Hey guys! So, you've got yourself a Shadow Systems DR920 – awesome choice! Now, you're probably on the hunt for the perfect holster to keep that beauty safe, secure, and ready for action. Finding the right holster can feel like navigating a minefield, but don't worry, I'm here to break it down for you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best holster for your Shadow Systems DR920. We'll cover different types of holsters, key features to consider, and some of the top holster brands out there. Let's get started!

Understanding Your Needs: What to Consider Before Buying

Before diving into specific holster models, let's talk about what you need. The best holster is the one that fits your lifestyle, your carry style, and your specific requirements. Think about how you plan to use your DR920. Are you carrying concealed (CCW)? Are you a competitive shooter? Or maybe you need a duty holster for law enforcement or military use? Each scenario demands a different approach. The primary factors you need to think about are:

• Carry Style: Concealed Carry (IWB or AIWB): Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters and Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) holsters are popular for concealed carry. IWB holsters sit inside your pants, providing excellent concealment. AIWB holsters place the gun in front of your hip, often offering faster access but requiring extra caution. Open Carry: Open carry holsters are designed for situations where concealment isn't a priority, such as range days or outdoor activities. Duty Carry: Duty holsters prioritize security and retention, often featuring level II or level III retention systems. These holsters are common for law enforcement and military personnel. Competition: Competition holsters emphasize speed and ease of access. They often feature minimal material and adjustable cant.
• Material: Kydex: Kydex is a rigid thermoplastic known for its durability, water resistance, and excellent molding capabilities. Kydex holsters offer precise fit and good retention. Leather: Leather holsters provide a classic look and feel. They can be very comfortable but may require more break-in time and can be affected by moisture. Nylon: Nylon holsters are generally more affordable and lightweight, offering flexibility. However, they may not provide the same level of retention or durability as Kydex.
• Retention: Passive Retention: Passive retention relies on friction to hold the gun in place. Kydex holsters often use passive retention. Active Retention: Active retention uses a mechanism like a button or lever to secure the gun, offering an added layer of security. This is common in duty holsters.
• Comfort: Comfort is critical, especially if you plan to carry your DR920 for extended periods. Consider the holster's design, the materials used, and whether it has features like a sweat guard to protect your skin from the gun.

Take some time to assess your needs before you start shopping. This will make the selection process a lot easier and increase the chances of you finding the perfect holster.

Types of Holsters for Your Shadow Systems DR920

Now, let's explore the different types of holsters available for your Shadow Systems DR920. Each type has its pros and cons, so choosing the right one depends on your individual needs and preferences.

IWB Holsters

Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are the workhorses of the concealed carry world. They're designed to be worn inside your waistband, typically with a belt. IWB holsters offer excellent concealment, making them ideal for everyday carry. Here are some of the key features and considerations:

• Concealment: IWB holsters are the king of concealment, especially when paired with a good gun belt and the right clothing. They hug the body, minimizing printing (the outline of the gun showing through your clothes).
• Comfort: Comfort can vary depending on the holster's design and materials. Look for features like a comfortable backing (leather or a soft material) and a design that doesn't dig into your side. AIWB holsters specifically place the gun in front of your hip, which can offer faster access but can be less comfortable for some.
• Material: Kydex is a popular choice for IWB holsters due to its durability, precise fit, and water resistance. Leather provides a classic feel, while nylon offers affordability and flexibility.
• Retention: Most IWB holsters use passive retention, but some offer adjustable retention screws to fine-tune the fit.
• Examples: Brands like Vedder Holsters, T.Rex Arms, and Tier 1 Concealed offer excellent IWB holsters for the DR920.

AIWB Holsters

Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) holsters are a specialized type of IWB holster. They position the gun in front of your hip, often at the appendix position (around the 1 o'clock position for right-handed shooters). AIWB carry is favored by some for its speed and accessibility, but it requires extra care and consideration.

• Speed and Accessibility: AIWB holsters allow for quick access to the gun, making them suitable for self-defense situations.
• Concealment: AIWB holsters can be surprisingly concealable, especially when paired with the right clothing and a good holster design.
• Comfort: AIWB carry can be less comfortable for some, especially if they are not used to it. The gun's position can dig into the body when sitting or bending. A good AIWB holster will have features to help with comfort, such as a wedge or claw to push the grip of the gun against the body.
• Safety: AIWB carry requires a high degree of safety awareness. Always be careful when re-holstering and make sure your finger is off the trigger.
• Examples: Companies like Tenicor and Phlster are known for their high-quality AIWB holsters.

OWB Holsters

Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters are worn on the outside of your pants, usually on your belt. They're a great option for range days, open carry, or situations where concealment isn't a priority. Here's what you should know:

• Accessibility: OWB holsters offer quick and easy access to your gun, making them ideal for training or competition.
• Comfort: OWB holsters can be more comfortable than IWB holsters, especially during extended wear. They don't dig into your body.
• Concealment: OWB holsters are not designed for concealment, so they are not ideal for everyday carry in situations where you want to keep your firearm hidden.
• Retention: OWB holsters often have excellent retention, both passive and active. Active retention features are common in duty holsters.
• Examples: Safariland, Blackhawk, and DeSantis Gunhide offer a wide range of OWB holsters for the DR920.

Duty Holsters

Duty holsters are designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone who needs a holster with a high level of security and retention. These holsters prioritize safety and prevent unauthorized access to the firearm.

• Security: Duty holsters feature level II or level III retention systems. These systems involve multiple locking mechanisms to prevent the gun from being removed without deliberate action.
• Durability: Duty holsters are built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
• Accessibility: While security is paramount, duty holsters are designed to allow for quick and efficient access to the gun when needed.
• Examples: Safariland is a leading brand in duty holsters.

Competition Holsters

Competition holsters are designed for competitive shooting sports. They prioritize speed and ease of access, often with minimal material and adjustable cant.

• Speed: Competition holsters are designed for rapid draws and re-holstering.
• Adjustability: Many competition holsters allow you to adjust the cant (angle) of the gun, allowing for a customized draw stroke.
• Retention: While speed is important, competition holsters still provide adequate retention to prevent the gun from falling out.
• Examples: Blade-Tech and Ghost International are popular choices for competition holsters.

Top Holster Brands for the Shadow Systems DR920

Let's take a look at some of the top brands offering holsters for your Shadow Systems DR920. These companies have earned a reputation for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

• T.Rex Arms: Known for its innovative designs and high-quality Kydex holsters, T.Rex Arms offers a variety of IWB and AIWB holsters for the DR920. They are a popular choice for concealed carry.
• Vedder Holsters: Vedder Holsters is another great brand for IWB holsters. They offer a range of customizable options, ensuring a perfect fit for your DR920. They are also known for their comfortable designs.
• Tier 1 Concealed: Tier 1 Concealed specializes in AIWB holsters, but they also offer a range of IWB and OWB holsters. Their holsters are known for their high quality and innovative features.
• Safariland: Safariland is a leading brand for duty holsters. They offer a wide range of holster models with level II and level III retention, making them a top choice for law enforcement and military personnel.
• Blackhawk: Blackhawk offers a variety of holsters, including OWB and duty holsters. They are known for their durability and affordability.
• Tenicor: Tenicor is a go-to brand for AIWB holsters. Their holsters are designed with comfort, concealment, and safety in mind. They are a favorite among experienced concealed carriers.
• Phlster: Phlster focuses on AIWB holsters with a strong emphasis on minimalist designs and excellent concealment. They cater to experienced shooters and those prioritizing discretion.
• Blade-Tech: Blade-Tech is a popular choice for competition holsters. They offer a range of adjustable and customizable holsters for competitive shooting.
• DeSantis Gunhide: DeSantis Gunhide offers a variety of holsters, including IWB, OWB, and pocket holsters. They are known for their high-quality leather and Kydex holsters.

Key Features to Look For

Beyond the type of holster and the brand, here are some key features to consider when choosing a holster for your DR920:

• Material Quality: Look for holsters made from durable materials like Kydex, high-quality leather, or reinforced nylon. The material should be able to withstand daily wear and tear.
• Fit and Finish: The holster should fit your DR920 perfectly, with no gaps or excessive play. A precise fit ensures proper retention and prevents the gun from moving around.
• Retention Adjustment: Adjustable retention allows you to fine-tune the holster's grip on your gun. This can be especially important for IWB and AIWB holsters.
• Ride Height and Cant: The ride height refers to how high or low the gun sits in the holster. The cant is the angle at which the gun is positioned. These factors affect your draw and concealment. Choose a holster with adjustable ride height and cant to customize it to your preferences.
• Sweat Guard: A sweat guard is a piece of material that extends above the slide of the gun, protecting your skin from direct contact with the metal and providing an extra layer of protection against sweat. This feature can increase comfort.
• Belt Compatibility: Make sure the holster is compatible with your belt. The belt loop or clip should be the right size and design to securely attach to your belt.
• Comfort Features: Look for features like rounded edges, a comfortable backing (for IWB holsters), and a design that doesn't dig into your side.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Holster

Choosing the right holster for your Shadow Systems DR920 is a personal decision. Consider your specific needs, carry style, and preferences. Evaluate the different types of holsters, research top brands, and look for key features that enhance comfort, retention, and concealment. Don't be afraid to try out different holsters and experiment to find the perfect fit. Remember that the best holster is one that you'll actually wear consistently, so prioritize comfort and practicality. With a little research and careful consideration, you'll be able to find a holster that perfectly suits your needs and keeps your DR920 secure and accessible. Stay safe out there, guys!