Byrna SD vs LE vs CL: Which Byrna Is Right for You? | Clip & Carry

Byrna SD vs LE vs CL: Which Byrna Is Right for You?

Byrna makes some of the most popular non-lethal self-defense launchers on the market, and the SD, LE, and CL are the three you will actually be choosing between. This guide breaks down the differences so you can pick the right one. And since we build the USA-made kydex holster for each model, we will point you to exactly what to carry it in.

Written by the Clip & Carry team · Updated July 2026

Quick note: Clip & Carry makes the holsters, not the launchers. Buy your Byrna direct from Byrna, then grab the kydex holster we build for it. Every button below links to the holster for that model.

Key takeaways

  • Byrna SD: the compact, simple everyday-carry pick most people should start with.
  • Byrna LE: larger and more powerful, better suited to home defense.
  • Byrna CL: the newest compact, built for deep concealment and optics-ready.
  • No license is required in most states, but always check your local laws.
  • We make the USA-made kydex holster for each model, so you can carry it every day.

Byrna SD vs LE vs CL

Here is how the three models compare, with the Clip & Carry holster we build for each. The launcher you buy from Byrna; the holster is ours.

Byrna model Best for Size Our holster for it
Byrna SD Everyday carry Compact IWB SD/EP · $44.99   Holster →
Byrna LE More power, home defense Larger IWB LE · $44.99   Holster →
Byrna CL Deep concealment, optic-ready Compact CL Kydex · $44.99   Holster →

Which Byrna to choose

Byrna SD (everyday carry). The simplest and most popular. Compact, easy to operate, and easy to conceal. If this is your first Byrna and you want to carry it daily, start here, then carry it in our IWB holster for the Byrna SD/EP.

Byrna LE (more power). Larger with a higher-velocity feel, which makes it a strong home-defense and vehicle option. Carry it in our IWB holster for the Byrna LE.

Byrna CL (newest compact). The latest compact platform, built for deep concealment and ready for a micro red-dot optic. We make an ambidextrous IWB/OWB kydex holster for the Byrna CL that is optic-compatible.

The holster for your Byrna

However you carry, do it in a proper holster that covers the trigger and holds the launcher securely. Our USA-made kydex IWB holsters are molded to each model, so the Byrna clicks in, rides comfortably inside the waistband, and draws clean. Prefer a no-belt option? The STRAPT-TAC belly band works too.

Legal note: Byrna launchers are non-lethal, but laws vary by state and city. Confirm your local rules before you buy or carry.

Frequently asked questions

Do you sell the Byrna launcher itself?

No. Clip & Carry makes the USA-made kydex holster for the Byrna SD, LE, and CL. You buy the launcher direct from Byrna, then carry it in the holster we build for your model.

Do you need a license for a Byrna?

In most U.S. states you do not need a license or permit to buy or carry a Byrna, since it is a non-lethal CO2 device, not a firearm. Always check your local and state laws first.

Which Byrna is best for everyday carry?

The Byrna SD is the most popular EDC pick: compact, simple, and easy to conceal. The CL is the newest compact option, and the LE is larger with more power for home defense.

Can you carry a Byrna in a holster?

Yes, and you should. A kydex holster covers the trigger area and holds the launcher securely so you can carry and draw it consistently. We make IWB holsters for the SD, LE, and CL.

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