Kydex Holsters compared...

[willbrink]

Let me start by admitting I'm not a huge fan of kydex holsters as a rule, and prefer leather. The major reason for that is, leather conceals better and is more comfortable, at least for me. I have tried most of the major brands, but not all of course. I do use them for IDPA as they draw so fast, but that's about the only positive thing I can say about Kydex. However, Comp-tac has (finally!) altered my opinion of that.

For example, Blade-Tech is a very popular kydex holster. I got one, and didn't like it for the same reasons mentioned above regarding kydex holsters in general. Note: I am only talking about belt slides here, not IWB. I don't do IWB, so have no comments there.

Recently I purchased a Comp-Tac holster. Why? I was so impressed with their mag holders, flash light holder, and pepper spray holder, I thought perhaps these guys actually might make a kydex I like...and they do!

Comparing the two brands, the retention design just seems better in the comp-tac, the general construction better, but most importantly, the comp-tac does something I have seen no other kydex do that usually only leather can in my experience, and that's mold to the curve of your body. This makes a huge difference in comfort and concealment without any negative impact on draw speeds.

Personally, I have not tried all belt slide kydex holsters, but I have tried many, and none had that molded shape that fits your body so well as the comp-tac does. If there are brands that also accomplish that, by all means, list them!

To the left is the Bladetech belt slide, which looks like every other kydex belt slide, and the right, the Comp-tac. Makes a big difference in comfort and concealment:



Comp-tac gets an A+ from me on their design of this belt slide Kydex holster and their other products are great too BTW.

 

[lance22]

WAY thinner.

 

[Tang]

Kydex Holsters

Take a look at Tucker Gunleather, they have some interesting kydex holsters.

 

[Tang]

Kydex Holsters

See if I can post a couple of pictures of my Tucker Gunleather "Silent Thunder"

 

[Canuc Shooter]

I currently have 3 Comp-Tac belt holsters, and am quite pleased with them all. An XD Tactical (fits 9 mil to 45 with no adjustments) a CZ 75b, and a CZ85 Combat. Will be ordering a couple of their Kydex mag holders real soon. I also have a Galco leather holster for the CZ75b, it looks great and is very comfortable as well.

 

[LOW2000]

CompTac gives you free candy I have their paddle holster with speed drop 0* cant and mag holders for my G19, love their products and service.

 

[the_fallguy]

I have to say that if I didn't make my own holsters, Comp-tac would get a lot of my business. They have excellent customer service and they put a lot of thought into their holster designs.

 

[BsChoy]

The comp tac belt slide you show in the pic above, does that actually conceal well? I have yet to find a kydex belt slide that does actually conceal a handgun sufficiently.

 

[Ron61]

Here are my Tucker Silent Thunders

 

[Canuc Shooter]

I find that the Comp-Tac belt holsters due a good job of concealment. They are IDPA approved, and are also quite comfortable.

 

[PPGMD]

Blade-tech is primarily a competition holster company, at least thats my opinion, IWB and other concealment oriented holsters seem to be an after thought for them.

Where as Comp-tac makes excellent concealed carry holsters like the CTAC, and the MTAC, but with exception of their Belt Fed Magazine carrier their selection for competition is not as good as Blade-tech's. In particular they don't offer anything to compete with the DOH system that Blade-tech sells for USPSA production division.

Just my opinion (based on the holsters I have from all three companies)
Competition: Blade-tech
Concealed Carry: Comp-tac
Duty Holsters: Safariland

Now as far as leather other then companies like Milt Sparks, and Tucker Gun Leather (who strengthen the mouth) I find that it just doesn't work for me, the holsters collapse and it often takes two hands to reholster. Where as kydex doesn't flatten without high heat.

 

[OH25shooter]

My Kydex selections have only been for competition shooting, USPSA and IDPA. I've had Comp-Tac, Blade-Tech and finally switched to TKW. Personally, I prefer the belt holder and holster design. Both the holster and mag holders are cant adjustable, if needed, and better (for me). Here's a photo of the back of the equipment.

 

[lance22]

Since we're comparing kydex brands, two photos showing the thinness of the BearClaw Holster's IWB. Every bit of extra kydex is shaved off, no protrusions or corners to dig into your side, smooth sided and very comfortable to wear.

BTW the gun is a Kahr P40.

 

[TarpleyG]

The older style Blade-Tech looks just like the Comp-Tac. Not sure why they don't make it any more. I have 2 of them, one for a 1911 and one for a 4" XD. I recently purchased one like the one you pictured on the left and although it's great for IDPA, it sucks for concealment. Sticks out quite a bit more with that Sting Ray Belt (SRB) attachment on it.

Greg

 

[Tom Krein]

I will also give Comp-Tac an A+.

I have to admit I used to be a leather holster only guy! Its true...

NOT ANYMORE! I have switched over to the Comp-Tac Infidel with the Infidel belt clip! These holsters are very thin and comfortable. The retain the gun very well.

The price is excellent and the customer service is simply the BEST!

Give them a try!

LINK


Tom

 

[UrsisHoribilis]

Does anyone know anything about Bearclaw presently? I ordered a holster and when I tried to call to check on shipping date, phones were disconnected, emails went un-answered. I have contacted the Republic, MO police and filed a report with my local PD. Anyone know Dave's last name?