too low or too high.
How to Choose: Look for belts that offer enough holes and solid length of the hide. One consideration is to avoid belts with holes and try a ratchet style belt that cinches up to the precise measurement of your waist and adapts to your carry.
Holster Placement
Proper adjustment of your gun belt is also important for holster placement. Your holster should be positioned in a way that allows for a quick and smooth draw. This means that it should be positioned in a way that is comfortable for you, and allows for easy access to your firearm.
How to Choose: Look for a holster that can be easily attached to your belt, and does not have a thick profile- to help reduce printing. Adjust your Ride Height (up and down, left to right) and practice draw to reduce pull time.
Comfort
Lastly, a properly fitting and adjusted gun belt is essential for comfort. Carrying a firearm can be uncomfortable, but a good gun belt can alleviate some of the discomfort. It should sit comfortably on your waistline, without digging into your skin or causing chafing. It should also be made from materials that are breathable and won't cause excessive sweating.
How to Choose: Look for belts that are made with quality materials and are specifically designed for gun carry. Avoid cheap made brands that try to be gun belts, when they barely are kids-cosplay belts at best.
In conclusion, a properly fitting and adjusted gun belt is essential for both comfort and safety when carrying a firearm. It provides the necessary support to keep your firearm in place, allows for easy access to your firearm in an emergency, and ensures proper concealment. When choosing a gun belt, it's important to find one that fits properly and is adjustable to your body type. This will ensure that you can carry your firearm comfortably and safely, and be ready to respond quickly in case of an emergency.
04. Top 10 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Gun Belt
Here are our Top 10 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Gun Belt
01. Safety: A properly fitting gun belt ensures that your holster is secure and stable. This is especially important for firearms with a significant weight or recoil, as an ill-fitting belt can cause your firearm to shift or even fall out of the holster, creating a dangerous situation.
02. Comfort: A gun belt that is too tight or too loose can cause discomfort, chafing, and irritation. Finding the right fit and adjustment will allow you to carry your firearm comfortably and for extended periods of time.
03. Concealment: A properly fitting gun belt can improve concealment by keeping your holster and firearm close to your body, reducing printing and making it easier to conceal your firearm.
04. Support: The added weight of a firearm can put strain on your back and hips, but a properly fitting gun belt can help distribute that weight more evenly, providing better support and reducing fatigue.
05. Durability: A gun belt that is too tight or too loose can cause excess wear and tear on the belt and holster, leading to premature failure. A proper fit and adjustment can help extend the life of your gear.
06. Efficiency: With a properly fitting gun belt, you'll spend less time readjusting your holster or firearm, allowing you to focus on the task at hand.
07. Confidence: Knowing that your firearm is secure and stable on your person can help boost your confidence in your ability to defend yourself and others.
08. Customization: With the right fit and adjustment, you can customize your carry position and cant angle for maximum comfort and accessibility.
09. Adaptability: A gun belt that can be easily adjusted can accommodate changes in clothing, weight fluctuations, and different carry positions.
10. Professionalism: A properly fitting gun belt can help create a professional and polished appearance, particularly in a professional or formal setting.
A properly fitting and adjusted gun belt is crucial for safety, comfort, concealment, support, durability, efficiency, confidence, customization, adaptability, and professionalism. It's worth taking the time to find the right fit and adjustment for your body and carry preferences.
05. Our Top 5 Gun Belt Picks on the Market Right Now
Kore Essentials Gun Belt- This gun belt features a unique Trakline ratchet system for precise adjustments and is made from a durable leather, nylon web, camo and carbon fiber.
Relentless Tactical Colossal Concealed Carry CCW Gun Belt- This leather gun belt is designed for concealed carry and is made from high-quality materials for durability and comfort.
Hanks Gunner - USA Made Concealed Carry CCW Leather Gun Belt: This leather gun belt is made in the USA (although some buckles are made in China) and is designed specifically for concealed carry.
Bigfoot Gun Belts - Steel Core Leather Gun Belt: This leather gun belt features a steel core for extra support and is designed for both concealed carry and open carry.
Crossbreed Executive Gun Belt- The Executive Gun Belt is a fashionable and professional option for those who favor a more polished look.
Keep in mind that the "best" gun belt for you will depend on your personal preferences, carry style, and the type of firearm you carry. It's important to do your own research and find a gun belt that meets your individual needs.
Kore Tactical or Leather Gun Belt
Pros:
Perfect Fit that’s secure and comfortable to wear all day
Reinforced Power-Core™ center is stiff but flexible
No belt holes so zero splitting
Interchangeable buckles and belts
Cons:
Multiple styles to choose from so picking one is tough
Tactical Belts might be too stiff for some folks.
XL sizes only up to 54” (72” in Black Tactical)
Price: $59 on KORE
Colossal Concealed Carry CCW Gun Belt
Pros:
Does not sag or bend regardless of what you carry
Replacements at no cost if ever unhappy
Cons:
1-3/4” width may be an issue for most regular size belt loops
Price: $64.99 on Amazon
Hanks Gunner
Pros:
Leather material makes for a durable hold
Strong enough for more than guns
Removable buckle for adjustment
Cons:
Sizing (length) may be an issue for some waists
May be too stiff for some folks
Price: $75+
BigFoot Leather Gun Belt
Pros:
Steel roller buckle for smooth belt slide
Flexible metal core
Burnished leather to remove imperfections
Cons:
May be too stiff and uncomfortable for extended wear
Looks like a gun belt
Price: $73.88 on BigFoot
CrossBreed Executive Gun Belt
Pros:
Custom look for a one of a kind belt
Durable and long lasting
Rigid but flexible
Cons:
$10 charge for any adjustments or returns within 2 week trial period
Price: $79.95 on Crossbreed
06. Answers to Common Gun Belt FAQ’s
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When it comes to choosing the right size for your gun belt, there are a few factors to consider. The most important is the size and weight of your firearm. The belt should be able to comfortably support the weight of your gun and any accessories, without sagging or shifting.
In terms of length, you'll want to choose a belt that is a few inches larger than your normal waist size. This will allow room for the additional weight of your firearm and accessories, while also providing a comfortable fit. For example, if your waist size is 34 inches, you might want to choose a gun belt that is 36 or 38 inches in length.
It's also important to consider the width and thickness of the belt. A wider and thicker belt will provide more support and stability for your firearm, but may also be less comfortable to wear. Ultimately, the size of your gun belt will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your firearm and accessories. It's always a good idea to try on different sizes and styles to find the best fit for you.
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When it comes to choosing the type of gun belt to get, it's important to consider your specific needs based on your intended use and carry style. Here are some different types of gun belts based on carry style:
Everyday carry (EDC): An EDC gun belt is designed for everyday use and can support a compact or subcompact firearm for daily carry. These belts are typically made of leather or nylon and are adjustable for a comfortable fit.
Concealed carry: A concealed carry gun belt is designed for those who want to carry a firearm for personal protection without drawing attention to themselves. These belts are often thicker and stiffer than EDC belts to support the weight of a larger firearm and reduce printing.
Heavy-duty: A heavy-duty gun belt is designed for those who need to carry a large, heavy firearm and accessories for extended periods. These belts are typically wider and thicker than other types of gun belts and can provide maximum support and stability.
Tactical: A tactical gun belt is designed for military or law enforcement use and can support a variety of accessories such as holsters, magazine pouches, and flashlights. These belts are typically made of nylon and have a sturdy buckle for maximum security.
Competition: A competition gun belt is designed for use in shooting competitions and can support a variety of accessories such as holsters, magazine pouches, and shotshell carriers. These belts are often adjustable and lightweight for maximum mobility.
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The answer to this question depends on your personal needs and circumstances. If you regularly carry a firearm, particularly a heavier one, a gun belt can provide better support and prevent discomfort or sagging that may occur with a regular belt. This can improve your overall comfort and safety when carrying a firearm.
However, if you don't carry a firearm, then a gun belt may not be necessary for you. Additionally, if you carry a smaller, lightweight firearm, a regular belt may be sufficient for your needs.
Ultimately, whether a gun belt is worth it for you will depend on your specific circumstances and needs. If you do carry a firearm and experience discomfort or sagging with a regular belt, a gun belt may be worth the investment.
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The best thickness for a gun belt depends on the type of gun you carry and your personal preference.
For a full-size handgun, a width of 1.5 inches and a minimum thickness of 0.25 inches (6mm) is recommended. This is sufficient to provide the necessary support and prevent the gun from bouncing or shifting on the belt. For smaller guns, a slightly thinner belt may be sufficient.
It's also important to consider the quality of the materials used in the belt's construction. Look for a belt made from high-quality leather or synthetic materials that are durable and can withstand regular use. A good gun belt should also have a strong and sturdy buckle to ensure that it stays in place and supports the weight of the gun.
07. Deals and Discounts on Gun-Related Brands
MyCube Safe
Lock-up a deal and your valuables.
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