What You Need to Know About Kydex Holsters: Ultimate Guide
A Beginner's Guide For Kydex Holsters
What is Kydex?
Kydex is a relatively new material for
holster makers when compared to leather holsters.
A plastic-like composite material, which was originally designed in 1965, for use in aircraft, it's a heat formed plastic composite (combination of two types of plastics).
It's construction gives the plastic rigidity, while also allowing it to be molded into various shapes.
It's commonly used for
holsters, weapons, automotive parts,
medical equipment, and aircraft parts.
Polyvinyl Chloride Example
Kydex holsters are formed by a process that heats the
Kydex sheets to a point, where they are pliable and easy to mold into shapes by (
heat pressing or vacuum forming).
Kydex holsters can easily formed, when
Kydex sheets are heated to temperatures of about (400°F).
As a result, Kydex becomes a relatively hard plastic when you combine composite
materials, which give them
durability, rigidity, easy formability, and chemical resistance.
How Do You Make Kydex Holster
Typically, Kydex holsters are it's vacuum-formed around the shape of your gun to create an almost perfect fitting holster.
Kydex
holsters tend to offer better durability, strength and overall retention than other types of holsters, because they are often custom designed for a specific gun.
Check out the example video below by
FalTac Unlimited LLC on how to make a Kydex
holster.
Leather vs Kydex Holsters
Leather holsters, have been around for a long time and have plenty of character, but they also have practical downsides.
For instance, Leather needs a break-in period, they tear and scratch easily, they retain moisture and sweat, absorb oil, deform when the gun is removed, and stretch and sag with age.
But, Kydex holsters suffer none of these problems. Typically, Kydex holsters maintain it's shape and rigidity.
Kydex holsters are also adjustable. Typically, they are designed with adjustable retention, ride height, and cant to give you the best and more comfortable carry position.
Kydex Holsters
Pros
- Affordable
- Maintains Shape (Easily Draw & Re-Holster your weapon)
- Durable
- Better Retention
- Adjustable (Retention, Height, Cant)
- Custom Fit for Your Weapon
- Versatile (better light bearing, optic compatible designs)
Cons
- Can be bulky
- Rigidity (Discomfort)
- May wear your guns finish
- Screws can get loose (if your Kydex holster has them)
Final Thoughts
Kydex holsters are a great alternative to the more traditional leather holsters. They are more durable and can be molded into shapes of specific guns.
The custom molded design often give you better retention and allows for adjustability. Although, they do have a downside, which is rigidity.
