IIRC that is a first generation FOBUS holster. Supposedly the newer models have some steel in them now to prevent that.
I have a Kramer MSP that I love. I also have another one I like. I cant remember if its a Bianchi or a Galco though.
Like anything else, you pretty much get what you pay for. Is a $15 paddle holster going to be the same quality as a $75 one? I really doubt it.
Although I do not have one it seems to be the consensus that the Kramer paddle holster is the best out there.
I have used Galco, Uncle Mikes, and Fobus. Of those the Fobus is my choice. The others ride too high and the gun tends to torque out from the body. The Fobus lays closer to the body than either.
As to the video, who will stand and let another come and take your gun? I have used Fobus paddles for over 10 years with no problem. I once asked a buddy, who is a firearms instructor, to break mine off with one jerk. He could not.
Two questions,
1. Will you stand and let someone approach and grab your gun?
2. If you carry concealed how will anyone know you are carrying?
The video is hokey in my opinion. I suspect I have as much experience with the Fobus paddle as anyone. I use it mostly as a range holster, and used to shoot 1,000 rounds per week so I have made thousands of presentations from the Fobus. No problems with Fobus. I sometimes use one for my J frame when I want a quick on and off trip to the store.
It is not the equal of a good leather holster, but I would rather use it than a cheap leather holster.
I would buy the Kramer except I have too many guns that I carry, and just do not want to buy another 4 holsters that I won't use that much. If I used only one gun I would buy the Kramer.
Any paddle holster requires that you seat it on your belt as far as it will go. Otherwise it might come off with the gun. Just make sure that you do seat it completely.
I have several Fobus paddle holsters and would reccomend them to anyone. I think the holster in the vidio was tamperd with. There is no way any of my Fobus holsters would break that easy.
Paddle holsters are actually pretty good as long as you buy a decent one and not the Fobus junk (sorry owned 2 of them and that is my opinion), but they are terrible for concealment. If I were a Law Enforcement officer, I would probably wear a Kramer MSP since printing is a non issue
If that position of carry is suitable for a person's needs, then a paddle holster can be a good compromise mix of ergonomics, fit and function. Only you can know.
If you're looking to conceal, you're almost certainly going to want a different mode of carry.
But yes ... they can be quite comfortable, by comparison to other carry methods. Fist #18 paddle, here.
I've worn paddles somewhat regularly. I think their biggest application is those who take the gun off and put it back on regularly, and the paddle design shines in this area.
I've been happy with them, but don't have much experience with different brands. I will check out the Kramer.
I wish Fobus made a paddle for my gun, but alas, they don't like lefties very much (VERY few choices).
Generally, paddle holsters don't conceal as well as belt slide holsters. However, there is an exception to every rule! The ECP by rmholsters,Welcome to our online store, conceals as well as any OWB holster I have ever used. It is easily one of my favorites.
"The ECP by rmholsters, conceals as well as any OWB holster I have ever used. It is easily one of my favorites."
I also have an Extreme Cant Paddle holster from RM Holsters. I love it. It is a different design than most paddle holsters, with the paddle molding to the holster, not to your hip.
Paddle holsters no matter how good the quality are not meant to be the best choice in a gun retention holster anyway, they are meant for convienance and comfort. A 200lb or plus man diving and grabbing a holster to get to a gun is a reality in carrying a gun, it's' just paddle holsters are vulnerable vs other types from snap in pancakes to level III. If you like the paddle use it. I used to use paddles from Fobus,Blackhawk to nice leather G&G but I mainly carry Inside the pants now. It's all personal choice.
Like all other holsters, paddle holsters have their uses. I used to have a S&W 4506 with a Bianchi paddle holster that had adjustable ride height and cant. I would never try to wear it concealed, but it was great for open carry or around the house.
I have a Galco paddle holster for my Kimber Compact. I have only one paddle holster. It is fine for range shooting, but it does not hug the body like an IWB holster.
I guess I'm just to used to IWB holsters.
I usually wear a paddle when its cold outside and I need a coat. The coat conceals it well and the gun is easy to get at. During the summer months I wear a IWB and that does the job I need. However, if I am wearing my gun open carry (at the range, or behind the counter at work) I use my paddle.
I teach marksmanship at a range, so I like to wear my gun open at work to let everyone know that I am carrying.
I have Kramer MSP's for every gun I own and they are fantastic. I also have one for a Commander made by Andy Artoonian of Horseshoe leather in England which is just unreal in terms of build, looks and concealment. Unfortunately, he no longer makes them which is a real shame. Paddles have always been one of my favorite ways to carry.
Had and that's a big HAD Bianchi paddle for my SIG 228. Was in the line at our local Lowe's when it departed from my waist and fell to the floor. Slightly embarrising to say the least. Tucked the 228 and holster into my waist and left uneventfully thank God.
Found out the screws had backed out. Added some loc-tite to them but never used it again.
Had and that's a big HAD a Bianchi paddle for my SIG 228. Was in the line at our local Lowe's when it departed from my waist and fell to the floor. Slightly embarrising to say the least. Tucked the 228 and holster into my waist and left uneventfully thank God.
Found out the screws had backed out. Added some loc-tite to them but never used it again.
Hi JMO,
I suspect many have done the same, but isn't it necessary to check all your equipment and not just the gun?
Your experience indicates the necessity to check all equipment.
I once went to church with a Lt in the local city police force. When he came to church off duty he wore an IWB carrying a J-frame. I think it was a Jackass holster with straps similar to the Summer Special.
One night I noticed that one of the straps was almost broken in two. I told him about it. However the next time I saw him wearing it there had been no change.
Paddle holsters are more likely to have problems such as yours and if not seated completely will come off with the gun. But leather holsters can be a problem under certain circumstances.
I own Desantis, Sig Sauer and Comp-Tac paddles. All very good. Don't be scared away from them. If I were a LEO, I would not wear them but for the average CCWer, it should be just fine IMO.
I like my little fobus for open carry and somewhat concealed carry. It's comfortable and I can slide it forward or backwards depending if I'm sitting, driving or walking.
Carry a G19 or a G30 in a Comp-Tac settable cant paddle often. It conceals about as well as any belt holsters I've owned. Paddles are just like everything else. Some are great and some just plain suck!
Paddles have their place...lots of detectives use them...but again, they are okay if ultimate concealment is not an issue..if you want the best of both worlds, easy on/off and concealment, then try a snap on...this one happens to be an Alessi CQC but KD, Del Fatti and a few others make this style...
I have a Desantis Viper paddle I use if I am running to the store that I can just toss a jacket over. I also have a Blackhawk Serpa for middle of no where camping or hiking where concealment is not really and issue.
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