003 - How to Adjust Your Kydex Holster for the Perfect Fit

How to Adjust Your Kydex Holster for the Perfect Fit

When it comes to carrying a firearm, comfort and security are essential. A Kydex holster can provide excellent retention and durability, but it’s crucial to know how to adjust it properly for a perfect fit. Whether you’re carrying every day for personal protection or in a professional capacity, taking a few minutes to fine-tune your holster can make a big difference in both comfort and usability.

In this post, we’ll guide you through the key steps to adjust your Kydex holster, ensuring it fits securely and provides a smooth draw every time.

Step 1: Adjust the Retention Screws

Most Kydex holsters come with adjustable retention screws, allowing you to modify how tightly the holster grips your firearm. Here’s how to adjust it:

• Locate the Retention Screws: These screws are usually found around the trigger guard area of the holster.
• Tighten or Loosen: Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws if you want a more secure hold, or loosen them for a quicker draw. Make small adjustments until you find the sweet spot where the gun stays in place but can be drawn smoothly.
• Test the Fit: After adjusting the screws, test the fit by holstering and drawing your firearm multiple times. It should “click” into place and remain secure without excessive force.
• Thread Locker: After you have found the right fit, take one screw out at a time and apply blue thread locker on the bottom few threads of the screw, reattach it to your holster and allow it time to dry and secure the screw. This will help minimize the chance of the screws backing out over time from normal use.

Step 2: Adjust the Cant and Ride Height

The angle at which your firearm sits (cant) and how high or low it rides on your waist (ride height) can greatly affect both concealment and comfort.

• Cant Adjustment: Some Kydex holsters offer adjustable cant, meaning you can tilt the firearm forward or backward to match your draw style. A forward cant is ideal for strong-side carry, while a neutral or backward cant works well for appendix or cross-draw positions.
• Ride Height Adjustment: Depending on your body type and carry position, you may want to adjust the holster higher or lower on your waistband. Many holsters allow you to reposition the clips to achieve the right ride height. Lower ride height improves concealment, while higher positioning can make drawing easier.

Step 3: Test for Comfort and Concealment

Once you’ve adjusted the retention, cant, and ride height, take some time to wear the holster and move around. Walk, sit, and bend to ensure the holster stays in place and is comfortable throughout the day. Make sure it remains well-concealed under your clothing while still offering easy access.

Step 4: Practice Your Draw

With the holster adjusted to your liking, practice drawing and holstering your firearm from different positions with an empty and cleared firearm. This not only ensures the holster is functioning properly but also helps build muscle memory for a smooth, consistent draw under stress.

Conclusion

Taking the time to adjust your Kydex holster will make all the difference in how comfortable and secure you feel when carrying. By fine-tuning the retention, cant, and ride height, you can ensure your firearm stays in place while remaining easy to access in any situation.

Remember, comfort and security go hand in hand when it comes to carrying a firearm. A well-adjusted Kydex holster can give you the confidence you need to carry safely and effectively.