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Craft Holsters - Holsters - Smith & Wesson Holsters - Smith & Wesson 686 Holsters
Chest Holsters for Smith & Wesson 686
Fan Favorite Holsters
How To Choose The Best Chest Holster For Your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4"
When you're shopping for a new Chest holster for you.Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4", knowing exactly what you want matters. If you've narrowed it down to a Chest holster, you're already on the right path. Below, we’ll walk you through why this carry style might be the ideal fit, how to find the best model for your body type and setup, and what materials and add-ons to consider.
Why Choose a Chest Holster?
Chest holsters are a practical solution for those who need secure, accessible firearm carry in active or outdoor settings. Whether you're hiking, hunting, riding, or working in rugged environments, a chest holster offers unmatched stability and freedom of movement.
Perfect for outdoor activities
A chest holster keeps your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" off the hips, making it ideal when wearing backpacks, harnesses, fishing vests, or heavy gear.
Comfortable and balanced carry
Chest rigs distribute weight evenly across your shoulders and chest, reducing fatigue during long wear and keeping your firearm secure even while moving fast or climbing.
Fast, centered access
Positioned in front of your torso, chest holsters offer a natural and quick draw with either hand, especially valuable when seated, riding, or wearing layers.
No interference with belts or waistbands
Since it sits above your waist, this carry method avoids conflicts with hip belts, waders, or other lower-body gear.
Excellent retention and safety. Most chest holsters use adjustable straps and molded designs that keep your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" locked in, even in rough terrain or harsh weather. Whether you’re spending serious time in the backcountry or need a carry method that doesn’t get in your way, a chest holster is a dependable, hands-free solution for your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4".
How to Choose the Right Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" Chest Holster for Your Body and Activity
Body type considerations
Chest holsters come with adjustable harnesses to fit broad shoulders, large chests, or slimmer frames. If you're bigger, look for wider straps and reinforced padding for long-wear comfort. Slim users may prefer compact setups that sit closer to the torso without bouncing.
Hand orientation and draw angle
Many chest holsters allow ambidextrous draw, but some are optimized for right- or left-handed access. You can also choose between vertical or angled positioning based on your draw preference.
Activity-based fit
For hunting, opt for low-profile designs that sit under outerwear. If you're riding or hiking with a pack, prioritize high-mounted setups that won't shift under movement.
Retention features
Choose a model with adjustable retention straps or thumb breaks for extra peace of mind during rough terrain or bad weather.
Comfort features
Look for breathable, padded harness materials to reduce chafing and discomfort, especially during long hikes or full-day wear.
Check out other Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" holsters
Be sure to check out what other carry styles we have for Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4":
IWB Holsters
Choosing the best Chest holster for your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" comes down to fit, comfort, and confidence. Whether you carry concealed every day or need something rugged for outdoor use, this carry style delivers dependable performance.
Check favorite holster carry styles
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- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 (cal .45) - 4.6"
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- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Metal (cal. 9) - 4.25"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Performance Center, COMPACT CARRY COMP - 4.22"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 SubCompact - 3.6"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Tactical - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pro Series - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 CORE Pro Series - 5"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield - 3.1"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9 EZ - 3.675"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 380 EZ - 3.675"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ 30 Super Carry - 3.83"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ M2.0 380- 3.675"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ M2.0 9 - 3.8"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield M2.0 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9 Plus - 3.1"
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- Smith & Wesson Model 432 PD - 2"
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- Smith & Wesson Model 11 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 12 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 13 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 14 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 15 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 16 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 17 - 6"
- Smith & Wesson Model 18 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 19 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 48 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Model 64 - 4"
- Smith & Wesson Governor - 2.75"
- Smith & Wesson Model 65 - 4"
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Best Gun Holster Accessories
Choose the right accessories below that will enhance your carry. Don't forget that a proper magazine pouch, a belt or a concealed carry bag are always good choices.
MAGAZINE
POUCHES
Get yourself a custom mag pouch or speedloader pouch. Because there is never "enough ammo" right?
See Magazine Pouches
GUN BELTS
A solid and stable gun belt is what you need to prevent your holster and the rest of your EDC from sagging.
See Gun Belts
care kits
Don't forget to get yourself a handy kit that contains everything you need to make sure your holster will last you a lifetime.
See Care KitsLight bearing holsters are quickly becoming a preferred choice among firearm enthusiasts for their functionality and innovative features. Whether you're in search of a light bearing leather holster or a light bearing nylon holster, Craft Holsters has a vast array of options to cater to your unique needs.
What is a Light Bearing Holster?
If you're an aficionado of cutting-edge firearm accessories, you've likely come across a light bearing holster. This special type of holster is designed to accommodate a handgun equipped with a tactical light or tactical laser, providing the perfect amalgamation of functionality and style. Initially adopted by law enforcement and military professionals, these holsters are now becoming a staple among civilians, especially those who prefer a holster with light for nighttime use or low-light environments.
Key Benefits of Light Bearing Holsters
- Modern and innovative design, marrying style and function
- Suitable for both concealed and open carry with light bearing iwb holster and light bearing owb holster options
- Exceptional balance and premium comfort when carrying
- Quick and easy access to your firearm, especially in low light conditions
- Can accommodate various handgun models with tactical lights
- Ideal for larger pistols with light attachments
- Often features additional compartments for ammunition storage
- Easy concealment with styles like the light bearing iwb holster, even in warmer months
Main Types of holsters with light
Craft Holsters specializes in bringing a wide range of light bearing holster choices to cater to different preferences and needs. Here's a sneak peek into our major categories of light bearing holsters:
IWB Holsters
Just like the name suggests, IWB holsters with light are a type of concealed carry holster worn inside the waistband, most frequently attached to the 1 o’clock or 3 o’clock waist area.
OWB holsters
These are mainly used for outside waistband carry and they fall under the category of open carry holsters.
Shoulder holsters
Explore our collection of pistol holsters with light for shoulder carry that allows you to carry your light-equipped pistol with utmost convenience and style. In general, shoulder holsters offer probably the highest level of comfort and are quite easy to conceal, especially in colder months.
Materials
At Craft Holsters, we utilize a range of premium materials to craft the perfect light bearing holster for you. Here’s a glimpse into our craftsmanship:
Leather Holsters
Our light bearing leather holsters are renowned for their quality and durability, promising a lifetime of utility and elegance.
Kydex and Nylon Holsters
Apart from leather, we also offer a range of light bearing kydex holsters and light bearing nylon holsters, promising durability and a comfortable carrying experience.
Light Bearing Holsters FAQ
What is a Light Bearing Holster?
A light bearing holster is a specially designed holster that can accommodate a handgun equipped with a tactical light, providing easy access and secure storage for your firearm. It is an essential accessory for those who prefer carrying a pistol with a light attachment.
How to Make a Light Bearing Holster?
Creating a light bearing holster involves utilizing premium materials like leather, kydex, or nylon, and crafting them to fit specific handgun models with light attachments perfectly. At Craft Holsters, each holster is carefully designed to provide a secure fit for your firearm with a light. However, making one at home would involve precise measurements and skills in crafting materials. It is recommended to consult detailed guides or seek professional assistance.
What are the Best Light Bearing Holsters?
The best light bearing holsters are those that are crafted with precision and quality materials, offering a perfect fit for your firearm and ease of access. Our top recommendations at Craft Holsters include:
- IWB Holster w Steel Clip (Light/Laser)
- Shoulder Holster System (Light/Laser)
- Comfortable Belt Holster (Light/Laser)
How to break in a light-bearing holster?
If you get one of our holsters with light molded exactly for your gun and tactical light or laser, you most probably won’t have to bother with holster break-in. However, in case your new holster feels a bit too tight, just follow our Break-in Guide. And if you don’t have any break-in solution at hand, feel free to get our Small Break-in Kit, which comes with everything you need for a successful shoulder holster break-in.
Most User Recommended Tactical Lights
There are many tactical lights on the market, we created a list of the most sought after pistol lights and we have custom made holsters ready for them. Here they are
Holosun P.ID plus Holsters
Inforce Wild 1 Holsters
Inforce Wild 2 Holsters
Lasermax Laser Max (Ruger LCP Only) Holsters
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Nightstick TSM 14G Holsters
Olight Baldr Mini Holsters
Olight Baldr PRO Holsters
Olight Baldr pro R Holsters
Olight Baldr S Holsters
Olight PL 3 Valkyrie Holsters
Olight PL MINI 2 VALKYRIE Holsters
Olight PL MINI VALKYRIE Holsters
Olight PL PRO Valkyrie Holsters
Olight PL Turbo Valkyrie Holsters
Olight PL-3 R Holsters
Sig Sauer alpha foxtrot s15 Holsters
Sig Sauer foxtrot365xr Holsters
Sig Sauer foxtrot 1x Holsters
Sig Sauer foxtrot 2 Holsters
Solofish laser light combo Holsters
Streamlight TLR-6 1911 Holsters
Streamlight TLR-8 sub Holsters
Streamlight TLR-8 Holsters
Streamlight TLR-1 Holsters
Streamlight TLR-1 HL Holsters
Streamlight TLR-1 HL X Holsters
Streamlight TLR-2 HL Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 sub Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 SUB Glock Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 SUB Hellcat Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 SUB SIG Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7A Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7X Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 HL-X Holsters
Streamlight tlr1 s Holsters
Streamlight tlr7 Holsters
Streamlight tlr7a Holsters
Streamlight tlr 9 Holsters
SureFire X300U Holsters
SureFire X300U-A Holsters
SureFire X300U-B Holsters
SureFire x400u Holsters
SureFire xcs Holsters
Viridian C5L Holsters
Viridian E Series FDE for Hellcat Holsters
