Car carry with a firearm out the window.

Why We Don't Sell Vehicle Holsters (And What to Use Instead)

If you’ve shopped with us before, you may have noticed we’ve made a deliberate decision not to sell vehicle-mounted holsters. After years of experience in both holster manufacturing and defensive training, we've concluded that keeping your firearm on your body is always the safer, more practical choice. 

Here's why we take this stance and what we recommend instead.

 

Glock 19.

 

What's Wrong With Vehicle-Mounted Holsters?

The fundamental problem with vehicle holsters is separation. Your firearm becomes part of your vehicle's equipment rather than your personal defensive tools. This creates multiple critical failure points that can leave you defenseless when you need protection most.

Consider these scenarios that happen every day on American roads. 

  • You're involved in a collision and need to exit immediately. Your firearm stays in the vehicle while you're dealing with the aftermath. 
  • You're pumping gas, and someone approaches aggressively. Your gun is sitting in the car. 
  • You get pulled from your vehicle during a carjacking, the very situation where you need defense most, leaves you unarmed. 
  • Even routine traffic stops become complicated when you have to explain why there's a firearm mounted to your dashboard or console.

The retention issue extends beyond emergency situations. Vehicle holsters often rely on magnets or simple friction retention that can fail during hard braking or collision impact. We've heard too many stories of firearms becoming projectiles during accidents, adding danger rather than protection.

 

Why Should Your Firearm Always Stay on Your Body?

A holstered firearm on your body provides consistent, predictable access regardless of your situation. Whether you're seated, standing, walking to the store, or forced to abandon your vehicle, your defensive tool remains with you. This consistency builds muscle memory. Your draw stroke stays the same whether you're at home, in your vehicle, or anywhere else.

Body-worn carry also maintains positive retention through quality holster design. Our IWB holsters use adjustable retention systems that keep your firearm secure through daily movement, including getting in and out of vehicles. You control the firearm's security, not the hope that a magnet stays strong or a clip holds during impact.

Legal considerations matter too. Many states have different laws regarding vehicle carry versus concealed carry on your person. A concealed carry permit typically covers a properly holstered firearm on your body, while a visible gun in a vehicle mount might fall under different regulations or create unwanted attention. Always check your state, federal, and local laws. 

 

A person shooting.

 

What Are the Best Alternatives to Vehicle Holsters?

The key to comfortable vehicle carry starts with proper holster selection and positioning. Our appendix carry (IWB) holsters work exceptionally well for driving when positioned correctly. 

The "comfort wedge" technique has become popular among those who drive frequently. Adding a small foam wedge to the back of your holster helps tilt the grip into your body, reducing printing and increasing comfort during long drives. Wedge kits can be added that are specifically designed for extended seated carry. We recommend PHLSter Rx, Tier 1, and Mastermind Tactics.

For those who prefer strong-side carry, consider these adjustments for driving comfort.

  • Before buckling up, shift your holster slightly rearward toward the 4 o'clock position. 
  • This prevents the seatbelt from trapping the firearm and reduces pressure from the seat bolster. 
  • Our holsters with adjustable cant allow you to find the perfect angle that works both standing and seated.

The firearm sits naturally in the gap between your seatbelt and body when carried strongside (typically 3-4 o'clock position), remaining accessible while driving. Many people find that a slight forward adjustment from their usual strongside position prevents the grip from digging into their ribs while seated.

 

Glock 43.

 

How Can You Make Driving With an IWB Holster More Comfortable?

  1. Start with a quality gun belt that distributes weight evenly and prevents sagging. A proper belt makes more of a difference in seated comfort than almost any other factor. Our reinforced gun belts maintain their shape even under the pressure of sitting, keeping your holster positioned correctly.
  2. Consider your clothing choices for driving days. An undershirt provides a barrier between the holster and your skin during long drives, while an untucked shirt or jacket provides concealment over the holster. Many professional drivers we work with prefer moisture-wicking undershirts that prevent irritation during extended wear.
  3. Practice your seated draw stroke in a safe environment. Your draw from a vehicle seat differs slightly from standing, mainly in the initial clearing motion. Spend time (with an unloaded firearm) practicing the motion of clearing your cover garment and achieving a proper grip while seated and belted.
A gun belt close up with a 4Bros holster.

 

Which 4Bros Holsters Work Best for Vehicle Carry?

Our Sig P365 and P365XL IWB holster has become favorites among daily drivers. The compact frame of these pistols combined with our adjustable retention and cant options creates a comfortable carry solution that transitions seamlessly from vehicle to on-foot carry. The slim profile prevents excessive bulk when seated.

The Glock 43X and 48 models in our IWB configuration offer similar benefits with slightly different ergonomics. Some drivers prefer the Glock's grip angle. Both models work well with our "claw" attachment that helps rotate the grip closer to your body.

For larger frame pistols, our holsters with the "wedge and claw" combination significantly improve seated comfort. Models like the Sig P320 or Glock 19 become much more manageable for vehicle carry when properly configured with these comfort accessories.

 

Invest in Quality Body-Worn Solutions

Rather than spending money on vehicle holsters that create more problems than they solve, invest in a quality holster system that works in all situations. Our holsters are designed with all-day comfort in mind, including extended periods of driving. Combined with proper positioning and accessories, you'll find body carry becomes second nature.

For personalized advice on choosing the right holster for your daily carry needs, including vehicle comfort, contact our team at 4Bros Holsters. We're here to ensure your protection is always within reach.

 

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