Before coming across the Concealment Express OWB, I wasn’t a big fan of paddle holsters. I thought they were not worth the money!
But as I went on carrying my gun in different situations over the years, I finally came to know about the usefulness of such a holster.
Trust me, you will need a holster like this one at some point. It’s not just about concealment always. Here’s my experience with the holster and a brief review that could help you make the final decision.
Why Use Concealment Express OWB Paddle Holster?
Now for the big question. Why would someone buy this holster?
Here’s a fact. This isn’t the most concealable holster. If you are looking for absolutely no print at all, this is not something I would recommend.
However, when you are carrying around the yard or target shooting, you need a convenient holster that you can put on with the minimal effort. For these sorts of purposes, this holster is the best.
However, you can carry concealed. You will need to stay untucked and avoid places that require full discretion.
Material & Construction
Kydex is the material used here to build this holster. Personally, I love Kydex because it retains its shape and structure for longer than any other holster material.
Check the current price of the Concealment Express OWB Paddle KYDEX Holster (Black) at Amazon
The Concealment Express OWB has a 0.08” Kydex and the whole process of making it is done within the United States. So, you are guaranteed of the quality and workmanship behind it.
It does have an undercut trigger guard that helps to avoid interfering the kydex with your draw. There’s also sufficient space for threaded barrels and suppressor height sights.
What I loved most is the smooth edges of this holster. There’s no sharp edges at all and the finish is top notch. Near the mag catch area, you will see that the Kydex flares out and doesn’t scratch the mag catch area.
The sweat guard for me was a bit tall. I know it’s a full-length sweat guard, but if the sweat guard would have been at the same height with the sight, it would be much better. However, that’s just my opinion and not something to discourage you.
Fit and Holster Location
As for the fit, the paddle clip holds to your pant or belt securely. I haven’t found even one instance when the holster came loose. The hook clips on the paddle keeps the holster in place and you can go with it without removing the belt at all. That’s convenient and convenience is what prompted me to hold onto this holster.
The paddle will fit with any 1.5-in belt and might even fit belts up to 2-in. So, that’s a plus considering a lot of holsters only fit with a 1.5-in belt. For those who are overweight and big, this is an easy holster to use.
The holster will have a little imprint in whatever location you wear it. It’s not a lot but just a little. The fact that it’s not designed to be close hugging is the problem here. However, when going to places that aren’t super strict on concealability, this will work.
Your gun will go in and out without any obstruction. And I really like it that way!
Cant and Retention
It doesn’t have a large cant angle range. You can adjust it from -5 to +20 degrees. So, it’s perfect for appendix, strong side, behind the hip or cross draw. Using the two screws at the top of the paddle, you can adjust the cant angle.
The retention is great as well. It’s adjustable using the two screws and has a Posi-click that will keep your mind at peace. Personally, I think the retention setting right out of the box is fantastic and worked for me! Holstering and re-holstering is pretty clean and there is hardly any risk of magazine ejection with this holster.
Compatibility with Guns
Keep in mind, this is a custom holster which means you can get this for almost any kind of gun in the market. It comes in both right and left draw as well.
Here’s a list of gun models that will be compatible with this Concealment Express OWB holster: 1911 (Officer, Commander, Government), Beretta, Bersa, Browning, Canik, Glock, FNH, H&K, Jericho, Kahr, Kimber, Ruger, S&W Shield, Sig Sauer, Springfield, Taurus and a lot more.
Just to let you know, this holster won’t fit with guns equipped with lasers! Might work with a few DIY adjustments but that’s up for you to figure out.
Lifespan & Maintenance
I believe the holster will last pretty long given its Kydex build. However, the paddle is the loose end and it might break before you actually see any kind of wear and tear on the kydex. But that’s okay and not a big deal considering the price.
As for maintenance, I always prefer to wipe my holsters with a wet cloth. Alternatively, you can wash it but do remove the screws beforehand.
Variation of the Concealment Express OWB Paddle Holster
This holster has a carbon fiber version also. It has the exact same build quality, functionality and feel. Just the texture is a bit different. So, if you love carbon fiber texture go for this one.
Check the current price of the Concealment Express OWB Paddle KYDEX Holster (Carbon Fiber Black) at Amazon
Final Verdict
Now you know why you would need this holster! A quick review again. I would recommend this holster, if you prefer convenience and easy wearability. It offers concealability but not super strict. So, use it when you are just roaming around your yard, neighborhood or target practicing. Places, where concealability is important and not doing so will result in legal issues, this holster isn’t the right one. Other than that, this should be good to use.
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