This is an area where tactics and skills really drives equipment selection. If all you do is draw and fire from 10 yards at the range, then your type of holster doesn’t really matter as long as it protects the trigger guard and stays open for re holstering. Unfortunately, most of the gun world’s training never moves beyond static range drills. Red guns, Fist suits, mats, handgun retention, and hitting each other is typically not part of the curriculum. Thus, most operators have no context for proper selection of a holster.

What we have seen is that Kramer horsehide holsters far exceed the life span of any other holster makers. Kydex and other plastic holsters break apart under pressure because they are brittle. Most other leather holsters wear out in about a year of use for the average Insights Instructor. Kramer holster last for years and maintain their shape and weapon retention.

Kramer IWB3It was explained to me that Kramer uses a complete different process for molding their holsters than any other company. The result is a more dense leather that is stiffer and holds up to extended rigorous use.

Some complain that they don’t like Kramer holsters because they are not as nicely finished as some of the products from custom leather shops. This is probably true. However, where are your priorities? Vanity is not listed amongst the priorities of survival.

The holster most of us wear is the Kramer Horsehide IWB #3.

If you prefer a less aggressive forward cant and the gun to sit higher in the waist line, then try the IWB #2. For outside the waistband, we recommend the Belt Scabbard. It is low profile with offset belt loops and a forward cant for easy concealment. If you prefer a vertical holster, then try the Vertical Scabbard.