Understanding Holster Cant and Carry Positions

When it comes to concealed carry or open carry, the way a firearm is positioned on the body significantly affects comfort, accessibility, and draw speed. Two critical factors that influence these aspects are holster cant and carry position. Understanding these concepts can help both new and experienced carriers optimize their carry setup for safety and efficiency.

What Is Holster Cant?

Holster cant refers to the angle at which a firearm is positioned relative to the vertical axis of the body when holstered. Instead of being perfectly upright, most holsters allow the gun to tilt forward or backward, changing the orientation of the grip and barrel. This tilt can range from a slight forward lean to a pronounced angle depending on the user’s preferences and the holster design.

The cant angle is usually measured in degrees, with 0° representing a perfectly vertical holster and higher degrees indicating a forward or backward tilt. This angle plays a crucial role in how comfortable the firearm is to carry and how quickly it can be drawn.

Types of Holster Cant

0° Cant (Vertical): The firearm sits straight up and down, parallel to the body. This is common for duty or open carry and offers a natural grip orientation but may be less comfortable for concealed carry.
15° to 30° Forward Cant: Often called a "forward cant," this tilt angles the grip slightly towards the front, allowing for a more natural draw motion and easier concealment under clothing.
30° to 45° Forward Cant (Strong Forward Cant): This more aggressive angle is popular for appendix carry or inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters, facilitating a quick and intuitive draw.
Backward Cant: Less common, this angles the firearm towards the back, which may be used in specific carry positions or with particular body types.

Common Carry Positions Explained

The position where the holster is placed on the body is just as important as the cant. Each position offers different advantages and challenges, often influencing the choice of cant angle. Understanding these positions helps carriers choose the setup best suited to their daily activities and body type.

Strong Side Hip Carry (3 to 4 o’clock)

This is the most traditional and popular carry position. The holster is located on the dominant side hip, typically between 3 and 4 o’clock for right-handed carriers. It provides easy access and good concealment under a shirt or jacket.

Most carriers prefer a slight forward cant in this position to facilitate a natural draw path.

Appendix Carry (1 to 2 o’clock)

Appendix carry places the firearm at the front of the body, just above the waistband and centered around the 1 to 2 o’clock position. This position offers very quick access but requires mindful holster selection and carry technique for comfort and safety.

Strong forward cant angles (30° to 45°) are common here to align the grip for easier drawing and to reduce printing through clothing.

Small of Back Carry (6 o’clock)

Carrying at the small of the back is favored by some for comfort and concealment, especially when seated for long periods. However, this position can be less accessible and potentially dangerous in a fall.

A vertical or slight forward cant is typically preferred to reduce printing and maintain a smooth draw.

Cross-Draw Carry (9 to 10 o’clock)

In cross-draw carry, the holster is placed on the opposite side of the dominant hand, angled for the hand to cross the body during the draw. This position is often used by drivers or individuals who sit for extended periods.

A more vertical cant works well here to accommodate the unique draw angle.

Behind-the-Hip Carry (4 to 5 o’clock)

This position places the firearm just behind the hip bone, offering a balance between concealment and accessibility. It can be comfortable for some body types but may interfere with sitting or bending.

A moderate forward cant usually improves draw speed and comfort in this location.

How Holster Cant and Carry Position Affect Draw and Concealment

The interplay between cant and carry position directly impacts how quickly and smoothly a firearm can be drawn. For example, a strong forward cant in appendix carry aligns the grip with the natural movement of the hand, reducing the time needed to establish a firm grasp.

Conversely, an improper cant angle or carry position can cause awkward draws, increased printing, and discomfort during daily activities. Comfort is essential, as an uncomfortable carry position may discourage consistent firearm carrying.

Adjusting Holster Cant for Personal Preference

Many modern holsters offer adjustable cant settings, allowing carriers to experiment with angles to find the best fit for their body and lifestyle. When adjusting cant, consider the following:

How natural the draw feels with each cant angle.
How well the firearm conceals under your typical clothing.
Whether the holster stays securely in place during movement.
Ease of reholstering safely.

Trial and error often lead to the optimal combination of cant and carry position. It is advisable to practice drawing from various setups in a safe environment to evaluate which configuration feels best.

Using Our Price Comparison Tools to Find the Right Holster

Choosing the right holster can be a significant investment, especially when considering features like adjustable cant and multiple carry positions. Our price comparison tools allow you to browse a variety of holster models from multiple dealers, helping you find the best deal without sacrificing quality.

By comparing prices across trusted retailers, you can make informed decisions and ensure you get the holster that fits your needs at a competitive price. Additionally, some holsters come with user reviews and detailed product descriptions, making it easier to identify those with customizable cant settings and versatile carry options.

Benefits of Comparing Prices Across Dealers

Firearm accessories, including holsters, can vary widely in price depending on the brand, features, and retailer. By leveraging our comparison platform, you can:

Save money by finding discounted prices or special offers.
Access a broader selection of products than a single retailer might offer.
Read multiple customer reviews to gauge product performance and comfort.
Ensure product availability and shipping options that suit your timeline.

Ultimately, this approach empowers you to invest confidently in holsters that enhance your carry experience through better fit, comfort, and function.

Final Thoughts on Holster Cant and Carry Positions

Understanding the relationship between holster cant and carry position is essential for anyone who carries a firearm regularly. The right combination can improve concealment, increase comfort, and enable faster, safer draws. Experimenting with different cant angles and positions, combined with consistent practice, will help you develop a carry system tailored to your specific needs.

Utilizing resources like our price comparison tools can also streamline the search for the perfect holster, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: safe and effective firearm carry.