The Benefits of a Hybrid Concealed Weapons Holster

Choosing a holster is a crucial decision for any gun owner. It determines everything from your daily carry comfort to the long-term durability of your firearm.

There are two popular options: Kydex and leather. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Hybrid holsters combine the best of both worlds. They have a leather backing to be comfortable against the skin and a Kydex shell to hold your weapon securely.

Durability

When looking for a new concealed weapons holster, the choice of material is always essential. Manufacturers use different materials in their holsters, each with strengths and weaknesses. With its comfort and durability, leather is one of the most popular choices.

On the other hand, traditional leather holsters are prone to deterioration over time, particularly in regions that touch the body directly, like the holes for the screws and rivets that keep the Kydex shell in place. It can lead to the shot being loose; if this happens, your weapon could fall out of its holster.

A hybrid holster solves this problem by combining a complex, sturdy polymer with softer, more flexible leather to create a holster that will last a long time while incredibly comfortable. 

Convenience

Most people have seen hybrid holsters on TV shows, at the range, or in gun stores. Many law enforcement agencies also use them.

They’re made of a soft material that sits against the body and is easily concealed beneath a jacket or tucked in. The design ensures the user can draw their gun quickly without any obstruction or interference from the holster.

They attach a Kydex or polymer holster to a more significant backing, often leather or cushioned synthetic material. It allows the license to spread pressure over a total body area, making them more comfortable to wear. They’re also highly customizable, and users can adjust retention, cant, and depth. It makes it easy to find a perfect fit for their needs and body type.

Comfort

A Hybrid holster is typically made of a combination of materials, usually leather or a soft material backed by Kydex or another polymer. It enables the gun to be retained in the holster shell and improves comfort against the wearer’s body.

However, one disadvantage of Hybrid holsters is that the leather backers can become rough against the skin over time. It can lead to discomfort and may even cause abrasions. Choosing a holster with high-quality leather backing is vital to prevent this.

Versatility

A hybrid holster has a rigid piece to hold your gun and usually, but not always, some malleable material for the rest of it. A typical example is a Kydex pancake holster with a leather back.

Because the material is flexible, you can mold it to fit your chosen carrying position. It can also help distribute pressure evenly over your body. It is crucial as too much pressure on one spot can make it difficult to draw your weapon.

Hybrid holsters can also be more stable than Kydex-only holsters. The stability of the holster can prevent your gun from shifting during everyday wear. When a gun shifts in its holster, it can cause a slowed draw or even a fumble during a critical defensive situation.

Security

Having the benefits of both materials, hybrid holsters often offer a mix of kydex and leather. It allows a rigid shell to hold the gun and a softer, more comfortable backing against your body. Many of these holsters also feature adjustable retention to ensure an optimal fit.

Several holster-makers offer hybrid OWB holsters. One of the most popular is the Integrator, which combines a Kydex side panel with natural, tan, or black premium leather. This holster also includes a clip that can attach to the belt or your shirt, allowing you to carry it in various positions. Additionally, this backing style distributes pressure across a more extensive body portion, lowering the chance of a draw blunder.