holster for my cw380

[Papersniper]

Difference in pocket holsters for CW380?

I have a new OEM Kahr CW380. My carry guns are in an IWB Kydex holster 80% of the time, an OWB holster about 10% of the time, and a "pocket hoster" the remainder of the time. But my guns are much larger than the little 380; next smallest is a Kahr CM9 - largest is a Glock 30. I recently ordered a Kydex IWB holster for the CW380. But I am thinking about getting a pocket holster for the CW380 for the rare occasion that I'd carry that gun that way, but not sure the difference between all the models I've seen.

I read here that the DeSantis Nemesis is popular.....but how does it compare to the Remora, Galco, Sticky, etc? They all seem to do the same thing and are made of the same materials. But, there must be some difference. I wold prefer the soft synthetic type over Kydex or leather.

So, what is the benefit of one over the other. Price isn't important for these, as even the most expensive is under $30. Just curious and thought I'd ask before I place my order for one............................

PS - I don't care for pocket carry because I always seem to have something else in my pockets!

[SaltyNC]

I have the CW380 and use a PJ Kydex pocket holster. I actually ordered it before I purchased a Crimson Trace laser, but that's the nice thing about Kydex. A hair dryer and a few minutes later, I then had a CW380 with laser holster. Very easy to modify Kydex for a perfect fit. It's my favorite. It's so thin and light. It carries great. I also have a Remora and a Desantis Superfly. The Superfly is close to the Nemesis, but it also has a Velcro strip where a flat piece may be attached to further hide the pistol. It tends to make a large square print in the pocket. It probably works better in cargo pockets with the flap attached. When I use the Superfly, most of the time I leave the flap off, so it's really just a Nemesis (or close to it).

Yeah, pocket carry is a pain. It's the perfect place for the little CW380, but we all have cell phones, keys, a knife, pocket change, etc. Columbia makes pants with a front pocket that is open and another pocket with a zipper right behind it. There are some other companies that make internal cargo pockets, so the pants look normal from the outside, but have more pockets on the inside. You hardly notice they have extra slits for the pockets. So, those are some options. You can still carry your keys and such on the same side as your pistol, but you keep the pistol pocket free and clear.

For me, the Remora, Sticky, and DeSantis are all about the same as far as material and retention. The outside surface is slightly different, but close enough, and they all work well. The reason I like the pocket Kydex is for 1) Less bulk, 2) slightly cooler in summer, 3) positive thumb break, 4) for ME it is easier to distinguish between the holster and the pocket during drawing. When I draw with a "sticky" holster, I'm always a little worried I'm going to get tangled up in my pocket (probably unwarranted--never has happened). I kept hearing great things about the Recluse, so I have one on order for my CW380, but won't be able to give you a review until a few weeks.

Front pocket carry has one huge drawback, and that is if you need it while in a car, especially a sports car with tight seats. Other seating positions, you could roll to one side, jump up, etc, but in a car with sports seats and high bolsters, you're practically locked in the seat. It would be very hard to draw. Anyway, hope this helps a little. Just do like many of us and order one of each.

Salty

[Papersniper]

Thanks for that thorough reply, Salty. Just what I have been wanting to hear. Actually, after I posted my original question, I did more research and the Kydex pocket holsters are starting to look better to me than the soft, synthetic ones like the DeSantis Nemesis, etc. I always thought that it would be harder to draw from a pocket Kydex, but I didn't understand about those "thumb levers" until I did my research this morning. I like the Vedder holster after reading about it awhile ago. One question: do you find it's uncomfortable to sit down with the Kydex compared to the soft material holsters?

I don't want to agonize too much making a decision on a pocket holster....I probably will only rarely carry the CW380, and when I do it would probable be in an IWB Kydex holster, which is by far how I prefer to carry anything that fits.....I have an H&K VP9 that I cannot carry that way, so it goes on an OWB holster. So, a pocket holster, at least in my mind now, would only very rarely be used. OTOH, having the little 380 in my pocket would be a great backup gun to whatever I had on/in my belt, so maybe it would be used more than I think. When I was a LEO I carried a little Kel Tec 32 stuck to my vest (inside my uniform) with velcro. It worked well.

[SaltyNC]

I don't have any discomfort when sitting with the kydex in my pocket. It fits the curve of my leg. I guess if I had linebacker thighs, it could dig in a little, but the curve in the holster fits the curve of my leg, so no jabs.

I actually think a cross-body horizontal carry shoulder holster would be fantastic for the CW380, but I don't want to have to wear a jacket or rip my shirt off trying to draw.

Salty

[berettabone]

I've been using a Nemesis for about 5 years now, and it's the original one I purchased. It's basically molded itself to the shape of my leg. If I go on a long car trip, I take it out, and slide it between the seat and console. Fits perfectly. If not, I leave it in my pocket, no jabs, comfortable. Better material than the Remora or Sticky. If it's not in a holster in my pocket, or on a belt, I don't use it. IMHO the Sticky and Remora types of holsters are not secure.

[Papersniper]

I've been using a Nemesis for about 5 years now, and it's the original one I purchased. It's basically molded itself to the shape of my leg. If I go on a long car trip, I take it out, and slide it between the seat and console. Fits perfectly. If not, I leave it in my pocket, no jabs, comfortable. Better material than the Remora or Sticky. If it's not in a holster in my pocket, or on a belt, I don't use it. IMHO the Sticky and Remora types of holsters are not secure.

Thanks for that info, BerettaBone. Can you please supply more detail on why your prefer the Nemesis over the Sticky and Remora? Why are they not as secure as the Nemesis? Have you ever tried a Kydex in the pocket holster? One thing I am seeing (online only) looking at all these pocket holsters is some models appear to not give me much purchase on the tiny pistol's grip, making any quick "draw" difficult. I do want the trigger guard complete covered, but I do need something to grab as I fish around in my front pocket!

I'm still on the fence on what to get for my CW380 for rare pocket carry. I have a Kydex IWB holster coming for it. I have a dedicated "car gun" in my vehicle so I am not concerned with access to my carry handgun while in the car.

[berettabone]

First, I don't worry about printing where I am, because open carry is legal. #I.... think that the Nemesis is made from far better material than either of the alternatives. #2.......I believe that the Nemesis is smaller in total size than the others(depending on your firearm size)#3.......my firearm comes out easily every time. #4........it's molded itself to my leg contour. #5................been using mine for 5+ years, and it's still going strong with a tiny bit of wear. The most important to me is the carry itself. I own kydex holsters in OWB only. I don't want any stiff kydex in my pocket. I can sit, stand, drive, draw, and bend over without any discomfort with the Nemesis. I use leather for IWB carry. I will not use ANY holster that either doesn't fit in my pocket, or isn't attached to my belt. I don't/will not use free floating holsters of any kind. Just asking for trouble. You can get a good purchase with the Nemesis, and your trigger is completely covered. I have had good luck with all of my holster purchases................hopefully, you'll find what works for you. When my Nemesis wears out, I will be purchasing another, but that won't be for a while. I've never been interested in any of the other's, so I don't know if it's cheaper or not. I usually don't let $$$$$$$$$$$ get in the way of safety, and something that works. I carry an MK9 in mine. I can imagine that a poly gun like a .380 or other would be a breeze to carry. That's my 2 cents. By the way, I would be pocket carrying the CM9 over the .380. Just me................................................ .

[SaltyNC]

Here is a little more info on the Remora VS DeSantis Superfly (I don't have a Nemesis). I have them both in front of me. Here is how I would rate them:

Stickiness: +DeSantis (DeSantis material is grippier by quite a bit)

Ability to keep firearm clean (no dust bunnies): +Remora (bottom is sewn closed, open on Desantis)

Ability to hook in pocket: +DeSantis (has more pronounced hook)

Construction/Durability: Tie in my opinion - (Remora uses same holster material for edging, single stitched around top with thick thread, double-stitched at bottom. DeSantis uses crossgrain ribbon edge double-stitched all around with thinner thread).

Slickness of inner lining: +DeSantis (very similar, but slight edge to DeSantis for smoother lining. Also, because Remora lines the edge of their holster with the sticky material, a small edge is actually gripping at the firearm on the inside)

Dual Use IWB and Pocket: +Remora (the shape of the Remora works for pocket or IWB, though I think for pocket carry the shape is not as good as the DeSantis. The shape of the DeSantis while it can work for IWB, it is really more specific to pocket carry)

Ability to Cleanly Grasp the Grip: +Remora I don't think either excel in this area. Both hold the grip near the edge of the holster, so it is hard to get fingers around the front of the grip. Just my opinion and maybe just my models. I'm using DeSantis Superfly and Remora 2A Pocket/Waistband models. If I had to give the edge to one, it would be Remora. The closed bottom holds my CW380 with Crimson Trace slightly higher than the Superfly. With some strategically placed stitches to hold the firearm higher, this could be field-engineered to be "better" than it is now.

Bulk: +Remora barely (The Remora is smaller overall due to the lack of a pronounced hook, and the material is stitched to lie flat. The DeSantis Superfly stands open even without a gun. It also has Velcro on the edge to attach the flap. Quite a bit bulkier while empty even without the flap. With the CW380 inserted, it is very close. Slight edge to the Remora.

Weight: Tie - I was too lazy to weigh them. About the same without Superfly flap.

These are my opinions. Others may differ.

Salty

[skiflydive]

Thanks for that info, BerettaBone. Can you please supply more detail on why your prefer the Nemesis over the Sticky and Remora? Why are they not as secure as the Nemesis? Have you ever tried a Kydex in the pocket holster? One thing I am seeing (online only) looking at all these pocket holsters is some models appear to not give me much purchase on the tiny pistol's grip, making any quick "draw" difficult. I do want the trigger guard complete covered, but I do need something to grab as I fish around in my front pocket!

I'm still on the fence on what to get for my CW380 for rare pocket carry. I have a Kydex IWB holster coming for it. I have a dedicated "car gun" in my vehicle so I am not concerned with access to my carry handgun while in the car.

My .02. I have a Nemesis for my CM9 and a Remora for my .380. I like them both. Differences? The Remora is closed on the bottom. The materials are similar. I noticed after 5 years the Nemesis has lost it's "tackiness" but it still holds well in the pocket. Both can be used in the pocket or IWB. If I was at the LGS and needed a pocket holster I'd be confident buying whichever they had or if they had both I'd buy the cheapest.

That said, I don't think pocket carrying and "quick draw" go together. It's a convenient way to carry but when the SHTF it's going to take some time to get your gun out. (I hope you're not thinking about drawing against an already drawn gun!) I usually carry my .380 in an Uncle George Wallet Holster in my right rear pocket. It also isn't the fastest draw but my rationale on this method was: I'm most likely to be accosted on the street by someone who wants my wallet. My rear pocket is where any perp would EXPECT me to reach to for my wallet so the increased draw time is mitigated by the surprise of coming up with a gun instead of a wallet. My pretty thin wallet goes in my front pocket. The Uncle George prints in my rear pocket just like a wallet and in my research I found it's the thinnest of the wallet holsters. It's comfortable and totally concealed.

Once again, my opinion only and YMMV. Good luck in your quest.

[berettabone]

My .02. I have a Nemesis for my CM9 and a Remora for my .380. I like them both. Differences? The Remora is closed on the bottom. The materials are similar. I noticed after 5 years the Nemesis has lost it's "tackiness" but it still holds well in the pocket. Both can be used in the pocket or IWB. If I was at the LGS and needed a pocket holster I'd be confident buying whichever they had or if they had both I'd buy the cheapest.

That said, I don't think pocket carrying and "quick draw" go together. It's a convenient way to carry but when the SHTF it's going to take some time to get your gun out. (I hope you're not thinking about drawing against an already drawn gun!) I usually carry my .380 in an Uncle George Wallet Holster in my right rear pocket. It also isn't the fastest draw but my rationale on this method was: I'm most likely to be accosted on the street by someone who wants my wallet. My rear pocket is where any perp would EXPECT me to reach to for my wallet so the increased draw time is mitigated by the surprise of coming up with a gun instead of a wallet. My pretty thin wallet goes in my front pocket. The Uncle George prints in my rear pocket just like a wallet and in my research I found it's the thinnest of the wallet holsters. It's comfortable and totally concealed.

Once again, my opinion only and YMMV. Good luck in your quest.

That rear pocket carry only works if they're not pointing their firearm at you, which they probably would be. You also have to practice drawing out of your front pocket. You can't expect to be proficient with out practice. I practice front pocket draw frequently. If a perp has his firearm pointed at you, no method of carry will help you. The only thing that helps is awareness. I guarantee that I can draw just as fast from the front pocket, as I can from IWB position. OWB is still the best way to go, just not always possible.

[Bobshouse]

I carry my cm45 in a Mitch Rosen Clipper sold by Kahr Firearms and my p380 in a rear pocket holster made by Bear Creek Holsters. Both are very comfortable and quick to draw from.

[TimtheRef]

Thanks for that info, BerettaBone. Can you please supply more detail on why your prefer the Nemesis over the Sticky and Remora? Why are they not as secure as the Nemesis? Have you ever tried a Kydex in the pocket holster? One thing I am seeing (online only) looking at all these pocket holsters is some models appear to not give me much purchase on the tiny pistol's grip, making any quick "draw" difficult. I do want the trigger guard complete covered, but I do need something to grab as I fish around in my front pocket!

I'm still on the fence on what to get for my CW380 for rare pocket carry. I have a Kydex IWB holster coming for it. I have a dedicated "car gun" in my vehicle so I am not concerned with access to my carry handgun while in the car.

I'll repeat, for kydex pocket carry, you've gotta check out F3 Holsters. They're holsters are available on their website or inexpensively on ebay. These holsters allow me to get a full firing grip on the pistol. I use them for both my P380 and my CM9. They print only in the snuggest of pants, and are exceptionally easy to draw with making sure to leave the holster in your pocket as the hook is at the top by the rear sight and catches the front of the pocket.

As for those arguing the speed of pocket carry, it may be slightly slower than some other methods of carry, such as IWB or OWB, but not necessarily. Many IWB/OWB methods require the off hand to remove the cover garment, which takes time and also requires a second hand. (An open button down shirt can be overcome more easily, but IWB with a t-shirt, or especially a tuckable holster with shirt tucked in is actually slower than pocket carry.) Additionally, pocket carry allows for you to have a full firing grip on the gun without anyone being the wiser. So when walking around and seeing a shady character, it's easy to slip my hand in my pocket and be prepared. In this set up, I've found there is nothing faster than pocket carry as your grip is already acquired and all you have to do is come up with the pistol which can be done in under 1 sec from this position.

For those discussing drawing against a drawn gun, reaching for your own gun may not be your first best option. If you're attacker is at a more significant distance, such as a mass murder situation, you are more likely to have the extra second to draw while also attempting to move to cover. If we're talking about the more common robbery situation, your attacker is likely to be less than 10 feet from you. If this is the case, your number 1 goal is don't get shot. For me, that means attacking with a physical ferocity greater than the bad guy was likely to expect. I will engage my moving toward the attacker as quickly as possible, while moving off of his center line, and my focus on obtaining control of the muzzle end of his gun. Even if I burn my hand or tear it up on a cycling slide, if I can use my off hand to point the barrel in another direction, I live to keep fighting. This also has the benefit of the bad guy focused on reobtaining control and shot placement, while with my strong hand, I go to my pocket (or IWB/OWB rig if applicable), retrieve my own firearm, and stop the threat (which is still obviously present as the attack hasn't ceased at this point.) If you're too focused only on your own variables such as your own gun placement and how fast you can bring it into the fight, you will lose. When you are in a fight like this, you are already behind the 8 ball and in reaction rather than action mode. Considering variables you can control on your attacker ahead of time may make the difference on whether you survive the encounter.

[JMag]

Love my Remora.


----------------------
The truth is incontrovertible. Malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is.--Sir Winston Churchill

[berettabone]

If they want my wallet, they can have it........................I never carry lots of money, and the plastic can be replaced. Now, if they happen to turn around as they are leaving...................................

[Papersniper]

First, I don't worry about printing where I am, because open carry is legal. #I.... think that the Nemesis is made from far better material than either of the alternatives. #2.......I believe that the Nemesis is smaller in total size than the others(depending on your firearm size)#3.......my firearm comes out easily every time. #4........it's molded itself to my leg contour. #5................been using mine for 5+ years, and it's still going strong with a tiny bit of wear. The most important to me is the carry itself. I own kydex holsters in OWB only. I don't want any stiff kydex in my pocket. I can sit, stand, drive, draw, and bend over without any discomfort with the Nemesis. I use leather for IWB carry. I will not use ANY holster that either doesn't fit in my pocket, or isn't attached to my belt. I don't/will not use free floating holsters of any kind. Just asking for trouble. You can get a good purchase with the Nemesis, and your trigger is completely covered. I have had good luck with all of my holster purchases................hopefully, you'll find what works for you. When my Nemesis wears out, I will be purchasing another, but that won't be for a while. I've never been interested in any of the other's, so I don't know if it's cheaper or not. I usually don't let $$$$$$$$$$$ get in the way of safety, and something that works. I carry an MK9 in mine. I can imagine that a poly gun like a .380 or other would be a breeze to carry. That's my 2 cents. By the way, I would be pocket carrying the CM9 over the .380. Just me................................................ .

Yeah, I've not decided NOT to pocket carry the CM9, but I much prefer IWB carry over any pocket carry or any gun. Unlike you I don't mind Kydex IWB holsters. I guess I've gotten used to how they feel next to my skin. I avoid leather next to my skin as it's so danged hot here; 100° F today with high humidity.

Thanks for your thoughts on pocket carry, that is helping me. I did order a Kydex pocket holster for the CW380, but I also found a soft pocket holster into which it will fit....not sure, but I think it's an Uncle Mikes. I'll try both and decide which I prefer.....I suspect the Uncle Mike's will not be as good as a Nemesis, so if it wins the hard vs soft war, I'll have to order a Nemesis. Glad to hear it allows a good grip on the CW380 in your pocket - that's important to me.