What is Kydex Holster and Why Should You Get One?
What is a Kydex Holster?
If you’re carrying a firearm for self-defense, you need a holster that will keep it secure and protect it from damage. Kydex holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry because they’re lightweight, durable, and comfortable to wear.
In this article, we’ll discuss what Kydex is, how Kydex holsters work, and the benefits of using a Kydex holster for concealed carry. We’ll also provide some tips on choosing the right Kydex holster for your needs.
So, if you’re ready to learn more about Kydex holsters, keep reading!
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
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| What is Kydex Holster? | A Kydex holster is a type of firearm holster made from Kydex, a thermoplastic polymer. | Kydex holsters are known for their durability, rigidity, and retention. |
| Advantages of Kydex Holsters |
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| Where to Buy Kydex Holsters | Kydex holsters can be purchased from a variety of online retailers and brick-and-mortar stores. | Some popular brands of Kydex holsters include:
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What is Kydex?
Kydex is a type of thermoplastic that is used to make a variety of products, including holsters. It is a strong and durable material that is resistant to chemicals and abrasion. Kydex holsters are popular because they are lightweight, comfortable to wear, and provide a secure fit for your firearm.
Kydex is a registered trademark of Kydex Industries, Inc., a company that was founded in 1965. The company originally developed Kydex for use in the manufacture of aircraft components. However, in the 1970s, the company began to market Kydex for use in the manufacture of holsters.
Kydex holsters quickly became popular with law enforcement officers and military personnel because they offered a number of advantages over traditional leather holsters. Kydex holsters are more durable than leather, and they are also more resistant to moisture and sweat. Additionally, Kydex holsters are easier to maintain than leather holsters.
Today, Kydex holsters are available for a variety of firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and shotguns. Kydex holsters are also available in a variety of styles, including IWB holsters, OWB holsters, and shoulder holsters.
History of Kydex Holsters
The history of Kydex holsters can be traced back to the early 1970s. In 1971, Kydex Industries, Inc., a company that was founded in 1965, began to market Kydex for use in the manufacture of holsters.
Kydex is a thermoplastic that is made from a blend of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polyethylene. It is a strong and durable material that is resistant to chemicals and abrasion. Kydex holsters are popular because they are lightweight, comfortable to wear, and provide a secure fit for your firearm.
In the early days, Kydex holsters were only available for a limited number of firearms. However, as the popularity of Kydex holsters grew, more and more manufacturers began to offer Kydex holsters for a wider variety of firearms.
Today, Kydex holsters are available for a wide variety of firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and shotguns. Kydex holsters are also available in a variety of styles, including IWB holsters, OWB holsters, and shoulder holsters.
Kydex holsters have become the standard for many law enforcement officers and military personnel. They are also popular with concealed carry enthusiasts. Kydex holsters offer a number of advantages over traditional leather holsters, including durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance.
3. Types of Kydex Holsters
Kydex holsters come in a variety of different types, each with its own unique set of features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of Kydex holsters:
- OWB holsters (outside the waistband) are worn on the outside of the waistband, typically around the hip. They are typically open-top, meaning that the firearm is exposed when the holster is unbuttoned.
- IWB holsters (inside the waistband) are worn inside the waistband, typically around the appendix or the small of the back. They are typically closed-top, meaning that the firearm is completely covered when the holster is buttoned.
- Appendix holsters are a type of IWB holster that is specifically designed to be worn in the appendix position. They are typically very low-profile and concealable, making them a good option for everyday carry.
- Thigh holsters are worn on the thigh, typically around the hip. They are typically open-top, making them easy to draw from.
- Shoulder holsters are worn on the shoulder, typically across the back. They are typically closed-top, making them very secure.
- Ankle holsters are worn on the ankle, typically around the calf. They are typically open-top, making them easy to draw from.
4. Benefits of Kydex Holsters
Kydex holsters offer a number of benefits over other types of holsters, including:
- Durability: Kydex is a very durable material that is resistant to wear and tear. This means that Kydex holsters will last for many years of use.
- Comfort: Kydex holsters are typically very comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. This is because Kydex conforms to the body, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.
- Secure: Kydex holsters are very secure, making it difficult for the firearm to be drawn by someone other than the wearer. This is because Kydex holsters typically have a tight fit and a positive retention system.
- Concealable: Kydex holsters are typically very concealable, making them a good option for everyday carry. This is because Kydex holsters are typically low-profile and do not add bulk to the body.
- Adaptable: Kydex holsters are very adaptable, meaning that they can be customized to fit a variety of firearms. This is because Kydex holsters are made from a thermoplastic material that can be molded to fit any firearm.
Kydex holsters are a popular choice for a variety of reasons. They are durable, comfortable, secure, concealable, and adaptable. If you are looking for a high-quality holster for your firearm, a Kydex holster is a great option.
What is Kydex?
Kydex is a type of thermoplastic that is commonly used to make holsters for firearms. It is a strong and durable material that is resistant to wear and tear, and it can be molded to fit a variety of firearms securely. Kydex holsters are also typically lightweight and low-profile, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
What are the advantages of Kydex holsters?
There are a number of advantages to using a Kydex holster, including:
- Durability: Kydex is a very durable material that is resistant to wear and tear. This makes it a good choice for holsters that will be used regularly.
- Comfort: Kydex holsters are typically lightweight and low-profile, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- Retention: Kydex holsters provide a high level of retention, which helps to keep your firearm secure.
- Customizable: Kydex holsters can be customized to fit a variety of firearms and carry positions.
What are the disadvantages of Kydex holsters?
There are a few potential disadvantages to using a Kydex holster, including:
- Price: Kydex holsters can be more expensive than other types of holsters.
- Stiffness: Kydex holsters can be stiff when new, and they may require some break-in time.
- Heat transfer: Kydex holsters can transfer heat from your body to your firearm, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather.
How do I care for a Kydex holster?
To care for a Kydex holster, you should:
- Clean it regularly with a mild soap and water solution.
- Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold.
- Do not store it in direct sunlight.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or chemicals on it.
Where can I buy a Kydex holster?
Kydex holsters can be purchased from a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Some popular brands of Kydex holsters include:
- Trex Arms
- Vedder Holsters
- Blackhawk Holsters
- Alien Gear Holsters
- Safariland
What is the difference between a Kydex holster and a leather holster?
Kydex holsters and leather holsters are two of the most popular types of holsters for firearms. While both types of holsters have their own advantages and disadvantages, there are a few key differences between them:
- Material: Kydex is a thermoplastic, while leather is a natural material. This means that Kydex holsters are typically more durable and resistant to wear and tear than leather holsters.
- Retention: Kydex holsters typically provide a higher level of retention than leather holsters. This is because Kydex is a stiffer material than leather, and it can be molded to fit a firearm more precisely.
- Comfort: Leather holsters are typically more comfortable to wear than Kydex holsters. This is because leather is a softer material that conforms to the body more easily.
- Price: Kydex holsters are typically more expensive than leather holsters. This is because Kydex is a more expensive material than leather.
Ultimately, the best type of holster for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a durable, secure, and low-profile holster, then a Kydex holster is a good option. If you are looking for a comfortable holster that is easy to wear, then a leather holster is a good option.
Kydex holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry because they are lightweight, durable, and easy to conceal. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them a good option for budget-minded shooters. However, Kydex holsters can be difficult to draw from, and they may not be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Ultimately, the best Kydex holster for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.