I’ve got a lot of holsters.
A lot.
Seriously, I might have a problem.
Considering how much I like to compete, and in various divisions, necessarily I have different holsters for different rigs and load outs. But I have to say, if I had one holster I could carry OWB and one gun only I could have – my answers would be Bravo Concealment and a Glock 19 Gen 4, preferably from Shadow Systems.
I tested out their BCA Glock 19 OWB in a variety of settings. EDC and competition specifically, IDPA to be more specific. This holster came out of the box good to go for me, but you can adjust the ride height and orientation of the holster itself. Again, as it came it was good for me. The angle of the grip when situated is ideal for two reasons; it cants it to allow easier concealment, and also pulls it closer to your body.
What’s more, is it’s bio-mechanically advantageous when drawing given the geometry. I know, a lot of big words. I sound like Travis Haley.
But seriously, I can get a good purchase, pull from concealment, hold a good retention position, and then punch out into a target. Nothing is forced and nothing feels off. Just a smooth transition from holstered to ready to rock. What I especially like about this holster as opposed to others I have is that it had a cut-out in the front, allowing you to use a threaded or regular barrel (as shown). In addition, the top is cut low enough to allow an optic on your pistol – something sadly I had to take a hacksaw to other holsters to remedy. Given the prevalence of RMRs, this is a great touch.
Same goes for their mag carriers. I tested out the double mag pouch for a G19/23/31, and just like the holster, it’s got the curves and angles just right. It hugs the body when you have a cover garment, keeping you from advertising you have another 30+ rds on tap. You can adjust the ride height, and it just gets the job done. What’s more, I found the geometry and orientation of the magazines very intuitive when reloading quickly during competition. It accomodates my 15+4 extended magazines as well as stock Glock mags and even Magpul GL9 magazines. All in all, it might be “just a mag carrier” but it’s a great one.
Pros, what we like: Geometry, versatility, the ability to run any configuration of carry set up, and easily draw quickly. All aces. Same for the mag carriers. Outstanding.
Cons, what we don’t like: That I can’t cover every inch of my belt with them without garnering weird stares.
Related Articles:
Gear Review: Crossbreed Holster; IWB Glock 26
Gear Review: Bravo Concealment G43 Torsion Holster
Gear Review: QVO Tactical Holsters; Wingman Appendix IWB
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alex Castiglione lives in Atlanta, and is an avid outdoorsman and competitive shooter. He loves getting after it in his garage gym, practicing martial arts, hitting the trails, or running CrossFit and Strongman competitions.
His passion is helping animals and raising funds for his non-profit, Barbells for Bullies, which holds fundraiser fitness competitions dedicated to aiding Bully breed rescues, dog rescues, or other non-profits with similar missions.
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