What Size Grip Tuck Universal Holster Should I Order?

The Alien Gear Grip Tuck Universal Holster is designed to fit a wide variety of pistols—but only if you choose the correct size. And that’s where confusion sometimes sets in.

Ordering the wrong size is easy to do if you're judging just by model name, especially with all the different frame sizes, barrel lengths, and magazine configurations on the market. Understanding how your firearm’s dimensions align with Grip Tuck categories is key to making the right purchase the first time.

Let’s walk through the sizing logic so you can confidently select the holster that fits your handgun—not just in theory, but in practice.

Why Frame Size and Barrel Length Matter for Holster Fit

Universal holsters aren’t truly “one size fits all”—they’re best understood as flexible within specific size classes. Those classes are built around common combinations of:

  • Frame size (micro, subcompact, compact, full size)
  • Barrel length (in inches)
  • Magazine type (single-stack vs. double-stack)

Frame and barrel dimensions influence holster fit in multiple ways:

  • Length affects muzzle coverage and ride depth inside the waistband.
  • Frame width and magazine type affect how snugly the holster grips the gun and how much it might print.
  • Trigger guard shape varies across platforms and is critical for secure retention.

Some models defy easy classification—Commander-length 1911s, for example, straddle the line between compact and full-size—and need their own unique holster sizing.

How the Grip Tuck Holster Is Sized

The Grip Tuck Universal Holster is not a single unit. It comes in multiple configurations to match different pistol categories more precisely. Here's how Alien Gear breaks them down:

Micro

For pistols with barrels under 3 inches, typically .380 ACP pocket pistols. Examples:

  • Sig P238
  • Kimber Micro
  • Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380

These guns are extremely small and slim. The Micro size ensures the holster doesn’t dwarf the firearm or cause loose retention.

Subcompact Single-Stack

These guns have 3–3.5 inch barrels and use a slim, single-stack magazine. Examples:

  • Glock 43
  • M&P Shield and Shield M2.0
  • Walther PPS M2
  • Springfield XD-S and XD-S Mod.2
  • Sig P365 (standard, non-X models)

This is one of the most common size categories for concealed carry, especially among new carriers.

Subcompact Double-Stack

Same barrel range as the previous group but with a wider grip to accommodate double-stack mags. Examples:

  • Glock 26
  • Glock 43X
  • Walther PPQ SC
  • HK VP9SK
  • Original M&P 9c

Barrel length matters here, especially with guns like the Glock 43X that blur the line between compact and subcompact due to their grip length.

Compact Single-Stack

Slightly longer single-stack pistols, usually 3.5–4 inch barrels. Examples:

  • Glock 48
  • M&P Shield EZ 380
  • Some Kahr T9 or TP9 models

These pistols offer a slim profile with a more stable sight radius or recoil impulse.

Compact Double-Stack

A go-to category for many duty-capable concealed carry guns. Barrel length generally ranges from 3.5 to 4 inches. Examples:

  • Glock 19 and 19X
  • M&P 9/40 Compact (first gen)
  • Walther PPQ
  • Beretta PX4 Compact

If your pistol has a full grip and a 4-inch barrel, chances are it fits this size.

Full Size

This includes handguns with 4 to 4.5 inch barrels. Examples:

  • Glock 17
  • HK VP9
  • Full-size M&P 9 or 40
  • Sig P226

This category is less common for concealed carry but widely used in law enforcement, duty roles, and home defense setups.

Extra Full Size

Reserved for guns with barrels between 4.5 and 5.25 inches. Think of extended tactical models or competition platforms—minus 1911s.

1911-Specific Grip Tuck Sizes

Because 1911s vary not just by barrel but by frame configuration, Alien Gear offers Grip Tuck holsters specifically built for 1911 platforms.

1911 Sub-Compact

Officer-size 1911s with barrels up to 3.5 inches. Compact but still heavier than most polymer guns in this class.

1911 Compact (4-inch barrel)

Covers Commander and CCO frames with barrels between 3.5–4 inches. Works with popular models from Springfield Armory, Rock Island, and others. Important: Traditional Commander pistols may not fit here due to slide length.

1911 Compact (4.25-inch barrel)

This is the proper size for true Commander and CCO-pattern 1911s with the traditional 4.25-inch slide.

1911 Full Size

Government frames with 5-inch barrels. The classic Colt 1911, Springfield TRP, or Ruger SR1911 all belong in this category.

What If Your Pistol Has a Laser?

When ordering your Grip Tuck holster, you'll need to specify whether your gun has an attached laser. Lasers and lights change trigger guard dimensions and slide geometry, which directly affect fit. If you're not using an optic or light, select the standard size. If you are, check for compatibility under “laser-equipped” options.

Real-World Fit Notes and Sizing Tips

  • Glock 19 users can typically use either the Compact Double-Stack or Full-Size Grip Tuck. Choose based on how much barrel coverage you want.

  • M&P Shield (9mm or .40) fits the Subcompact Single-Stack category—not Micro, even though it’s small.

  • Glock 43X might seem like a Compact Single-Stack due to grip height but fits better in the Subcompact Double-Stack shell due to width.

Barrel length matters, but it’s the frame height and magazine width that often dictate holster choice more than any other dimension.

Still Unsure? Don’t Guess—Test

The good news is that the Grip Tuck comes with a 30-Day Test Drive. If you order a holster and discover it’s too loose, too tight, or just not quite right for your handgun, you’re not stuck. You can contact customer support and exchange it quickly.

Alien Gear’s goal with the Grip Tuck isn’t just broad compatibility—it’s dependable performance within realistic fit tolerances. The holster won’t "stretch to fit" over time, so it’s important to order the size that aligns with your specific gun’s profile—not just its caliber or brand.

 

Back to blog