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Craft Holsters - Holsters - Smith & Wesson Holsters - Smith & Wesson 686 Holsters
Concealed Carry Holsters for Smith & Wesson 686
How To Choose The Best Concealed Carry Holster For Your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4"
When you're shopping for a new Concealed Carry holster for you.Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4", knowing exactly what you want matters. If you've narrowed it down to a Concealed Carry 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 Concealed Carry Holster?
Concealed carry holsters are designed for discreet everyday carry, keeping your firearm hidden while ensuring it remains secure and accessible when needed. Choosing the right concealed carry holster improves both your comfort and your confidence in daily carry.
Maximum discretion
Concealed carry holsters are built to minimise printing, keeping your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" out of sight under clothing. This allows you to go about your day without drawing attention to your firearm.
Comfort for daily wear
Quality concealed carry holsters are designed to be worn all day without causing discomfort. Features like sweat guards, breathable materials, and smooth edges prevent irritation and pressure points.
Secure and reliable
A good concealed carry holster ensures your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" stays firmly in place, even during movement, while allowing for a fast and natural draw when needed.
Versatile carry options
Concealed carry holsters come in various styles, including IWB, appendix, belly band, and ankle holsters, so you can choose the method that suits your clothing, body type, and lifestyle best.
Customizable fit
Many concealed carry holsters offer adjustable cant and ride height, letting you fine-tune the positioning for better concealment and faster access to your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4".
Whether you’re carrying for personal protection or as part of your daily routine, a concealed carry holster keeps your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" hidden, secure, and accessible.
How to Choose the Right Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" Concealed Carry Holster for Your Body and Lifestyle
Body type and fit
Slim users may prefer minimalist holsters that sit close to the body, while larger builds can benefit from wider holsters that distribute weight evenly and reduce hotspots.
Carry style
Decide which concealed carry style suits your needs. IWB is popular for deep concealment, appendix for quick access, belly band for flexibility, and ankle for backup carry.
Gun size compatibility
Ensure your holster is designed specifically for your Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4". Compact and subcompact firearms are easier to conceal, while full-size pistols require holsters with superior retention and concealment design.
Retention and safety
Look for holsters with reliable retention systems to keep your firearm secure. The trigger guard should always be fully covered to prevent accidental discharge.
Handedness
Choose a holster configured for your dominant hand for a smooth and natural draw. Some concealed carry holsters are ambidextrous for flexible setup.
Comfort features
Select holsters made from breathable, sweat-resistant materials with soft linings to enhance comfort, especially during all-day carry in warmer climates.
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 Concealed Carry 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
Holsters for Smith & Wesson Model 686 - 4" reviews
10 reviews
Latest reviews
Arnold S.
This is truly the best holster that I've ever purchased. I'm 68 years old, and have been buying holsters since I was 15, most of which are in a box of useless leather. When I received this cross draw, for my 686 4", I put my pistol in it, and not only did it fit perfectly, but the angle on my belt is second to none. It was made, and made right. The retaining snap was perfect from the first try. I also purchased the break in kit, but as of now, I haven't used or needed it. I'll probably purchase three more for my sons. Great Job Craft!
11/24/2025
United States
Tracy C.
Excellent holster. Very well-made. Thank you.
06/06/2024
United States
David
This holster serves the purpose very well. Within just a fews hours of carrying my S&W 686 it was starting to mold to me very well. After using the break in advice the next I forgot I was even carrying a pistol! It is very easy to draw and reholster my weapon after some practice. I look forward to using this holster every day.
03/14/2024
United States
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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
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