Is a Kydex Holster Your Best Concealed Carry Option?

Picking a holster can be tough. We all want a safe and comfy way to carry our guns. I’ve done my homework on whether a Kydex holster is the best option out there and want to share what I’ve learned as well as my own experiences with them.

Let’s look at whether a Kydex holster might be right for you.

As gun owners, we know how important this choice is. A good holster keeps us and others safe while letting us carry with ease. Kydex has some neat features, but it’s not for everyone.

I’ll walk you through the pros and cons so you can decide if it fits your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Kydex holsters are tough, last long, and need little care. They’re made from strong plastic and fit guns perfectly.
• These holsters have pros, like being light, comfy, and easy to adjust. But they can scratch guns and don’t bend like leather.
• You can get Kydex holsters for inside or outside your waistband. Prices start at $44.95 for IWB and $55.95 for OWB styles.
• When picking a Kydex holster, match it to your gun model and think about how you’ll carry it. Look at top brands and read reviews.
• Kydex holsters are a good choice for many gun owners who want a safe, comfy way to carry their firearms.

What Is a Kydex Holster?

I love Kydex holsters for concealed carry. They’re made from a tough plastic mix called acrylic-polyvinyl chloride. Gunmakers shape these holsters to fit specific guns perfectly. Kydex is super strong and resists heat, water, and chemicals.

It’s been a top choice for hiding guns since the 1970s.

Kydex holsters need almost no care. I just wipe mine with a damp cloth now and then. The maker heats the Kydex and molds it around a gun model. This gives a snug fit that won’t change.

These holsters keep their shape and protect my gun well.

Advantages of Using a Kydex Holster

Kydex holsters offer many benefits for gun owners. They’re tough, fit well, and need very little care.

1. Durability and Longevity

I love Kydex holsters for their toughness. They last way longer than leather ones. My Kydex holster stays in shape no matter what. It doesn’t warp or change, even when it gets wet.

I’ve had all of mine for years, and they still work like new. This means I can count on them every day to hold my gun safely (as well as my spare magazine).

Kydex resists water and chemicals, too. I don’t worry if I spill something on it or get caught in the rain. It’s easy to clean and doesn’t absorb moisture like leather does. This keeps my firearm dry and protected.

For me, a Kydex holster is a smart choice that has worked well for a long time.

2. Custom Fit for Your Gun

Kydex holsters offer a perfect fit for my gun. Each holster is custom-molded to match my firearm’s exact shape. This snug fit keeps my weapon secure and prevents unwanted movement.

I love how the holster hugs every curve and contour of my pistol. It’s like a glove made just for my gun.

The custom fit also helps with quick draws. My weapon slides out smoothly when I need it. But it stays put until then. The holster’s rigid form maintains its shape over time, too. This means my gun always fits right, even after lots of use.

Custom-fit Kydex gives me peace of mind for safe, comfortable carry.

3. Minimal Maintenance Required

I love how easy Kydex holsters are to maintain. They don’t need much care at all. I just wipe mine down with a damp cloth now and then. That’s it! No oils, no special cleaners needed.

These holsters resist water, sweat, and most chemicals. They don’t rot or degrade over time like leather can. For me, this means less time fussing with gear and more time practicing my draw.

It’s one less thing to worry about in my everyday carry setup.

4. Adjustable Retention Features

Kydex holsters shine with their adjustable retention features. I can tweak how tight my gun fits using small screws. This lets me set the perfect draw resistance for my needs. I might want it looser for quick access or tighter for high-activity days.

The best part? I can change it anytime. These holsters often have multiple adjustment points for fine-tuning. It’s great for concealed carry comfort and safety.

Retention matters big time in gun safety. With Kydex, I control how secure my firearm sits. The holster keeps my weapon snug, even during movement. But I can still draw smoothly when needed.

This balance of security and access is key for self-defense. Plus, different carry styles need different retention levels. Kydex adapts to them all. It’s a top pick for many gun owners who want custom fit and function.

5. Lightweight and Comfortable Design for Concealed Carry

I love how light Kydex holsters are. They make carrying my gun all day a breeze. Most weigh just a few ounces, so I barely notice it’s there. The thin design helps, too. It keeps my firearm close to my body without bulk.

Comfort is key for concealed carry. Kydex doesn’t absorb sweat like leather, so it feels good against my skin. Some holsters mix Kydex with softer materials (sometimes like leather — think along the lines of Crossbreed holsters) for the best of both worlds.

This combo gives me durability and comfort in one sleek package.

Disadvantages of a Kydex Holster

Kydex holsters have a few drawbacks that we need to discuss. They can scratch your gun’s finish and don’t flex like leather does.

1. Potential for Wear on Firearm Finish

I’ve noticed some concerns about Kydex holsters and gun finishes. Dirt and sand can get trapped between the holster and gun, causing scratches over time. Some users report wear at contact points where the firearm rubs against the Kydex.

This happens mostly with daily carry and frequent drawing. The debate continues on how Kydex affects guns during long-term storage.

It’s important to inspect your firearm regularly for signs of wear. A good cleaning routine helps remove any grit that could damage the finish. While Kydex is tough, it’s not soft like leather.

This means it may be less forgiving on your gun’s surface. Still, many shooters feel the pros of Kydex outweigh this potential drawback.

2. Limited Flexibility Compared to Leather Gun Holster

Kydex holsters don’t bend like leather ones. This can be good and bad. They keep their shape well, which helps your gun fit snugly. But they might not mold to your body as comfortably as leather.

I’ve found Kydex works great for most carry styles, though some folks prefer the give of leather. It’s a trade-off between a firm hold and body-hugging comfort.

Leather stretches over time, while Kydex stays rigid. This means your Kydex holster will always fit your gun the same way. It won’t loosen up like leather can. For some, this consistency is key.

Others miss the way leather breaks in. Your choice depends on what you value most — unchanging fit or gradual adaptation to your body.

Types of Kydex Holsters

Kydex holsters come in many shapes and sizes. You can find one that fits your gun and how you like to carry it.

1. Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Kydex Holster

I love IWB holsters for concealed carry. They tuck inside my waistband, keeping my gun hidden and close. My favorite IWB holster uses Kydex, a tough plastic. It resists sweat and wear, perfect for all-day use.

The “Posi-click” system lets me know my gun is secure. I hear a click when I holster it right.

IWB holsters come in many styles. Some clip to my belt, others use loops. I can adjust the cant and ride height on many models. This lets me find the perfect fit for my body and draw style.

Prices start at $44.95, making them affordable for most gun owners. For comfort and concealment, IWB holsters are hard to beat.

2. Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) Kydex Holster

OWB holsters are my go-to for open carry (and something cops prefer as part of their duty setup). When I say open carry, this is only when I’m wearing a battle belt at the range when training. I don’t open carry in public (that’s stupid). They sit on the outside of my pants, making my gun easy to grab.

I love how these holsters start at just $55.95 but then can go up to well over $100, depending on the brand you go with. That’s a great deal for a custom-made option that fits my exact gun model.

I find OWB holsters perfect for range days and rugged backcountry trips. They’re tough enough to handle daily tasks, too. The best part? Many are handmade for a perfect fit. This means my gun stays secure no matter what I’m doing.

3. Appendix Carry Kydex Holster for Concealment

I love appendix carry holsters for concealed carry. They sit at the front of my waistband, making my gun easy to reach. These holsters keep my firearm close to my body, which helps hide it better.

I’ve carried everything from a tiny Ruger LCP to a compact Sig Sauer P365X to a full-sized Glock 17 without any issues. Sometimes, I need to think about my concealed carry outfit, as I’m not going to wear a skin-tight shirt with something like a Glock 17.

The claw design pushes the grip into my stomach, reducing printing. I can draw quickly from this position, also. Prices start at $64.95 for quality USA-made options.

Comfort is key with appendix carry. I make sure to get a holster that fits my exact gun model. This gives me a custom fit for safe carrying. The high-quality materials last a long time and need little care.

I always pick holsters with adjustable retention to keep my gun secure. For the best concealment, I look for designs that minimize printing. Something else you’ll have to consider is if you want a sweat guard or not.

4. Light-Bearing Kydex Holster

Light-bearing Kydex holsters are also a good option for concealed carry. I’ve found these holsters perfect for guns with attached lights. They offer a snug fit and help hide your weapon better.

Most of these Kydex holsters grab onto the light and not the firearm, so be sure you’re buying a holster that is specific to both your gun and weapon light.

You can choose from a ton of different models on the market, starting at $64.95. These holsters are made just for your gun and light combo.

I’ve used these holsters and love how precise they are. They keep my gun secure, even with a light on it. The Kydex material is tough and lasts a long time. It doesn’t need much care, either.

If you carry a gun with a light, these holsters are worth checking out.

5. Magazine Carrier

I love my magazine carriers (single mag pouch). They’re vital for my concealed carry setup. I use them to hold extra ammo for my gun. A spare magazine carrier comes in three styles: standard, deep concealment, and adjustable deep concealment.

You can get a single mag holster for just $24.95. That’s a great deal for a USA-made product.

My favorite thing about these carriers is how they fit different guns. They work with popular models like Glocks, Hellcats, and Springfields. I can even get custom Kydex ones for a perfect fit.

They’re super durable and need almost no care. Plus, they ship worldwide, so all my gun-loving friends can get them, also.

How to Choose the Right Kydex Holster

Picking the right IWB and OWB Kydex holster matters a lot. You need to think about your gun, how you carry it, and what features you want with your concealed carry holsters.

Whether you’re carrying a 9mm handgun on a 1.5 inch belt (like a Springfield Hellcat) or a full-sized firearm on a larger 1.75 inch belt, it’s pretty much all the same when it comes to size, construction, and comfort.

1. Match to Your Firearm Model

I always pick a Kydex holster that fits my gun perfectly. Custom-molded holsters give a snug fit for my specific firearm model. This tight fit keeps my gun secure and ready. I make sure the holster covers the whole trigger guard for safety and has a cut for my optic.

It’s key to find a holster made just for my gun type.

I look for adjustable retention screws on Kydex holsters. These let me fine-tune how tight the gun sits. Compression-molded Kydex offers even tighter tolerances. This means my gun won’t move around or fall out.

A well-fitted holster makes carrying easier and safer.

2. Consider Your Carry Style and Needs

I pick my carry style based on my daily routine and comfort. Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters hide well under loose shirts. Outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters work great for open carry or under jackets.

My needs shape my choice, too. Quick draw? An OWB might be best. All-day comfort? A lightweight IWB could do the trick.

Kydex holsters fit many carry styles. They’re tough and keep their shape. This helps with consistent draws. I look for features like adjustable cant and retention. These let me customize the fit.

Good grip clearance and trigger guard coverage are must-haves for safety. I always test new holsters to make sure they work for me.

3. Evaluate Retention and Adjustability Options

I always check the retention and adjustability of a Kydex holster. Good retention keeps my gun secure. I can adjust it to fit my needs. Some holsters have screws to tighten or loosen the grip.

Others use a tension bar. I test the draw to make sure it’s smooth but snug.

Adjustable cant is another key feature. It lets me change the angle of the gun. This helps with comfort and concealment. I look for holsters with multiple mounting holes. They give me more options for positioning.

The best Kydex holsters balance safety and quick access.

4. Look for Reputable Kydex Holster Brands and Reviews

I always check reviews before buying a new holster.

I look at what other gun owners say about retention and ease of use. Good reviews often mention durable materials and custom fits for specific gun models. I also pay attention to comments about customer service and warranty options.

This helps me find a reliable holster that’ll last.

Quality matters in concealed carry gear. I focus on brands known for their sturdy designs and attention to detail. Alien Gear, for example, offers various styles to suit different needs.

I compare features like material, carry position, and price using handy charts. This lets me pick the best holster for my gun and carry style. Reading real user experiences gives me confidence in my choice.

It’s crucial to invest in a holster that’ll perform when it counts. Additionally, think about your belt clip.

If your Kydex holster comes with a crappy clip (most do), it’s worth spending a few extra bucks on something like a Discreet Carry Concepts. Their belt clips provide versatility and various attachment points to get the perfect fit and position for where you want your gun to sit on your waistline.

What 2 Kydex Holster Brands Do I Use and Trust?

There are plenty of premium, custom Kydex holster brands out there that are 100% compatible with your firearm. But there are two that I seem to gravitate to more than the others for carrying my firearms — First Wave and PHLster.

Both of these brands have put together some insane Kydex creations that are made to order. The manufacturing takes place right here in the USA, and I love the ingenuity and reliability I get from both holsters — they’ve never failed me, and I carry a firearm in one every single day.

I do occasionally use a hybrid holster that utilizes both leather and Kydex. In some of my off-body carry bags or chest holster, I use CrossBreed, which is another great brand that I trust. The backing of the holster is a very nice leather and then the holster section is made of Kydex.

If you’re looking for something that provides some added functionality, look at a holster that has a “sidecar.” This attaches to your holster and can hold something like a spare magazine, tourniquet, or other items. I have a T Rex Arms Sidecar Holster.

While I like the T Rex Arms holster, it’s definitely bulky, having everything in front of me attached together. I still personally like a separate magazine pouch that I can either offset in front of me or even add a magazine to a Neomag and stick it in my pocket.

What Kydex Holster and Mag Carrier Will You Put on Your Tactical Gun Belt?

Kydex holsters offer a solid choice for concealed carry. They’re tough, fit well, and need little care. You’ll find many types to match your needs. Pick one that works for your gun and how you carry it on your gun belt.

With the right Kydex holster, you’ll have a safe, comfy way to carry your firearm.

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