How a Holster Claw Can Improve Your Concealment and Comfort
Carrying a firearm can be challenging, especially if you need to conceal it. Fortunately, there are many accessories available on the market that can help you achieve better concealment and comfort. One of these accessories is the holster claw, which is also known as an Appendix Reversible Carry (ARC) wing or claw.
In this article, we will discuss the purpose and working of holster claws, their advantages and disadvantages, and how they can enhance your carrying experience.
What is a Holster Claw?
A holster claw is a small piece of plastic or metal attached to a handgun holster. Its primary purpose is to help conceal the firearm by pressing against the user’s waistband or belt. This pressure creates a force that pulls the grip of the handgun closer to the body, reducing the amount of printing and making the firearm less noticeable.
When a holster claw is attached to a holster, it can help to push the grip of the firearm toward the body, making it more comfortable to carry for extended periods. Additionally, the claw can provide better retention of the firearm by applying pressure against the body.
Purpose of a Holster Claw
The primary purpose of a holster claw is to improve the concealment of the firearm. However, it also has some additional benefits, such as improving comfort and enhancing safety.
The purpose of a holster claw is to improve the concealment, comfort, safety, and retention of carrying a firearm. The following are the main reasons why a holster claw is an essential accessory for concealed carry:
Improves Concealment
One of the primary reasons for using a holster claw is to improve the concealment of carrying a firearm. By applying pressure against the waistband or belt, it pulls the grip of the firearm toward the body, making it less noticeable and easier to conceal. This is especially useful for those who need to carry a firearm in public places or in situations where discretion is crucial.
Enhances Comfort
Carrying a firearm can be uncomfortable, especially for extended periods. However, using a holster claw can help distribute the weight of the firearm more evenly, reducing the pressure on the waistband or belt. It can also help prevent the firearm from digging into the skin or causing irritation, making it more comfortable to carry.
Increases Safety and Retention
A holster claw can also help increase the safety and retention of carrying a firearm. Pulling the grip of the firearm toward the body, reduces the risk of accidental discharge or dislodging. It also makes it more difficult for someone to attempt to grab the firearm from the holster.
Provides a More Natural Draw
Using a holster claw can also provide a more natural and intuitive draw. Pulling the grip of the firearm toward the body aligns it with the natural motion of the hand during a draw. This can make it easier and quicker to respond in case of an emergency.
How a Holster Claw Works
The working of a holster claw is quite simple. When attached to the holster, the claw presses against the waistband or belt of the user. This pressure creates a forward force against the grip of the firearm, pulling it toward the body. As a result, the grip is less likely to print or become noticeable.
How a Holster Claw Works: Steps
The holster claw is a small, curved piece of plastic or metal that attaches to the inside of a holster. It is positioned near the trigger guard of the firearm, and it works by applying pressure against the waistband or belt. Here are the steps for how a holster claw works:
Step 1: Attaches to the Holster
The holster claw is attached to the inside of the holster by screws, clips, or other fasteners. It is positioned near the trigger guard of the firearm and angled toward the wearer’s body.
Step 2: Applies Pressure
When the holster with the claw is worn, the claw applies pressure against the waistband or belt. The pressure pulls the grip of the firearm towards the wearer’s body, which improves the concealment of the firearm.
Step 3: Distributes Weight
The claw also helps distribute the weight of the firearm more evenly, reducing the pressure on the waistband or belt. This makes it more comfortable to carry the firearm for extended periods.
Step 4: Reduces Movement
The holster claw can also help reduce the movement of the firearm within the holster. By applying pressure against the waistband or belt, it prevents the holster and firearm from shifting or rotating, which can help prevent accidental discharge or dislodging.
Step 5: Provides a Natural Draw
The pressure from the claw also aligns the grip of the firearm with the natural motion of the hand during a draw. This makes it easier and quicker to draw the firearm in case of an emergency.
Advantages of Using a Holster Claw
The primary advantage of using a holster claw is improved concealment of the firearm. However, there are several other benefits to consider. For example, a holster claw can provide better comfort for extended carry, especially if you need to carry a firearm for long periods. It can also enhance safety and retention by keeping the firearm close to the body and reducing the risk of accidental discharge.
Another advantage of using a holster claw is a more natural draw. With the grip of the firearm pulled towards the body, the draw can feel more intuitive and natural, allowing for a quicker and smoother response in case of an emergency.
Disadvantages of Using a Holster Claw
Despite its advantages, a holster claw also has some potential drawbacks that you should consider before using it. One of the most significant drawbacks is the added bulk to the holster. Since a holster claw sticks out from the holster, it can make the entire rig bulkier and more noticeable. This can make it more challenging to conceal the firearm effectively.
Another potential drawback of using a holster claw is the difficulty in re-holstering the firearm. Since the claw pulls the grip of the firearm towards the body, it can be more challenging to re-holster the firearm without looking or using both hands.
Compatibility can also be an issue, as holster claws are designed to work with certain holsters only. If you already have a holster that you are comfortable using, you may need to purchase a new one that is compatible with the holster claw.
Conclusion
A holster claw is an accessory that can help improve the concealment, comfort, and safety of carrying a firearm. By applying pressure against the waistband or belt, it can pull the grip of the firearm towards the body, making it less noticeable and more comfortable to carry for extended periods.
However, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as added bulk to the holster, difficulty in re-holstering, and compatibility issues with certain holsters. Before using a holster claw, make sure to choose a suitable holster that works well with your personal needs and preferences.