Best CCW Belt: Top 7 Picks (+ Buyers Guide)

by Dave Chesson

September 12, 2024

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A few days ago, I ran into a friend who was frustrated because his belt kept sagging under the weight of his concealed carry. It turns out he was using a regular belt instead of one designed for concealed carry weapons (CCW). This made me realize that if he didn’t know better, others might be in the same situation.

If you carry even a few concealed carry guns, a proper CCW belt is essential. These belts are designed to support the weight of your firearm and accessories, keeping everything secure and accessible for a quick draw.

To help you avoid the frustration my friend experienced, I’ve compiled a list of the best CCW belts available today. This way, you can find a belt that provides comfort, security, and convenience for your concealed carry needs.

Before we dive into the list, let’s take a look at why you should go for a gun belt for concealed carry.

Best CCW Belt

Why use a CCW Belt

A CCW belt (or a gun belt) is designed to hold a lot of weight and be adjustable so it’s comfortable enough for everyday carry (EDC) and discreet enough for concealed carry. 

There are some specific features in gun belts to help with concealed carry:

  • Rigidity – Gun belts are often made with strong and stiff material like leather or nylon, and they reinforce some with super fiber to keep them rigid. This is to make sure they don’t sag under the weight of a handgun, a couple of mags, and anything else you want to clip onto the belt. 
  • Adjustability – It’s important to be able to adjust the fit easily when your posture changes while you’re carrying. Belts for concealed carry come with mechanisms to adjust your fit easily and subtly. 
  • Versatility – If you conceal carry frequently, chances are you have a few handguns you carry for different reasons. Most gun belts can accommodate different-sized handguns from full size to micro compact. Some belts can even work as tie-downs for shoulder holsters and carry straps. 

Every CCW belt comes with these features, but there are so many choices in the market for you to pick the best fit depending on your needs. To get an idea of your options, I’ve listed my top picks for the best CCW belts. But before we get into it, let’s take a quick look at how I chose the best CCW belts.

How I Chose the Best CCW Belt

As a former Navy officer, I’ve had the chance to use a variety of CCW belts. This hands-on experience has given me a solid understanding of what makes a good belt. For this article, I tested the CCW belts that served me well and included some belt suggestions from experts in the field. I evaluated these belts based on quality, versatility, rigidity, and comfort.

Now, I know that c hoosing the right CCW belt is a personal choice, and what works for me might not be the perfect fit for everyone. That’s why I’ve categorized these belts based on what they’re best suited for, making sure there’s something for everyone. Additionally, I’ve included a buyer’s guide to provide valuable insights into what factors to consider when selecting your next belt. So, let’s dive in and find the right one for you!

Gun University’s Choices of the Best CCW Belt

Best CCW Belts

KORE Tactical Gun Belt
  • Excellent adjustability
  • Supports loads up to 8 lbs
  • Low-profile
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Relentless Tactical Belt
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Good value for money
  • High-quality leather
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Best Durability

Daltech Bull Belt

Daltech Bull Belt
  • Extra thickness
  • Premium look with leather material
  • Comfortable
Buy on Amazon
Best for ease of use

Klik Belts 2-Ply Pelt

Klik Belts 2-Ply Pelt
  • Made of military-grade durable Nylon
  • Quick release buckle
  • Easy adjustability
  • Customizable
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Hanks Montana Bison Belt
  • Stiff and sturdy
  • High-quality leather
  • Durable
  • Made for heavy-duty use
Check Price
Best dress belt

KORE Leather Gun Belt

KORE Leather Gun Belt
  • Ratcheting belt for multiple size options
  • Adjustability
  • Comfortable fit
Check Price
Best for appendix carry

Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt

Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt
  • Push button trigger for quick release
  • Comfortable
  • Easy adjustability
Buy on Amazon

Best CCW Belts Specifications

Below is a table of the specs for each belt.

BeltMaterialBelt Width (in)Closure TypeCare
KORE Tactical Gun BeltNylon and super fiber1.5Alloy buckle with ratchet-style closureWet wipe clean
Relentless Tactical BeltLeather1.5Roller buckle with belt closureDry cloth clean
Daltech Bull BeltLeather1.5Elongated roller buckle closureDry cloth clean
Klik Belts 2-Ply BeltNylon1.5Aluminum buckle closureWet wipe clean
Hanks Montana Bison BeltBison leather1.5Stainless steel roller buckle closureDry cloth clean
KORE Leather Gun BeltTop grain leather and super fiber1.5Alloy buckle with ratchet-style closureDry cloth clean
Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC BeltNylon1.5Granite powder-coated buckle with ratchet-style closure Wet wipe clean

Best CCW Belts

Here is our list for the best CCW belts

  1. KORE Tactical Gun Belt
  2. Relentless Tactical Belt
  3. Daltech Bull Belt
  4. Klik Belts 2-Ply Belt
  5. Hanks Montana Bison Belt
  6. KORE Leather Gun Belt
  7. Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt

Best Belts for CCW – Reviews 

I’ve categorized the top 7 belts for concealed carry according to what they are best for and compiled in-depth reviews about my experience with each. Now you should be able to easily pin down what works for you. 

Best Overall KORE Tactical Gun Belt

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  • Quality A+
  • Versatility A-
  • Rigidity A+
  • Comfort A+

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A+

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KORE Tactical Gun Belt Specs

  • Material Nylon and super fiber
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Alloy buckle with ratchet-style closure
  • Care Wet wipe clean

KORE Tactical Gun Belt Review

My overall best pick from the CCW belts I’ve used is the KORE Tactical Gun Belt. Its fit is quite impressive, and the belt is adjustable, rigid, and durable just the way a gun belt should be. Kore Essentials really nailed it with this belt.

The KORE Tactical Gun Belt is made from a blend of nylon and super fiber, making it incredibly strong—stronger even than leather. I’ve used it with my Glock 20, and it never sags or bends, even during a draw. However, the rigidity can be a bit much for smaller guns like the Sig P365, making the draw slightly challenging.

What sets this belt apart is its adjusting mechanism. KORE has sewn a track with grooves at ¼-inch increments, allowing for precise adjustments. This means the belt fits any waist from 24 to 54 inches and can be adjusted smoothly on the fly.

Although it’s not a formal belt, its muted colors and rugged design work well for casual and outdoor use. If you have a smaller build, you might end up with a bit of belt tail, which can be a hassle. Despite this, the KORE Tactical Gun Belt remains my top choice due to its reliability and adjustability for CCW.

KORE Tactical Gun Belt Pros and Cons

  • Excellent adjustability
  • Supports loads up to 8 lbs
  • Low-profile
  • Too much belt tail
  • Not discreet with formal wear

Best stealth Relentless Tactical Belt

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  • Quality A+
  • Versatility A
  • Rigidity A+
  • Comfort A

Our Grade

A+

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Relentless Tactical Belt Specs

  • Material Leather
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Roller buckle with belt closure
  • Care Dry cloth clean

Relentless Tactical Belt Review

When it comes to choosing a stealthier belt, I recommend going with the Relentless Tactical Belt; it’s subtle with a classic leather finish, pretty compact, and can easily pass for a regular belt. I have two of these belts, one in black and one in brown, and I use them for my Glock 20 and Ruger LCR. The neutral colors help the belt blend in, making it nearly invisible as a gun belt.

Even with a heavy firearm like my Glock 20, the Relentless Tactical Belt holds up well. It provides a great fit and conceals my firearm effectively. The belt’s flexibility and double-ply construction offer both comfort and sturdy support while maintaining a discreet appearance. In fact, the low profile sometimes makes me forget I’m carrying.

Initially, the belt was a bit stiff and made a slight creaking noise, but that went away after a few weeks. It’s also not waterproof, so keeping it dry is advisable. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Relentless Tactical Belt is my top choice for a stealthy CCW belt due to its discreet design and reliable performance.

Relentless Tactical Belt Pros and Cons

  • Durable and sturdy
  • Good value for money
  • High-quality leather material
  • No steel core

Best durability Daltech Bull Belt

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  • Quality A
  • Versatility A
  • Rigidity A
  • Comfort A

Our Grade

A

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Daltech Bull Belt Specs

  • Material Leather
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Elongated roller buckle closure
  • Care Dry cloth clean

Daltech Bull Belt Review

My top pick for durability is the Daltech Bull Belt. Thanks to the high-quality leather it’s made of, it’s incredibly sturdy and durable. This full-grain leather belt, crafted from the strongest layer of bull hide, is the thickest and sturdiest CCW belt I’ve ever used.

The belt feels robust to the touch, and its impressive thickness ensures it never sags, rolls over, or stretches. I’ve carried heavy full-size service pistols and revolvers with this belt for years, and it has shown no signs of wear. It’s held up remarkably well under heavy use.

While the Daltech Bull Belt is built to support holsters without flexing, it’s still stylish enough for both dressy and casual occasions. Despite its thickness, it’s surprisingly supple, striking a great balance between sturdiness and flexibility. When I first got it, I expected it to be stiff, but its single-ply construction made it easy to adjust. The belt is heavy-duty but not bulky, and I’ve worn it for hours comfortably.

The only downside is that the thickness can make it incompatible with some holsters, so you might need a new one. It’s also a bit tricky to buckle and unbuckle due to its thickness, but the removable buckle allows for replacements if needed.

Overall, the Daltech Bull Belt is hands down one of the most durable belts I’ve ever owned and will likely remain in excellent shape for years.

Daltech Bull Belt Pros and Cons

  • Extra thickness
  • Premium look with leather material
  • Comfortable
  • Belt might be too thick for some holsters
  • Buckle is too small for the belt

Best ease of use Klik Belts 2-Ply Pelt

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  • Quality A-
  • Versatility A
  • Rigidity A
  • Comfort B+

Our Grade

A-

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TBD

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Klik Belts 2-Ply Belt Specs

  • Material Nylon
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Aluminum buckle closure
  • Care Wet wipe clean

Klik Belts 2-Ply Belt Review

Among the CCW belts I’ve used, my pick for the best ease of use goes to Klik Belts 2-Ply Belt. Its smooth adjustability and easy buckling make it almost as quick and simple as a ‘click.’

The COBRA® buckle is a game-changer with its snap and release mechanism. Instead of threading the belt through the buckle, you just weave the tail end through one side, adjust to your fit, and snap the buckle ends together until they click. Unbuckling is just as effortless—press the release clips, and you’re done.

However, getting the right size is important for the buckle to work properly. Klik offers nine sizes from 28 inches to 60 inches, with extra belt tail for easy adjustments. The tactical look might not suit every outfit, and my buckle did stick a bit initially, but it smoothed out with use.

The belt’s rigidity, made from two layers of military-grade nylon, ensures it holds up your firearm and mags without sagging. Though it can feel a bit stiff, Klik also offers a 1-Ply version if you prefer more flexibility. Adding customizations like a velcro closure or a pocket will push the cost to around $120, but if you’re okay with that or don’t need extras, the Klik 2-Ply Belt is a reliable, easy-to-use choice.

Klik Belts 2-Ply Belt Pros and Cons

  • Made of military-grade durable Nylon
  • Quick release buckle
  • Easy adjustability
  • Customizable
  • Less comfortable
  • Buckle tends to get stuck at the release

Best premium Hanks Montana Bison Belt

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  • Quality A
  • Versatility B+
  • Rigidity A+
  • Comfort A

Our Grade

A

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Hanks Montana Bison Belt Specs

  • Material Bison leather
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Stainless steel roller buckle closure
  • Care Dry cloth clean

Hanks Montana Bison Belt Review

At $150, the Hanks Montana Bison Belt is the most expensive belt I’ve used, but it’s worth every penny. Crafted from super durable bison leather, this belt can handle a lot of weight and still looks sleek.

Bison leather is tough, and Hanks backs the Montana Bison Belt with a 100-year warranty, which says a lot. I’ve been using mine for a few years now, and it’s held up like a champ. There’s been no splitting, peeling, or cracking, even though it’s stiff with double leather. I was initially concerned the rigidity might cause issues, but it’s been solid.

This belt is definitely built for heavy duty. When I first wore it with my CZ P10C, I wasn’t sure it would conceal well, but it did a fantastic job. The comfort was a pleasant surprise, and it stayed in place.

The only drawback is the weight, about 17oz, which can feel heavy, especially with a fully loaded rig. I’m okay with it, but if you go for this belt, keep in mind the manufacturer suggests going up two sizes for concealed carry.

The Montana Bison Belt looks great with both formal and casual outfits and doesn’t sag or shift. It’s a solid pick for reliable concealed carry if you’re okay with the price tag.

Hanks Montana Bison Belt Pros and Cons

  • Stiff and sturdy
  • High-quality leather
  • Durable
  • Made for heavy-duty use
  • Heavy
  • Expensive

Best dress belt KORE Leather Gun Belt

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  • Quality A-
  • Versatility A+
  • Rigidity A
  • Comfort A-

Our Grade

A

Reader’s Grade

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KORE Leather Gun Belt Specs

  • Material Top grain leather and super fiber
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Alloy buckle with ratchet-style closure
  • Care Dry cloth clean

KORE Leather Gun Belt Review

The second KORE on my list is my top pick for a dress belt: the KORE Leather Gun Belt. I picked it because of its sleek look that goes with formal wear and its comfortable and extremely adjustable fit.

I love this belt for its polished design—it pairs perfectly with a suit and doesn’t draw attention. The top-grain leather feels high-quality, and the gunmetal buckle adds a nice touch. Plus, it works great for concealed carry in any position, whether it’s outside the waistband, inside, or appendix carry.

What sold me on this belt is its adjustability. The inner track lets you adjust in ¼-inch increments, which is handy when I’m dressed up and need a precise fit. The leather is firm enough to keep my firearm secure but not too stiff to be uncomfortable.

The only real downside is the tail end sticks out a bit because of the stiffness. KORE offers a separate belt keeper for this, but I still had to trim the tail. Luckily, resizing isn’t too hard with their online guide. Despite this, the belt’s style and functionality make it a top choice for a dressy yet practical gun belt.

KORE Leather Gun Belt Pros and Cons

  • Ratcheting belt for multiple size options
  • Adjustability
  • Comfortable fit
  • Tail end is too stiff
  • Belt has to be resized

Best for appendix carry Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt

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  • Quality A-
  • Versatility A-
  • Rigidity B+
  • Comfort A-

Our Grade

A-

Reader’s Grade

TBD

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Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt Specs

  • Material Nylon
  • Belt width 1.5 in
  • Closure type Granite powder-coated buckle with ratchet-style closure
  • Care Wet wipe clean

Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt Review

I tend to go for appendix carry with some outfits to get easy access to my firearm, and the Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt is awesome for this because it’s super adjustable and comfortable. 

I’ve found it to be the best for appendix carry because its flexibility keeps the handgun from poking into my waist, which is a big plus for anyone who carries appendix. The belt’s pliable nylon strap and adjustable buckle let me position the buckle wherever it works best for me, whether at my hip or on the side, without compromising its rigidity.

The belt also has a grooved track for easy fit adjustments and a button trigger for quick release. The only downside is that the button can occasionally get stuck, which can be a bit annoying.

It’s sturdy enough to securely carry a full-size handgun and a couple of mags. Plus, its low-profile design works with both casual and formal outfits. One thing to note is that you’ll need to cut off the belt tail for the exact fit. It’s a bit of a hassle, but once you get past it, the fit and adjustability are excellent.

Nexbelt Supreme Appendix EDC Belt Pros and Cons

  • Push button trigger for quick release
  • Comfortable
  • Easy adjustability
  • Has to be resized
  • Release button gets stuck

Best CCW Belt – Buyers Guide

Whichever choice you go for, your concealed carry belt has to be reliable, durable, and comfortable. To help you narrow down your choices, I’ve compiled a buyers guide with the most important factors you need to keep in mind when you are on the lookout for a CCW belt. 

  • Material – Concealed carry belts are commonly made of leather or nylon as they are both tough and durable. Leather belts have the right rigidity for conceal carry, but they can sometimes be too rigid and heavy on your person. Depending on the quality of the leather, they last a long time with minimal wear. So if you’re getting one, take care to choose a comfortable fit. Nylon is lightweight, so easier to wear, but they tend to fray sooner than leather belts. 
  • Fit – Some gun belts come ‘one size fits all’, but many have size options to allow for a fit from mid-twenties to mid-sixties in inches. Gun belts are generally made for waist measurements, so it’s best to get a belt in your usual size and then adjust if you need. 
  • Rigidity – What sets gun belts apart from regular belts is their rigidity. You need your concealed carry belt to be rigid so it can support your firearm and keep it steady, especially when you need to draw it. This doesn’t mean the belt has to be uncomfortably stiff though–a good CCW belt has just the right amount of rigidity without making the fit uncomfortable. Leather belts are quite rigid and they adjust to your fit without sagging or stretching, and nylon belts, even though they’re less rigid than leather, are often double-ply which makes the belt sturdy. 
  • Thickness The thickness helps with the rigidity of the belt, and most times, thicker belts can provide a strong hold on heavy guns and other accessories. However, thicker belts can be too large for your usual holsters and loops. To ensure a proper fit, you might need to get a good holster specifically designed to match the thickness of your belt.
  • Width – The width of your belt helps distribute the weight of the firearm and other accessories you clip on to it. A belt that’s around 1.5 inches wide is a solid choice because it can easily fit through the pant loops and can handle the weight without sagging or bending.   
  • Durability – Gun belts are made to be durable because they tend to go through wear and tear more than the usual dress belt. However, you need to take special care when it comes to sweat and water. Leather isn’t completely waterproof or sweat proof, so make sure to wipe it with a dry cloth if you get rained on or tend to sweat a lot. Nylon tends to wear with time, but it holds out better against the elements. 
  • Adjustability – You need to be able to adjust your conceal carry belt because your fit can change depending on your clothing as well as your posture. Many belts have a buckle and prong pair to adjust your fit and some come with a ratchet-type closure so you can pick what works for you. Some CCW belts can be adjusted as a tie-down for shoulder holsters as well, so look out for it if you like that feature. 
  • Closure type – Gun belts have the same closure types as a regular belt, but they can be a bit more heavy-duty. There are buckle closures, ratchet-type, and clip closures made from metals like alloy steel, stainless steel, or aluminum, and some manufacturers even let you pick from a bunch of buckle designs. When looking for your gun belt, I recommend checking if the closure is easy to fasten and adjust and if it matches with your personal style. 
  • Style – The look and feel of the belt and its color are personal choices, but keep in mind that rugged-looking, heavy-duty gun belts can look a little out of place on your casual or formal outfits. There are a ton of different styles available on the market, so you can pick the right belt that pairs well and discreetly with your outfits. 

Finding the best belt for you depends on several factors and taking the time to consider them can help you make the ideal choice. Once you’ve found the right fit, conceal carrying will be a lot easier.  

Conclusion

With the right CCW belt, conceal carrying your gun can be both safe and comfortable; many of these belts are designed to be rigid, adjustable, and form-fitting, so you won’t have to worry about saggy belts or shaky holsters.   

Best CCW Belt – FAQs

Do you need a belt for CCW?

It’s not a must to have a belt for CCW, but wearing one can definitely make your life easier if you conceal carry frequently. The weight of your firearm could be too much to hold for a regular belt, but a gun belt can hold the weight plus give you a safe, comfortable, and concealed carry option. If you are looking to carry accessories as well, investing in a good gun belt will save you a lot of trouble down the line.

Can I use a regular belt for CCW?

You could, but a regular belt won’t be able to handle the weight of your firearm along with a holster and You’re better off using a dedicated CCW belt rather than a regular one. Regular belts often lack the rigidity and support needed to keep your firearm secure. A CCW belt is designed to be sturdy and prevent sagging, which is crucial for keeping your weapon in place and accessible. This support helps ensure that you can maintain personal protection effectively.

What gun belt should I get?

The best gun belt is one that fits your requirements. A 1.5 inch wide belt made of nylon or leather is generally compatible with a range of gun holsters and accessories. However, keep in mind that a heavier gun needs a stronger belt, and a lighter gun can be paired with a thin and lightweight belt.

What is the strongest belt material?

Both leather and nylon are great materials for gun belts. If you want a leather belt, I recommend going with bull hide or bison leather because they are extremely strong and durable. If your preference is nylon, double-ply belts are a good option. 

What is the most comfortable CCW method?

Outside the Waistband (OWB) is a great concealed carry option for comfort. It holds your gun outside the belt and keeps it from poking into your body. Carrying larger firearms is a bit of a hassle with many concealed carry positions, but with carry OWB, you can easily carry a larger gun and have access to an easy draw. 

Are Kore gun belts suitable for concealed carry?

Yes, Kore belts are an excellent choice for concealed carry. Their sturdy construction and adjustable ratchet belt system offer a secure and comfortable fit, which helps keep your firearm securely in place while you go about your daily activities.

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About Dave Chesson

Dave Chesson is prior Navy with a specialty in international arms dealing for the US government across multiple countries. Having traveled the world and abided by ATF and ITAR, Roy has a unique background in legal as well as practical capabilities of weapons deployment and use.

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2 COMMENTS

  1. I now have 3 belts from Kore Essentials and its as close to a perfect product as you can get. Holds any of my pistols rock solid with no slag or sag when walking or drawing. Super supportive as well while still flexing a bit for comfort. I rotate mine and wear them every day. So I would defintely recommend.

  2. I have 3 of the kore gun belts in leahter and 2 tactical varities and I can attest they are superb for everyday usage. I carry a glock 19, 45 and sig p365 somedays and this belt does it all with ease.

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