Gun Belt Widths

An important part of choosing a gun belt is selecting the width of the gun belt.  Although this seems somewhat trivial, it is relative because it can impact the performance and the usability of the belt.

Gun belts typically come in one of four different widths:

• 1 1/4"
• 1 1/2"
• 1 3/4"
• 2" or 2 1/4"

There are a very select few custom holster makers who will do a 1" or some other unique width size, but they are few and far between.  Of the four widths, only three are really mainstream as the 2" or 2 1/4" size is a law enforcement duty belt.  Let's talk a little bit more about each width:

1 1/4" - This is a fairly popular size as it is small enough to fit through the belt loops of almost every pair of dress pants out there, while being wide enough to provide good support.  If you wear dress pants a great deal or suits, then the 1 1/4" width is definitely worth a second look for you. Realize that a number of holster makers make holsters in a standard 1 1/2" configuration so you'll have a bit of play between the width of the belt and holster belt slots.

1 1/2" - By far, the most popular width in gun belts.  As mentioned above, this width is so popular that a number of holster manufacturers make 1 1/2" belt slots as standard on all their holsters.  The 1 1/2" gun belt configuration will fit through the loops of most all jeans and slacks (dockers, khaki's, etc) making is immensely popular with the concealed carry crowd.

1 3/4" - Not nearly as popular as the 1 1/4" or 1 1/2", but still has some shooters singing it's praises.  The 1 3/4" width belt is quite a strap of leather.  Unfortunately, it's a little too wide to fit through the loops of just about anything except tactical pants or custom big/tall clothing.  There are a few jeans manufacturers who make jeans with loops that will accommodate a 1 3/4" belt, but they are hard to come by. My biggest complaint about 1 3/4" belts have always been the fact that hardly anything in my wardrobe will fit the belt.

2" or 2 1/4" - As mentioned before, these widths are generally only found with law enforcement or duty belts.  Obviously, the large width requires special trousers specifically designed for that use. Belts of these widths are designed to support all the gear that is typically associated with law enforcement.

Some thoughts on width:

Personally, my hands down favorite width is 1 1/2".  It's wide enough to provide more than enough support for my needs while being able to fit through the loops of almost any pants I wear.  I will occasionally switch to a 1 1/4" belt when the dress code requires a suit or dress pants with narrow belt loops. However, I also have respected shooting friends who swear by either a 1 1/4" or even a 1 3/4" gun belt.  At the end of the day, it will most likely come down to your wardrobe and personal preferences.