View Full Version : Most comfortable IWB holster?
Looking for an IWB holster for my G19. I currently use an OWB Comp-Tac, while it's nice in the winter it sticks out like a sore thumb in the summer. I have been looking at Raven, Peters, and Comp-Tac. What is the most comfortable for long periods of times ie..road trips etc.. From the reviews I have been leaning towards the Peters but am interested in any reviews from what others have.
The most comfortable I have ever used is a Milt Sparks versa max. I have several for different firearms and will not go back to any others.
SpookyPistolero
05-03-10, 14:36
I carry a 1911 gov't model in a Comp-TAC C-TAC. It's the most comfortable IWB holster I've ever used, and I'll also only ever use CompTAC for my IWB holsters due to their customer service (I managed to break a belt clip, totally my fault, and they replaced it no questions asked).
I can easily conceal the 5" 1911 under a t-shirt, and have had numerous cops and gunstore folks say they'd never had believed I was hiding one unless they'd seen it themselves.
The wide distribution makes the holster flat (versus clips attached to the 'front' of the holster), and also prevents rocking or shifting. It is adjustable for retention strength and cant. I have found it comfortable even on extended car rides.
You can get almost any type of clip for that particular model too, depending on concealment vs. retention needs.
Come to think of it... I need one for my XD9.... :D
Very old, crappy pic...
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t259/Spookypistolero/akand1911.jpg
The best IWB holster I have ever used is the Milt Sparks Heritage #1; the Kramer #2 and Alessi PCH are also good.
Everyone is different but the Threat Solutions UCR is the most comfortable for me. Takes a while to get one but worth the wait. I have a Raven also and it is a close second.
Comp-Tac Minotaur. Very comfortable, secure, conceals quite well, and by changing Kydex bodies can be adapted to different weapons.
The other day I had Kahr PM9 in this holster with a polo shirt pulled over & tucked in with a pair of jeans. My wife didn't know I had it on.
In fairness however, now that we're over 50 and been married 25+ years, she doesn't notice me much anyway.
Stay safe.
The best IWB holster I have ever used is the Milt Sparks Heritage #1; the Kramer #2 and Alessi PCH are also good.
Doc I'm curious if you've ever tried to carry a 1911 in the Sparks Versa Max, and if so, what was it that you preferred about the Heritage? I've been looking at the Sparks holsters, especially these two.
G34Shooter
05-03-10, 15:25
I've tried almost a dozen IWB holsters for my G19 including a VMII, Raven,M-Tac, Bladetech, etc... And the one that was the most comfortable and concealable was my reinforced IWB from TT Gunleather.
Seen here with Sharkskin:
http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad251/SShenaniguns/30fb547f.jpg
http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad251/SShenaniguns/71407c71.jpg
http://i941.photobucket.com/albums/ad251/SShenaniguns/IMG_2840.jpg
The reason it works for me over the VMII was that it sat lower yet I still had a full grip.
Sparks Executives Companion. The flange really adds to comfort.
citizensoldier16
05-03-10, 15:38
My IWB of choice is a Crossbreed. It keeps the weapon very close and it doesn't ride too low either. Raven would be a close second.
Sparks Executives Companion. The flange really adds to comfort.
+1 to that. The Exec Companion and Summer Special are the most comfortable IWB holsters I've used.
Thanks for all the replies. Do the Kydex only holsters dig into you skin? Seems like a lot of "extra" plastic on some of them.
My above answer is my honest opinion . . . but I don't bother with spending that sort of coin for hand made leather for each of my new breed carry guns and I've carried with kydex primarily for the past 10 years or more. Although those Milt Sparks holsters were "more" comfortable (for 1911s and BHPs btw) generally, I only distinguish between really uncomfortable and comfortable enough when carrying my Glocks. Kydex from Sidearmor, Bladetech and FIST have not posed any problem for me worn against bare skin - the worst case scenario. YMMV.
My above answer is my honest opinion . . . but I don't bother with spending that sort of coin for hand made leather for each of my new breed carry guns and I've carried with kydex primarily for the past 10 years or more. Although those Milt Sparks holsters were "more" comfortable (for 1911s and BHPs btw) generally, I only distinguish between really uncomfortable and comfortable enough when carrying my Glocks. Kydex from Sidearmor, Bladetech and FIST have not posed any problem for me worn against bare skin - the worst case scenario. YMMV.
Good point, the Glocks don't really have any sharp edges. I checked the Sparks website......30 weeks :eek: for a holster and that's if you make it the monthly que! I checked brownells and they have the summer special 2 for sale and in stock. I'm thinking maybe for a full size 1911 the sparks might be the way to go and for the Glock a kydex setup may work. I just picture the kydex sticking to my skin after a 12 hour road trip...:confused:
Dragon Slayer
05-03-10, 18:14
Sparks Executive Companion or Kramer #3 are the most comfortable IWB holsters in my opinion. Anything kydex does not work for me, I have 2 Comp Tac infidels and can not stand them, FTM I shall sell them if anybody is interested one is for the Glock 19 the other is for the Glock 30. $40.00 each shipped.
I've owned a Sparks Heritage and Watch Six, Comp-Tac CTAC, Gurkha and Infidel with singlsbelt clip and a Blade Tech IWB. The Gurka was the most comfortable for me. I'd literally forget I had a 5" 1911 on me after wearing it all day. But everyone is built differently.
montanadave
05-03-10, 19:54
I'm glad someone has a Milt Sparks holster. I've tried to order one for three months but never get past the busy signal. :(
G34Shooter
05-03-10, 20:01
I'm glad someone has a Milt Sparks holster. I've tried to order one for three months but never get past the busy signal. :(
Go here instead:
www.ttgunleather.com
If you can wait order one from Tim, if not and don't mind paying more then order one designed by him and made by his father's company Occidental Leather.
I have not tried a lot of holsters, but I have no complaints about my K&D Cochise Defender. It's not on their site any longer, but the Thunderbird Defender is almost identical plus has slots for OWB carry.
gtmtnbiker98
05-03-10, 20:18
MS VMII
Lucky Strike
05-03-10, 21:19
I've got a crossbreed supertuck....after researching it was the first one I found that came highly recommended and fit my price range (sub $100).....I haven't bothered to look for anything else because the supertuck is extremely comfortable and stable. I can carry all day standing, walking, sitting etc without any discomfort. The kydex holster with leather backing seems to give the best of both worlds IMO. I've never had to deal with them but from what I've heard their customer service is great too.
I carry a Glock 19 with me everyday no matter what I am wearing to include cargo shorts and a t-shirt. I found the Crossbreed with horsehide and combat cut to work the best. It took about 1 1/2 weeks to break in and the use of some saddle soap. This Holster is the best of the best for me and what I need it for. I get the ultimate in concealability and comfort with out sacrificing a fast draw. Customer service is BARNONE. The guy who makes the holsters is the guy I speak with if I have questions or issues. Every email I have sent him he has gotten back to me that day or the day after. I can not say enough good things about Crossbreed and their customer service.
I know you are looking for IWB, this is off topic because it is for an ankle holster....Since you are carrying a G19 if you ever consider ankle carry the Galco ankle holster is all that even with the G19 I can run, climb, and play grab ass all day no issues!
I know you are looking for IWB, this is off topic because it is for an ankle holster....Since you are carrying a G19 if you ever consider ankle carry the Galco ankle holster is all that even with the G19 I can run, climb, and play grab ass all day no issues!
I think an ankle holster is a very poor choice for one's primary carry gun.
I have Milt Sparks VM2s for my P7M8 and G19. They are great.
willowofwisp
05-27-10, 21:04
Comp-tac MTAC
i use a raven phantom for my G19. quite comfortable, it's also very secure and FAST. a true pleasure to draw and reholster.
as far as most comfortable, i often forget about my g26 in its high noon mr softy. not really the best holster for lots of range drills, as re-holstering isn't very smooth, but it's super comfortable and rides very low for easy concealment.
i use a wilderness tactical 5 stitch belt for both holsters.
the biggest key to comfort with IWB is having big enough pants and a good belt.
Thanks for all the replies. Do the Kydex only holsters dig into you skin? Seems like a lot of "extra" plastic on some of them.
the extra plastic actually serves to spread the weight of the gun out.
I am a huge fan of the Comp-Tac CTAC. Others like the MTAC, and the idea is the same, spread the support out and keep it tight. I can hide a USP compact under a tshirt. I have tried my Raven with a light IWB, but have not ordered the proper clips and so far it seems to be pretty decent as well.
I know you... lol
Crossbreed Supertuck with Glock 19.
I got the combat cut option, but ended up snipping a bit more off.
Love it. I've worn in on car trips, over thirty hour stretches and have loved it so far. Paired with the Wilderness Instructors Belts, its awesome.
Run it with just a shirt sometimes, hides great.
In my experience, the Milt Sparks Versa Max 2 or Occidental Phoenix Stronghold.
For me the McDaniel II from Andrews Leather. Have 4 of them, for 4 different weapons. 5" double stack 1911 (Para P14) with steel frame disappears under a t-shirt.
My only two choices ....
TT Gunleather's Mike's Special for leather
Comp-Tac CTAC for kydex
Have carried my G19 in a Supertuck for a year now. Very comfortable, especially with a decent belt.
OP, not sure if you are still looking, but I converted my Raven Phantom for a G19 to IWB using overhooks, and it is comfortable for me. In the summer time, I carry a G26 in the same holster, as it prints a bit less (smaller body frame).
A review I did a while ago but it might help... I use a Belt Man belt and a Wilderness 5 stitch and would recommend them both.
Let me preface this with the fact that I am not a writer, manufacturer, reviewer or in anyway affiliated with any of the companies that are featured in this quick, down & dirty review. Personally I own a 5” Wilson Combat CQB which I can’t say enough good things about. This is my favorite 1911 I have owned and my experience is rather limited in comparison to some of the people who post here so please bear with me. In addition to that I’m 6’3” and 220lbs and I believe this may play a large part in my comfort factor with different holsters as opposed to someone of more conventional size.
My main reason for posting this is that I think a lot of people would like to see more pictures of different holsters and how they compare to one another. I’ve studied a myriad of different holsters, websites and forums and could not come up with any 1 answer to what I wanted so I purchased 3 holsters from manufacturers who are widely considered to be “top tier” in the category of IWB holsters. I am not inferring that anyone else shouldn’t or wouldn’t be considered, I just couldn’t get their holster in a timely manner. I myself would’ve loved to have been able to get an Alessi and a Nossar to throw into the mix and will do so one day.
As of right now I’ll be discussing the Gary Brommeland Max-Con V, the Milt Sparks VM-II (horsehide) and the Matt Del Fatti ISP-LP. I purchased the Sparks and Del Fatti holsters from aftermarket resale specialists that had them in stock and I got lucky enough that Gary had an “extra” MC-V that someone hadn’t paid for and he was willing to sell to me along with whipping out a matching magazine pouch to go with it, thanks again Gary!
My 1st impression of all 3 holsters is that they are all on an equal playing field as far as fit and finish goes, needless to say I’m impressed! The attention to detail and the quality of each is readily apparent, even to the novice :) I decided I’d get all 3 holsters and then make my determination as to who would get my hard earned money for a complete rig so I tested all 3 with a Wilderness Instructor Belt. On a side note this is a great belt for a reasonable price and I now recommend them to any and every person I know who uses holsters. I bought the 1.5” 5 stitch belt in a size 40 and it fits perfect, my pants size is normally 34” – 36” for a reference, and if you’re ever in the Phoenix area drop in and they’ll make yours while you wait! Great quality and customer service to match, enough said.
This “review” is purely subjective and is based solely on my comfort. I would highly recommend you purchase multiple holsters from different manufacturers and try your stab at finding the most comfortable, concealable and “best” holster for yourself. If your wife doesn’t understand tell her it’s like finding the best fitting bra for her, mine understood :D Please remember that this is not meant to critique any of these holsters on their quality of build as I believe they are all top notch in that category. As a side note I did not wear these holsters for weeks on end. My observations are from wearing them each approximately 3 days so there may be in fact more to be gained from them after a proper break in period. I tend to think so with the VM-2 especially being made of horse and feeling much more stiff upon initial inspection.
3rd place for me in the comfort area is the Matt Del Fatti ISP-LP. Although it is the shortest holster in length and initially I thought this would add more comfort I’ve come to realize that it hits directly on my sciatic nerve and is extremely painful to wear. This is obviously in direct proportion to my frame, physique and physical make up and nothing to do with the outstanding product Matt delivers. The belt loops are the widest of the 3 holsters. The initial firearm fit was the “loosest” in comparison to the other 2 but was more than ample when doing an upside down shake test. Just to clarify the holster was NOT loose but in fact was probably the closest to being the actual proper size to my CQB and would need the least amount of break in. ***The ISP does have a semi-reinforced mouth, only in the front. Sideways squeeze test puts this in 2nd for ease of reholstering.***
http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/9285/holster005ym2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
2nd place for me is the Milt Sparks VM-2 in horsehide (it was available). The VM-2 was middle of the road for overall length and belt loop width in respect to the other 2 holsters. I’m not sure if the horsehide requires more of a breaking in period but it was in the middle for comfort for me, slight sciatic nerve pinching, and it did tend to squeak a little when walking. Remember, my body and your body are proportioned differently and the things I mention will not affect everyone in the same way. The CQB fit remarkably well and didn’t need anything outside of normal use for any break in contrary to what I’ve read in several places. I have heard that Sparks holsters are very tight and that they need “bagging” and such for break in but this was definitely not the case with mine, a great job on fit! ***The VM-2 has a reinforced mouth and was by far the easiest for 1 handed reholstering. Sideways squeeze test puts it in 1st place with respect to being non-collapsing.***
http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/2448/holster002ra5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
1st place for me in terms of comfort was the Gary Brommeland Max-Con V. This holster was longest in overall length and had the skinniest belt loops. Out of all 3 the MC-V is the only 1 with different size loops, the back loop being about ¼” larger than the front and really helped in the area of comfort (also for presenting the weapon in a vehicle). Along with the loops I feel that the taller “sweat guard” helped a lot in terms of love handle protection :) The Max-Con V does not have a reinforced mouth for 1 handed reholstering and I’m of the opinion that this will not affect me as a civilian carrying concealed. This holster also had the most cant out of the 3 and may be the largest part of being the most comfortable due to not hitting the sciatic nerve, again, on me! Excellent weapon fit and retention as to be expected.
http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/6191/holster003cw3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Additional group photos so you can see all 3 side by side and the varying angles that are attributes of each different design. From Left to Right MC-V, VM-II, ISP-LP.
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/7342/holster008vp5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/1425/holster009me8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/516/holster014wb1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
A couple more thoughts and things I noticed. In terms of holding the CQB closest to my body, the results were the same as comfort, the MC-V, VM-II and then the ISP-LP.
I would not hesitate to HIGHLY RECOMMEND ALL 3 HOLSTERS to anyone and everyone reading this! My body type, physique and opinions on what is comfortable to me should in no way influence your decision. Initially I was going to only post pictures and thought it might be fun to jot down what my quick thoughts were concerning each one.
And 1 more to show off the holster pouch as well… take care.
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/2617/holster004dq7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Milt Sparks VMII! Very well made and extremely comfortable. I have also found the Summer Special to be well made, affordable and very comfortable. In my opinion a proper belt is critical to comfortable IWB carry.
I am 6'1" 180 to give you the perspective I am coming from.
VMII GOV/Commander
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t5/d90king/DSCN1264-1.jpg
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t5/d90king/DSCN1265-1.jpg
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t5/d90king/DSCN1256.jpg
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t5/d90king/DSCN1257.jpg
Milt Sparks Summer Special
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t5/d90king/DSCN1272.jpg
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t5/d90king/DSCN1273.jpg
I think an ankle holster is a very poor choice for one's primary carry gun.
In general I agree, every way to carry has it's own philosophy of use. I was not trying to state what way of primary carry is better than another. The guy who started this thread carries a the same gun as me, and I was just throwing it out there with intent of not getting off topic.
Since we did get off topic I will say my peace and be done. I agree with you however there is a small time in my life where I carry my primary on my ankle. Why? The situation I am in requires ultimate deep concealment and if I did draw it is a high percentage that I would be sitting down. Since I train that way it is fast. Trust me I gave this a lot of thought and it is a necessary compromise. Like I said in general I do agree. If you have a response to this Ill read it but I will not respond with respect for the topic of the thread.
gtmtnbiker98
05-28-10, 11:49
Leather = MS VMII
Kydex = MTAC
At least for me, this is what works. I haven't found anything as comfortable as the VMII.
Check out UBG holsters....
SmokeJumper
05-28-10, 15:59
For me for IWB it is leather all the way. My top favorite is the Milt Sparks Summer Special II in black horsehide with the IBS from 5Shot Leather a very close runner to the SS II. Next in line is my VMII from Sparks as well.
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