About Universal Holsters

Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to go over universal holsters. Holsters capable of fitting multiple firearms have been around for about as long as pistols have existed. Our goal with this blog post is to go over what these holsters are while also delving into some of their traits, features, and other considerations. Now, let’s talk universal holsters.

What is a Universal Holster?

For the purposes of this blog post, we are going to use the term “universal holster” to describe a holster which is capable of fitting a variety of firearms. This is to say, that these multi-fit holsters are intended to accept pistols of various designs and form factors. Generally, compatible pistols must be somewhat close to each other in terms of size and shape. For example, a Glock 19 and CZ P-10 C are comparably sized while a Government style 1911 with a 5” barrel is a stark contrast to a Sig Sauer P365. The key is for the firearm to reliably fit in the holster with some degree of retention while also protecting the trigger from foreign bodies. Simply put, a universal holster is just like it sounds – a holster capable of potentially fitting multiple types of firearms. For the purposes of this blog, we are not talking about holster examples which happen to fit similarly sized firearms. We are specifically focusing on holsters that are specifically designed to be universal in nature and accommodate a wide variety of handguns.

Historical Context

A notable example of a universal holster which saw wide use is the Bianchi M12 holster. The holster was prevalent during the latter half of the Cold War and was issued to U.S. military personnel and allies. This holster and variants are also referred to as the UM84 holster, with the “UM” in the name standing for “Universal Military.” Holsters of this type feature a simplistic flap to retain the firearm and a generous holster body suitable for many service style handguns. Everything from a Beretta 92FS, CZ-75B, Browning Hi Power, and Colt 1911 Government is accommodated by this style holster. Part of why this holster is effective is due to the fact that the large flap helps effectively retain the pistol. If this flap were absent, the holster’s retention will be compromised. Bianchi also produced a thumb snap which could replace the flap, allowing for a faster draw. Similar examples have existed throughout time, often featuring some kind of flap or thumb break to aid in retaining a pistol. As time progressed, Cordura nylon holster options became available and introduced more features such as the capability to hold a spare magazine on the holster body. Eventually, purpose-built Kydex and synthetic holsters became the norm and will typically be molded to fit a specific firearm and accessories.

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How Do They Work?

Universal holsters retain firearms in multiple ways. If the holster utilizes some form of nylon type construction, the holster will generally be of the IWB variety and gain retention from actually being worn. This is to say that the retentive ability of these holsters comes from the tension yielded by being worn IWB in conjunction with a belt. An overwhelming majority of the holsters on the market of this type feature Kydex construction. The use of Kydex allows the holster to feature and maintain a rigid shape and structure, a feature which aids retention and allows for consistent drawing and holstering. Due to the ability for Kydex to be molded to fit certain shapes, Kydex universal holsters are available in a variety of forms which accommodate lights, retain off of a common trigger guard shape, or utilize a rail-mounted index point. Simply put, if you have a universal holster designed to accommodate pistols with a Streamlight TLR-1 or a Surefire X300, most pistols with the appropriate light will easily fit the holster. This means that an end user can save money and just own a single light unit and move it between multiple pistols if they felt so inclined.

Some Considerations

Universal holsters are great for those with large collections of handguns. Holsters of this type provide users with a means to effectively holster a wide variety of handguns, regardless of make and model. This is especially appreciable by those who wish to be proficient with multiple types of handguns and train effectively with them. There are many universal holsters on the market. While there are absolutely quality, reliable offerings, there are also some options which are suboptimal and even potentially unsafe. This also depends on the specific gun one is attempting to fit into a universal holster. Universal type holsters generally come with a list of compatible firearms and/or a size guide for appropriate handguns. If one tries to use a handgun inappropriate for their specific holster, they are setting themselves up for failure. This ranges from using handguns that are too small for a holster or using handguns which are too big and aren’t covered by a holster.

Who Makes Universal Holsters?

There are multiple companies today that make universal holsters. Companies such as PHLster, Tier 1 Concealed, Blackhawk, Wilde Custom Gear, and more produce holsters of this type. These holsters will generally be constructed from either Kydex, nylon, or Cordura, with Kydex offerings being the majority. At this point in time, one will have no issue finding a universal holster if they are after one.

How Do You Carry a Universal Holster?

Universal holsters are commonly found in either outside the waistband (OWB) or inside the waistband form (IWB). This is to say, that these types of holsters can be employed in a variety of uses ranging from concealed carry use to range use.

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Do You Really Need a Universal Holster?

Universal holsters truly shine if one is wanting to be able to accommodate multiple potential handguns with a single holster. In practice, an end user can effectively only need to buy a single holster rather than many if they are planning on using pistols compatible with their universal holster of choice. If one does not plan on rotating between different handguns, the need for a universal holster is nonexistent. While one may only have a single gun they intend on carrying, they may decide to acquire more firearms in the future. There is a good chance that any future handgun one purchases is supported by a universal holster. For example, you use a PHLster Floodlight holster built for X300 use with your Heckler & Koch VP9, you can effectively switch to a Glock 17 and utilize the same holster as long as the X300 is used with the new gun. This is because the light is the major factor when it comes to fit with this specific holster. Simply put, acquiring a quality universal holster may be a good exercise in “future proofing” your holster collection, ensuring that potential new handguns have an appropriate holster. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to determine whether a holster of this type is appropriate for their intended use case and is practical for their situation.

Conclusion

All in all, universal holsters are becoming more popular with shooters these days. With more and more shooters carrying pistols with weapon mounted lights, holsters of this type designed around a specific light are particularly popular. Regardless of the holster one ends up with, they should train and build proficiency to ensure they can safely and efficiently employ their firearm. We here at True Shot Ammo have you covered and carry a wide variety of ammunition to help you train and defend yourself with. As always, happy shooting. Need bulk ammo? At True Shot Ammo, we have a wide variety of handgun ammo and rifle ammo available to purchase. Please visit our website trueshotammo.com, call us at (888) 736-6587, or you can email us at sales@trueshotammo.com for more ammo options. View more posts about gear:

About Universal Holsters