Did you know that the Smith & Wesson Equalizer is quickly becoming a favorite for everyday carry? Its slim design and easy-to-rack slide make it a top choice for many shooters. However, owning a great firearm is only half the battle. You still need a holster that keeps your pistol secure while remaining comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Finding the perfect holster can feel like a headache. Many options on the market are bulky, uncomfortable, or fail to provide the right level of retention. You might worry about your gear digging into your side or shifting around while you move. A bad holster often ends up in a junk drawer, wasting your hard-earned money and leaving your firearm unprotected.
In this guide, we take the guesswork out of your search. We will explore the best materials, carry positions, and safety features specifically designed for the Equalizer. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for to ensure a perfect fit for your body type and lifestyle. Let’s dive in and find the ideal holster to keep your Smith & Wesson Equalizer ready and accessible whenever you need it.
Top Holster For Smith & Wesson Equalizer Recommendations
- CUSTOM FIT- HawkFire Defense holsters are made in the USA with precision to be a perfect fit for your Smith and Wesson Equalizer 9mm Pistol. Custom fit for Equalizer TS and NTS model. Optics cut and ready. Not compatible with rail mounted lights or lasers. (optics not included)
- ULTRA DURABLE AMERICAN KYDEX - Lightweight, Water / Sweat proof, flexible but extremely durable. Our high quality USA made kydex is more flexible than other brands and will feel more comfortable than the more rigid materials used in competing products.
- ADJUSTABLE CANT PRESSURE - Although each holster will work right out of the box you have the option to tighten or loosen the pressure of the hold on your S & W Equalizer pistol to your preference.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY - At Hawktac we take great pride in producing the best fit for your S&W Equalizer Holster and stand behind the quality and reliability. If for any reason you are not satisfied please contact our customer service and we will make it right.
- Optics Ready: Integrated optics cut accepts most sights, providing full freedom in your setup
- Next Gen Materials: Boltaron polymer construction is superior to traditional, cheaper Kydex holsters in impact and temperature resistance, keeping your protection safe and ready to perform
- All Day Comfort: Slim profile chassis weighs just a few ounces and minimizes printing. Full length sweat guard shields your weapon from incidental moisture
- Perfect Fit: Custom molded for your firearm, ensuring a smooth draw and reholster, every time. Recessed design removes friction points, minimizing holster wear common to most holsters.
- Superior Performance: Posi Click system delivers a satisfying "click", indicating your firearm is properly holstered. Adjustable retention pressure and cant (0-15 degrees) allows you to custom tailor the feel to your needs
- 【Custom Fit for Shield EZ & Equalizer】Precision molded for Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm EZ, Shield 380 EZ, and Equalizer. Ensures secure fit with optic sights.
- 【RDS-Ready with Index Release】Compatible with red dot/optic sights. Level II retention system features index finger release for quick, secure draw.
- 【360° Adjustable Paddle Platform】Includes a full-rotation paddle for customizable carry position—appendix, hip, or cross-draw. Fits 1.5"-2.25" wide belts.
- 【Compatible Models】Fits: M&P Shield 9mm EZ, Shield 380 EZ, Equalizer. 【Incompatible Models】Does not fit: M&P Performance Center EZ, models with laser/light attachments.
- 【Durable & Lightweight Build】Injection-molded from impact-resistant polymer for daily carry reliability, comfort, and longevity.
- FITS GUN MODELS - The GRITR OWB holster is created for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ 9/380/S&W Equalizer models and doesn't fit light/laser-mounted models; GRITR OWB open carry holsters are rugged and durable gun accessories for men and women, enabling you to feel confident anytime, anywhere, and in any situation
- OPTICS-READY PISTOL HOLSTER - All GRITR outside the waistband holsters come with an optic cut and open bottom to accommodate different red dot sights and various compensators, allowing you to customize your pistol the way you want and still have a great holster to carry it in
- COMPATIBLE WITH SAFARILAND QLS & G-CODE RTI - Fits the Safariland Quick Locking System as well as the G-Code Rapid Transition Interface, enabling you to easily move or change your pistol without removing it from the holster; The new GRITR 2023 holster is constructed by professionals, meeting the needs of experienced and amateur shooters
- ADJUSTABLE RETENTION & CANT - GRITR EDC holsters come with an adjustable retention screw, letting you customize the holster for the perfect fit while ensuring your gun is secure; An adjustable cant allows you to choose any carry angle up to 360 degrees, making it a great pistol accessory for shooters with different carry styles
- TOP-QUALITY MATERIALS - This GRITR right-handed gun holster is made of thick .08" (2mm) Kydex; Crafted from waterproof, washable, and lightweight material, the OWB holster preserves your handgun in perfect condition
- 【M&P Shield 9mm EZ Holster OWB Right Hand】Perfectly fit: Smith and Wesson M&P Shield EZ (9mm / 380) / S&W EQUALIZER Pistols, .8’’ US Kydex made both comfortable and durable. Outside the waistband Open carry (Note: Not Fit any laser/light)
- 【Optic Cut】 Holster M&P Shield 9mm EZ accommodates variety of optics, Over-Cut Open muzzle allows threaded barrels pass through
- 【Posi-Click Audible Retention Lock System, Fits Like A Glove】 This owb holster right hand possess Posi-Click Audible Retention Lock system, you would hear a "click" sound when your pistol is firmly seated
- 【1.5’’/1.75’’ Belt Fitt】 The Holster's Paddle is suitable for up to 1.75’’ belt, with hook in buttom, it stick firmly in your belt when drawing and holding
- 【Full Cover Trigger, No Scratch, No Jitter】 It is full covering all access to the trigger, which can avoid all possible accidents. All edges are polished and smooth designed be exceptional consistency and accuracy. Smooth inside instructure can avoid scratching your love handgun
- 【Tailored Fit for Equalizer & Shield EZ】Custom molded for S&W Equalizer and M&P 380 Shield EZ. Not compatible with models equipped with light or laser attachments.
- 【RDS Compatible with Optic Cut】Red dot sight cut allows seamless use of most compact optics, supporting quick sight picture alignment without removal.
- 【Concealment Claw Included】The integrated claw tucks the grip inward for better concealment under clothing—ideal for EDC and appendix carry.
- 【Adjustable Retention & Cant Angle】Retention pressure and cant (0°–15°) are easily adjustable with a screwdriver, giving you full control over draw speed and angle.
- 【Durable Kydex with Smooth Finish】Crafted from lightweight yet tough Kydex with hand-polished edges and a smooth interior to protect your slide from scratches.
- 【Compatibility】 Tailor-made for S&W Equalizer, M&P 380 Shield EZ, please note this holster will not fit for attachment like laser/light accessories
- 【Full Cover Trigger, Avoid Accidental Discharge】This S&W equalizer holster is designed to cover the trigger completely, preventing accidental discharge when carrying concealed.
- 【Audible Locking Click Feedback】The equalizer holster offers a CLICK audible feedback, letting you know your pistol is secured in the pistol.
- Adjustable Cant From -5 to 20 Degrees This slight adjustment from -5 to 20 degrees will help angle your holster perfectly for Apprndix(AIWB), Strong Side, Behind The Hip or Cross Draw. Fits 1.5" Width Belt
- 【Hand Polished Edge & Smooth Inner Structure】The edges of the S&W equalizer 9mm holster are polished by hand, and the smooth Kydex interior ensures zero scratch to the slide.
- Compatible with the Smith & Wesson Equalizer barrel. The Outside the Waistband Belt Loop Holster is a great option for everyday carry. These holsters feature the same competition speed cut that allows you to use red dots, raised suppressor sights, and threaded barrels.
- Holster is designed to be compatible with red dot, suppressor height sights and threaded barrel models. The undercut trigger guard prevents the holster from interfering when drawing your handgun.
- 360-degree 'cant' adjustability for a customizable draw angle to suit individual preferences.
- Comfortable and secure Belt Loop attachment accommodating belts up to 2 1/4'' wide, ensuring a snug fit.
- Optimized competition cut for lightning-fast draws, compatible with slide-mounted optics and aftermarket raised sights.
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Holster for the S&W Equalizer
The Smith & Wesson Equalizer is a popular choice for concealed carry. Its slim profile and easy-to-rack slide make it a favorite for many shooters. However, a great pistol is only as good as the holster holding it. Choosing the right holster ensures safety, comfort, and quick access when you need it most.
Key Features to Look For
- Retention: Your holster must hold the gun securely. Look for adjustable retention screws so you can control how tightly the holster grips the firearm.
- Trigger Guard Coverage: Safety is the top priority. A quality holster must fully cover the trigger guard to prevent accidental discharges.
- Concealability: Since the Equalizer is a carry gun, look for a slim design. Features like a “claw” or “wing” help push the grip of the gun toward your body to prevent printing.
- Adjustability: You should be able to change the ride height and the cant (the angle of the gun). This helps you find the most comfortable position for your body type.
Important Materials
Most modern holsters use Kydex or leather. Kydex is a hard, molded plastic. It provides excellent retention and stays open for easy re-holstering. Leather is softer and feels more comfortable against the skin, but it can lose its shape over time. Many people prefer “hybrid” holsters. These combine a leather backing with a Kydex shell to give you the best of both worlds.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality holsters feature smooth, polished edges. Rough edges can irritate your skin during long days of carry. Look for high-quality clips made of steel or reinforced polymer. Flimsy clips often break or fail to keep the holster in place when you draw your weapon. Avoid generic “one-size-fits-all” fabric holsters. These lack the structural integrity needed to keep your firearm safe.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to carry. If you carry every day, Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are usually the best choice for concealment. They hide well under a t-shirt or jacket. If you are training at the range, an Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster might be more comfortable. Always test your holster with an unloaded firearm to ensure the draw is smooth and fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a holster made for the S&W Shield for my Equalizer?
A: No. The Equalizer has different dimensions than the Shield. Always buy a holster specifically molded for the Equalizer to ensure a perfect fit.
Q: Is Kydex better than leather?
A: Kydex is better for retention and durability. Leather is often more comfortable for all-day wear. The choice depends on your personal preference.
Q: What is a “claw” on a holster?
A: A claw is a small piece of plastic that pushes against your belt. It forces the grip of the gun inward to hide it better under your clothes.
Q: How do I adjust the retention?
A: Most Kydex holsters have a screw near the trigger guard. Turn it clockwise to tighten the grip and counter-clockwise to loosen it.
Q: Is IWB or OWB better for concealment?
A: IWB is much easier to conceal because the holster sits inside your pants. OWB is easier to hide only if you wear a large outer garment like a coat.
Q: Should the holster cover the magazine release?
A: Yes. A good holster should protect the magazine release button so you do not accidentally drop your magazine while moving.
Q: How often should I clean my holster?
A: Wipe it down every few weeks. Dirt and lint can build up inside and potentially scratch your firearm’s finish.
Q: Does the Equalizer’s safety affect holster choice?
A: Yes. Ensure your holster is cut specifically to accommodate the manual thumb safety if your model has one.
Q: What is “cant”?
A: Cant is the angle at which your gun sits in the holster. A forward cant makes the grip easier to reach for some people.
Q: Can I carry with a red dot sight?
A: Yes. Just make sure the holster description says “Optic Ready.” These models have a cut-out at the top to clear your red dot sight.