Concealing your North American Arms Mini Revolver discreetly and safely is paramount if you choose to carry this diminutive firearm. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to finding the perfect holster, ensuring both comfortable everyday carry and secure access. We’ll explore various holster types, the critical factors to consider, and offer practical recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
The North American Arms (NAA) Mini Revolver is a marvel of engineering. This tiny handgun, often referred to as a “mouse gun,” is incredibly compact and easily concealed. Its small size makes it an attractive option for concealed carry, particularly when discretion is a priority. Whether you’re looking for a deep-concealment backup or a primary carry option, the NAA Mini Revolver offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to holsters.
This article is crafted to guide you through the world of **holsters for North American Arms Mini Revolvers**, covering a range of factors from holster types and materials to carry positions and safety considerations. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge you need to choose a holster that will serve you effectively and safely.
Choosing the Right Gear: Understanding Holster Types
The first step in selecting the right holster involves understanding the various types available. Each offers its own advantages and disadvantages, catering to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore the options:
Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters
The Inside the Waistband (IWB) holster is one of the most popular choices for concealed carry. Designed to be worn inside your pants, the IWB holster offers excellent concealment, allowing you to tuck your shirt over the gun. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize discretion.
The advantages of an IWB holster are significant. The close proximity to the body allows for easier concealment, especially with the small profile of the NAA Mini Revolver. However, comfort can vary depending on the design and your body type. You’ll need to experiment with different positions (more on that later) to find what feels best. IWB holsters are often crafted from materials like Kydex, leather, or hybrid combinations.
Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holsters
An Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster sits outside your pants, typically attached to your belt. This option usually offers easier access to your firearm compared to IWB holsters. It’s also often more comfortable, especially for extended periods.
The primary drawback of an OWB holster is the decreased concealability. While the NAA Mini Revolver is small, an OWB holster will still print (show through clothing) more readily than an IWB holster. OWB holsters are commonly made from Kydex, leather, or sturdy nylon. This is often a good option for those who prioritize comfort or when wearing a jacket or cover garment.
Pocket Holsters
Pocket holsters provide perhaps the ultimate in concealment. They are designed to fit inside your pocket, allowing you to carry your NAA Mini Revolver without the gun being directly visible.
The benefits of pocket holsters are undeniable for true concealment, especially when coupled with the diminutive size of the NAA. However, pocket holsters have limitations. They can slow down the draw stroke, and require a pocket specifically designed for the holster and the firearm. Moreover, the pocket needs to be clear of any obstructions when you go to draw the firearm. Various materials, from leather and nylon to Kydex, are used in their construction.
Ankle Holsters
Ankle holsters offer another concealed carry option. Worn around the ankle, they provide a concealed carry method, useful particularly when seated, such as while driving.
Ankle holsters often require a break-in period, and drawing can be slower compared to other methods. Comfort is a key consideration with this type of holster. They’re usually made from materials like leather, nylon, or neoprene.
While other types like shoulder holsters exist, they are less commonly used for the NAA Mini Revolver due to its small size and the practicality of carrying a tiny handgun in a shoulder rig. Similarly, if you are considering other carry options such as carrying the firearm in your purse, you must prioritize safety and use a holster designed for that purpose. Always ensure that your firearm is securely holstered and that you maintain trigger discipline.
What Matters Most: Key Considerations for Selection
Choosing the best **holster for North American Arms Mini Revolver** involves careful consideration of several factors.
How do you intend to carry? This is where carry style comes in. Do you need maximum concealment for everyday wear? Are you primarily seeking a backup weapon? Are you planning to carry it in various situations? Your carry style is the starting point, and will significantly narrow your search.
Concealment is a key consideration. Some holsters are designed specifically for enhanced concealment, using a variety of design features and materials. The goal is to keep the firearm from printing (showing through your clothing). Consider what clothing you typically wear. Loose-fitting clothing generally makes concealment easier. Consider the holster’s footprint and the way it fits against your body.
Comfort is another critical factor. A holster that’s uncomfortable will likely lead you to either change your carry habits or choose a different method all together. Pay attention to the materials used and their interaction with your body. Consider the design: does it have any sharp edges or pressure points? Consider testing the holster with your typical clothing.
Proper retention is critical for safety. Retention refers to the holster’s ability to securely hold the firearm, preventing it from falling out accidentally. Look for holsters with passive retention, which relies on friction to hold the gun in place. Some holsters also offer active retention, using a locking mechanism to secure the firearm. Ensure the holster has a good trigger guard.
The material used in your holster impacts durability, comfort, and concealability. Kydex is known for its durability, water resistance, and good retention, often customized to fit the gun perfectly, but can feel less comfortable than other materials. Leather provides a classic feel, offering comfort over time and can mold to the shape of your body with use, but needs some break in period and can be a more expensive option. Nylon holsters are generally the most inexpensive option, they are also very light weight but will often not provide the retention found with the other options and can also be less durable.
Ensure the holster is designed specifically for the NAA Mini Revolver. A properly fitting holster will provide the best retention and the most secure fit. It will also ensure that the trigger is fully covered and protected. Never use a holster not made specifically for your firearm, as this can be extremely dangerous.
Price is always a factor, and the range of **holster for North American Arms Mini Revolver** prices varies widely. Set a budget, but don’t sacrifice quality or safety for the sake of saving money.
Carry Positions Demystified
Where you carry your NAA Mini Revolver matters as much as the type of holster you select. Here are some common carry positions, keeping in mind that comfort and concealment will be a primary consideration.
IWB Carrying Positions
With IWB holsters, common positions include appendix carry (in front of the hip), strong-side carry (on your dominant side, behind the hip), and behind-the-hip carry (further back, closer to your back). Appendix carry can offer fast access, but requires careful consideration of muzzle direction during re-holstering, and is a good option for the tiny NAA, and is often a good choice when using an IWB. Strong-side carry can provide good concealment and access, while behind-the-hip carry offers good concealment, but can make drawing a bit more challenging.
OWB Carrying Positions
OWB carry usually is found on the strong side. This position generally allows easy access, but requires a cover garment for concealment.
Pocket Carry
Pocket carry is a good choice for concealment. Make sure the holster is designed specifically for pocket carry, and that it keeps the firearm properly oriented in the pocket for a smooth draw.
Ankle Carry
With ankle carry, the NAA Mini Revolver is positioned around the ankle, and is generally used as a backup, requiring a slightly slower draw compared to other options.
Recommendations – Finding the Right Holster
To help you find the best **holster for North American Arms Mini Revolver**, here are a few examples of solid products:
The first example is the Desantis Nemesis pocket holster. Designed specifically for pocket carry, this holster is made with a sticky material that helps it stay in your pocket during the draw. It fully covers the trigger, offering excellent safety. The Nemesis is a reliable, and inexpensive option.
Another great pocket holster option is the DeSantis Superfly. Like the Nemesis, the Superfly features a sticky outer material for pocket retention and includes a removable flap, providing an extra layer of concealment. This offers an adaptable concealment option that fits a variety of pocket configurations.
If you are interested in finding an IWB, then look at the Kydex holsters. They are popular, durable, and provide excellent retention and trigger protection, offering a variety of carrying positions, and are custom-molded to ensure a perfect fit for your NAA Mini Revolver, however, it can be less comfortable than other options.
*Remember, these are examples only, and the ideal holster will depend on your individual needs.*
Safety First: A Reminder
Safety must always be the top priority. The safe use of a **holster for North American Arms Mini Revolver** hinges on following key safety principles:
- *Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.*
- *Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy.*
- *Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.*
- *Be aware of your target and what is beyond it.*
Remember to practice drawing and re-holstering with your new holster in a safe and controlled environment. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the holster and your firearm and can highlight any safety issues you may have. Regular practice and training are the keys to safe and responsible concealed carry. Consider taking a professional firearms safety course.
The Path Forward: A Summary
Choosing the best **holster for North American Arms Mini Revolver** requires careful consideration of several factors: holster type, carry style, concealment, comfort, retention, material, fit, and price. The right choice depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
Your mission should be to choose the holster that meets your requirements and allows you to carry your NAA Mini Revolver safely, comfortably, and with discretion.
We encourage you to conduct thorough research, try out different holster options if possible, and always prioritize safety. With careful selection and responsible practices, you can confidently carry your NAA Mini Revolver. Consider visiting a local gun store to try out various holsters and gather insights from experienced professionals.
Prioritize safety, practice often, and make the most informed choice. Remember to start by choosing the right **holster for North American Arms Mini Revolver** that suits your lifestyle and needs. Happy carrying!
