Concealed carry fans have fallen in love with the Glock 43X for good reason. This small 9mm handgun packs impressive firepower in a slim, easy-to-hide package. Many people choose it for daily carry because it strikes the perfect balance between size and shootability.

Your holster choice matters as much as your gun selection. The right holster keeps your gun secure and accessible when you need it most. It also stays comfortable through long days of wear. Without a proper holster, even the best pistol becomes a hassle you'll start leaving at home.

In this guide, we'll explore the best Glock 43X holsters on the market today. 

What to Look for in a Glock 43X Holster

Comfort

Comfort ranks at the top of holster priorities for a simple reason. If your holster feels uncomfortable, you won't wear it. The most secure, tactical holster serves no purpose sitting in your drawer at home.

Before discussing specific types, it's important to understand some common holster terminologies. "OWB" stands for Outside the Waistband, where the holster sits on the outside of the pants, typically at the hip. "AIWB" refers to Appendix Inside the Waistband, which positions the holster in front of the body, near the appendix area.

Different body types require different holster solutions. Larger individuals might find OWB holsters work better, while smaller-framed people often prefer the slim profile of AIWB options. Try several positions before settling on one. Many gun shops let you test holsters before buying, and online retailers often have generous return policies.

Pay attention to potential pressure points where the holster contacts your body. A good holster distributes weight evenly and doesn't dig into your flesh. Remember that minor discomfort during initial fitting will likely worsen during all-day wear.

Retention

Retention refers to how securely a holster holds your firearm. Two main types exist: active and passive.

Active retention uses mechanical devices like thumb breaks, buttons, or levers that you must disengage before drawing. Police officers and those concerned about weapon retention in physical confrontations often prefer these systems.

Passive retention relies on friction between the holster and firearm. Many Kydex holsters use adjustable tension screws to fine-tune this grip. Good passive retention keeps your gun secure during normal movement but allows for a smooth draw when needed.

The best holsters balance security with accessibility. Your Glock 43X should stay put during physical activity but come out smoothly when you need it.

Concealment

Concealment capabilities vary widely between holster styles. The Glock 43X's slim profile makes it easier to hide than full-size pistols, but the holster design still matters significantly.

Look for holsters with features that pull the gun close to your body. Many modern designs include "claw" attachments that press against your belt, rotating the grip inward. This reduces printing—the visible outline of your gun through clothing.

Your typical clothing style should influence your holster choice. Loose, untucked shirts accommodate more holster styles than fitted clothing. Consider seasonal changes too—winter layers allow more options than summer t-shirts.

Material and Build Quality

Holster materials affect comfort, durability, and function. Three main options dominate the market.

Kydex, a thermoplastic, offers durability and consistent performance. These holsters maintain their shape, making one-handed reholstering easy. They resist moisture and last for years with minimal maintenance.

Leather provides classic good looks and molds to your body over time. Many find leather more comfortable against the skin, but it requires more care and can lose shape in extreme conditions.

Hybrid holsters combine both materials—typically a Kydex shell attached to a leather or neoprene backing. This approach aims to offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of leather with the rigidity and retention of Kydex.

Quality construction matters regardless of material. Check for smooth edges, solid attachment points, and robust stitching or hardware.

Ease of Draw

Your holster should allow a smooth, consistent draw without snagging. Practice drawing from your holster (with an unloaded firearm) to identify any issues.

The holster mouth should stay open after drawing, allowing one-handed reholstering. Collapsed holsters force you to use your support hand to open them, which creates safety risks.

A proper holster design lets you establish a full firing grip before the gun leaves the holster. This eliminates the need to adjust your grip during the draw, saving precious time in emergency situations.

Types of Glock 43X Holsters

IWB (Inside the Waistband) Holsters

IWB holsters tuck between your pants and body, attached to your belt with clips or loops. This style offers excellent concealment with minimal bulk.

Most people position IWB holsters at the 3-5 o'clock position (right-handed) or 7-9 o'clock (left-handed). The gun rides inside your pants with only the grip exposed above your belt line.

IWB holsters work best with pants sized 1-2 inches larger than normal to accommodate the extra bulk. They provide good concealment under light clothing but may feel less comfortable than outside-the-waistband options.

OWB (Outside the Waistband) Holsters

OWB holsters attach to your belt and ride on the outside of your pants. This style offers faster access and greater comfort than IWB options.

The tradeoff comes in concealment. OWB holsters require longer shirts or jackets to hide effectively. Many OWB designs ride close to the body to minimize printing.

Range sessions and outdoor activities make OWB shine. The added comfort makes long periods of carry more pleasant, and the faster draw benefits competitive shooters.

AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband) Holsters

AIWB holsters position your firearm at the front of your body, roughly where your appendix sits. This location offers several advantages over traditional IWB carry.

First, the gun remains visible in your peripheral vision, making retention easier in crowded environments. Second, drawing from the appendix position typically proves faster than from the hip. Finally, concealment often works better since the front of the waistband usually has fewer curves than the hip area.

Safety concerns make some shooters hesitant about AIWB. The muzzle points toward sensitive areas, leaving less room for error. Those who choose AIWB must commit to proper training and equipment.

Shoulder Holsters

Shoulder holsters suspend your Glock 43X in a horizontal or vertical position under your non-dominant arm. A harness distributes weight across both shoulders.

People who drive frequently or work seated often appreciate shoulder holsters. They provide easy access while sitting and avoid the discomfort of a gun pressing into your hip or back.

Effective concealment requires wearing a jacket or overshirt. This limits shoulder holsters' practicality in warmer climates or casual settings.

Ankle Holsters

Ankle holsters strap your Glock 43X to your lower leg, typically just above the ankle. This position offers deep concealment but slower access.

Most people use ankle holsters for backup guns rather than primary carry. Drawing requires bending down or lifting your leg, making it impractical for quick-reaction scenarios.

Comfort varies greatly depending on the holster quality and your daily activities. Those who walk a lot may find ankle carry uncomfortable for extended periods.

Women-Specific Holsters

Women's clothing often presents unique concealed carry challenges. Dresses, skirts, and fitted tops can make traditional holsters impractical.

Thigh holsters offer an option for skirt or dress wear. They secure the firearm to the upper thigh with garters or compression bands.

Another remarkable solution is the PHLster Enigma. The PHLster Enigma stands out as an excellent carrying option for many gun owners. This sturdy beltless system lets you carry a firearm without needing pants with belt loops. It works perfectly with any outfit, even those lacking traditional waistbands. The combat-tested design holds your firearm securely with firm retention and fast draw ability. Its thin profile stays hidden under clothes without creating noticeable bulges. You can adjust the Enigma completely to fit your body, making it work great under yoga pants and leggings.

Belly bands provide another alternative, wrapping around the torso to hold the gun regardless of waistband type. Many women also use purse holsters, though off-body carry comes with additional responsibility for constant bag control.

Review of Top Glock 43X Holsters

Tenicor Certum3 – Best Overall

The Tenicor Certum3 stands out as our top pick for Glock 43X carry. This holster delivers performance where it matters most: security, comfort, and adaptability. The design works for both traditional IWB and appendix positions, making it useful across different clothing styles and activities.

You can adjust both ride height and cant angle to match your body type and draw preference. This customization helps distribute the gun's weight properly and prevents the muzzle from digging into your thigh when sitting.

Tenicor built the Certum3 with a purpose—to be the only holster you need. The clean, minimal design focuses on function without unnecessary bulk or gimmicks.

The metal clips on the Certum3 provide exceptional stability during daily wear. They grab your belt firmly and won't flex or break under stress. Many competing holsters use plastic clips that wear out after months of use. The difference becomes obvious during physical activity when lesser clips allow unwanted movement. These robust metal attachments keep your Glock 43X precisely positioned for a consistent draw.

Red dot compatibility comes standard with the Certum3, reflecting modern carry trends. The open-top design accommodates most popular optics without requiring special orders or modifications. The holster's sweat guard features a medium height that blocks moisture without hindering your grip. Draw testing showed a smooth presentation with no hang-ups or snagging points. These thoughtful details make the Certum3 practical for everyday carry in all conditions.

Specs

• Style: IWB/AIWB
• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clip: Metal (2)
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Dual belt clips spread weight evenly and prevent shifting
• Adjustable ride height and 30-degree cant rotation for personalized fit
• Accommodates red dot sights without modification

Cons

• More expensive than basic holsters
• Limited color options

Rounded Gear IWB Kydex Holster – Best Budget

The Rounded Gear IWB Kydex Holster delivers solid performance without emptying your wallet. This straightforward design focuses on the essentials: proper retention, trigger protection, and comfortable carry.

Despite its budget-friendly price, the holster offers excellent construction quality. The Kydex shell maintains its shape for consistent draws and secure holding. Edges come smooth and polished to prevent clothing wear.

First-time concealed carriers will appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of this holster. It lacks fancy features but performs its core function reliably at half the price of premium options.

This holster shines in its adjustable retention system that lets you dial in the perfect fit. A simple twist of the retention screws changes how tightly it grips your Glock 43X. The polymer clip attaches firmly to belts up to 1.5 inches wide. Many budget holsters cut corners on coverage, but not this one. It fully protects the trigger area and maintains a positive grip on your firearm during activity. 

The minimalist design adds almost no bulk to the already slim profile of the Glock 43X. For new carriers or those needing a trusty backup, this holster delivers remarkable value without compromising on the basics.

Specs

• Style: IWB
• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clip: Fiber-reinforced synthetic
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Affordable without sacrificing essential quality
• Strong, durable construction
• Simple design with minimal bulk

Cons

• Basic clip system lacks adjustment options
• No extra features like sweat guards or magazine carriers

Hidden Hybrid Holsters – Best Hybrid

Hidden Hybrid Holsters combine old-world craftsmanship with modern materials. These holsters pair hand-finished Amish leather backing with precision-molded Kydex shells for a "best of both worlds" approach.

The leather backing creates a comfortable buffer between your body and the gun. This leather breaks in over time, conforming to your shape for truly personalized comfort. Meanwhile, the rigid Kydex shell maintains proper retention and allows smooth drawing.

These holsters work particularly well for all-day carry. The comfort of leather against your skin reduces the fatigue that sometimes comes with harder holsters during extended wear.

Hidden Hybrid also offers matching magazine carriers to complete your carry setup. These carriers use the same hybrid construction for consistent comfort throughout your belt line. Many shooters add a single magazine carrier opposite their holster to balance weight distribution around their waist. 

The company stands behind their products with solid customer service and replacement options if needed. You can choose from various clip styles to match your belt size and preferred mounting method. This attention to detail makes the Hidden Hybrid system adaptable to almost any body type or clothing situation.

Specs

• Style: IWB
• Material: Kydex and Leather
• Belt Clip: Varies
• Optic-Compatible: Varies
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Leather backing feels great against the skin
• Kydex shell provides secure gun retention
• Available with various attachment options

Cons

• Bulkier than pure Kydex designs
• Leather requires occasional maintenance

Galco Classic Lite Shoulder Holster – Best Shoulder Holster

The Galco Classic Lite brings old-school cool to modern concealed carry. This shoulder holster system combines premium steerhide construction with thoughtful design to create a functional and distinctive carry option.

Balance matters in shoulder holsters, and Galco gets it right. The opposite-side magazine carrier counterweights the gun, preventing uncomfortable sagging. Wide straps distribute weight across your shoulders rather than creating pressure points.

Drivers, desk workers, and those who sit frequently appreciate the accessibility of shoulder carry. Your firearm stays readily available without digging into your waist or back during extended periods of sitting.

The Galco design accommodates both right and left-handed shooters with multiple sizing options. Drawing from this holster feels smooth and natural after a short practice period. The horizontal carry position places your Glock 43X at an ideal angle for a quick grab. Leather breaks in beautifully over time, creating a custom-fitted feel specific to your firearm. 

Many fans of this style appreciate the gun's accessibility in situations where reaching toward your waistline might draw unwanted attention. The Classic Lite weighs significantly less than traditional all-leather models but maintains the same iconic look law enforcement professionals have trusted for decades.

Specs

• Style: Shoulder
• Material: Leather
• Belt Clip: N/A
• Optic-Compatible: No
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Comfortable for all-day wear with proper adjustment
• Excellent for seated activities like driving
• Classic aesthetics with premium leather construction

Cons

• Requires a jacket or overshirt for concealment
• Higher price point
• Not compatible with optics

Blackhawk T-Series L2C – Best OWB

The Blackhawk T-Series L2C brings tactical reliability to everyday carry. This outside-the-waistband holster incorporates a streamlined active retention system that keeps your Glock 43X secure without slowing your draw.

The thumb-activated retention release sits naturally where your thumb falls during the draw stroke. This placement allows for intuitive operation under stress without compromising security. The audible "click" on reholstering confirms proper engagement.

Blackhawk constructed this holster to withstand daily use and abuse. The rigid design maintains its shape for thousands of draws and holds your pistol securely during physical activity.

The T-Series L2C really shines for outdoor activities and range days. This holster gives you multiple belt attachment options for different needs. You can use the included Tek-Lok clip for a rock-solid connection to thicker belts. Standard belt loops work great for everyday wear with normal belts.

Hikers and hunters love this holster because it stays put during movement on rough terrain. The open-top design also fits Glock 43X pistols with mounted red dots. This flexibility makes the Blackhawk a practical choice for those who switch between different setups without buying multiple holsters.

Specs

• Style: OWB
• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clip: Kydex
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Active retention system prevents unauthorized access
• Rigid construction for consistent drawing
• Multiple belt attachment options included

Cons

• Bulkier than concealment-focused holsters
• Requires proper belt to support weight

Safariland Species – Best Duty and Protection

The Safariland Species offers superior protection for both you and your Glock 43X. This holster combines SafariLaminate construction with comfort-enhancing features not found in typical hard-shell designs.

A suede lining protects your pistol's finish from scratches and wear. The Cordura wrap on the exterior cushions impact and resists snagging on clothing. These thoughtful touches extend the life of both your firearm and the holster itself.

The high sweat guard deserves special mention. It prevents your body's moisture from contacting the gun while also protecting your skin from the pistol's edges. This feature proves especially valuable during hot weather or physical activity.

The adjustability of the Safariland Species adds another layer of customization to this protective holster. You can modify the cant angle to match your preferred draw motion. This personalization matters for both comfort and speed. 

The holster fits the Glock 43X perfectly without excess material or gaps that might catch on clothing. Many competing designs force you to choose between protection and convenience, but the Species delivers both. Its rigid body maintains shape after thousands of draws while still weighing less than many comparable options. The holster also accommodates taller sights without modification, a thoughtful detail for those who upgrade their stock sights.

Specs

• Style: IWB
• Material: SafariLaminate
• Belt Clip: Polymer
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Suede interior protects gun finish
• Cordura exterior stands up to daily wear
• Excellent value for the price

Cons

• Belt clip could provide tighter attachment
• Limited color options

CrossBreed Holsters Rogue – Best Sidecar

The CrossBreed Rogue system transforms from standard holster to complete carry package with its modular design. The base holster works well on its own, but adding the magazine carrier creates a balanced, all-in-one solution.

Flexibility sets the Rogue apart from other sidecar rigs. The two pieces connect with hardware that allows natural body movement without the stiffness of one-piece designs. This flexible connection improves comfort during activities like driving or sitting.

The dual-clip design distributes weight evenly along your belt line. This prevents the common problem of holster tilt that can occur with heavier setups carried on a single clip.

The Rogue system works especially well with the Glock 43X MOS model. Its full-length sweat guard keeps your gun's slide from contacting your skin during hot days. This feature prevents both discomfort and potential finish wear on your pistol. 

The holster's cut allows for a crisp, clean draw even under pressure. Many users praise how the modular design lets them switch between standard carry and the full sidecar setup based on daily needs. You can adjust both ride height and cant angle for a perfect fit. The material quality stands out immediately when you handle this holster, explaining its loyal customer following among serious carriers.

Specs

• Style: AIWB
• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clip: Varies
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: Yes (Glock 43X MOS only)

Pros

• Optional magazine carrier adds versatility
• Flexible connection between components improves comfort
• Secure attachment with two mounting points

Cons

• Larger footprint than standalone holsters
• Higher price when configured with all components

PHLster Skeleton Gen 2 – Best Minimalist

The PHLster Skeleton Gen 2 embodies the "less is more" philosophy. This minimalist holster strips away everything unnecessary while retaining essential safety and function features.

The ultra-slim profile practically disappears under light clothing. This makes the Skeleton ideal for summer carry or situations requiring deep concealment. Despite its small size, the holster fully protects the trigger and maintains proper retention.

Adjustability remains excellent despite the minimal design. You can tune ride height, cant angle, and retention to your preferences. The ambidextrous configuration works for both left and right-handed shooters without modification.

The PHLster Skeleton Gen 2 really shines for people who carry their Glock 43X daily. Its tuckable design lets you wear formal business attire without giving away your concealed firearm. The tough Kydex construction stands up to daily use despite its minimalist approach. 

Many carriers forget they're even wearing it after a few hours. This holster works particularly well for smaller-framed individuals who struggle with bulkier options. PHLster designed the Skeleton based on direct feedback from concealed carriers who needed maximum concealment without compromising draw speed or safety.

Specs

• Style: IWB
• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clip: Polymer
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Extremely thin and lightweight design
• Works for right or left-handed users
• Compatible with red dot sights

Cons

• Minimal design offers less protection from sweat
• Single clip provides less stability than dual-clip designs

Dark Star Gear Hitchhiker – Best AIWB

The Dark Star Gear Hitchhiker takes appendix carry to new levels of comfort and concealment. This purpose-built AIWB holster addresses common complaints about front-of-waistband carry through thoughtful design elements.

The extended length might seem counterintuitive at first. However, this extra material helps stabilize the holster and prevent it from tilting forward. The added length also distributes pressure more evenly across your body.

A built-in concealment claw leverages your belt to pull the grip tightly against your body. This dramatically reduces printing—the visible outline of your gun through clothing—even under fitted shirts.

The Hitchhiker really shines with its aggressive cut for proper drawing technique. Its shape allows your hand to get a full firing grip on the gun right from the start. Drawing from this holster feels natural and instinctive after minimal practice. The metal clip grabs your belt firmly and prevents shifting during movement or when drawing your pistol. 

Many AIWB holsters fail to consider one-handed reholstering, but the Hitchhiker maintains its rigid opening even after extended use. This thoughtful design shows Dark Star's commitment to creating gear that works in real-world situations rather than just looking good on a shelf.

Specs

• Style: IWB
• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clip: Varies
• Optic-Compatible: Yes
• Weapon Light-Compatible: No

Pros

• Designed specifically for comfortable appendix carry
• Concealment claw reduces printing
• Cut for full grip access during draw

Cons

• Extra length may feel uncomfortable for some users
• Limited color and pattern options

How We Test the Holsters

Our evaluation process goes beyond just examining holsters—we conduct a thorough assessment based on our team’s combined experience in military service, competitive shooting, working in gun shops, and in-depth research from industry sources and user feedback.  

While we have not personally tested or fired the products, we analyze their real-world performance by considering key factors that determine usability, comfort, and reliability.  

First, we assess how holsters perform in everyday carry scenarios—examining user reports and feedback on comfort during extended wear, including sitting, standing, walking, and driving. This helps identify potential pressure points, shifting, and overall comfort that may not be apparent during a quick fit test.  

Next, we evaluate draw efficiency by analyzing holster designs, comparing user experiences, and studying video demonstrations to identify any potential snags, slow draw speeds, or awkward movements that could hinder access in high-stress situations.  

Retention is another critical factor. We review manufacturer specifications and verified user tests that demonstrate passive retention strength—including how well a holster secures the firearm when turned upside down. For active retention holsters, we examine how secure they remain when retention mechanisms are not engaged.  

Concealment is assessed across different wardrobe styles. We rely on extensive user feedback and industry reviews to determine how well each holster remains hidden under fitted t-shirts, button-ups, and light jackets, ensuring they perform well across different attire choices.  

Finally, we consider durability through long-term usage reports. We analyze how holsters hold up over time, considering material breakdown, wear and tear, and resistance to sweat and body heat—factors that impact longevity and reliability.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Choosing the right holster for your Glock 43X depends on your specific needs, body type, and lifestyle. No single "perfect" holster exists for everyone.

For everyday carry with maximum versatility, the Tenicor Certum3 earns our top recommendation. Its adjustability, quality construction, and thoughtful design make it suitable for most carriers in most situations.

Budget-conscious shoppers should consider the Rounded Gear IWB Kydex Holster. This no-frills option delivers essential functionality at an accessible price point without major compromises.

Those prioritizing comfort during extended wear might prefer the Hidden Hybrid Holsters. The leather backing feels great against the skin while the Kydex shell maintains proper retention.

For specialized carry situations, look to the purpose-built options. The Galco Classic Lite excels for shoulder carry, the Blackhawk T-Series L2C provides secure OWB carry, and the PHLster Skeleton Gen 2 disappears under light clothing.

Remember that holster selection often involves trial and error. Many experienced carriers own multiple holsters for different clothing, activities, and seasons. Don't get discouraged if your first choice isn't perfect—finding your ideal setup takes time.

FAQs

What's the difference between the Glock 43X and the standard Glock 43?

The Glock 43X features the same slide length as the standard G43 but comes with a longer grip that accommodates a higher-capacity magazine. This longer grip improves control and shooting comfort for many users, especially those with larger hands. The 43X holds 10 rounds in its standard magazine compared to the G43's 6 rounds, giving you significantly more firepower in the same slide package.

Can I use a Glock 43 holster for my Glock 43X?

Most Glock 43 holsters won't properly fit the 43X due to the longer grip dimension of the 43X. The holster might not provide proper retention or could leave portions of the trigger guard exposed, creating potential safety issues. Always purchase holsters specifically designed for the Glock 43X to ensure proper fit, retention, and trigger protection.

How do I prevent my Glock 43X from printing through clothing?

To minimize printing, choose holsters with features like concealment claws or wings that pull the grip closer to your body. Position your holster where your body has natural contours that help hide the gun's outline. Wearing patterned or textured clothing can break up any subtle outlines, and slightly looser shirts provide better concealment without looking obviously oversized.

Is appendix carry safe with a Glock 43X?

Appendix carry can be safe with proper equipment and training. Always use a high-quality holster that completely covers the trigger guard and maintains positive retention. Practice proper drawing and holstering techniques, keeping your finger indexed along the slide rather than near the trigger. Never holster a loaded firearm into an AIWB holster without visually confirming the path is clear of clothing or other obstructions.

How tight should my Glock 43X holster be?

Your holster should hold the pistol securely even when turned upside down, but still allow a clean draw without excessive force. Many quality holsters include adjustment screws to fine-tune retention force to your preference. The perfect balance feels secure during movement but permits a smooth, consistent draw when needed.

Do I need different holsters for summer and winter carry?

Seasonal wardrobe changes often benefit from different carry methods. Summer's lighter clothing might require deeper concealment options like AIWB holsters or minimalist designs that reduce printing. Winter layers allow more flexibility, making OWB or shoulder holsters practical options. Having multiple holster options helps maintain consistent carry habits year-round regardless of clothing constraints.