How to Choose the Best Ruger LCP Holster

Whether you just picked up a brand-new Ruger LCP or you’re looking to upgrade your current carry setup, finding a holster that fits this compact and reliable firearm is essential.

So, what should you consider when selecting a holster for this model?

The best holster for Ruger LCP 380 pistols are as lightweight, discreet, and well-crafted as the pistol itself. Prioritizing durable materials, adjustability, and strong safety features will help ensure you can confidently carry this micro-compact pistol.

However, before deciding on the right holster, it’s important to understand the unique design of the LCP so you can make the most informed choice.

About the Ruger LCP

The Ruger LCP has been a popular choice for concealed carry for years, and with good reason. Known for its compact size and reliable performance, the LCP is designed for those who need a lightweight, easily concealable pistol that still packs a punch. This versatile handgun is chambered in .380 ACP, making it a solid option for personal defense while offering manageable recoil for both new and seasoned shooters.

Built with durability and ease of use in mind, the LCP features a stainless steel slide. Its minimalist design allows for comfortable everyday carry, whether you're wearing it inside or outside the waistband. The LCP's small footprint makes it ideal for deep concealment, slipping easily into a pocket, purse, or holster without adding significant bulk.

The LCP comes standard with a 6-round magazine, giving you enough capacity to protect yourself when it matters most. Despite its small size, this Ruger doesn’t sacrifice quality or reliability, offering smooth operation and consistent performance. The ergonomic design of the pistol ensures a secure grip, and its fixed sights offer quick aiming for effective self-defense.

This popular firearm is favored by concealed carriers for its balance of portability and power. Whether you're looking for a firearm for everyday carry or simply want a reliable backup gun, the Ruger LCP is a dependable choice.

You can find more about this compact and powerful pistol here.

 Ruger LCP Specs

What to Look for in a Ruger LCP Holster

Now that you have a clearer understanding of the LCP’s design and intended use, it’s time to find a holster that pairs well with this reliable carry pistol.

Holster Type

The first factor to consider when choosing a holster is where you plan to carry it, as this will determine the type of holster you need.

Due to its compact size, the Ruger LCP is most commonly carried inside the waistband. Its small frame also makes it well-suited for a variety of traditional carry positions, including appendix and 3-5 o’clock.

This decision is crucial, as not every holster is designed to accommodate all carry positions. For instance, the Vedder Holsters LightTuck® is a versatile option that works in nearly any position, while the SideTuck® is specifically crafted for appendix carry in the 1-2 o’clock position.

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

Material

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

While nylon holsters are widely available, they aren’t the best option for concealed carry. They tend to lack durability compared to other materials and don’t maintain their shape when the firearm is removed, making reholstering more difficult and potentially unsafe.

Leather holsters are another common choice, prized for their comfort and longevity. However, they can become sticky when exposed to moisture, sweat, or humidity. While durable, they don’t quite match the toughness of Kydex and will wear out faster over time.

Kydex has become the leading holster material on the market, and for good reason. It offers unmatched durability, concealability, and adjustability. Kydex holsters are heat-molded to fit specific firearm models, ensuring a precise and secure fit. Despite being made from rigid thermoplastic, they are surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear.

If you’re searching for a holster that combines the resilience of Kydex with the comfort of leather, a hybrid holster is an excellent option. These feature a sturdy Kydex shell for secure firearm retention and a leather backing for enhanced comfort against the body.

Adjustability

For a pistol like the Ruger LCP that’s designed for everyday carry, it’s essential to have a holster that allows for adjustments to enhance both comfort and concealment.

One key feature to look for is adjustable retention, which lets you customize how tightly your firearm is held. This not only accommodates personal preference but also plays a role in safety by ensuring a secure yet accessible draw.

Another important factor is adjustable cant, which allows you to tilt your holster forward or backward to achieve the ideal balance of comfort, concealment, and accessibility. Many Vedder Holsters models offer up to 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant, surpassing most competitors that provide only limited adjustability.

Lastly, adjustable ride height enables you to position your firearm higher or lower on your waistline, depending on your carry preference. Whether you prefer deep concealment or a slightly higher ride for quicker access, this feature allows you to tailor the holster to your needs.

Customization 

Every carry system is unique, as each person has different needs, preferences, and tastes. With the abundance of aftermarket firearm accessories and modifications available, it's essential to find a holster that can accommodate your setup.

At Vedder Holsters, we handcraft each holster to order, allowing for complete customization to fit your unique firearm. We offer a variety of Kydex colors and ensure our holsters feature full sight channels. Plus, they can be cut to fit a range of accessories like lights, lasers, and optics.

Our holsters are designed for both right- and left-handed users, and you can choose from different belt clip sizes or add optional attachments such as our holster claw. Some models also feature sweat shields and combat cuts for added comfort and functionality.

If you have a modification that’s not listed on our site, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll do our best to create a holster that meets your specific needs. 

Design

A holster's design goes beyond style, color, and adjustable features. In fact, some design aspects are crucial for safety and should never be overlooked.

The most important design element is a precise fit for your firearm. For Kydex holsters, your gun should fit so perfectly that you hear and feel a “click” as it locks into place. This isn’t just satisfying, it ensures that your firearm won’t shift or fall out of the holster.

Vedder's Ruger LCP holsters are designed for such an exact fit that there is almost no wiggle room once your pistol is holstered. Holsters with less precision can be dangerous and may cause wear on your firearm over time.

Equally important is a holster with a properly designed trigger guard and strong clips. Without secure clips, your holster could slip off your belt or shift around during the day, causing discomfort or loss of retention.

When choosing a holster, it’s crucial to ensure that the trigger guard completely encloses your LCP’s trigger, leaving no “daylight.” A holster that doesn’t fully cover the trigger may allow debris or other objects to enter, potentially activating the trigger. All Vedder Holsters feature a full-coverage trigger guard, providing maximum protection for your weapon.

Comfort

Pistols like the Ruger LCP are designed for everyday carry, so it’s essential to pair it with a holster that prioritizes comfort. Fortunately, due to its lightweight design, the LCP can be worn comfortably with a wide range of holster styles. However, if you’re seeking the most comfortable option, there are a few key factors to consider.

The most comfortable choice is typically a hybrid holster. The leather backing of a hybrid holster not only conforms to your body but also evenly distributes the weight of your firearm, making it feel lighter and more secure.

For those who prefer an all-Kydex holster, designs that make contact with your body at two points can achieve similar weight distribution as a hybrid. Adjustable Kydex holsters also allow you to find that perfect “sweet spot” for comfort and concealment.

If you’re using a Kydex holster like the LightTuck®, adding a Vedder HolsterPad can significantly boost comfort. This padded layer creates a cushion between your holster and body. You can adjust it to fit your holster or leave it long to wrap around the muzzle end, preventing discomfort during appendix carry.

Concealment

The Ruger LCP is built with concealment in mind, featuring a compact frame and subcompact size, making it the perfect concealed carry pistol. Pairing it with a bulky or ill-fitting holster would undermine the very purpose of this compact design.

So, what makes a holster truly concealable?

First, examine the holster’s shell. To prevent printing, the shell should be smooth, snag-free, and as thin as possible without sacrificing durability.

The clip is another crucial element for concealment. Many holster clips are bulky and made from plastic, which can result in printing. Look for a holster with a slim, steel clip. Our patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip is crafted from smooth spring steel, making it easy to conceal even under a basic T-shirt.

Optional accessories like pancake clips, holster claws, and holster wedges can also enhance concealment by drawing your weapon closer to your body.

Warranty

While factors like concealability, comfort, and adjustability are essential when choosing a holster, it’s also crucial not to overlook the importance of a solid warranty.

A warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that if anything goes wrong with your holster, you have the option for repairs or a replacement. It also reflects the confidence the company has in the quality of its product.

At Vedder Holsters, we back all our products with a 30-day risk-free trial and a lifetime guarantee. This means that if you’re ever dissatisfied with your purchase or if an issue arises in the future, we’ve got you covered. You can learn more about our warranty policy here. 

Best Ruger LCP Holster Options

Now that you know what to look for in a quality holster, let’s dive into the best holster for Ruger LCP options available. If you’d like to compare these holster options side-by-side, check out our comparison tool to learn more about the differences and which is right for you. 

Best IWB Holster for Ruger LCP

Everyone has different needs when it comes to finding the best concealed carry holster for Ruger LCP pistols. So, let’s break down the best options based on your preferences and needs.

First up, the Vedder Holsters LightTuck® is the top choice for an IWB holster for the Ruger LCP. This Kydex holster is incredibly versatile, offering the flexibility to be worn in almost any position. It includes fully adjustable retention, three levels of adjustable ride height, and 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Lightweight, tuckable, and featuring our patented Rock Solid Spring Steel Belt Clip, it’s the ultimate inside-the-waistband holster for concealed carry.

If comfort is your top priority, a hybrid option may be the way to go. Both the Vedder Holsters RapidTuck® and ComfortTuck® are ideal for the 3-5 o’clock position, offering premium cowhide or horsehide leather backing that molds to your body for unmatched comfort and concealability. The RapidTuck® is also fully adjustable, letting you select the perfect ride height and cant for your carry needs.

The Vedder ProTuck® is another fantastic hybrid holster. It combines the comfort of the ComfortTuck® with two points of contact and a design that naturally contours to your body. This holster is designed for the 3-5 o’clock position and offers fully adjustable retention for a customized fit.

If you want to carry a spare magazine along with your Ruger LCP, the Vedder SideTuck® is an excellent option. This holster provides the same concealability as the LightTuck® but adds a fully adjustable custom Kydex mag carrier. It also features a claw attachment, adjustable retention, and two points of contact for added security and comfort.

Best OWB Holster for Ruger LCP 380

If you prefer carrying outside the waistband, having the right holster is key to both comfort and functionality. Here are our top recommendations for the best concealed carry holster for Ruger LCP 380 pistols when carrying outside the waistband. 

One of the best outside-the-waistband holsters for the LCP is the Vedder Holsters LightDraw®. This Kydex holster combines practicality and comfort, featuring adjustable retention and a double-sided, fully reinforced shell that allows for one-handed reholstering.

For those looking for a hybrid OWB holster, the Vedder Quick Draw is the ideal choice. This holster offers a premium leather backing and two built-in belt loops for comfortable, accessible carry. It’s perfect for most outside-the-waistband positions, providing a balance of comfort and ease of use.

If you prefer a paddle holster, the Vedder ProDraw® is an excellent option. As the most adjustable of the OWB holsters, it includes adjustable retention and 15 degrees of forward and reverse cant. Lightweight and equipped with our OWB Paddle Clip, this holster is easy to put on and take off at the end of the day.

Best Pocket Holster for Ruger LCP

For those who prefer not to carry at the waistline, a pocket holster is an excellent option, and the LCP, thanks to its compact size, is an ideal candidate for pocket carry. The Vedder Holsters Pocket Locker® holster is a slim, Kydex option that slides easily into your pant pocket and stays securely in place.

Several features make the Pocket Locker® stand out. First, when drawing your firearm, the hook catches the edge of your pocket, smoothly pulling the firearm out, free from the holster. It’s also great for carrying in a bag or purse, as it includes eyelet hardware for attaching paracord for easy unholstering. An optional thumb tab offers a simple, quick draw with just a press of your thumb. Unlike many other pocket holsters, the Pocket Locker® also provides fully adjustable retention, making it one of the safest options available.

Summary

Whether you’re searching for an inside-the-waistband or outside-the-waistband concealed carry holster, finding the one that best suits your needs is essential.

Ultimately, the best holster for Ruger LCP 380 pistols comes down to your individual preferences and carry style. Consider what features are most important to you, compare your options, and make an informed decision based on the factors that matter most when choosing a quality holster.

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.