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OWB Help. Leather vs Kydex

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  • OWB Help. Leather vs Kydex

    I'm looking to get an OWB for my cm9 and I can't decide between leather or kydex. Anybody have experience they would be willing to share?

    I've know the main differences between the two, but I'm more curious to know which seems to work better for the cm9 size gun.

  • #2
    .. And because inevitably someone will ask. Yes, I have iwb and pocket holster already. Just trying to cover all bases.

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    • #3
      For long carry comfort, I prefer a leather inside and Kydex front... a hybrid... like the Cross Breed Mini Tuck. Leather is thicker and Kydex is thinner and usually more secure for retention, not requiring straps or catches that need manipulation.

      I only carry IWB and against the skin comfort is a concern, as I wear loose untucked Tees and polos... Large vs. medium for concealment and ease of one-handed draw. My main carry is my Mag-na-ported P40, followed by my P9 with the 4" Kahr ported barrel, or PM45. My PM9 is strictly a backup for times when the others are awaiting cleaning after trips to the range.

      For a doctor's appointment, I wear my P380 in a soft IWB Uncle Mikes holster that I can put in my pocket for disrobing.

      I have soft, Kydex, and hybrid IWB holsters for all of my CC pistols... and some OWB for my home defense/battle pistols.

      Wynn
      Last edited by wyntrout; 06-16-2014, 03:08 PM.
      USAF Retired '88, NRA Life Member. Wife USAF Retired '96
      Avatar: Wynn re-enlists his wife Desiree, circa 1988 Loring AFB, ME. 42nd BMW, Heavy (SAC) B-52G's
      Frédéric Bastiat’s essay, The Law: http://mises.org/books/thelaw.pdf

      Thomas Jefferson said

      “A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.”
      and

      "Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".

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      • #4
        As Wynn alludes to, it's all a matter of personal preference. I have 4 leather cross-draw holsters & 2 kydex slide (with leather backing) strong side holsters, all OWB, for all sizes of weapons, from the small LCP to a 1911 Commander. I love all 6 holsters & frequently get them all into the rotation, more so in the winter for the 1911 & Glock30, as concealment is something to consider. As for an OWB holster for the CM9, I would suspect there are many choices in either material that will accomplish what you're looking for. Good luck in your search.
        Virtues are learned at Mother's Knee

        Vices are learned at some other Joint

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        • #5
          OWB Help. Leather vs Kydex

          This could be weird but I like kydex for semi autos and leather for revolvers.... Revolvers just are so classic and it doesn't seem right wrapping them in plastic.
          This place isn't safe.

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          • #6
            I only carry OWB. I carry my CW380 in a Mitch Rosen OWB leather belt slide holster that I bought off the Kahr Shop website. It is perfectly molded to the gun, and when I wear it at 3:30, it's almost like I'm not even carrying a gun at all. For $75.00, I'm pleased with the high quality and classy appearance. The gun & holster is so small and flat there is virtually no printing even with a fairly snug polo shirt over it.
            Last edited by shlike; 06-16-2014, 03:15 PM. Reason: Clarification
            Dan Wesson 1911 Valkyrie Commander
            Kahr K9 Elite 03, CW45, CW9
            Glock 19 Gen4 and Gen5
            Sig P225-A1, P320C 9mm, SP2022 9mm
            S&W 1911 SC-e scandiium frame
            S&W 686 Plus 3" .357 Magnum Talo Edition Revolver
            S&W M&P Shield 9 Performance Center, Shield .45, 9mm Compact 2.0
            S&W M&P 40 FS (Detroit PD)
            S&W SW22 Victory
            RIA 1911 22TCM/9mm FS Ultra, 1911 .45 FS Tactical
            CZ 75D Compact PCR 9mm

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            • #7
              Originally posted by shlike View Post
              I only carry OWB. I carry my CW380 in a Mitch Rosen OWB leather belt slide holster that I bought off the Kahr Shop website. It is perfectly molded to the gun, and when I wear it at 3:30, it's almost like I'm not even carrying a gun at all. For $75.00, I'm pleased with the high quality and classy appearance. The gun & holster is so small and flat there is virtually no printing even with a fairly snug polo shirt over it.
              That actually might be the one I am leaning towards the most. There are just so Many options and that one is on the Kahr site and as far I as I know Mitch Rosen makes some pretty nice stuff. Good to hear that is working well for you. Anyone else have experience with that holster?

              http://www.kahr.com/PM9-Holsters/Kah...Hand-Black.asp

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              • #8
                For OWB I use a Bulldog "Deluxe leather belt slide with thumb break" I use the small one for my CW9 and it is perfect. The "Xtra-Small" says fits the LCP or similar.

                http://www.bulldogcases.com/case-vau...roducts_id=319

                Not the highest quality leather but deff worth the 30-40 bucks.

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                • #9
                  One of each. 1) Cheap Fobus Kydex paddle holster. Quick on and off. 2) Leather from Nelsonholsters.com. Hand made, 3 styles to choose from. Hand made,custom fitted and great retention. Email Erwin for questions ,he will answer.

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                  • #10
                    I have read a lot of good things about the Nelson holsters. I know his IWB are popular, any suggestions on OWB?

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                    • #11
                      Can't suggest a particular Nelson, but for leather I'd look at

                      http://www.ubgholsters.com/owb.htm

                      Nate does really nice work, and you've got options for different attachment styles and the Phaetos can even be had in a 3 slot design that allows it to be used for both strong side and for cross draw.

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                      • #12
                        e-mail nelsonholsters.com. I have two of his OWB holsters. Basically his 3 styles are concealment ,comfort ,or a compromise of the two. He is great to work with and will help you decide.

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                        • #13
                          Originally posted by aceadt View Post
                          I have read a lot of good things about the Nelson holsters. I know his IWB are popular, any suggestions on OWB?
                          Sometimes James at nelsonholsters will sneak up on you....lol

                          What is you main use going to be for the holster and what is most important to you, comfort or concealment?

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