In the arena of concealed carry, the right belt can make all the difference – a truth not lost on seasoned shooters. As we venture into 2024, the top contenders for the title of best gun belts have emerged, each with its own distinct advantages. From the Aker Leather’s premium cowhide to the Hanks Gunner’s heavy-duty construction, these belts promise to elevate your carrying experience. But what sets them apart, and which one will reign supreme? Explore into the details, and you may just uncover the perfect companion for your concealed carry needs.
The Aker Leather Women’s Plain belt is a top choice for women seeking a high-quality concealed carry gun belt. Made from premium US cowhide, it features a polymer insert for extra stability and flexibility, preventing weapon sagging or rollover. The belt’s leather lining, feathered edges, and custom metal buckle and keeper make it suitable for both concealed carry and everyday wear. Tested and used by law enforcement and federal agencies worldwide, it’s available in black with chrome hardware or tan with brass hardware. At 1.5 inches wide, the belt is durable and comfortable, earning a 4.6-star rating from over 300 customers. Whether you’re hitting the range or carrying concealed, the Aker Leather Women’s Plain belt delivers reliable performance and a polished look.
Best For: Women seeking a high-quality concealed carry gun belt that provides stability, flexibility, and a polished look for everyday wear.
Pros:
Made from premium US cowhide for durability
Polymer insert prevents weapon sagging or rollover
Suitable for both concealed carry and everyday use
Cons:
Some customers reported minor issues with the buckle and stretching
Limited color options (black or tan)
May not be suitable for individuals with very slim waists
Hanks Gunner USA Made Concealed Carry Leather Gun Belt
For concealed carry enthusiasts, the Hanks Gunner USA Made Concealed Carry Leather Gun Belt is a standout choice. Crafted from heavy-duty, full-grain leather with a 14oz thickness, this belt provides the durability and support needed for everyday wear and tear. Its 1.5″ width guarantees a secure hold on your holster, preventing any sagging or movement, even with heavier firearms. The removable roller buckle and Chicago screws allow for a customizable fit, while the lifetime warranty gives you peace of mind. Users praise its comfort, exceptional construction, and ability to work with both IWB and OWB holsters. If you’re seeking a reliable, high-quality gun belt, the Hanks Gunner is worth the investment.
Best For: Concealed carry enthusiasts seeking a durable, reliable, and high-quality leather gun belt.
Pros:
Heavy-duty, full-grain leather construction
Secure hold on holsters, preventing sagging or movement
Lifetime warranty and excellent customer service
Cons:
Sizing chart may not be entirely accurate
Scuffs and scratches may occur with daily wear and tear
More expensive than some other gun belts on the market
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable gun belt, the BLACKHAWK CQB/Riggers Belt – Olive Drab, Medium is an excellent choice. Boasting parachute-grade buckles and adapters, this 1.75″ webbing belt has a 7,000 lb tensile strength, ensuring it can handle heavy use and abuse. The hook and loop secures the running end, providing a secure fit. Available in four colors, the belt’s solid construction and exceptional stitching make it a reliable choice for outdoor activities like hunting, rock climbing, and sailing. While the buckle may be occasionally uncomfortable, the belt’s overall quality and performance make it a worthwhile trade-off. Just be aware that the Velcro may wear out over time, causing the belt to loosen.
Best For: The BLACKHAWK CQB/Riggers Belt – Olive Drab, Medium is best for individuals seeking a versatile and durable gun belt for outdoor activities such as hunting, rock climbing, and sailing.
Pros:
Parachute-grade buckles and adapters
Durable 1.75″ webbing with 7,000 lb tensile strength
Solid construction and exceptional stitching
Cons:
Buckle can be occasionally uncomfortable
Velcro may wear out over time, causing the belt to loosen
Medium size may be slightly short for a 36-inch waist
Relentless Tactical’s The Ultimate Gun Belt is often the top choice for those seeking a durable, high-performance concealed carry belt. This belt has proven its mettle, with over 3 years and 8 months of daily wear without any signs of cracking, loose stitching, or color fading. The premium leather and hardware guarantee exceptional quality and longevity. This belt effortlessly supports the weight of your EDC, including a fully loaded Glock 21 and an extra magazine, without any sagging or bouncing. Its sleek, basket-weave design complements both casual and formal attire, blending functionality and style seamlessly. The sizing guide is accurate, and Relentless Tactical even offers a 50-inch size option. Backed by a lifetime warranty, this belt is a reliable choice for concealed carry and range use.
Best For: Concealed carry, everyday use, and those seeking a durable, high-performance gun belt.
Pros:
Exceptional quality and durability with over 3 years of daily wear
Effectively supports the weight of EDC, including a fully loaded Glock 21 and extra magazine
Sleek, stylish design that complements both casual and formal attire
Cons:
Sizing may require adding an extra hole for larger waists
Limited color options available
Slightly more expensive than some other gun belt options
The Blade-Tech Competition Speed Belt is a standout choice for competition shooters seeking a dependable and secure platform to mount their essential gear. Its two-piece design allows for easy on and off operation, while the rigid construction holds all your Blade-Tech shooting gear firmly in place. Whether you’re competing in USPSA or 3Gun matches, this belt will keep your gear locked down without any unwanted movement.
Sizing is a breeze – just measure your waist and order the next size up. The extra 2-inch allowance guarantees a comfortable fit over your inner belt, pouches, and holster. The inner belt’s fuzzy texture provides a secure attachment point for the outer belt, while the Velcro exterior lets you easily configure your gear layout.
Crafted with high-quality materials and a stiff, strong design, the Blade-Tech Competition Speed Belt delivers consistent on and off functionality and a firm hold on your firearms setup. It’s a fantastic value and an excellent choice for new competition shooters or those seeking a reliable belt system.
Best For: The Blade-Tech Competition Speed Belt is best for competition shooters looking for a dependable and secure platform to mount their essential gear.
Pros:
Rigid design holds all Blade-Tech shooting gear securely
Easy on and off operation with the two-piece design
Suitable for USPSA and 3Gun matches
Cons:
Sizing may require some trial and error to get the perfect fit
Not suitable for everyday casual wear due to its competition-focused design
May be overkill for those not heavily involved in competitive shooting
When choosing the best gun belt, you’ll want to ponder the material quality and durability, how it meets your concealed carry requirements, its stiffness and stability, the sizing and adjustability, and the overall appearance and style. A high-quality, durable belt is vital for securely carrying a firearm, while features like adjustability guarantee a comfortable and personalized fit. Additionally, the belt’s appearance should complement your style and carry setup.
Material Quality and Durability
One of the most crucial factors to ponder when selecting a gun belt is the quality and durability of the materials used. A high-quality gun belt should be crafted from premium materials like full-grain leather, which can withstand heavy use and last for years. The thickness of the leather matters too, with a minimum of 0.22 inches recommended for a durable and reliable belt.
Vegetable-tanned leather is a popular choice for gun belts due to its impressive strength, durability, and resistance to water and scratches. For added stability and flexibility, consider a gun belt with a polymer insert to prevent weapon sagging or rollover. Don’t overlook the hardware either – the quality of buckles and screws can substantially impact the overall durability and performance of the belt. By prioritizing material quality and durability, you’ll guarantee your gun belt provides the reliable support and longevity you need, whether on the range or for concealed carry.
Concealed Carry Requirements
For concealed carry, you’ll want a gun belt that meets specific requirements. A good concealed carry gun belt should have a polymer insert or other stabilizing material to prevent weapon sagging or rollover, ensuring a secure and comfortable carry. The belt’s width, typically 1.5 inches, should be suitable for the type of holster and firearm being carried, with a thickness that provides adequate retention without being too bulky. The material and construction of the belt should be durable and able to withstand daily wear and tear, with a high-quality leather or nylon that can support the weight of the firearm and holster. Additionally, the belt should have a secure and adjustable closure system, such as a metal buckle or Velcro, that allows for a customized fit and easy on and off operation. Finally, the belt’s design and features should prioritize concealability, with a low-profile design and minimal bulk that won’t print or reveal the presence of the firearm.
Stiffness and Stability
The stiffness and stability of a gun belt are paramount when carrying a concealed firearm. You need a belt that won’t sag or shift, as this can compromise the concealment and accessibility of your weapon. A stiff belt provides a stable platform to support the weight of your gun, holster, and any other gear you may be carrying.
Look for belts made from durable materials like full-grain leather or nylon webbing. They should have a reinforced core or lining to maintain their shape and rigidity. The buckle should be sturdy and secure, preventing the belt from loosening over time. Avoid belts that are too flexible or flimsy, as they’ll allow your firearm to move around uncomfortably.
Stability is also vital for consistent, accurate draw strokes. A well-designed gun belt will keep your holster in the same position, allowing you to develop muscle memory and draw your weapon smoothly. This is especially important for high-stress situations when you need to react quickly and confidently.
Sizing and Adjustability
When choosing a gun belt, it’s vital to order a size that is 2-4 inches above your waist size to guarantee a comfortable and secure fit. Refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart and consider factors like waist size, pant size, and desired fit when selecting a belt size. Adjustable belts with multiple holes or Velcro straps can provide a more customizable fit and accommodate changes in waist size over time.
Measuring your waist size accurately is vital, as using pant size as a reference can lead to an incorrect fit. Consider the type of carry you plan to use the belt for, such as IWB or OWB, as this can impact the sizing and adjustability requirements. With the right fit, your gun belt will provide the stability and support needed for comfortable and reliable carry, whether at the range or during everyday concealed carry.
Appearance and Style
While the fit and adjustability of a gun belt are crucial, its appearance and style can also impact its functionality and your overall carry experience. The sleek design of your belt may blend aesthetics with practicality, making it discreet yet stylish. Consider the color and material – options like black, tan, or olive drab can help the belt seamlessly integrate with your environment and wardrobe. The width and thickness of the belt also matter, as they influence comfort and durability. Opting for a 1.5 to 1.75-inch width and a 7 to 14-ounce thickness can provide the perfect balance. Additionally, the type of leather used, whether full-grain or not, can elevate the belt’s look and feel. Embroidery, stitching, and other design elements may enhance the visual appeal, though they may also increase cost and visibility. Carefully consider how the appearance and style of your gun belt can complement your needs and preferences for a complete, functional, and confident carry experience.
Price and Value
Price can be a significant factor when choosing a gun belt. The price range varies greatly, from under $20 to over $100, depending on the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and features. While a higher-priced belt may offer better durability, comfort, and performance, it doesn’t necessarily mean it provides better value for your money.
The true value of a gun belt lies in its ability to securely and comfortably carry your firearm. A well-made, good-quality belt that meets your specific needs and preferences can be a worthwhile investment, even if it costs a bit more. Consider the balance of quality, performance, and price that fits your requirements and budget. Ultimately, the best value is the belt that provides the right combination of features and reliability to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear a Gun Belt With Sweatpants?
You can wear a gun belt with sweatpants, but it may not be the most practical or comfortable option. The bulkiness of the belt could create an unflattering silhouette or feel awkward when paired with loose, casual pants.
How Do I Maintain a Leather Gun Belt?
Preserve your prized pistol belt’s pristine polish. Persistently pamper that leather with proper preening. Periodically polish, protect, and preserve its plush patina. Prevent premature peeling with purposeful proactive prudence. Prolong your precious pistol belt’s prowess with prudent preening practices.
What Is the Best Gun Belt for Women?
When choosing a gun belt for women, look for one that’s sturdy, adjustable, and designed specifically for your body shape. Comfort and concealment are key, so try on different options to find the best fit.
Can I Use a Regular Belt as a Gun Belt?
Your trusty everyday belt may not be up for the tough job of supporting your firearm. Utilize a dedicated gun belt – it’s the sturdy foundation your concealed carry needs to stay secure and comfortable.
How Do I Adjust the Size of a Gun Belt?
You can adjust the size of a gun belt by using the pre-punched holes or adding new holes. Measure your waist and select the appropriate belt size, then use a belt punch to create additional holes as needed for a custom fit.
Conclusion
When it comes to concealed carry and range use, the right gun belt can make all the difference. From premium materials to innovative features, the options on the market in 2024 promise unparalleled performance. But which one will reign supreme? The answer may surprise you – and leave you enthusiastic to discover the ultimate choice for your needs.
