9 of the BEST Law Enforcement Duty Belts (Pro Buyer Guide)
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By Brian Humenuk, MS|CJA, COPJOT
Updated on January 20, 2023
⏱️ 4-minute read
Law Enforcement Officers are tasked with some of the most difficult jobs in everyday society. Saving lives, arresting lawbreakers, and nearly anything else you can think of.
However.....
Sitting in a patrol car for hours at a time without getting a single call for service can be the norm for many police officers.
No matter what your law enforcement experience is, I think we can agree that a duty belt can be tossed on that list of "most important police equipment."
So...
Having the right law enforcement duty belt needs to be a decision that includes things like comfortable, quality and not just looks.
The right duty belt can also save you a lot of time and aggravation and possibly even save you from serious back problems and constant trips to the chiropractor.
Selecting a duty belt can be a bit of a difficult task.
I know personally because I have been in the daily grind of law enforcement patrol work for over 20 years. As I have aged the selection of my duty belt has changed a bit even though I still want that squared away, crisp, and professional look.
I authored this article to provide you with the best real-time information on police duty belts and with selections that will make sense for your specific needs.
If you are new to COPJOT and me as an author please check out my other articles here at the blog index.
and...
If you are into law enforcement gear and equipment you will undoubtedly want to check out my master index of gear guides, tips and reviews.
Here's a sample for you...
Let’s dive in!
Why is it important to choose the right law enforcement duty belt?
A well-designed duty belt provides essential support for carrying tools and ensures comfort and durability throughout long hours on the job.
When all equipment is accounted for the average police duty belt can weigh over 30 pounds and law enforcement officers will carry that around on their waists for 8-16 hours a day.
If what you care about most is that badass squared away look then choosing the right duty belt is an important decision.
and...
My overall pick for law enforcement duty belt that produces the most squared away look is the Safariland Plain Black Leather Duty Belt which you can find here.
If picked right and cared for correctly your duty belt could last you half of your entire career.
If you go with a cheap generic duty belt it will fall apart, look horrible and make you upset that you didn’t spend the extra money on a duty belt that is time tested.
What is the difference between a Duty Belt and a Tactical Belt?
A duty belt and a tactical belt serve distinct purposes within law enforcement and military settings.
A duty belt, often worn by police officers, security guards, and other professionals in similar roles, is primarily designed to carry essential equipment such as firearms, handcuffs, batons, radios, and other tools required for daily duties. It's typically sturdy and structured to support the weight of the equipment while providing quick access to critical items.
On the other hand, a tactical belt, commonly utilized in military operations and by tactical teams, focuses more on versatility and modularity.
Tactical belts often feature MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing, allowing users to attach various pouches and accessories based on specific mission requirements.
They may also integrate features like quick-release buckles and reinforced rigidity for enhanced functionality in dynamic environments.
In essence, while both serve to aid professionals in carrying essential gear, a duty belt prioritizes accessibility and comfort for law enforcement duties, whereas a tactical belt emphasizes adaptability and customization for diverse operational needs.
What should I be looking for in a Police Belt?
No Police Officer, Deputy Sheriff or State Trooper is created equal. Your choice in duty belt may be different based on:
>Comfort
>Quality
>Toughness
>Style
>Looks
>Material and,
>Price
Does your Agencies Policy dictate what Duty Belt you can wear?
Be sure to read your agency's policies and procedures regarding equipment because all around the world many law enforcement agencies still have an authorized carry list regarding gear and equipment.
and..
Some agencies have a policy that says what duty belt you will be required to wear or what duty belts are authorized to wear and where specifically equipment will be placed on the duty belt.
Don’t be the recruit that shows up at the training academy with a glossy Safariland leather duty belt and your agencies policy on equipment states only a Bianchi Accumold duty belt shall be worn.
Leather Police Belt vs Nylon
I prefer the professional look of a non-glossy leather duty belt over a nylon one.
I may be from an older generation of police officers, but I have always thought a leather duty belt looks better and when maintained properly they hold their professional look longer.
Leather duty belts have long been a symbol of classic professionalism in law enforcement. They also can mold to the officer’s body for a comfortable fit.
The buckles themselves are replaceable and come in silver/chrome, gold or black. Solid Brass Sam Browne buckle replacements can be found here.
Spills and stains are hard to get off of a nylon duty belt, but they easily wipe right off of a leather belt and then a shoeshine sponge can be applied.
What are the Best Police Duty Belts
The best police duty belt is one that fits your own specific needs such as comfort, look, style and or price. Many law enforcement officers choose a duty belt that is quality made, has the look they want and is comfortable to wear.
Here is a breakdown of the Best Law Enforcement Duty Belts for quality, price and style:
Leather Police Duty Belts
Leather police duty belts are popular for their timeless combination of durability, professionalism, and classic looks.
One of the primary advantages is the superior longevity that leather provides, ensuring that these belts withstand the daily wear and tear of law enforcement duties.
The natural flexibility of leather molds to the wearer's body over time, enhancing comfort without sacrificing the necessary support for carrying essential equipment.
Additionally, leather's resistance to extreme weather conditions and its ability to age gracefully make it a great choice for police officers seeking reliability and a traditional, sophisticated look in their duty gear.
Plain Leather Police Duty Belt
For plain Plain Leather Law Enforcement Duty Belt for quality, price and style you should consider the Bianchi 7960 Sam Browne 2.25 duty belt.
This Sam Browne leather duty belt is certainly made with quality in mind. It looks sharp
High Gloss Leather Police Duty Belt
If you are looking to get a high gloss leather duty belt paying a bit more for quality is a going to save you some future headaches. The gloss on these belts tend to wear and over time can chip.
You should consider the Safariland BIANCHI 87V Glossy Leather Sam Browne Belt.
Basketweave Police Duty Belt
When it comes to basketweave duty belts I have two great options for you to consider.
The first is a duty belt that has been around awhile. For Police Officers, Sheriff Deputies, and State Troopers looking for a classic duty belt with with a lot of tradition check out the BIANCHI 7960 Sam Brown Basket Weave Duty Belt.
The second is newer and comes with a click buckle. It has an option of being purchased with the inner velcro like material garrison belt. Check out the TACNEX Basketweave Duty Belt.
Nylon Duty Belt for Police
Nylon duty belts stand out as an excellent choice for police officers due to their versatile and durable nature.
The inherent strength of nylon ensures that these belts can withstand the rigors of daily law enforcement activities, providing long-lasting reliability.
Additionally, nylon duty belts are lightweight, offering comfort during extended periods of wear. Their adjustable and customizable features make them adaptable to individual preferences and various equipment needs for both patrol and specialty assignments.
The water-resistant properties of nylon further contribute to its appeal, making it suitable for diverse weather conditions.
My recommendation for best nylon duty belt is the Bianchi Accumold 7200 black nylon duty belt.
What is a lightweight police duty belt?
Nylon duty belts are representative of their lightweight design and exceptional strength. They also feel less rigid than their leather counterparts. Arranging and rearranging equipment can also be a breeze on a nylon duty belt.
My recommendation for best nylon duty belt is the TACNEX has a 2" nylon duty belt combo that comes with a garrison belt and 4 belt keepers.
What is the most comfortable police duty belt?
When considering a duty belt that is most comfortable, it's essential to try it on and evaluate how well it distributes weight, how easily it adjusts to your body shape, and whether it accommodates your specific gear configuration.
Reading reviews from other law enforcement professionals who have similar needs and preferences can also be beneficial.
Be sure to check your agency’s policies and procedures first before selecting and buying a duty belt that is comfortable to you.
What is the best police duty belt for backpain?
There is no straightforward answer to what duty belt is best for back pain. My advice to you is to choose a belt that is adjustable to your body size and shape. Having the ability to customize the fit can make a significant difference in reducing discomfort.
Nylon Accumold duty belts can be adjusted to many more sizes than belts with buckles and notches.
This is important because if you have back pain, wearing a duty belt that is too small or too loose may contribute to back pain so a Nylon belt can be adjusted to just the right size.
About the Author
Brian Humenuk isn't just an entrepreneur in eCommerce, he is also an informed leader whose experience provides followers and visitors with a look into current and past police issues making headlines in the United States.
Brian has earned three degrees in Criminal Justice with the last, a Masters of Science in Criminal Justice Administration.
Brian extends his training, education, and experience to the officers just now getting into the field so that they may become more informed police officers and stay clear of police misconduct and corruption.
You can find out more about Brian and the COPJOT story on the ABOUT US page.
Affiliate Disclosure
COPJOT is supported by its audience. If you make a purchase through links on this site I may earn a small affiliate commission. Enough to buy myself a small coffee and I want to thank you in advance.
More Information
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