The Glock 19: A Foundation for Defense
The Glock 19. It’s a name synonymous with reliability, durability, and a user-friendly design. For those who prioritize personal protection, the Glock 19 has become a staple, and with good reason. Its compact size makes it easily concealable, while its stopping power and accuracy offer confidence in a self-defense situation. Now, add a weapon-mounted light (WML) to that equation, and you’ve significantly enhanced your defensive capabilities. But how do you carry a Glock 19 equipped with a light discreetly and safely? The answer lies in choosing the right Glock 19 concealed carry holster with light compatibility. This article is your comprehensive guide to navigating the world of holsters, helping you select the perfect fit for your needs, ensuring a comfortable, secure, and highly effective concealed carry setup.
The trend of integrating weapon-mounted lights has exploded in recent years, and with good reason. A WML allows you to identify threats in low-light environments, disorient potential attackers, and illuminate your surroundings. Combining a WML with your Glock 19 is a smart move, but it demands careful consideration of your holster choices. This article will help you navigate the complexities of choosing the best Glock 19 concealed carry holster designed to accommodate a light, ensuring safety, comfort, and the most effective performance possible.
Why Use a Light with Your Glock 19?
The advantages of using a light with your Glock 19 are multifaceted, transforming your personal protection strategy in several important ways. Let’s delve into why a WML is an invaluable asset:
Enhancing Situational Awareness
Low-light environments are where attackers thrive. Darkness obscures your vision, hindering your ability to assess a threat and react accordingly. A WML immediately changes the equation. It transforms the dark into a controlled space, allowing you to quickly identify potential threats. You gain the advantage of seeing what’s happening, recognizing the presence of obstacles, and making well-informed decisions based on visual information. The ability to see who or what is in front of you is a fundamental component of self-defense, and a WML provides precisely that.
Increasing Self-Defense Capabilities
The purpose of a WML goes beyond simply illuminating your surroundings. It also serves as a powerful deterrent. The sudden burst of bright light can temporarily blind an assailant, disrupting their vision and buying you precious seconds to react. The element of surprise created by the sudden illumination can stop an attacker in their tracks, allowing you to assess the situation and respond appropriately. The light itself is a deterrent, and the ability to control it gives you an invaluable tactical advantage.
Home Defense Considerations
The home is often considered the safest place, but it’s also where threats can occur. A WML is a critical element of home defense preparedness. The ability to quickly identify potential intruders in a dimly lit home is essential. A WML allows you to move through your home confidently and effectively, clearing rooms and assessing threats. The speed with which you can identify and respond to a threat directly influences the outcome of a confrontation. With a WML, you gain the upper hand.
The Importance of Training
While a WML provides undeniable advantages, it’s crucial to recognize that it is a tool that requires proper training. Familiarize yourself with your WML’s activation system and learn the most effective way to deploy it under stress. Practice the draw, target acquisition, and tactical use of your WML in various scenarios. Consider professional firearms training from certified instructors to hone your skills and ensure safe and effective use of your weapon and its attached light. Understanding how to effectively use a light in conjunction with your Glock 19 is the key to unlocking its full potential.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Holster
Selecting the right holster for your Glock 19 with a light requires careful consideration of several key features. Here’s a deep dive into the essential aspects:
Material Matters
The material your holster is made from has a significant impact on its durability, comfort, and overall suitability.
Kydex
Kydex is a thermoplastic material, prized for its exceptional durability and its ability to be custom-molded to the exact specifications of your firearm and light. Kydex holsters generally offer excellent retention, ensuring that your Glock 19 stays securely in place. They’re resistant to the elements, including moisture, making them ideal for everyday carry. However, the rigid nature of Kydex can sometimes make it feel less comfortable against the skin. Some people find Kydex can wear on the finish of their firearms over time.
Leather
Leather holsters offer a classic look and feel, often providing a high degree of comfort, particularly during prolonged wear. Leather conforms to the shape of your firearm over time, providing a unique fit. Leather offers a certain level of protection to your firearm, and can be very aesthetically pleasing. However, leather can be less durable than Kydex. It is more susceptible to wear and tear. Leather holsters may also require more frequent maintenance, such as conditioning, to keep them in good condition. Leather can also be more expensive.
Hybrid (Kydex/Leather)
Hybrid holsters blend the advantages of both materials, offering a balance of durability and comfort. The Kydex shell provides secure firearm retention and light compatibility, while the leather backing sits against your body, enhancing comfort during concealed carry. Hybrid holsters are often a great compromise, providing the best of both worlds.
Carry Position Preferences
Where you choose to carry your Glock 19 with its attached light influences both concealment and accessibility.
Inside the Waistband (IWB)
IWB holsters are designed to be worn inside your waistband, against your body. This position maximizes concealability. IWB holsters are popular because they allow the firearm to be almost completely hidden under clothing. This offers a great balance between concealment and accessibility. Comfort is also paramount.
Outside the Waistband (OWB)
OWB holsters are worn outside your waistband. While not as easily concealed as IWB holsters, OWB holsters offer quick and easy access to your firearm. They’re suitable for open carry or for wear under a jacket or other loose-fitting outer garment. These holsters often provide greater comfort when seated for extended periods.
Appendix Carry (AIWB)
Appendix carry is a specialized IWB carry position, where the holster is worn on the front of your body, near your appendix. AIWB can offer extremely good concealment. However, this position requires careful consideration due to its proximity to your body and the potential for accidental discharges. Proper training and a high level of safety discipline are essential for AIWB carry.
Other Carry Positions
Shoulder holsters, chest holsters and other specialized carry methods also exist, although they are less common. These options often prioritize accessibility over complete concealment.
Retention and Security
The holster must securely hold your Glock 19 with its light, preventing accidental loss or unauthorized access.
Passive Retention
Passive retention holsters typically use friction or a molding design to grip the firearm, providing a secure fit. The holster’s shape conforms to the firearm, creating resistance to prevent it from falling out. Examples include friction fit holsters where the gun is pressed into a mold.
Active Retention
Active retention holsters incorporate locking mechanisms, such as levers or buttons, to secure the firearm within the holster. These mechanisms provide an extra layer of security. This helps guard against unintentional removal.
It is important to have a secure fit, so your Glock 19 stays in place, regardless of the type of retention.
Light Compatibility: The Critical Factor
Ensure the holster is specifically designed to accommodate your particular weapon-mounted light model. This is non-negotiable.
- Look for holsters designed for your light. This ensures a proper fit, secure retention, and proper functionality of the light.
- Common brands of lights that pair with Glock 19s include Streamlight and Surefire. When choosing, always confirm that the holster is light-specific.
Concealment Considerations
Optimizing concealment is crucial for maintaining a low profile.
Ride Height
This affects how deeply the holster carries the firearm. A lower ride height aids concealment, while a higher ride height can improve accessibility.
Cant
Cant refers to the angle of the holster. Different cant angles are preferred for different carry positions and body types.
Belt Clip Type
The type of belt clip influences how securely the holster attaches to your belt and how well it conceals. Consider the clip’s design, material, and ease of use.
The Importance of Comfort
Consider material, design, and how belt clips affect comfort. You’ll be wearing the holster for extended periods, so comfort is important. Choose a material and design that feels comfortable against your body.
Adjustability for a Perfect Fit
Look for holsters with adjustable features to customize the fit.
Ride Height and Cant Adjustments
Being able to adjust ride height and cant can help to optimize concealment.
Retention Adjustments
Being able to adjust the tension on your firearm helps ensure security.
Top Holster Examples (Specific Models to Consider)
Here are some holster examples that demonstrate the features outlined above:
Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite
This is a popular IWB holster that’s known for comfort and concealment. It’s often chosen by those who prefer appendix carry. The Axis Elite uses a Kydex construction, providing excellent durability and light compatibility. It also features an adjustable ride height and cant and is available in various light configurations.
Vedder Holsters ProDraw
The ProDraw is an IWB holster that is made of Kydex. It is custom-molded for a great fit and is very easy to conceal. It offers adjustable retention and is compatible with a variety of lights.
Safariland Holsters
Safariland is a name synonymous with duty-grade holsters, and they offer excellent OWB options compatible with lights. Their holsters often feature active retention systems and are known for their durability. They offer a range of models designed for Glock 19s and lights.
Tenicor Certum Lux
The Certum Lux is an IWB holster designed to be very comfortable for all-day carry. It uses a minimalist design, with Kydex construction and excellent concealment capabilities. It also features a variety of light compatible options.
Tips for Concealed Carry Success with a Light
Mastering concealed carry with a light involves more than just choosing the right holster. Here are some essential tips:
Proper Holster and Light Fit
The holster must securely and properly fit both your Glock 19 and your weapon-mounted light. Any looseness or incompatibility increases the risk of accidental discharge or malfunction.
Practice Drawing and Re-holstering
Practice is key! Perform dry-fire drills to master the draw and re-holstering process safely. Develop muscle memory so that your actions become instinctive.
Clothing Considerations
Your choice of clothing greatly affects concealability. Choose garments that allow the firearm to be concealed without printing (the outline of the gun showing through your clothing). Dark colors, loose-fitting shirts, and strategically placed layers can all aid in concealment.
Carry Position Adjustments
Experiment with different carry positions (IWB, AIWB, etc.) to find the most comfortable and concealable one for your body type and lifestyle.
Light Activation Techniques
Practice how to turn your light on and off. Develop a consistent method of activating your light. Practice your methods in a way that feels natural and provides control.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Safety must be the unwavering priority. Here are critical safety precautions:
Always Treat Firearms as Loaded
This is the cardinal rule of gun safety. Assume every firearm is loaded and ready to fire.
Finger Discipline
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. Always keep your finger straight and off the trigger.
Proper Holster Usage
Always use a properly fitted holster. Inspect your holster regularly for wear and tear.
Storage and Maintenance
Store your firearm and holster separately and securely, out of reach of unauthorized individuals. Regularly clean and maintain both your Glock 19 and your holster.
Conclusion: Securing Your Safety
Selecting the best Glock 19 concealed carry holster with a light is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in your personal safety and readiness. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide—material, carry position, retention, light compatibility, and adjustability—you can make an informed decision and choose a holster that offers the perfect blend of comfort, concealment, and security. Remember, your safety depends on the quality of your gear and your dedication to responsible firearms handling.
Investing in a high-quality holster is a decision that will pay off in peace of mind and confidence.
Call to Action
What are your favorite holster recommendations for a Glock 19 with a light? Share your experiences and insights in the comments section below! Your feedback can help others in the community find the perfect fit.
