How to Choose the Best Beretta M9 Holster

Whether you’ve just picked up a new Beretta M9 or are looking to refine your carry setup, finding a holster that fits this reliable and battle-proven firearm is essential.

So, what should you consider when selecting a holster for the Beretta M9?

The best Beretta M9 holster will be as well-designed and practical as the pistol itself. Look for a balance of durability, adjustability, and reliable safety features to ensure a secure and comfortable carry experience. While concealment can be more challenging with a full-size handgun like the M9, a thoughtfully designed holster can make all the difference.

Before deciding on the ideal holster for your needs, it’s important to understand how the Beretta M9 is built so you can choose an option that complements its design.

About the Beretta M9

The Beretta M9, the military counterpart to the 92FS, became the standard U.S. military sidearm after replacing the M1911 as part of NATO’s move to standardize munitions. Developed from the Beretta M1922 and M1951, it features the iconic open-slide design for enhanced reliability.

Chambered in 9mm, the full-size M9 includes a 15-round standard magazine, with compact versions holding 10 rounds and extended options available. Its aluminum frame and polymer grips ensure durability in various conditions, making it a proven choice worldwide since the 1980s.

Renowned for its ease of use and reliability, the M9 remains a favorite among military personnel, law enforcement, and civilian gun owners alike. Its double/single-action trigger system offers flexibility, while the 4.9-inch barrel strikes a balance between accuracy and portability.

Beretta M9 Specs

What to Look for in a Beretta M9 Holster

Now that you have a solid grasp of the Beretta M9’s design and intended use, it’s time to find a holster that complements this full-size duty pistol.

Holster Type

The first decision to make when choosing a holster is where you plan to carry it, as this will determine the style of holster you need.

Since the M9 is a full-sized handgun commonly used in military and law enforcement roles, outside the waistband holsters tend to be a popular choice for this model. However, with the right holster, it can also be carried inside the waistband. While its size makes concealment more challenging compared to compact pistols, it can still be comfortably worn in positions like 3-5 o’clock or even appendix if paired with a well-designed holster.

Not all holsters are suitable for every carry position, so choosing the right style is key. For instance, our Vedder Holsters LightTuck® is a versatile option that works well in multiple positions, while the SideTuck® is specifically designed for appendix carry at the 1-2 o’clock position.

Once you’ve determined your preferred carry position, you can narrow down your options to holsters that fit your needs. From there, you can focus on details like material, retention, and customization. If you’re unsure which position works best for you, check out our “Concealed Carry Positions: Ultimate Guide” article for more insights.

Material

Holsters are typically made from one of three materials: leather, Kydex, or nylon.

While nylon holsters are widely available, they are not the best choice for concealed carry. Their lack of structure makes reholstering difficult and potentially unsafe, and they tend to wear out much faster than other options.

Leather holsters are another popular choice, known for their comfort and durability. However, leather can absorb moisture from sweat, rain, or humidity, which can make it feel sticky. While long-lasting, leather holsters don’t quite match the toughness of Kydex and will show signs of wear more quickly.

Kydex is the leading holster material today, offering unmatched durability, retention, and ease of concealment. These holsters are heat-molded to fit specific firearm models, ensuring a secure and precise fit. Despite being made from a rigid thermoplastic, Kydex holsters are also surprisingly comfortable for everyday carry.

For those looking for a blend of Kydex’s durability and leather’s comfort, hybrid holsters provide the best of both worlds. These designs feature a sturdy Kydex shell paired with a leather backing for a secure yet comfortable carry experience.

You can check out our entire selection of Kydex and hybrid holsters here to learn more about the benefits of each. 

Adjustability

When carrying a full-sized pistol like the Beretta M9, having an adjustable holster is essential for comfort, concealment, and accessibility.

One of the most valuable features is adjustable retention, which allows you to modify the level of friction holding your firearm in place. This not only ensures a smooth draw tailored to your preference but also adds an extra layer of safety.

Adjustable cant is another key feature, letting you tilt your holster forward or backward to find the most natural and comfortable draw angle. Many Vedder Holsters offer up to 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant, providing greater flexibility compared to other holsters that may only allow minimal adjustment in one direction.

Lastly, adjustable ride height enables you to position your holster higher or lower on your waistline, depending on your preference. Whether you prioritize deep concealment or a higher carry position for accessibility, having the ability to customize your setup ensures the best possible fit for your needs.

Customization 

No two carry setups are the same. With different needs, preferences, and firearm modifications available, it’s crucial to find a holster that fits your unique setup.

Every Vedder Holster is handcrafted to order and can be customized to match your firearm. We offer a wide selection of Kydex colors, ensuring your holster suits your style. Plus, our holsters feature full sight channels and can be cut to accommodate various lights, lasers, and optics.

Beyond firearm compatibility, our holsters are available in right- or left-handed orientations and come with different belt clip options. You can also choose from additional features such as a holster claw, sweat shields, and combat cuts.

If you have a firearm modification that isn’t listed on our website, reach out to us with the details. We’ll do our best to craft a holster that works for you.

Design

Holster design goes beyond aesthetics and adjustability — it plays a critical role in safety and performance.

The most important design factor is a precise fit for your firearm. A well-molded Kydex holster should securely grip your gun, providing an audible and tactile “click” when holstered. This ensures your firearm stays in place without unnecessary movement or risk of falling out.

Vedder Holsters are engineered for an exact fit, minimizing any wiggle room. Poorly fitted holsters can not only be unsafe but may also cause wear on your firearm over time.

Another key safety feature is a full-coverage trigger guard. A properly designed holster should completely enclose the trigger to prevent accidental discharge. Any exposure, also known as “daylight,” could allow foreign objects to reach the trigger, creating a serious safety hazard.

Lastly, secure belt clips are essential. A holster that doesn’t properly attach to your belt can shift throughout the day, reducing stability, concealment, and accessibility. Our holsters feature durable, reliable clips to keep your setup secure and in place.

At Vedder Holsters, we prioritize safety and functionality in every design, so you can carry with confidence.

Comfort

A full-size pistol like the Beretta M9 is designed for duty and defensive use, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be carried comfortably. Selecting the right holster plays a crucial role in making everyday carry as seamless as possible.

Despite its larger frame, the Beretta M9 can still be worn comfortably with the right holster design. For those prioritizing comfort, hybrid holsters are a popular choice. The combination of a leather backing and a Kydex shell provides the best of both worlds, offering a rigid structure for secure retention while also molding to the body for a more natural feel. This design helps distribute the weight of the firearm more evenly, preventing discomfort over long hours of wear.

For those who prefer an all-Kydex holster, styles with two points of contact against the body can help balance the weight similar to a hybrid holster. Adjustable holsters also allow for customized positioning, making it easier to find the most comfortable angle for carrying a full-size pistol like the M9.

Adding a layer of cushioning can further enhance comfort. The Vedder HolsterPad provides a soft barrier between the holster and the body. It can be trimmed to fit your specific gun model or left long and wrapped around the muzzle end of the holster to prevent any discomfort when carrying in the appendix position.

While inside the waistband carry is a common choice for concealed carry, some users find that outside the waistband offers a more comfortable experience for a full-size pistol like the Beretta M9. If inside the waistband carry feels cumbersome, an outside the waistband holster may provide a more natural and relaxed fit.

Concealment

The Beretta M9 is a full-size duty pistol, which means concealment requires a well-designed holster to minimize printing and ensure discreet carry. With its larger frame, finding a holster that keeps the gun close to the body while maintaining a smooth, snag-free profile is essential.

A properly molded Kydex shell is the foundation of an effective concealed carry holster. It should be slim enough to reduce bulk while maintaining durability and secure retention. The holster’s surface should be smooth to prevent snagging on clothing, allowing for a seamless draw when needed.

The choice of belt clip can also impact concealment. Some clips are bulky or made of thick plastic, which can create unnecessary printing under clothing. A thin steel clip, like Vedder’s Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip, provides a low-profile attachment that remains virtually invisible, even under lighter garments.

Additional concealment accessories can enhance the holster’s ability to keep the Beretta M9 hidden. Features like holster claws, holster wedges, and pancake clips help draw the grip of the firearm closer to the body, reducing the risk of printing and improving overall discretion.

Selecting the right holster ensures that even a full-size pistol like the Beretta M9 can be carried securely and discreetly without compromising comfort or accessibility.

Warranty

When selecting a holster for your Beretta M9, factors like concealability, comfort, and adjustability are essential, but it’s just as important to consider the protection that comes with your purchase. A solid product warranty not only provides peace of mind in case something goes wrong but also reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in its craftsmanship.

Vedder Holsters stands behind the quality of its products with a 30-day risk-free trial and a lifetime guarantee. If your holster doesn’t meet your expectations or develops an issue over time, you’re covered. That commitment ensures you can carry with confidence, knowing your investment is protected. Learn more about our warranty policy here. 

Best Beretta M9 Pistol Holster Options

Now that you know what to look for in a quality holster, let’s cut to the chase. Here are the best holster for Beretta M9 pistol recommendations.

Best Beretta M9 IWB Holster

Since everyone has different needs and preferences for concealed carry, let’s break down the best IWB Beretta M9 concealed carry holsters based on comfort, adjustability, and functionality.

The LightTuck® by Vedder Holsters is the top overall IWB holster for the Beretta M9. This fully Kydex holster is incredibly versatile, allowing for carry in any position. It features fully adjustable retention, three ride height options, and 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Its lightweight design, tuckable profile, and patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip make it an outstanding choice for everyday carry.

For those prioritizing comfort, a hybrid holster may be the best option. The RapidTuck® and ComfortTuck® holsters are both designed for wear in the 3-5 o’clock position and feature a premium cowhide or horsehide leather backing. These materials mold to your waistline, offering excellent comfort and concealability. The RapidTuck® also provides adjustable ride height and cant for a customized fit.

Another excellent choice is the ProTuck®. Its contoured shape allows for a more natural fit against the body, and it is designed to be worn in the 3-5 o’clock position with fully adjustable retention.

For those who prefer to carry a spare magazine alongside their firearm, the SideTuck® is a great option. This holster combines the concealability of the LightTuck® with an attached, fully adjustable custom Kydex magazine carrier. It also includes a claw attachment for improved concealment, features adjustable retention, and has two points of contact for enhanced stability.

Best Beretta M9 OWB Holster

If you prefer to carry outside the waistband, having the right holster can make all the difference. Here are our recommendations for the best Beretta M9 OWB holsters, based on your needs.

The LightDraw® by Vedder Holsters is one of the best OWB holsters for the Beretta M9. This fully Kydex holster is designed to be both functional and comfortable. It features adjustable retention and a double-sided, fully reinforced shell, which allows for smooth one-handed reholstering.

For those who prefer a hybrid OWB holster, the Quick Draw is a great option. With a premium leather backing and two built-in belt loops, this holster provides excellent comfort and easy access. It’s designed to suit a variety of outside-the-waistband positions, making it versatile and reliable.

If a paddle holster is more your style, the ProDraw® is a top choice. This holster is the most adjustable of the OWB options, offering adjustable retention and 15 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Lightweight and equipped with the OWB Paddle Clip, the ProDraw® is both comfortable to wear and simple to put on and remove when needed.

Summary

Whether you're in the market for an inside the waistband or outside the waistband concealed carry holster, it's essential to choose one that best fits your carry system.

Ultimately, the best Beretta M9 holster for you comes down to your unique needs and preferences. Take the time to evaluate what you're looking for in a holster, weigh your options, and make an informed decision based on the features that matter most.

Looking for a reliable, custom-fit holster? Visit our Holsters by Gun Model page to find Kydex holsters tailored to your firearm. Plus, explore our Resources Page for gear recommendations, concealed carry guides, and exclusive content to elevate your carry system.