Holster Recommendations

[stevieray36]

I'm a newby to this forum, just purchased an XD45LE and an X2 Insight Tactical Light. The question I have is does anybody have a holster recommendation for this setup.

[opskmallory]

Buy the XD Gear Holster, either paddle or belt slide (depending on preference). They have an accessories rail to hold your light if you so desire. And for around $30.00, they are an exceptional value.

I have an Uncle Mikes Kydex paddle. I like it, but I'm skinny so for concealed carry, I usually opt for an IWB holster. I currently have an el-cheapo Uncle Mikes IWB, but am looking for a good leather or kydex IWB.

Just my $0.02.

[rangemaster]

Sorry, you guys hit on one of my pet peeves... I teach the Oregon Concealed Handgun License class. Folks will pay buckets of good money for a great pistol but cringe at shelling out more than $25 for a decent holster for concealed carry.

If you want to have a great, long-lasting holster for IWB (inside the waistsband) and have any Service or Tactical model of XD then consider one of the following: Ted Blocker Model 10 or 12 (about $65), Milt Sparks Summer Special (several variations available, about $60-70), Milt Sparks Watch Six ($65), or a Blackhawk CQC IWB leather holster (SKU 420400-13BK, $50).

Yes, they are all leather (or horsehide) rigs, but they stand up to daily wear. I carry EVERY day; that carry must be secure, discrete and legal. I have never had a "wardrobe malfunction" (lol) that compromised my concealment of a pistol, or ever doubted the security of the weapon in any of the abovementioned holsters.

I depend on a few pistols to keep me, my family and companions safe in my daily travels - primarily a Kimber Pro TLE/RLII and an XD Service model (both in .45 ACP). These holsters (for IWB carry if you you desire) are quality models that will last for YEARS of daily use.

BTW, since you mentioned having a tactical light for your pistol, you might consider just having the light in a separate holder, as extended concealed carry with the light attached to the pistol will cause a) excessive wear on the light in an IWB holster and limits your choice of holster - or b) second-degree burns on your a$$ or a melted (Kydex) holster when you inadvertently turn the light on while holstering/moving (believe me, it happened to some guys!!). Holsters Plus in Idaho makes a nice belt carrier for tac-lights (M-series, XML, etc) that has a switchguard and they only cost about $15; with a little practice you won't believe how quickly you can put a tactical light on a rail...

[Old School]

Are you looking for IWB or OWB?

[AV8R]

Originally Posted by rangemaster

Sorry, you guys hit on one of my pet peeves... I teach the Oregon Concealed Handgun License class. Folks will pay buckets of good money for a great pistol but cringe at shelling out more than $25 for a decent holster for concealed carry.

Any suggestions for XD-40SC IWB? I'm having a hard time making a decision, and dropping $50-90 just to hope it works well isn't very motivating.

[opskmallory]

Originally Posted by rangemaster

Sorry, you guys hit on one of my pet peeves... I teach the Oregon Concealed Handgun License class. Folks will pay buckets of good money for a great pistol but cringe at shelling out more than $25 for a decent holster for concealed carry.

Well, I certainly didn't mean to hit a hot button with ya there buddy. Let's take a deep breath and relax. I'm not saying he shouldn't shell out some good dough, but he didn't specify any budget for his rig. So I suggested something to accomodate what he did mention; the need to carry an XD and tac light.

I agree, it is worth it to spend some dough for a good holster. I stopped carrying IWB (dont' carry often anyway) and only carry on the hip until it is replaced with a nice leather or Kydex IWB. I've been looking at the Blackhawk, as my PD just purchased all new Serpas for all of the detectives, and we have a great relationship with our local distributor.

Try not to jump all over someone because they have a budget. If we have to pick something to sacrifice on quality because of a financial situation, rather be it the holster than the gun.