Author name: Jacob Little

Every shooter has one. It’s that drawer filled with nylon sleeves, “one-size-fits-most” clips, and floppy leather pouches that seemed like a bargain at the time. You bought them because they were available, cheap, and promised to fit your “compact 9mm.” But if you’re reading this, you’ve probably realized that “universal” usually means “doesn’t actually fit anything well.”

Pistol-mounted red dot sights (RDS) have become increasingly popular over the last decade, moving from specialized competition setups to duty holsters and everyday carry (EDC) pistols. Still, among some shooters — especially those new to red dots or steeped in traditional iron sight doctrine — myths persist.

In the world of firearms training, not all instructors are created equal. Some have extensive, real-world experience backed by professional certifications, while others may lack formal credentials but still market themselves as experts.

A holster isn’t just an accessory—it’s a critical piece of gear that directly impacts your safety, comfort, and ability to defend yourself effectively.