Holster & Sling Systems

A good holster and sling system ensures that your replica remains safe, comfortable and readily accessible at all times. Whether you’re carrying a sidearm on your battle belt, want to carry a rifle over your shoulder, or wish to secure your secondary replica further with a pistol lanyard, the right setup makes a huge difference during a skirmish or milsim event.

Go straight to the information you need:
• Why choose a holster and sling system?
• A modular system that grows with you
• The right choice starts with your sidearm
• Slings – More than just a carrying strap
• Slings with or without a bungee
• Professional use
• What should you look out for when buying a holster and sling system?
• Frequently asked questions

In this category, you’ll find everything you need to customise your carrying equipment exactly as you wish. The range includes holsters, holster adaptors, leg panels, pistol lanyards and slings. This not only allows you to carry your sidearm safely, but also to adjust the position of your holster or carry your rifle comfortably over longer distances.

Whether you opt for a universal fabric Airsoft holster, a replica-specific tactical holster, a 1-point sling, a 2-point sling or a 3-point sling, you’ll find a system in this category that suits your playing style and kit.

Why choose a Holster & Sling System?

In a skirmish, it’s all about speed, freedom of movement and reliability. A well-adjusted holster and sling system ensures that you can carry your sidearm or primary replica safely without it getting in the way whilst running, climbing or changing position.

A good holster or a high-quality rifle sling not only makes carrying more comfortable, but also allows you to move more efficiently. You have both hands free when you need them, and your equipment always remains in a fixed, familiar position.

A modular system that grows with you

One of the biggest advantages of modern holster and sling systems is their modular design. You don’t need to buy a completely new system for every application.

A plastic pistol holster that is originally supplied as a paddle holster can often be easily converted into a:

• MOLLE Holster using a MOLLE adapter.
• Drop Leg Holster by fitting a Leg Panel.
• Belt configuration for use on a battle belt.

This means you can use the same holster for different loadouts and playing styles. If you’re playing CQB with a battle belt one week and a woodland skirmish with a plate carrier the next, you’ll often only need to adjust the attachment rather than buying a completely new holster.

It is precisely this flexibility that makes modern tactical holsters popular with players who regularly adjust or expand their kit.

Making the right choice starts with your sidearm

Not every airsoft holster is the same. Broadly speaking, you can choose between two different systems: universal holsters and replica-specific holsters.

A universal fabric holster offers a great deal of flexibility and is suitable for various pistol models. This makes it an excellent choice if you use several sidearms or aren’t yet sure which replica you’ll be buying in the future.

A replica-specific plastic holster, on the other hand, is designed for a single specific pistol model. As the shape fits the replica exactly, this ensures better retention and a consistent draw. Players who train a lot or regularly take part in skirmishes therefore often opt for a model developed specifically for their sidearm.

This immediately highlights an important point to bear in mind. If you use a Pistol Light, laser or Red Dot Sight on your pistol, always check that the holster is suitable for these accessories. Many replica-specific holsters are designed for a standard configuration. Fitting accessories can alter the fit, meaning that the retention system no longer works correctly or the replica may not even fit into the holster at all.

Fortunately, more and more manufacturers are responding to this trend with light-bearing and optic-ready holsters. The range is growing, but – certainly within the airsoft world – it remains more limited than that of standard holsters. You should therefore always check the product specifications before purchasing to ensure that your configuration is supported.

Universal holsters

A universal holster is designed to accommodate different models of pistol. Thanks to adjustable straps or a flexible design, these holsters are suitable for a wide range of replicas, meaning you don’t need to buy a separate holster for every pistol.

In this category, you’ll find, amongst other things, universal belt holsters and universal drop-leg holsters made from sturdy fabric. These models are popular with novice players, hire outlets and airsoft players who regularly switch between different sidearms.

The advantages of a universal holster are:

• Suitable for several gun models.
• Easy to adjust.
• Comfortable to use.
• Often better value for money than holsters designed specifically for replicas.
• Ideal if you use multiple loadouts.

Please bear in mind, however, that a universal holster generally offers less retention than a replica-specific plastic holster. As a result, the draw is slightly less consistent and the pistol often sits slightly less securely in the holster.

Replica-specific plastic holsters

For players who use a single fixed sidearm, a replica-specific tactical holster is often the best choice. These holsters are moulded exactly to the shape of the relevant pistol model, ensuring that the replica remains securely in place whilst still allowing it to be drawn quickly when needed.

With many plastic holsters, the retention is achieved by locking the replica in place at specific points, such as around the trigger guard. This ensures that the pistol remains securely in the holster even whilst running, climbing or crawling.

These holsters are available for a wide range of replicas and firearm platforms and are the preferred choice of many experienced airsoft players due to their fast and predictable draw.

Paddle Holsters

A paddle holster is one of the most popular carrying methods in airsoft. Thanks to the wide paddle on the back, you can easily slide the holster behind your trouser waistband, meaning a separate battle belt isn’t necessary.

This makes a paddle holster ideal for players who want to get their kit on quickly or who regularly switch between different loadouts.

Advantages of a Paddle Holster:

• Quick to fit and remove.
• No battle belt required.
• Comfortable during prolonged use.
• A good balance between stability and freedom of movement.

For recreational skirmishes and training days, a paddle holster is therefore often an excellent choice.

MOLLE Holsters en Holster Adapters

An increasing number of plastic holsters can be fitted with a Holster Adapter. This allows you to easily convert a standard paddle holster into a MOLLE holster that can be attached directly to a plate carrier, chest rig or battle belt with MOLLE/PALS webbing.

It is precisely this modular design that is a major advantage. Instead of buying several holsters, you can use the same holster on different carrying platforms.

For example, if you’re using a lightweight CQB loadout, you’ll use the holster in paddle style. For a woodland or milsim event, you can easily attach the same holster to your battle belt or plate carrier using a MOLLE adapter.

Leg Panels en Drop Leg Holsters

With a Leg Panel, you can convert a plastic holster into a drop-leg holster. This means the holster sits slightly lower on the thigh, making the pistol easier to reach when you’re wearing a large plate carrier or an elaborate belt setup.

A drop-leg configuration is commonly used in military loadouts and at larger milsim events, where the waist is often largely taken up by pouches and other equipment.

However, it’s worth noting that lower isn’t always better. A holster that sits too low on the leg may move around more whilst running and feel less comfortable. That’s why many experienced players choose to use a Mid Ride or higher Leg Panel. This ensures the pistol remains easily accessible without unnecessarily compromising comfort or freedom of movement.

The right Leg Panel therefore not only makes your sidearm more accessible, but also ensures that your entire loadout remains balanced.

Pistol Lanyards

A Pistol Lanyard is perhaps one of the most underrated items in a loadout, but it can make a big difference in practice. A lanyard attaches your sidearm to your battle belt or kit, preventing the pistol from falling to the ground or even getting lost if it slips out of your hand.

Within military units and police forces, lanyards have been used for many years as an additional means of weapon retention. They are also becoming increasingly popular in the airsoft community, particularly during woodland skirmishes and milsim events where there is a lot of running, climbing or crawling.

Advantages of a Pistol Lanyard:

• Prevents you from losing your sidearm.
• Extra safety during high-intensity movements.
• Greater safety during training sessions and events.
• Easy to attach to a battle belt or kit.

For players who move around a lot or regularly play through dense vegetation, a lanyard is a relatively small investment that can prevent a great deal of frustration.

Slings – More than just a carrying strap

A Rifle Sling has two key functions. Of course, a sling makes it more comfortable to carry a replica, but just as important is the fact that you can quickly release your primary replica when you need to switch to a sidearm.

During a skirmish, you’re constantly switching between walking, running, taking cover and handling other equipment. A well-adjusted Tactical Sling ensures that your replica remains securely slung against your body without constantly getting in the way.

Depending on your playing style, you can choose from a range of systems, each with its own characteristics.

1 Point Slings

A 1 Point Sling is attached to the replica at a single attachment point, usually at the rear of the receiver.

This system offers maximum freedom of movement and makes it easy to switch shoulders quickly. As a result, the 1 Point Sling is particularly popular with players who mainly play CQB.

Advantages:

• Maximum freedom of movement.
• Switch shoulders quickly.
• Ideal for compact replicas.
• A quick switch to a sidearm.

The downside is that the replica hangs freely beneath your body when you let go of it. This can be less comfortable over longer distances or during intense running, particularly with heavier replicas.

2 Point Slings

The 2 Point Sling is by far the most widely used sling system in the airsoft world and is regarded by many players as the most versatile solution.

The sling is attached to two points on the replica, which distributes the weight more evenly and ensures the replica hangs more securely against the body.

This makes a 2-point sling ideal for:

• Woodland-skirms.
• Milsim events.
• The DMR platform.
• Longer walks.
• Heavier replicas.

What’s more, many modern 2-point slings can be adjusted quickly, so you can easily change the length whilst playing. This makes this type of sling suitable for virtually any playing style.

3 Point Slings

A 3-point sling was the standard in military applications for many years and is still in use today, although you see this system less often than a 1- or 2-point sling.

Thanks to the extra strap, the sling runs alongside the replica, allowing it to be carried very stably. This is particularly advantageous during longer patrols or static duties.

On the other hand, a 3-Point Sling uses more webbing around the replica. As a result, the system is slightly more complex to adjust and less popular amongst players who are looking for speed and freedom of movement.

However, for enthusiasts of realistic military loadouts or specific historical configurations, a 3-point sling remains an interesting choice.

Slings with or without a bungee cord?

As well as the number of attachment points, the type of sling also plays an important role. Some Tactical Slings feature Bungee Retention, whilst other models are entirely static.

A Bungee Sling features an elasticated section that absorbs shocks whilst walking, running or kneeling. This makes the replica feel lighter and allows it to move more smoothly with the body. This enhances comfort, particularly during long days of play or when engaging in vigorous activity.

A sling without a bungee cord, on the other hand, offers more direct control over the replica. There is no give in the system, which means the replica remains more securely in place against the body. Many players who want maximum control during precision shots or when firing at longer ranges therefore prefer a non-elastic sling.

Which version suits you best depends mainly on your personal preference, the weight of your replica and the way you play.

Professional use

Holsters and slings are used worldwide by military personnel, police forces, security professionals and instructors. It is not just about carrying a weapon, but above all about safety, accessibility and control.

A well-fitted holster ensures that a sidearm is carried safely whilst remaining readily accessible when needed. A well-chosen sling prevents fatigue when carrying a rifle for long periods and allows both hands to remain free for other tasks without having to set the replica down on the ground.

These principles are also evident in the sport of airsoft. As players gain more experience, they pay increasing attention to the ergonomics of their loadout. A well-chosen holster and sling system plays a significant part in this.

What should you look out for when buying a holster and sling system?

You don’t choose a holster or sling based on looks alone. The system must be compatible with your replica, your kit and your playing style.

Please note, amongst other things:

• Universal or replica-specific holster.
• Compatibility with a weapon light, laser or red dot sight.
• Paddle, MOLLE or Drop Leg attachment.
• Option to add adapters or Leg Panels at a later date.
• The desired retention level.
• Type sling: 1 Point, 2 Point of 3 Point.
• Sling with or without bungee retention.
• Adjustability and comfort.
• Compatibility with your battle belt or plate carrier.

By thinking carefully about your entire loadout in advance, you’ll avoid having to replace parts later on because they don’t fit together properly.

Common mistakes

A good holster and sling system improves comfort and efficiency whilst playing. Yet the same mistakes are made time and time again.

Common mistakes include:

• Buying a replica-specific holster without checking whether it supports a weapon light or a red dot sight.
• Adjusting a drop-leg holster too low, causing it to move whilst running.
• You would expect a universal holster to offer the same level of retention as a plastic model.
• Carrying a heavy rifle on a simple 1-point sling during long woodland skirmishes.
• Do not use a pistol lanyard if there is a risk that the sidearm could come out of its holster during vigorous movement.
• Failing to adjust the sling properly, causing the replica to hang too high or, conversely, too low.

Frequently Asked Questions about Holster & Sling Systems

What is the difference between a universal holster and a replica-specific holster?
A universal holster is suitable for multiple pistol models and offers a great deal of flexibility. A replica-specific holster is designed for a single specific model and generally offers better retention and a faster, more consistent draw.

Will a pistol fitted with a weapon light or red dot sight fit in any holster?
No. Many plastic holsters are designed for a standard configuration. If you’re using a weapon light, laser or red dot sight, always check that the holster is suitable for this.

When should I choose a Paddle Holster?
A Paddle Holster is ideal if you want to be able to carry a holster quickly without using a full battle belt. The system is easy to put on and take off.

What is the advantage of a Holster Adapter?
With a Holster Adapter, you can use the same holster on different platforms, such as a battle belt, MOLLE system or leg panel. This means you don’t need to buy multiple holsters.

Which sling is the most versatile?
For most airsoft players, a 2-point sling is the best all-round choice. This system offers an excellent balance between comfort, stability and freedom of movement.

Is a pistol lanyard necessary?
Not always, but a pistol lanyard prevents a sidearm from being lost or falling to the ground whilst running, climbing or crawling. It is a particularly valuable addition to your loadout during woodland and milsim events.

With the right Holster & Sling System, you can carry your sidearm and rifle more safely, comfortably and efficiently. Discover our range of Holsters, Holster Adapters, Leg Panels, Pistol Lanyards and Slings, and put together a configuration that suits your playing style and kit.