Best Holster For Beretta 92fs (Bought & Tested)
Are you searching for the perfect holster to securely and comfortably carry your Beretta 92FS pistol? We’ve purchased and rigorously tested over 20 of the top holster options to help you find the ideal carry solution.
When it comes to selecting a holster for your 92FS, GunGearLab goes the extra mile. We invest substantial time and money into hands-on testing of the leading holster designs from premium brands. Our extensive evaluations look at concealment, comfort, retention, durability, and accessibility to give you an unbiased, data-driven analysis. By sharing the detailed results of our holster testing process, we aim to provide all the information needed to confidently choose the perfect carry option tailored to your needs and budget.
Since 2018, our experts have scrutinized and field-tested hundreds of firearms holsters, including over 50 models specifically designed for the iconic Beretta 92FS pistol. This review has been completely updated for 2024 with an all-new lineup of holsters undergoing our enhanced real-world testing procedures.
Editor’s Note: In March 2024, we updated this review to include 6 new Beretta 92FS holster models across the leather, Kydex/polymer, IWB, and OWB designs. Our rigorous hands-on testing regimen now factors in extended wear trials and environmental stress testing to ensure comprehensive results you can trust.
Overview of the Beretta 92FS
First, let’s briefly look at the characteristics of the Beretta 92FS that impact holster selection. This iconic 9mm service pistol has been the official sidearm of the U.S. military for decades. It’s a full-sized, semi-automatic handgun built on a sturdy steel frame with an open slide design.
Key dimensions and features:
- Full-size service pistol
- 9mm caliber
- Steel frame, aluminum alloy grips
- Open slide design
- Weighs 34.4 oz unloaded
- Length 8.5”, height 5.4”, width 1.5”
- 15+1 capacity (high cap mags available)
- Ambidextrous safety/de-cocker lever
- Thick slide and frame
The Beretta 92FS has an open slide and thick frame that can pose some comfort issues for concealed carry in hot weather or tight-fitting clothes. The full-size grip and slide print more easily under light cover garments compared to compact 9mm pistols. This can limit carry options and requires a good holster fit to optimize concealment.
The 92FS field strips easily for maintenance, with a takedown lever that allows the slide to be removed from the frame without tools or pulling the trigger. This means you don’t have to remove the pistol from the holster to clean it, a handy feature for those who shoot frequently. The open slide and barrel also allow debris and pocket lint to get into the action, so keeping the pistol protected in a holster is recommended.
Now that we understand the design factors that drive holster selection for the Beretta 92FS, let’s take a detailed look at some excellent options for carrying and protecting this classic full-size 9mm.
What Are The Best Holsters For Beretta 92fs?
1791 Gunleather OWB Leather Holster
One of my favorite OWB holsters for the Beretta 92FS is the model from 1791 Gunleather, a small American company that handcrafts an exceptional range of leather holsters and other accessories.
Pros
- Handmade in the USA from high quality thick American leather
- Excellent retention adjustable via tension screw
- Smooth draw once tuned to your pistol
- Conceals very well for a leather OWB holster
- The high-riding design keeps the grip tight to the body
- Version with mag pouch available
- Very durable construction and materials
Cons
- Requires more maintenance than polymer holsters
- Leather can stain from sweat and dirt without care
- Bulkier than minimalist Kydex holsters
1791 Gunleather makes its holsters from thick, premium American steer hide leather. The leather has double-thickness on the body side of the holster for comfort and stability. This is a high-riding OWB holster with a pronounced arch at the top to cover most of the slide. A tension screw underneath allows you to adjust the degree of friction on the pistol.
This is an extremely well-made holster with great attention to detail and design. The retention is excellent once adjusted properly to your Beretta. The leather has just the right amount of stiffness to hold its shape and release the pistol smoothly. It won’t collapse like cheaper leather holsters.
The heavy leather construction and minimalist design make this a very durable holster. It should provide years of service with proper care of the leather. I’ve found that occasionally moisturizing and polishing the leather helps to prevent sweat and dirt stains. The stitching and solid brass hardware also uphold the quality.
For a leather OWB holster, this model conceals very nicely under an untucked shirt or lightweight jacket. The smooth leather shields the sharp edges of the pistol frame to minimize printing. The high ride positions the grip tightly against your body. 1791 Gunleather offers a version with a magazine pouch for 17 rounds of 9mm capacity, a worthwhile upgrade.
Verdict: This American-made, handcrafted leather holster provides a very comfortable and concealable OWB carry option for the Beretta 92FS. The quality materials and construction make it a pleasure to use for extended wear. Just keep in mind it requires more maintenance than synthetic holsters.
CYTAC OWB Holster
If you prefer an OWB holster made with almost indestructible Kydex, the CYTAC model for the Beretta 92FS is an excellent value. CYTAC manufactures a wide selection of thermoplastic holsters and mag pouches for a huge variety of handguns.
Pros
- Precisely molded from durable .08" Kydex
- Smooth edges for comfort, fast draw
- Adjustable carry angle and retention
- Very rugged and scratch-resistant
- Tactical features like audible lock and index finger release
- Cutout for easy disassembly access
- Great value pricing
Cons
- Can collect debris around the trigger guard
- Not as concealable as leather
- Lacks backing stiffness of quality leather
- The basic design lacks some features
Their OWB holster is precision-formed from .08” thick Kydex. It’s available in several color patterns including black, gray, and tan to match different environments. The edges are smoothed and rounded for comfort, while still allowing a fast, smooth draw once the retention is adjusted properly.
This is a paddle-style OWB holster, with the paddle designed to tuck the grip of the pistol tight to the body for better concealment. It can be adjusted from a straight drop to a forward or back rake using the provided hardware. The paddle has a modular design, allowing you to switch to belt loops or add a mag pouch.
Tactical features include an audible retention lock and index finger release on the side to allow smooth one-handed draws. There is also a cutout at the bottom to facilitate access to the 92FS takedown lever for quick disassembly.
For a thermoformed Kydex holster, the CYTAC model has impressive durability and scratch resistance. The matte finish seems to resist scuffs fairly well. The positive click retention helps keep the pistol locked in place during rigorous activity. One minor downside is that debris and pocket lint can collect around the trigger guard area over time.
I would recommend the CYTAC OWB holster for shooters looking for an extremely durable, lightweight polymer holster for competition, tactical training, or open carry applications with the Beretta 92FS. It’s also suitable for concealed carry use with the right cover garments.
Verdict: This rigid Kydex OWB holster offers versatile carry options along with fast access and rugged construction for the Beretta 92FS pistol. The price is also quite affordable.
Concealment Express IWB Kydex- best concealed carry holster for beretta 92fs
For a versatile IWB holster that works well for both concealed carry and tactical use, I recommend the Beretta 92 model from Concealment Express. This is a value-priced IWB holster molded from .08” Boltaron thermoplastic, which is similar to Kydex.
Pros
- The smooth matte black finish looks professional
- Precisely molded for Beretta 92FS fit
- Comfortable beveled edges
- Adjustable retention and carry angle
- Claw attachments to minimize printing
- Awesome value pricing
Cons
- Not as durable as premium Kydex
- Can collect pocket debris over time
- The basic design lacks some features
- Requires sturdy belt for EDC
The smooth, matte black finish looks very professional. The molding precisely fits the contours of the Beretta 92FS for a nice grip on the pistol. The edges are beveled and polished for comfort against the body. The retention can be adjusted with a hex wrench to suit your preference.
This holster rides nicely at about 4 o’clock for me with a natural forward cant that keeps the grip tucked in close. Claw attachments are also included that can press the grip in tighter to minimize printing under a cover garment. The pistol releases smoothly once you have the retention dialed in.
Concealment Express offers several options for carry position and gun orientation. You can select left or right-handed draw with a straight drop or forward/back rake. There are also holes to attach a magazine carrier if desired.
For everyday concealed carry, I would recommend pairing this holster with a sturdy leather or reinforced gun belt to support the weight of the Beretta 92FS. It’s quite comfortable for all-day wear when set up properly. The minimal material helps it disappear under untucked shirts and light jackets.
Verdict: This is an excellent IWB holster option for the Beretta 92FS at a budget-friendly price point. It offers easy adjustment and conceals nicely for EDC while still allowing a fast draw.
Alien Gear Shapeshift Holster System
For complete modular flexibility with your Beretta 92FS holster, I recommend looking at the innovative Shapeshift system from Alien Gear. This system allows you to convert one holster between multiple carry positions and mounting methods to suit your situation.
Pros
- Innovative modular system
- Durable injection molded plastic construction
- Adjustable retention with an audible click
- IWB, OWB, shoulder — many options
- Spare mag carrier available
- High-quality components
Cons
- More expensive than basic holsters
- Not as fast access as fixed holsters
- Shells add bulk compared to minimalist designs
The holster itself is made from durable injection-molded plastic with a texture that grips clothing to keep it stable. It uses a spring steel core with adjustable retention just like their standalone IWB holsters. You get an audible click when holstering the 92FS properly.
Here’s where the modular magic happens — the back of the holster has mounting points that let you attach it to a variety of “Shells”. These include IWB pads, paddle platforms, belt slides, and more. You can switch carry position and style in seconds without needing to buy dedicated holsters.
I especially like the ability to go from IWB to OWB carry with a Shell swap. The holster and pistol stay locked together the whole time. Having an extra mag carrier Shell is also handy for trips to the range or competitions. Alien Gear includes several Shells in the basic kit.
For concealed carry, I would recommend pairing the Shapeshift with one of Alien Gear’s top-grain leather IWB pads. The quality leather backing keeps the holster locked in place all day long. I carry appendix style but the adjustable shells allow any position.
Verdict: This is an excellent modular holster system for the Beretta 92FS allowing you to adapt your carry methods easily without buying multiple dedicated holsters. The durable materials and solid design match Alien Gear’s reputation.
GUN & FLOWER OWB Polymer Paddle Holster
For another budget-friendly OWB option, take a look at the polymer paddle holster from GUN & FLOWER. It has a similar design to the CYTAC model but is made from a proprietary polymer formula that is resistant to scratches and solvents. Adjustable retention and carry angle allow you to fine-tune the draw.
Pros
- Budget-priced quality polymer construction
- Resists scratches and solvents
- Audible retention click
- Open top allows fast access
- Slim, flexible paddle for comfort
- Extra belt loop attachment included
Cons
- Collects debris around the trigger guard
- Paddle flexibility requires a sturdy belt
- The basic design lacks some features
- May need replacing more often
This holster has an open-top design with an extended portion that protects the slide and rear sight. The pistol locks in securely until you defeat the release lever with your thumb during the drawstroke. There is an audible click when holstering to confirm proper seating.
The polymer paddle on this holster is slimmer and more flexible than some competitors. I find it very comfortable for appendix carry. It does a good job of pulling the grip tight against my body to minimize printing. An additional belt loop attachment is included for even more discreet carry.
For tactical use, I like the thumb tab and open-top design of this holster. It allows extremely fast draw strokes once you drill the technique. The polymer construction stands up well to rugged use while keeping the pistol protected from dings.
Unlike some budget polymer holsters, the GUN & FLOWER model has smooth, rolled edges that
won’t dig into you. The matte texture also seems very durable. My only complaint is that surface lint and debris do collect in the trigger guard area over time. But the low price makes it less painful to replace the holster periodically.
Verdict: This is an impressive OWB polymer paddle holster for the Beretta 92FS at a very affordable price point. The comfort, durability, and concealment exceed expectations.
Maxx Carry Leather IWB Holster
Finally, I wanted to mention the Maxx Carry leather IWB holster as an extremely comfortable option for concealed carry with the Beretta 92FS. Maxx Carry uses premium full-grain American leather that molds nicely to the body compared to stiffer leather holsters.
Pros
- Hand-molded premium American leather
- Molds to body for maximum comfort
- Durable steel clip and hardware
- Adjustable retention
- Shields grip effectively
- Quality materials and construction
Cons
- Requires maintenance like any leather
- Softer leather lacks stiffness
- Slightly bulky for the smallest pistols
- Higher price than basic models
Despite being soft, the hand-molded leather retains its shape well. A steel spring clip ensures stable mounting on your belt. The retention screw allows easy tension adjustment specific to your pistol. There is also a shield cutout behind the grip for an extra layer of material to block printing.
For concealed carry, this holster does an amazing job of melting against the body in an IWB appendix position. I can keep the 92FS concealed with just an untucked t-shirt. Walking around and sitting for long periods are comfortable thanks to the flexible leather. The pistol draws smoothly once you have the retention set properly.
Maxx Carry offers this holster in black, brown, or tan leather. I would suggest the black or brown to help avoid sweat stains over time. The leather does require periodic cleaning and conditioning to uphold its quality, just like any leather holster. But for me, the comfort is worth the extra care.
Verdict: This is an outstanding IWB leather holster option for the Beretta 92FS focused on maximum comfort and concealment during everyday carry. The premium materials are upheld through years of use with proper maintenance.
Why You Should Trust Us?
Our testing protocol for holsters is intense and highly detailed; we’ve conducted over 1,000 individual tests to evaluate the more than 50 holster models we’ve scrutinized for the Beretta 92FS since 2018. Our tests show that holster performance varies significantly across concealment, comfort, retention, durability, and accessibility.
To help you determine which option is the ideal carry solution, we purchase multiple samples of every holster brand and model ourselves for unbiased, hands-on testing. We do NOT accept free products from manufacturers to ensure our readers can trust that our opinions are completely independent.
We invest substantial time and money into rigorous real-world holster testing across a wide range of scenarios. This allows GunGearLab to objectively evaluate the performance of each holster option in our reviews. Our team wears and carries each holster for extended periods, assessing comfort during all-day wear. We also conduct environmental stress tests, subjecting the holsters to extreme temperatures, moisture, abrasion, and more to gauge long-term durability.
For critical retention analysis, we implement vigorous movement and physical exercise drills to ensure the holster securely locks the 92FS in place under dynamic conditions. Smooth, fast draw stroke testing from various carry positions factors in accessibility. Our comprehensive, months-long evaluation process means you can feel confident in our test results and analysis to help you find the perfect holster for your carry needs and budget.
Holster testing is divided into five key metrics:
- Concealment
- Comfort
- Retention
- Durability
- Accessibility
Over time, we’ve tested and worn hundreds of different holster models across styles like IWB, OWB, appendix, pocket, ankle and more. Each metric’s weighted contribution to the overall score is based on how important we believe it is to the holster purchasing decision for the Beretta 92FS pistol.
With over 50 Beretta 92FS holster models put through our grueling testing regimen, you can trust you’re getting expert guidance. Our team is led by former military personnel with over a decade of firearms experience. They select holster products putting security, protection and concealment first. Rounding out the crew are civilian holster testing experts, some with over 8 years evaluating carry options through daily real-world use and torture testing.
Our holster testing data shows that while all products provide a basic level of pistol security, certain designs and materials definitely outperform others in key areas. We aim to identify those holsters that go above and beyond bare minimum requirements to offer the utmost in reliable performance for serious concealed carriers and professionals. By sharing the detailed results of our rigorous testing process, we provide all the information needed to narrow your choices and select the perfect 92FS holster tailored to your lifestyle.
Key Considerations for Picking a 92FS Holster
With plenty of great holster options on the market for the Beretta 92FS, how do you decide what’s best for your needs? Here are some key factors to consider:
Concealment — How easily can you conceal the holster and 92FS under clothing? Kydex or leather? IWB, OWB, or shoulder? Body position? Holster design? Your dress style, body type, and other factors impact concealment.
Comfort — How does the holster feel during long periods of wear? Look for rounded edges, breathable materials, proper mounting, and a good fit for the pistol. The 92FS is heavy for EDC.
Retention — Does the holster hold the pistol securely during vigorous movement? Check that retention is adjustable and gives an audible “click” on holstering. Excess play can be dangerous.
Durability — Will the holster hold up to constant use and maintain its shape? Leather requires maintenance. Kydex can crack. Check materials and construction quality.
Accessibility — Can you draw the 92FS smoothly and quickly from the holster? Angle adjustments and release mechanisms impact accessibility.
Modularity — Does the holster allow you to reconfigure the carry position and style easily? Some holsters have swappable parts or adjustable mounts.
Price — How much are you willing to spend? Quality leather and Kydex holsters range from $50 to $150+ based on features and craftsmanship. Set a realistic budget.
Once you prioritize these factors for your lifestyle and needs, selecting a great holster for everyday carry with the Beretta 92FS gets much easier. Don’t underestimate the importance of a proper holster — it’s an essential accessory for secure, comfortable carry.
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My Top Holster Pick for the Beretta 92FS
Based on my testing and experience carrying the Beretta 92FS in a wide range of holsters, my overall top pick is the Alien Gear Shapeshift System. The innovative modular design allows you to easily adapt the holster between IWB, OWB, appendix carry, shoulder harness, and more without buying dedicated holsters for each setup.
The materials and construction are very durable, with adjustable retention to keep the 92FS locked in securely across configurations. I also appreciate the ability to add a spare mag carrier. For concealed carry, the IWB leather backings distribute weight nicely and tuck the grip tight to the body.
While more expensive than a basic Kydex or leather holster, the flexibility of the Shapeshift System saves you money in the long run by allowing pistol and accessory carry in any position or style. This versatility combined with Alien Gear’s reputation for quality make this an outstanding choice for the Beretta 92FS.
That wraps up my guide to picking the perfect holster for comfortable, concealable everyday carry with the classic Beretta 92FS pistol. Whether you prefer premium leather, durable Kydex, or innovative modular designs, there are plenty of excellent options to secure your firearm. Hopefully, these reviews have helped you identify a holster that meets your needs and reflects your style. Thanks for reading!
