Cross Draw Holster Disadvantages

Crossdraw holsters are popular among cowboy action shooters, but they are less practical than strong-side holsters.

Crossdraw holsters are worn on the shooter's "weak" side (left side for right-handed shooters) with the grip facing forward. These holsters can be attached to a belt, worn inside the waistband or suspended from a shoulder harness, depending on the design. Crossdraw holsters are popular on television and film, but are not widely used among police and military forces due to their significant tactical disadvantages.

Draw across the target

The muzzle of a weapon which is drawn from a crossdraw holster swings across the target. This means that while the weapon is being deployed, as the shooter gets the target in sight, the gun is pointing in directions other than the intended target. Many shooters see "drawing across the target" as sloppy and potentially dangerous gun handling.

Draw across the body

Drawing a pistol from a crossdraw holster requires the shooter to reach with his strong hand across his body. The gun in the holster is farther from the shooter's hand than is the case with strong-side holsters. It takes longer for the shooter to reach the pistol. Then the shooter grips his pistol and reverses the motion of his arm, drawing the gun back to the strong side before it can be effectively aimed and used.

The pistol is accessible to attackers

Because the pistol's grip faces forward in a crossdraw holster, it is easier for an attacker to strip the gun out of the holster and use it on the gun's owner. It is simple for anyone who is face-to-face with the holster wearer to just reach down with their strong hand, grip the pistol and pull it free.

Versatility

Few holsters are designed for crossdraw. This means that most models of handguns are not fitted for a common crossdraw holster. Wearing a crossdraw limits the number and style of pistols the shooter can carry in this manner.

References

• Gun Week: The Case for Crossdraw Holsters