In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at different types of belt clips so that you can find the best belt clip for your conceal carry holster.
Why are Belt Clips Important?
In most cases, holster clips are designed to help us improve comfort and concealment while we conceal carry our holsters.
Some belt clips will allow us to make easier to adjust our holsters or give us better retention, and others will allow us to conceal carry without a belt.
The type of belt clip that you'll need really depends on how you conceal carry your holster.
For almost any carry style, there's a belt holster clip that will fit your daily carry needs.
Different Types of Belt Clips
Belt Loops
Belt Loops are typically made from leather or plastics and are designed with a snap button. They are robust and designed to unsnap only in one direction making them very secure.
They are great for larger size belts and are loved for their easy snap on/snap off convenience. In most holsters, they still allow us to adjust cant and ride height to fit your needs.
In some cases, people do find the belt loops hard to unsnap and belt loops can also make it more difficult to conceal you holster under cover garments since they do stick out a bit over the belt.
J-Clip
Named for it's J hook design, the J-Clips wraps over the trouser waistline and the J hook part goes behind and tucks under your belt. They are made from plastics and metals.
The J-Clip is very discreet and good for conceal carry. But most of the weight is put on the pants instead of the belt so it tends to want to ride down with heavier guns or weaker waistband.
Wear the J-Clip with more durable pants such as the BDUs or 511s. You can also wear the holster without a belt.
C-Clip
Named for it's C hook design, the C-Clip is worn much like the J-Clip except that it hooks over the top and bottom of the belt. They are made from plastics and metals.
The C hook design provides additional support and retention by using the belt to help carry the weight of the gun.
The C-Clip like the J-Clip is still very discreet and good for concealment.
Standard Metal Clip
Standard metal clips are the most common belt clips found on conceal carry holsters. They can be used to conceal carry with or without a belt. They are very strong and durable.
They simply clip over your waistline and belt (if you're wearing one) to support the the weight of your weapon and holster. They are sturdy and provide good support for your holster.
They are slim enough that you can be tucked behind the belt so that you can avoid causing damage to a quality belt. Also, they are very discreet and good for concealment.
They are very convenient and easy to use.
Standard Plastic Clip
Much like the the standard metal clip, the plastic clip simply clips over the waistline and belt (if you're wearing one). They are made from durable plastics and are typically used in Kydex holsters.
They come in many shapes and size, but work the same way. If your looking for a material that may be softer on your belt or pants, a standard plastic clip a good choice for you.
They can be used with or without a belt and they still provide good support and retention. The slim design is also very good for concealment.
Final Thoughts
Belt clips are an essential part of any conceal carry holsters, they are not built equally, so choose wisely. The type of belt clip that you're going to need for your conceal carry holster really depends on your carry style and type of belt.