Quick answer: The Glock 17 and Glock 22 are full-size pistols, so many owners find an OWB pancake holster or a shoulder holster more comfortable than inside-the-waistband carry. A leather IWB holster with a belt clip is still possible with a sturdy belt. Choose a holster made for the Glock 17 or 22, with full trigger guard coverage and secure retention.
The Glock 17 is one of the most widely used pistols in the world, and its .40 S&W sibling, the Glock 22, shares its size. Both are full-size handguns, which changes the holster conversation compared to the compact Glock 19. This guide compares your options and explains what to look for.
Glock 17 and Glock 22: what is the difference?
The Glock 17 is chambered in 9mm, and the Glock 22 is chambered in .40 S&W. They use the same overall frame and a very similar slide, which is why holsters made for one commonly fit the other. If you carry a compact model, see our guide to the best holster for the Glock 19.
Why full-size guns change the holster choice
A full-size pistol has a longer barrel and a longer grip than a compact. That makes it:
- Heavier to carry all day, which puts more stress on your belt.
- Harder to conceal inside the waistband, because the grip can print through a shirt.
- More stable to shoot, which is why many people prefer it for home defense, duty and range use.
Because of this, the carry style matters even more than it does with smaller guns.
OWB pancake holsters: a comfortable fit for a full-size Glock
A pancake holster threads onto your belt and holds the gun close to your body. It spreads the weight and keeps the grip within easy reach. Our Glock 17/22 pancake holsters are handmade from genuine cowhide leather:
- Glock 17/22 pancake holster, a hand-molded design
- Glock 17 pancake holster with thumb break
- Glock 17/22 pancake holster with a single magazine pouch
- Glock 17/22 pancake holster with a double magazine pouch
- Glock 17/22 pancake holster with two single magazine pouches
- Glock 17/19/22/23 open-end pancake holster, made for the whole family
Many of these come with magazine pouches that thread onto the same belt, so your holster and spare magazines carry together. Browse the full range in our OWB holster collection.
Handmade leather holsters for Glock 17 and 22
IWB holsters for a Glock 17
Carrying a full-size gun inside the waistband is possible, but it takes a solid belt and sensible clothing. Our leather IWB holsters with belt clips for the Glock 17 include the K149, KM149 and K169. If you are weighing inside against outside the waistband, our IWB vs OWB comparison will help.
Shoulder holsters for Glock 17 and 22
A shoulder holster takes the weight off your belt and is a strong choice for a heavier gun. We offer the Glock 17/19/22/23 vertical shoulder holster with a double magazine pouch, the vertical and horizontal shoulder and belt holster and the Glock 17 horizontal shoulder and belt holster. See our shoulder holster guide for fitting tips.
Belt slide and small-of-back options
For a simple, low-profile carry, the Yaqui slide belt holster is made for the Glock 17/19/22/23 family and has adjustable tension. Small-of-back holsters for the Glock 17/22 exist as well, such as the Glock 17/22/30 small-of-back holster, but they come with safety trade-offs; read our guide to small-of-back holsters first.
What to check before you order
- Model match. Look for your exact model on the listing.
- Lights and optics. If your Glock has a weapon light, laser or red-dot sight, confirm fit with the maker.
- Right- or left-hand. Most of our holsters are right-hand; check the product title.
- Retention. Decide whether you want a thumb break or a simple molded fit.
- Belt. A full-size gun needs a stiff belt. Read our gun belt guide.
Glock 17 vs Glock 19: how the holster differs
The Glock 19 is shorter than the Glock 17 in both barrel and grip, which is why a holster made for the Glock 19 usually will not fit a Glock 17 properly. A holster listed for the 17/22 family wraps the full-size slide and grip. Some holsters are made to fit the whole family, such as our open-end Glock 17/19/22/23 pancake holster, but fit can be looser or different, so always read the listing. If you also carry a compact, see our Glock 19 holster guide.
Which style for which situation?
| Situation | Style to consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Range or outdoor days | OWB pancake | Comfortable, quick to draw, easy with a pouch |
| Long drives or desk days | Shoulder holster | Weight sits on the shoulders and stays out of the seat |
| Everyday discreet carry | IWB with a sturdy belt | Hides under an untucked shirt, though a full-size gun can print |
| Quick, simple carry | Belt slide holster | Low profile and adjustable tension |
Tips for carrying a full-size Glock comfortably
- Use a stiff belt that does not flex under the weight of the gun and a loaded magazine.
- Choose a holster with a snug molded fit so the gun does not shift as you walk.
- Consider a shirt or jacket that is slightly longer than you would wear with a compact gun.
- Try the holster at home for a few days with an unloaded gun before relying on it.
Our complete holster buying guide covers more, and for background on the pistol family see pistol.
Break-in and care
A new leather holster may be snug until it is broken in. Our guide on how to break in a leather holster covers the safe way to do it, and our care guide explains how to keep it in shape. Browse all our Glock holsters in one place.
Key takeaways
- The Glock 17 (9mm) and Glock 22 (.40 S&W) share the same full-size frame, so many holsters are made for both.
- Full-size guns are heavier and longer, so OWB pancake and shoulder holsters are often the most comfortable options.
- IWB is possible with a stiff belt and the right clothing, but plan for a bigger waistband.
- Look for holsters that name both models, cover the trigger guard fully and retain the gun securely.
- A magazine pouch or a pancake holster with an included pouch keeps your spare magazine on your belt.
Comfortable OWB pancake holsters for full-size guns
Frequently asked questions
Are Glock 17 and Glock 22 holsters interchangeable?
Often yes. Both guns share the same full-size frame and similar slide dimensions, so many holsters are listed for both. Always check that the product page names both models before you order.
Can you carry a Glock 17 concealed?
Yes, many people do. It is larger than a Glock 19, so it needs a good belt, the right clothing and a well-made holster. OWB and shoulder holsters can be easier to wear comfortably than IWB for a full-size gun.
What is the best holster style for a full-size Glock?
OWB pancake holsters are a popular choice for comfort and a quick draw, and shoulder holsters suit long seated days. IWB works too, with a sturdy belt and relaxed waistband.
Will a Glock 17 holster fit a Glock 19?
Not usually. The Glock 19 is shorter, so a holster molded for the Glock 17 will not fit it the same way. Some holsters are made for the whole family; check the listing for the exact models.
Do I need a thumb break on a Glock holster?
It is optional. A thumb break adds a layer of retention, which many people like for OWB carry outdoors or when moving a lot. Some people prefer a simple molded fit for speed. Choose what suits your use.
This guide is general information, not legal or professional advice. Always follow your firearm manufacturer's instructions, practice the basic rules of firearm safety, and make sure you understand the laws that apply where you live.