New: Updated Holster Ride Height and Cant Charts
Published by Dana on Dec 07, 2017
Updated Ride Height & Cant Angle Chart:
Forward Cant Angles:
Explore the diverse forward cant angles available, each paired with different ride heights. The comprehensive diagram depicts a 1.5" belt to scale with the M&P Shield, showcasing the positioning of the belt relative to the firearm for each ride height and cant angle. Cant angles are gauged from the vertical angle of the slide, determining the forward tilt of the grip. Please note that while the Low ride height maximizes concealment, it may hinder obtaining a full grip during the draw in most scenarios. Factor this in when selecting your ride height.
The standard preference for hip carry typically involves a Mid Ride Height combined with a 7.5° Forward Cant for optimal comfort and accessibility.
Reverse Cant Angles:
Navigating reverse cant angles requires finesse, especially for holsters intended for Appendix Position (AIWB) or Small of Back with a Palm Out Draw. In these cases, a reverse cant angle tends to obscure the grip, as indicated in the diagram. The green highlighting indicates the available grip space for each ride height and cant angle. For AIWB (Appendix Carry) Holsters, we strongly recommend a Mid Ride Height paired with a Straight Draw for optimal comfort and accessibility. For Small of Back (SOB) Palm Out carry, we suggest a High Ride Height combined with a Straight Draw or 7.5° Reverse Cant Angle. Deviating from these setups may lead to two potential issues: 1) The grip may be buried within the waistband, impeding a smooth draw. 2) The clip placement may need to be lowered on the firearm, increasing the risk of heavier firearms tilting forward out of the waistband.