As with selling holsters, retailers should talk with customers about belts and how they will be used. Some may need just a stiff nylon belt that will hold up their pants and a holster, either outside or inside the waistband, and possibly a multi-tool and extra magazine. Others may want a wider, padded belt stiff enough to handle heavy loads, along with MOLLE webbing and adaptability for holsters, lights, packs or other gear for duty, training or competition.

Tactical gun belts are made with stiff nylon, stainless steel buckles and other durable components. Hook-and-loop material may be used to prevent slippage on clothing or gear. Gun belts come in a range of options. Find out specifically what the customer needs and offer suggestions.

Here are some to consider:

First Spear Tac Belt – This belt has multiple attachment points, hook-and-loop fabric to mate with other belts or sleeves, and options for a secure metal buckle. It pairs easily with the First Spear padded AGB Sleeve, Base Belt, Base Belt Lite and Lanyard V-Ring.

5.11 Trainer Belt — The 1.5-inch Trainer Belt is popular with law enforcement, security officials and competitors. It has reinforced stitching, is fade- and rip-resistant, and converts to a tie-down, carry strap or emergency harness. The stainless steel buckle comes in matte stainless or black and is tested for tensile strength to 5,100 pounds. A sturdy, basic belt, this can easily carry holsters and light tools for everyday use.

Viking Tactics Battle Belt – For heavier duty, competition and other training, the VTAC Battle Belt is designed to fit Molle gear and most belt attachments. It weighs less than 8 ounces, is designed from 500 Denier Cordura, and is padded with 3D spacer mesh. It has a six-inch high-density plastic insert for reinforcement to assist with heavy loads. Slots every three inches along the MOLLE webbing provide multiple options for holster and gear positioning. The VTAC Cobra Belt that threads inside the Battle Belt must be purchased separately.

Blackhawk Instructor’s Gun Belt — Simple and tough, the Instructor’s Gun Belt is 1.75 inches wide and designed from durable nylon webbing with a Kydex stiffener for support. The webbing’s tensile strength is rated for 7,000 pounds (solid colors) and 5,000 pounds (MultiCam). It features parachute-grade buckles and hook-and-loop material to secure the running end.

DeSantis Entry/Extraction Belt — A popular option with law enforcement, EMT and competitors, the 1.75-inch wide Entry/Extraction Belt features durable nylon cargo webbing and a mil-spec buckle with separate hardware to anchor a carabiner. Available in sizes to 2XL, a hook-and-loop strip on the running end offers easy adjustment for optimal security for holsters and tools.