Thanks for all the suggestions.
Sounds like I need more education.
Because in the suggestions there were some things that I didnt understand or when I followed the suggestions, those manufacturers had terms I didnt understand but needed to so I could select a model.
I understand outside the belt verses inside, concealed verses open carry. I understand the different locations a gun can be carried and the materials used to make different kinds.
1. What is a range holster and what makes it different in functionality from other holsters?
2. What is drop offset
3. What is a USPSA/IDPA holster and what makes it different in functionality from other holsters?
4. Why wouldn't a person use a competition holster for every day?
5. What is a tactical holster and what makes it different?
6. What is the downside of a holster that can be worn inside or outside the waistband?
7. Some have different methods of keeping the pistol in its holster, which also makes it different in how you get it out, and styles or types better than others.
8. What are the key safety features of holsters?
Ah, all good questions!
1) Range holster is something that you would use just for the Range and normal training/shooting. You would practice draws, reholstering etc. In general getting, you use to handling a pistol correctly/safely & not picking it up from the table every time you go to shoot.
2)Drop Offset is for Competition typically as far as I know, helps with a faster draw which equals faster on target etc.
3)Typically a Range Holster could be used for IDPA/USPSA but then you might want the drop offset for a faster presentation of the gun,, depends on where ya want to be I guess.
4) A competition holster "could" work just not the best option if you were trying to carry concealed. Again depends on type/environment/clothing.
5) Tactical Holster could be a Drop Leg holster or a concealed carry holster. You see LEOs/SWAT guys with drop leg holsters sometimes, look em up,, kinda cool but normally not practical for normal range/concealed carry use.
6) No downside really depends on what you want and like. Both are viable options if its what you want.
7)LEOs have different types of retention us "normal" peeps don't normally need, that type of retention is a safety thing mostly. I'm not a fan of buttons or levers to push on any holster but that's me, you need to decide for yourself on that one. Look and check out different styles. Normal tension fit is more than adequate for most people when it comes to range use of concealed carry.
8)Safety of holsters,,Hmmmm, many I guess. The gun is on your side not just laying on the bench or table, YOU are in control 100% of the time ! That is a big factor for me, having a gun laying on the table/bench is just NOT a good thing. It depends on your range and where you shoot but having control is paramount in any Range Trip! The actual safety of the holster can vary on how it holds/retains the gun and there are many types/styles but as with any firearm, we/you are the biggest factor.
Well hope I helped at least a little ! I'm sure more peeps will be along and contribute also. Feel free to ask more questions if needed.