How to Wear a High Mount Tape Holster on Your Belt
By Occidental Leather - Tool Carrying Systems | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to properly wear and adjust the Occidental Leather High Mount Tape Holster for secure, comfortable tape measure access on the job site.
Quick answer
Thread your belt through the holster's belt loop, position it at your hip or rear pocket for easy reach, and adjust the height so the tape sits above your belt line without interfering with other pouches.
Why the high-mount design matters
Standard tape holsters often hang low on the belt, making the tape bounce against your leg or snag on equipment. The Occidental High Mount Tape Holster rides higher, keeping the tape measure closer to your natural hand position and reducing fatigue during long shifts.
The leather construction conforms to your tape over time, providing a snug fit that still allows a smooth draw. If you carry a FatMax 35' tape, be sure to select the larger size option—the holster accommodates both standard and jumbo tapes without relying on the clip.
Where to place it on your belt
Most users find the ideal spot between the hip bone and the rear pocket, around the 4 or 5 o'clock position (right-handed). This keeps the tape behind your tool pouches but still within a natural reach arc.
If you wear a tool belt or suspenders, test the placement while bending and kneeling. The holster should not dig into your side or push against other gear. The high-mount profile helps it tuck under a tool bag flap if needed.
How to wear it in 4 steps
- Slide the holster onto your belt: Unbuckle your belt or loosen it enough to thread the free end through the holster's belt loop. The leather loop is snug by design—if it's tight, work it back and forth rather than forcing it. Avoid pinching the leather; use a gentle rocking motion to slide it on.
- Position it at your hip or rear pocket: For right-handed carry, place the holster around the 4 o'clock position on your belt. Left-handed users should mirror that to 8 o'clock. The tape should sit behind your primary pouches but still be reachable without twisting your torso. Test the position by simulating a tape pull—if your elbow hits a pouch, shift the holster an inch back.
- Snap the tape into the holster: Insert the tape measure clip-first into the leather pocket. Press down until the belt clip engages with the leather lip. The holster is designed to hold the tape even without the clip, but engaging the clip adds security during ladder climbs or crawling. If the tape feels loose, check that you're using the correct size option for your tape width.
- Adjust the ride height: The holster's high-mount design already places the tape above your belt line. If you prefer it lower, loosen the belt and slide the holster down slightly. Most pros keep it at the highest setting to prevent the tape from banging against tools or the ground. A tape that rides too low can catch on door frames or equipment—aim for the tape's bottom to be at or above your belt.
Product facts
- Belt Worn High Mount Tape Holster: Fits belts up to 3" wide and is available in two sizes to accommodate standard 30' tapes as well as FatMax 35' models. You don't need a special belt or a separate clip—just slide it on and adjust the size to match the tape you already use.
Belt Worn High Mount Tape Holster
