IWB Holster Comparisons (Desantis, Crossbreed, & Blade-Tech) | Instructor Mike

This review highlights the Hidden Hybrid Holsters IWB model, emphasizing its superior craftsmanship and comfort for appendix carry. The holster features a combination of locally sourced Amish leather and suede backing, offering a more comfortable alternative to pure Kydex. Its slightly thicker Kydex shell enhances firearm retention compared to older, thinner holsters that may fail over time. The design includes rounded belt clips for reduced printing and snagging, and a textured concealment claw for deeper concealment and grip.

The N8 Tactical Executive Holster is a minimalist inside-the-waistband (IWB) option praised for its value and comfort, particularly for appendix carry. It utilizes minimal Kydex to reduce printing, features an optic cut, raised channel for co-witness sights, and an adjustable cant. The holster is part of the Crossbreed family, made in the USA, and comes with a lifetime warranty.

This video provides a comprehensive review of various holsters used by the Appalachian Smokewagon channel host, focusing on both Outside the Waistband (OWB) and Inside the Waistband (IWB) options. The host details his experiences with brands like G-Code, Bravo Concealment, DARA, Safari Land, We The People Holsters, Tier 1 Concealment, and T-Rex Arms, highlighting their retention, comfort, concealment capabilities, and specific firearm fitments, particularly for Glock models. He emphasizes the importance of using a holster for safe firearm carry and recommends specific models based on budget and intended use, with a strong endorsement for Safari Land and Tier 1 Concealment as gold standards for OWB and IWB respectively.

This review covers the Tulster Profile Plus IWB holster, highlighting its features like the DCC steel clip, optic-ready design, and full-height sweatshield. The reviewer notes its solid retention and smooth draw, suitable for appendix or hip carry. While a capable basic holster, the reviewer suggests improvements like an integrated claw or wedge for better concealment, especially considering its price point.

This review covers the Black Point Tactical FO3 holster, designed for forward-of-three o'clock carry to facilitate easier pistol access, especially when dealing with multiple tools or compromised hands. The reviewer highlights its comfort, secure retention, and adjustable features like ride height and clip placement. It's noted that the FO3 is particularly useful for individuals who train with both strong and weak hands and carry multiple defensive tools.

This review of the Clinger Gear holster with Comfort Cushion highlights its value and versatility for concealed carry, particularly for 3-5 o'clock positions. While offering good retention and comfort with the cushion, it struggles with deep concealment at the appendix position due to printing, especially when accommodating red dot sights or suppressor height sights. The reviewer notes its generalist nature means it's good at many things but not exceptional at any single one, contrasting it with holsters designed for superior concealment.

This video provides expert guidance from Instructor Mike on how an Illinois concealed carrier should comply with police during a traffic stop. It details maintaining officer safety, proper disclosure of a concealed firearm, and presenting identification and permits from a lanyard to avoid sudden movements. The instructor emphasizes proactive communication and adherence to safety protocols taught in his courses.

Instructor Mike, identified as a Firearms Instructor, provides expert guidance on secure firearm storage within a vehicle. He strongly advocates for carrying the firearm on your person as the most secure method, with shoulder holsters presented as a viable alternative. The video explicitly discourages several common but unsafe storage locations, including between seats, sun visors, door pockets, near the steering column, center consoles, and glove boxes, highlighting the risks associated with each.

This video from Instructor Mike critiques an off-duty officer's poor tactical choices while working a side job. Key takeaways include the dangers of wearing a hoodie that obstructs peripheral vision and the risks associated with using earbuds that diminish auditory awareness. Instructor Mike emphasizes the importance of maintaining situational awareness even when off-duty or in a secondary role.

This video demonstrates a traffic stop scenario involving Instructor Mike and a Chicago police officer. It highlights the importance of maintaining visible hands during an interaction and provides a practical example of how to communicate effectively with law enforcement. The officer issues a warning for a missing license plate, emphasizing the need for proper vehicle documentation.