Having spent the last 38 years designing and manufacturing leather concealment gear, my opinion might just be a little bit biased 🙂 With that said, one other point in favor of leather - leather tends to break down over an extended period of time and almost always gives you quite a bit of warning before it reaches it's fail-point. Kydex (and related thermoplastics) can be working perfectly one second, and the next reach it's point of catastrophic failure without any warning. Comfort is another consideration - My shop is also equipped to do Kydex, but I have yet to design a plastic holster with a level of comfort anywhere near what leather can provide. 'Just my $.02
Kydex is nice for appendix because it's compact and solid. When I was getting an OWB holster for my Shield Plus I decided to get a leather thumb-break from Falco. I like it. It's comfortable and classy. It's soft and warm and flexible unlike hard Kydex. Even unsnapped the rough side of the leather and tightness are enough hold it in place. If I was to carry at 4:00 IWB I'd probably go leather. I'm not for or against either, they each have their strengths and weaknesses and must be evaluated in context. There's also the feeling of craftsmanship and quality materials. Anyone can set up a Kydex press and turn out half-decent holsters after watching a few RUclips videos. Good leatherwork takes years to master. Kydex, when it fails, tends to fail hard. It cracks and that's the end. Leather will stretch and soften with age but as long as it's of decent quality it won't outright fall apart. Some guns just deserve leather. If I ever decide to OWB carry a 1911 or Hi Power or revolver it will be in a leather holster from one of the greats. Sam Andrews, Mitch Rosen, Milt Sparks, Kramer, Tucker. The wait is the price you have to pay for quality. I'll pay a little more and wait for quality if it means that I'll have something I can use for years to come.
You're the first person I've ever seen/heard address the abrasive nature of a holster method. I've had the Vanguard holster (trigger-guard minimalist holster), and the front sight and tip of my firearm would tear holes through numerous pants. Regular kydex is not as bad, might give leather a try.
For leather holsters I prefer (and use) Milt Sparks 55BN and Mitch Rosen UPL holster designs. Their craftsmanship and quality are very high, they tend to conform to the body overtime giving a better concealability than kydex OWB holsters, and they can have a smaller footprint (overall width) than kydex. Because they are made of a flexible material leather tends to be more comfortable and they don't have sharp edges which can poke into your body when sitting down in a car etc.
I use leather, suede, neoprene, and nylon but I won't use plastic. Too stiff and too noisy and too bulky. Other materials are more comfortable, flexible, quieter, and less bulky. Those are my reasons. Some leather holsters without thumb breaks do have self retention because they are treated and form/shape fitted to specific pistols. They are very tight fitting and usually require a break in or stretching of the leather for a short time. Kusiak holsters are a good example of these pistol specific self retention leather holsters. But I agree that most leather holsters are friction retention holsters of one kind or another. There are also hybrids that use retention screws or even some plastic inserts or other. Some older nylon holsters had metal clip inserts for retention. My leather holster brands go from more to less expensive such as Kusiak, Andicen, Galco, and Bulldog that range from IWB, IWB/OWB, and even OWB slide holsters. But I have neoprene calf and nylon horizontal shoulder holsters as well as IWB suede also. Like Bug Bite and Uncle Mikes. My favorite? Hmmm. Well my best looking holster is the Andicen thumb break for my revolver and it is comfortable in or outside the pants. The Kusiak gets used the most right now for my micro compact. But my most versatile is probably my cheap Bulldog OWB medium slide holster that fits two sub compacts and my micro compact. The Galco fits both my sub compacts.
Leather is also softer and more forgiving to your body than kydex as you perform dynamic movements. And while "adjusting" tension is more like stretching it out, at least you'll never lose a critical proprietary screw (or nut, washer, or clip). Worth the hassle? I think so - I have sacrificial under shirts that I swap out regularly as they get characteristic wear holes due to my slide. Unless, as you mentioned, the social event calls for aesthetics, like a barbecue.
You wont loose a screw on a quality kydex holster most tell you to locktite screws after its adjusted the way you want it. Dynamic engagments really depends on the specific holster.
@@boomee78 That's like saying a quality revolver won't bind up and jam. Mostly true until it's not. Play the lottery enough and eventually, you win the prize. Even the best holster makers have a few bad days. The slight squish from leather in your waist is more comfy than the sharp edges of kydex when you bend over. That effect magnifies if you're lying on top of it or dragging it across the ground as you crawl. But then, that same leather holster that collapses nicely, is sometimes a pain to reholster for the same reasons. That may make for more convincing concealment though. No one makes kydex pocket holsters, after all. Again I must reiterate, I primarily depend on kydex, but only because I think for myself and have practiced with these tools. And if my needs ever change, I'm unafraid to change my holster type if it makes sense.
Old guy, old school here… I’ve always preferred leather, but have purchased a number of kydex holsters - budget and premium. Kydex has its place (for me, primarily at the range), but my preference remains with leather.
I carry a 1911 in a don hume iwb, it looks and feels nice, im a fan but for the 1911 specifically it pokes out from the hip too much. just recently bought another leather one for it that cants forward a bit so hopefully that'll help me but yeah, big fan of leather
I've been pondering a leather AIWB rig. I've found that, for me, the bottom edge of a kydex rig is tremendously uncomfortable, even with a wedge. The only problem is wait, which is why I can never really advocate for leather to new shooters. Cheap stuff creaks like no other and is very pliable, the good stuff can take nearly a year to reach you sometimes (I waited ten months for an OWB from Kirkpatrick).
I probably won’t go the leather holster route just yet. I’m barely figuring out how to condition, polish, and mirror shine my Allen Edmonds, Thursday, and Beckett Simonon dress shoes & boots. Andrew’s Leather sounds good. Someday though…
Palmetto Leather Works, and R Grizzle Leather are TOP notch holster makers. I have holsters from both of these small companies and let me tell you the quality, comfort, and durability are second to none!
I use a Bianchi Remedy with a G 19 when I can wear an outer garment. great retention, very comfortable, hugs tight. I use an Amberide Kydex IWB with an Ulti-clip in warm weather with a G 43X or a G 26 (different holsters). Those work well for me. The leather is 10 times more comfortable. I will try a leather IWB one of these days.
I’ve got leather holsters from Milt Sparks and Lou Alessi (from back when Lou was alive). I don’t use them anymore. I find Kydex to work better for me for OWB. For IWB, the only holster I’ve ever found to be comfortable is the Crossbreed. YMMV.
@@TheSuitedShootist The nuance of what makes a quality leather holster. You can tell if a kydex holster is going be good by the small clues: purpose built wings and clips, high quality properly coated hardware, craftsmanship on edge polishes, efficient design for achieving retention, and implementation of concealment principles, etc. Makes it possible to estimate which $30 dollar holster is masquerading as a $80 to $100 holster.
I'm poor so I can't try stuff if I wanted to. What I do notice about yours is the belt loop. I have a cheapy uncle Bobs holster, lol, and the belt loop is the same concept. A bit different design but when I would walk, the entire gun especially the grip would wobble side to side. Other leather holsters have the belt loops on each side edge of the holster and I imagine its to remedy it. Only thing is the holster ends up being this huge chunk on your side.
I want some leather wrapped kydex. They always do the inside leather though lol. I want the exact opposite, actually just the side touching my belly is fine with me.
I think the only issue with leather holsters is that there aren’t many optic cut options. Anyone got a suggestion for a leather P365 optic cut holster?
I would strongly advise against that. Versacarry is not a respected brand in the training world. The issue is that, since kydex holster making is typically a lot more efficient and cost-effective, the market has come to expect a certain price point, when in reality a good quality leather holster is really going to run you $100+ Milt Sparks Andrews Custom 5 Shot Leather Bulman Gunleather Ritchie Leather Mitch Rosen Those are who to look at for leather holsters.
@@TheSuitedShootist LABOR40 code is a 40% discount, I have a Legacy Firearm kydex holster for my VP9, its the best 1 so far, was like $80, bought a Cloud Tuck from Ultimate Holsters for my PPK to hold to my pants instead of my core belt, I just want a leather holster just to have one since its 40% off
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AIWB kydex holsters that I’m looking at have both ‘The Claw’ and ‘Wedge’ features that press the weapon into your body better (in two different ways) for better concealment. Do leather holsters have this too, specifically Milt Sparks? Also, doesn’t Milt Sparks have some type of an impregnated metal “Forming structure” to keep it from caving in (sort of giving you a kydex type feature WITH a leather holster)?
I've seen at list one Milt Sparks built to accept a wing/claw. I'm having a custom leather appendix rig built now that I'll do a feature on once it's had some road time
@@TheSuitedShootist ok thanks. From continuing to poke around in reviews, I see that you and others are also big on 5 Shot Leather…Hmm, it might also seem like their SME holster is more specifically geared towards AIWB than anything by Milt Sparks. I’m still poking around and feeling things out. Of course it’s always possible to get a really nice leather AIWB as well as a nice kydex one!!
@JoeBuck-uc3bl lots of guys i respect speak very highly of the 5-Shot. I don't have any firsthand experience with them. When I get mine in, I'll do a video, but honestly it's going to be more of a BBQ gun than optimized for social work.
One thing for sure though: you can draw much quicker with kydex, no? I’m thinking about getting a AIWB leather holster, but the higher / potentially inconsistent retention (even on a high quality leather holster), seems like a deal breaker. Slower draw / fumbling might cost you your life in a defensive situation(?)
@@TheSuitedShootist there’s a test online, about a second more with leather. Not much, but in a defensive situation, might be a lot? I read somewhere 3 seconds is average defensive shooting duration before it’s over
I just have to bring up the point that Kydex holsters that have adjustable screws along one side are absolutely going to hold your gun much tighter than any leather holster ever will, I mean you could damn near lock your gun into its holster by tightening down all screws on it with the rubber grommet in between! But I am absolutely of the group that prefers leather with a thumb strap!!!
Problem is many leather holsters collapse on themselves after the draw. That's why polymer exists. I use hybrid holsters with both leather and kydex. Best of both worlds.
*CHEAP* leather holsters do, but Milt Sparks, Andrews, 5-Shot, etc don't. That's a design & construction issue, not a materials issue. Kydex holsters don't perform well if you use too thin a sheet of Boltoron. Hybrids also wear over time, AB's that leather backer makes it much harder to holster the pistol safely.
Popped up in my feed so.... Milt Sparks, TT Gunleather, Tucker Gun Leather, DeSantis, Bianchi, 1791, and Bitter Root Gun Leather (Unique Art) to name a few that make strong side, cross draw, IWB, and AIWB. Good Leather like Sam Andrews in your experience takes a bit of breaking in. Kydex is used for primarily summer time carry with more sweat and humidity. Good leather can handle that but requires a touch more maintenance. I have yet to find a kydex system that does not require tweaking for awhile to get it to an acceptable carry. Another aspect of kydex it is not all the same materials. There are cheap plastic and those with proper quality, finishes on the materials used. Polymer FOM Clips are evil, only metal will do.
@@JoeBuck-uc3bl Safariland, and Tennicor. I think it is the material thickness, Don't know the numbers. It has a smooth feel in texture. Surprisingly I picked up a Gun & Flower on Amazon. Only the finest Chynesium however, it has the same type of kydex used as the first mentioned. I did change out the plastic FOM to a metal one. It works great. Durability has yet to be determined. Remember this, Kydex is a consumable item. They break. So focusing on safety and comfort are high on my list. Amazon allows for trying out just like clothes and shoes. Keep what you want and send back the rest.
@@lenholt7419 from so many comments among various videos and forums threads that I’ve been reading, it does seem like Tenicor might be the top choice! And Safariland seems incredible, but it looks like they shine in OWB duty style holsters but not for much for concealed IWB…but of course that’s implied in the name lol “Safari”land. I see a lot of praise for Tier 1. I’m trying to do my best to compile a true A1 list of companies!!
Leather holsters present several risks not shared by Kydex. Its increased pliability when warm, wet or well-warn makes it prone to collapse in on itself creating potential obstructions when re-holstering a firearm leading to a much greater risk of a negligent discharge vs Kydex. When warm or wet leather tends to either swell or stretch causing significant changes in its pistol retention characteristics.
That very much depends on the quality of the holster. I've got friends running Milt Sparks that are almost 20 years old. If they're well built, they'll last. Unfortunately, kydex has skewed our idea of what holsters should cost.
@@TheSuitedShootist I agree that leather is comfortable and beautiful but the risks I identified plus the extra bulk and cost makes it an inferior choice vs. Kydex. I’ve actually ban leather holsters (as well as all other soft materials) from my classes for anyone running a striker-fired pistol (they’re permitted for hammer-fired platforms only). I ran Galco holsters for a long time and really appreciated the comfort. But the difference in rigidity and retention at the beginning of the shift vs end of shift was undeniable - a consistent draw is impossible when retention is changing. Hot, cold, wet, dry - Kydex is always the same. I’ll give up a small amount of comfort for less bulk, consistent retention and a little more peace of mind that I’m not going to put any new holes in my leg of glute.
@@nbonner75I’m a definite novice and trying to learn about this stuff, can you expand on hammer fired pistols being more acceptable in a leather holster than a striker?
@@JoeBuck-uc3bl on SAO guns you’ll almost always be re-holstering with the manual safety on. For DA/SA guns, re-holstering will always be done with the gun de-cocked and/or the manual safety on. Additionally, with a de-cocked DA gun you can put your thumb on the hammer while re-holstering which will prevent any amount of force on the trigger from causing the hammer to cycle. Some striker guns can be equipped with a “striker control device” (essentially a hinged slide plate) that would also allow a thumb placed over it to prevent the fire controls from cycling. Absent that however, any obstruction in the trigger guard of a striker gun resulting from a soft holster becoming slightly deformed could easily cause an uncommanded discharge.
@@nbonner75 oh ok thanks. I specifically am seeking holsters for Walther PPS M2 (striker), an HK USP Compact (hammer). I’m definitely working with play money here with this holster search so I don’t mind buying multiple holsters for each gun, and perhaps both a nice leather and nice kydex one for the same gun. Ok then, I will be more inclined to buy a nice leather one for the USP hammer then!! Thanks.
They're not bad, especially for the price point. That price point does come with a more limited service life than some of the more boutique options like Milt Sparks, Andrews Custom, 5 Shot, etc.
Leather holsters to be are better ive got both pancake hard ass plastic holster... for a standard springfields 1911 45 and a 10mm .... i have 2 compact 1911 45s a Kimber and a springfield microcompact in leather so im going to buy a leather one for the standard versions
If I carry inside the waist band.I have a suede holster. If it's good enough for James Bond,its good enough for me. Other than that I prefer a shldr holster.
People used to tell me that leather would wear the finish off my slide….I’ve had my USPC with the same leather holster since 2001. The slide looks the same after coming in and out of the holster thousands of times. People are loony.
The only time I use leather is on revolvers. Kydex for me is just far superior to leather. I love leather and do leather craft but, I trust my life to kydex.
I wouldn't go that far. I will say that dollar for dollar a quality kydex holster is about half as expensive as the equivalent leather holster, but you can get the same performance from both, and each has benefits.
@The Suited Shootist Maybe, I guess for me on Striker Fire....I think Kydex is safer. Less chance of the sides collapsing and pulling the trigger on reholstering. That is my take.
@tradbowtimewithuncledan2686 a good quality horsehide holster w/ a reinforced mouth from a company like Andrews or Milt Sparks won't have that issue. We don't get to see as many of those out in the wild, though, because they're handmade and expensive. You'll never see a quality leather holster hanging on the peg of the local gun shop other than Galco, and even then, some of their models leave a little to be desired. But true artisan gunleather is just as safe & robust as kydex
Have many holsters and different designs but after years of carrying I've settled on a Wright leather works banshee with 2 low profile clips at strong side carry. I'm 54 and weight 220 and hike regularly which I strickly carry a Glock 43 in a kydex holster due to sweating.
That's not *necessarily* always the case. Attachment methods play a big role, so a more fair comparison would be something like a Summer Special, that also stacks the loops over top of the holster body, instead of spreading them out. The Summit is an incredibly low-profile kydex pancake holster. ruclips.net/video/GUKUPgQMAvM/видео.html
Not really: - Reduces friction as it pertains to the outer surface of the holster against your clothing. Less abrasive. - Continuous friction as it pertains to the interior of the holster (usually a different texture) interacting with the pistol.
Having spent the last 38 years designing and manufacturing leather concealment gear, my opinion might just be a little bit biased 🙂 With that said, one other point in favor of leather - leather tends to break down over an extended period of time and almost always gives you quite a bit of warning before it reaches it's fail-point. Kydex (and related thermoplastics) can be working perfectly one second, and the next reach it's point of catastrophic failure without any warning. Comfort is another consideration - My shop is also equipped to do Kydex, but I have yet to design a plastic holster with a level of comfort anywhere near what leather can provide. 'Just my $.02
Well put. Can you link any leather holsters youve built that are on the market? I’m very interested.
Have used leather for years. Milt Sparks, Alessi and 5 shot. All were monumental wait times but are still just as good as new decades later.
Kydex is nice for appendix because it's compact and solid. When I was getting an OWB holster for my Shield Plus I decided to get a leather thumb-break from Falco. I like it. It's comfortable and classy. It's soft and warm and flexible unlike hard Kydex. Even unsnapped the rough side of the leather and tightness are enough hold it in place. If I was to carry at 4:00 IWB I'd probably go leather. I'm not for or against either, they each have their strengths and weaknesses and must be evaluated in context.
There's also the feeling of craftsmanship and quality materials. Anyone can set up a Kydex press and turn out half-decent holsters after watching a few RUclips videos. Good leatherwork takes years to master. Kydex, when it fails, tends to fail hard. It cracks and that's the end. Leather will stretch and soften with age but as long as it's of decent quality it won't outright fall apart.
Some guns just deserve leather. If I ever decide to OWB carry a 1911 or Hi Power or revolver it will be in a leather holster from one of the greats. Sam Andrews, Mitch Rosen, Milt Sparks, Kramer, Tucker. The wait is the price you have to pay for quality. I'll pay a little more and wait for quality if it means that I'll have something I can use for years to come.
Today I just ordered the C601LR from Falco for my Shield Plus.
It will be the first leather holster I've ever had in my 35 years of carrying.
You're the first person I've ever seen/heard address the abrasive nature of a holster method. I've had the Vanguard holster (trigger-guard minimalist holster), and the front sight and tip of my firearm would tear holes through numerous pants. Regular kydex is not as bad, might give leather a try.
I just got my first leather holster, belt, and magazine holders from 1791 Gunleather. It’s really nice handmade quality gear at a great price.
Great video!! And information brother!!😎looking now for one for my soon to arrive sr1911🤓
For leather holsters I prefer (and use) Milt Sparks 55BN and Mitch Rosen UPL holster designs. Their craftsmanship and quality are very high, they tend to conform to the body overtime giving a better concealability than kydex OWB holsters, and they can have a smaller footprint (overall width) than kydex.
Because they are made of a flexible material leather tends to be more comfortable and they don't have sharp edges which can poke into your body when sitting down in a car etc.
Vm 2 and summer special for me
I’ll be wearing a Milt Sparks holster this weekend to a wedding.
They make phenomenal holsters
Must be some rough in-laws!😮😉
@@YouLookinAtMe-Bro"If anyone has reason why these two should not be wed..."
😂😂😂😂
Shotgun wedding
Milt Sparks = long wait, but well worth it!
I use leather, suede, neoprene, and nylon but I won't use plastic. Too stiff and too noisy and too bulky. Other materials are more comfortable, flexible, quieter, and less bulky. Those are my reasons. Some leather holsters without thumb breaks do have self retention because they are treated and form/shape fitted to specific pistols. They are very tight fitting and usually require a break in or stretching of the leather for a short time. Kusiak holsters are a good example of these pistol specific self retention leather holsters. But I agree that most leather holsters are friction retention holsters of one kind or another. There are also hybrids that use retention screws or even some plastic inserts or other. Some older nylon holsters had metal clip inserts for retention. My leather holster brands go from more to less expensive such as Kusiak, Andicen, Galco, and Bulldog that range from IWB, IWB/OWB, and even OWB slide holsters. But I have neoprene calf and nylon horizontal shoulder holsters as well as IWB suede also. Like Bug Bite and Uncle Mikes. My favorite? Hmmm. Well my best looking holster is the Andicen thumb break for my revolver and it is comfortable in or outside the pants. The Kusiak gets used the most right now for my micro compact. But my most versatile is probably my cheap Bulldog OWB medium slide holster that fits two sub compacts and my micro compact. The Galco fits both my sub compacts.
Leather is also softer and more forgiving to your body than kydex as you perform dynamic movements. And while "adjusting" tension is more like stretching it out, at least you'll never lose a critical proprietary screw (or nut, washer, or clip). Worth the hassle? I think so - I have sacrificial under shirts that I swap out regularly as they get characteristic wear holes due to my slide. Unless, as you mentioned, the social event calls for aesthetics, like a barbecue.
You wont loose a screw on a quality kydex holster most tell you to locktite screws after its adjusted the way you want it. Dynamic engagments really depends on the specific holster.
@@boomee78 That's like saying a quality revolver won't bind up and jam. Mostly true until it's not. Play the lottery enough and eventually, you win the prize. Even the best holster makers have a few bad days. The slight squish from leather in your waist is more comfy than the sharp edges of kydex when you bend over. That effect magnifies if you're lying on top of it or dragging it across the ground as you crawl. But then, that same leather holster that collapses nicely, is sometimes a pain to reholster for the same reasons. That may make for more convincing concealment though. No one makes kydex pocket holsters, after all. Again I must reiterate, I primarily depend on kydex, but only because I think for myself and have practiced with these tools. And if my needs ever change, I'm unafraid to change my holster type if it makes sense.
@@rediius 🍪
Old guy, old school here… I’ve always preferred leather, but have purchased a number of kydex holsters - budget and premium. Kydex has its place (for me, primarily at the range), but my preference remains with leather.
OG endorsed.
@@BirdDogey1boomer endorsed
Andrew’s leather is the best hands down
I haven't handled a ton of shoulder holsters, but it's by far my favorite of the ones I've tried.
I carry a 1911 in a don hume iwb, it looks and feels nice, im a fan but for the 1911 specifically it pokes out from the hip too much. just recently bought another leather one for it that cants forward a bit so hopefully that'll help me but yeah, big fan of leather
I've been pondering a leather AIWB rig. I've found that, for me, the bottom edge of a kydex rig is tremendously uncomfortable, even with a wedge.
The only problem is wait, which is why I can never really advocate for leather to new shooters. Cheap stuff creaks like no other and is very pliable, the good stuff can take nearly a year to reach you sometimes (I waited ten months for an OWB from Kirkpatrick).
5-Shot SME is probably with a look, at is the Summer Special
If you are still looking, Falco has some amazing holsters. Usually only takes acouple weeks to be made
I probably won’t go the leather holster route just yet. I’m barely figuring out how to condition, polish, and mirror shine my Allen Edmonds, Thursday, and Beckett Simonon dress shoes & boots. Andrew’s Leather sounds good. Someday though…
Palmetto Leather Works, and R Grizzle Leather are TOP notch holster makers. I have holsters from both of these small companies and let me tell you the quality, comfort, and durability are second to none!
I love your holster. What price are we talking about?
It's part of the Monarch shoulder holster from Andrews Custom Leather.
A good quality leather holster is going to easily run $150+
Best iwb I ever bought was a milt sparks.
I use a Bianchi Remedy with a G 19 when I can wear an outer garment. great retention, very comfortable, hugs tight. I use an Amberide Kydex IWB with an Ulti-clip in warm weather with a G 43X or a G 26 (different holsters). Those work well for me. The leather is 10 times more comfortable. I will try a leather IWB one of these days.
I'd highly recommend swapping out those Ulti-Clips for some Discreet Carry Concepts clips instead.
I’ve got leather holsters from Milt Sparks and Lou Alessi (from back when Lou was alive). I don’t use them anymore. I find Kydex to work better for me for OWB. For IWB, the only holster I’ve ever found to be comfortable is the Crossbreed. YMMV.
Unfortunately, hybrid holsters are notorious for a litany of comfort issues.
Ellifritz fits a great article on them.
Is there an equivalent to phlster concealment guides when it comes to leather holsters?
All the same mechanics & principles apply regardless of if the holster is made is kydex or leather.
What are you having a hard time with?
@@TheSuitedShootist The nuance of what makes a quality leather holster.
You can tell if a kydex holster is going be good by the small clues: purpose built wings and clips, high quality properly coated hardware, craftsmanship on edge polishes, efficient design for achieving retention, and implementation of concealment principles, etc. Makes it possible to estimate which $30 dollar holster is masquerading as a $80 to $100 holster.
@@GuamGuy oooooh, ok I gotcha.
I can do a follow-up video to this and go over some of those details.
I'm poor so I can't try stuff if I wanted to. What I do notice about yours is the belt loop. I have a cheapy uncle Bobs holster, lol, and the belt loop is the same concept. A bit different design but when I would walk, the entire gun especially the grip would wobble side to side. Other leather holsters have the belt loops on each side edge of the holster and I imagine its to remedy it. Only thing is the holster ends up being this huge chunk on your side.
For conceal carry or OWB try the "Bad Ass Holster". Its comfortable and works well inside or outside.
I want some leather wrapped kydex. They always do the inside leather though lol. I want the exact opposite, actually just the side touching my belly is fine with me.
I think the only issue with leather holsters is that there aren’t many optic cut options. Anyone got a suggestion for a leather P365 optic cut holster?
I'd check out 5-Shot Leather, Bulman Gun Leather, & Milt Sparks
Thinking of one of the Versacarry holsters
I would strongly advise against that.
Versacarry is not a respected brand in the training world.
The issue is that, since kydex holster making is typically a lot more efficient and cost-effective, the market has come to expect a certain price point, when in reality a good quality leather holster is really going to run you $100+
Milt Sparks
Andrews Custom
5 Shot Leather
Bulman Gunleather
Ritchie Leather
Mitch Rosen
Those are who to look at for leather holsters.
@@TheSuitedShootist LABOR40 code is a 40% discount, I have a Legacy Firearm kydex holster for my VP9, its the best 1 so far, was like $80, bought a Cloud Tuck from Ultimate Holsters for my PPK to hold to my pants instead of my core belt, I just want a leather holster just to have one since its 40% off
@@TheSuitedShootistI take it back.. I think I’ma get the TSAD in black from Bulman… thanks! It’s looks amazing, $165 but I think it’s really worth it.
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AIWB kydex holsters that I’m looking at have both ‘The Claw’ and ‘Wedge’ features that press the weapon into your body better (in two different ways) for better concealment. Do leather holsters have this too, specifically Milt Sparks? Also, doesn’t Milt Sparks have some type of an impregnated metal “Forming structure” to keep it from caving in (sort of giving you a kydex type feature WITH a leather holster)?
I've seen at list one Milt Sparks built to accept a wing/claw.
I'm having a custom leather appendix rig built now that I'll do a feature on once it's had some road time
@@TheSuitedShootist ok thanks. From continuing to poke around in reviews, I see that you and others are also big on 5 Shot Leather…Hmm, it might also seem like their SME holster is more specifically geared towards AIWB than anything by Milt Sparks. I’m still poking around and feeling things out. Of course it’s always possible to get a really nice leather AIWB as well as a nice kydex one!!
@JoeBuck-uc3bl lots of guys i respect speak very highly of the 5-Shot.
I don't have any firsthand experience with them.
When I get mine in, I'll do a video, but honestly it's going to be more of a BBQ gun than optimized for social work.
Where’s the suit?
One thing for sure though: you can draw much quicker with kydex, no?
I’m thinking about getting a AIWB leather holster, but the higher / potentially inconsistent retention (even on a high quality leather holster), seems like a deal breaker. Slower draw / fumbling might cost you your life in a defensive situation(?)
Faster? Maybe.
By a significant margin? Doubtful.
People need to shift their priorities to sooner > faster.
@@TheSuitedShootist there’s a test online, about a second more with leather. Not much, but in a defensive situation, might be a lot? I read somewhere 3 seconds is average defensive shooting duration before it’s over
@Anw120 I doubt it's that extreme. I'd have to look that up.
I've got a DeSantis I can do a Pepsi Challenge with.
@@TheSuitedShootist That would be a really cool video! I'm sure many would find it useful / interesting.
Craft Holsters! Outstanding
I just have to bring up the point that Kydex holsters that have adjustable screws along one side are absolutely going to hold your gun much tighter than any leather holster ever will, I mean you could damn near lock your gun into its holster by tightening down all screws on it with the rubber grommet in between! But I am absolutely of the group that prefers leather with a thumb strap!!!
Problem is many leather holsters collapse on themselves after the draw. That's why polymer exists. I use hybrid holsters with both leather and kydex. Best of both worlds.
*CHEAP* leather holsters do, but Milt Sparks, Andrews, 5-Shot, etc don't.
That's a design & construction issue, not a materials issue.
Kydex holsters don't perform well if you use too thin a sheet of Boltoron.
Hybrids also wear over time, AB's that leather backer makes it much harder to holster the pistol safely.
Popped up in my feed so.... Milt Sparks, TT Gunleather, Tucker Gun Leather, DeSantis, Bianchi, 1791, and Bitter Root Gun Leather (Unique Art) to name a few that make strong side, cross draw, IWB, and AIWB. Good Leather like Sam Andrews in your experience takes a bit of breaking in. Kydex is used for primarily summer time carry with more sweat and humidity. Good leather can handle that but requires a touch more maintenance. I have yet to find a kydex system that does not require tweaking for awhile to get it to an acceptable carry. Another aspect of kydex it is not all the same materials. There are cheap plastic and those with proper quality, finishes on the materials used. Polymer FOM Clips are evil, only metal will do.
Do you know which companies who use the highest quality kydex?
@@JoeBuck-uc3bl Safariland, and Tennicor. I think it is the material thickness, Don't know the numbers. It has a smooth feel in texture. Surprisingly I picked up a Gun & Flower on Amazon. Only the finest Chynesium however, it has the same type of kydex used as the first mentioned. I did change out the plastic FOM to a metal one. It works great. Durability has yet to be determined. Remember this, Kydex is a consumable item. They break. So focusing on safety and comfort are high on my list. Amazon allows for trying out just like clothes and shoes. Keep what you want and send back the rest.
@@lenholt7419 from so many comments among various videos and forums threads that I’ve been reading, it does seem like Tenicor might be the top choice! And Safariland seems incredible, but it looks like they shine in OWB duty style holsters but not for much for concealed IWB…but of course that’s implied in the name lol “Safari”land. I see a lot of praise for Tier 1. I’m trying to do my best to compile a true A1 list of companies!!
Leather holsters present several risks not shared by Kydex. Its increased pliability when warm, wet or well-warn makes it prone to collapse in on itself creating potential obstructions when re-holstering a firearm leading to a much greater risk of a negligent discharge vs Kydex. When warm or wet leather tends to either swell or stretch causing significant changes in its pistol retention characteristics.
That very much depends on the quality of the holster.
I've got friends running Milt Sparks that are almost 20 years old.
If they're well built, they'll last.
Unfortunately, kydex has skewed our idea of what holsters should cost.
@@TheSuitedShootist I agree that leather is comfortable and beautiful but the risks I identified plus the extra bulk and cost makes it an inferior choice vs. Kydex. I’ve actually ban leather holsters (as well as all other soft materials) from my classes for anyone running a striker-fired pistol (they’re permitted for hammer-fired platforms only).
I ran Galco holsters for a long time and really appreciated the comfort. But the difference in rigidity and retention at the beginning of the shift vs end of shift was undeniable - a consistent draw is impossible when retention is changing. Hot, cold, wet, dry - Kydex is always the same. I’ll give up a small amount of comfort for less bulk, consistent retention and a little more peace of mind that I’m not going to put any new holes in my leg of glute.
@@nbonner75I’m a definite novice and trying to learn about this stuff, can you expand on hammer fired pistols being more acceptable in a leather holster than a striker?
@@JoeBuck-uc3bl on SAO guns you’ll almost always be re-holstering with the manual safety on. For DA/SA guns, re-holstering will always be done with the gun de-cocked and/or the manual safety on. Additionally, with a de-cocked DA gun you can put your thumb on the hammer while re-holstering which will prevent any amount of force on the trigger from causing the hammer to cycle.
Some striker guns can be equipped with a “striker control device” (essentially a hinged slide plate) that would also allow a thumb placed over it to prevent the fire controls from cycling. Absent that however, any obstruction in the trigger guard of a striker gun resulting from a soft holster becoming slightly deformed could easily cause an uncommanded discharge.
@@nbonner75 oh ok thanks. I specifically am seeking holsters for Walther PPS M2 (striker), an HK USP Compact (hammer). I’m definitely working with play money here with this holster search so I don’t mind buying multiple holsters for each gun, and perhaps both a nice leather and nice kydex one for the same gun. Ok then, I will be more inclined to buy a nice leather one for the USP hammer then!! Thanks.
My hunter/ open carry is a leather.
Nothing beats a Galco holster period
They're not bad, especially for the price point.
That price point does come with a more limited service life than some of the more boutique options like Milt Sparks, Andrews Custom, 5 Shot, etc.
You don't make your case on this...I am a convert from leather to kydex...only use leather for single-actions, now.
🤷♂️ I'm not really trying to convince anyone of anything.
It's just some benefits the leather has over kydex that may matter to some folks.
Leather holsters to be are better ive got both pancake hard ass plastic holster... for a standard springfields 1911 45 and a 10mm .... i have 2 compact 1911 45s a Kimber and a springfield microcompact in leather so im going to buy a leather one for the standard versions
If I carry inside the waist band.I have a suede holster. If it's good enough for James Bond,its good enough for me. Other than that I prefer a shldr holster.
Just be careful. Suede isn't very rigid, so hopefully, the mouth is reinforced.
@@TheSuitedShootist Yes, I agree with you regarding suede. And I really should have said that not only do I prefer a s
@@TheSuitedShootist I appreciate the heads-up. I'll take your advice. Thanks
Just curious, is it actual suede or just roughout leather?
@@bwofficial1776 it is suede. It's the Skywalk. IWB holster Daniel Craig had in Casino Royale and SkyFall.
We should all remember that leather holsters have been used for hundreds of years, so I would have 2 say they have their place.
Thousands. Found one under the pyramid.
@@bobl2833 Yea I remember that, its the 1 King Tut used!😂
Dollar for dollar, you can’t beat 1791 Gunleather Holsters.
Their fit & finish leave a lot to be desired.
I'd go Galco for that price.
People used to tell me that leather would wear the finish off my slide….I’ve had my USPC with the same leather holster since 2001. The slide looks the same after coming in and out of the holster thousands of times. People are loony.
The only time I use leather is on revolvers. Kydex for me is just far superior to leather. I love leather and do leather craft but, I trust my life to kydex.
I wouldn't go that far.
I will say that dollar for dollar a quality kydex holster is about half as expensive as the equivalent leather holster, but you can get the same performance from both, and each has benefits.
@The Suited Shootist Maybe, I guess for me on Striker Fire....I think Kydex is safer. Less chance of the sides collapsing and pulling the trigger on reholstering. That is my take.
@tradbowtimewithuncledan2686 a good quality horsehide holster w/ a reinforced mouth from a company like Andrews or Milt Sparks won't have that issue.
We don't get to see as many of those out in the wild, though, because they're handmade and expensive. You'll never see a quality leather holster hanging on the peg of the local gun shop other than Galco, and even then, some of their models leave a little to be desired.
But true artisan gunleather is just as safe & robust as kydex
I don't carry to save my clothing, I carry to save my life.
Doesn't have to be either/or, my guy.
Have many holsters and different designs but after years of carrying I've settled on a Wright leather works banshee with 2 low profile clips at strong side carry. I'm 54 and weight 220 and hike regularly which I strickly carry a Glock 43 in a kydex holster due to sweating.
220 lbs. FYI - that’s Apollo Creed’s weight in Rocky and Rocky 2 lol
Garrett Industries makes leather lined kydex holsters.
I don’t like how kydex sticks out farther than a good pancake holster.
That's not *necessarily* always the case.
Attachment methods play a big role, so a more fair comparison would be something like a Summer Special, that also stacks the loops over top of the holster body, instead of spreading them out.
The Summit is an incredibly low-profile kydex pancake holster.
ruclips.net/video/GUKUPgQMAvM/видео.html
Running craft holster
No dont run leather i just like the options of kydex better i am.issued one for off duty at work
So you kind of contradicted yourself. First you said, leather reduces friction, then you said it has continuous friction. 🤔
Not really:
- Reduces friction as it pertains to the outer surface of the holster against your clothing. Less abrasive.
- Continuous friction as it pertains to the interior of the holster (usually a different texture) interacting with the pistol.
Simply Rugged for leather.
They get a lot of love from the Gunsite crowd.
I have two of their holsters for my revolvers and really like them!
Put the cheap guns in the plastic
I won't take anybody who smacks his fist into his hand audibly seriously ever. That's goddamn weird.
I won’t take anybody who has “69” at the end of their user name seriously ever.
That’s a classic genetic fallacy. So what if this guy tells you that 5 plus 5 is 10…not true because of the fist action lol?