Holster comparison: N82 Tactical vs. Crossbreed Supertuck

[ab4ka]

When I got my S&W 6906 (back) a few weeks ago I knew I wanted to get a better CCW holster than the one I had. Options are somewhat limited for the S&W 3rd gen pistols, and after lots of research I decided to get the Crossbreed Supertuck. I placed my order and waited patiently.

Shortly afterward I heard Michael Bane raving about the "Nate Squared" (N82 Tactical) IWB holster. Apparently he hates IWB carry but he said these were great holsters. I looked them up, the price was reasonable so I ordered one.

The N82 came in quickly and it was the first IWB holster that was instantly comfortable...no break in needed, it just worked. I suppose it's due to the construction, which is a neoprene backer covered with either leather or vinyl (I'm not sure which) on the front and suede on the rear. The part that holds the gun is made of some seriously heavy duty elastic and it bears a single, very sturdy belt clip. I've been wearing it for about 4 weeks now and I've been very pleased. It's extremely comfortable. The only downside is that, due to the single clip design, it tends to move around a little, although the suede does a great job of keeping it in place. Overall I'm very happy with it.

Today my Crossbreed Supertuck came in, and in just taking it out of the package I was impressed.. I've owned other holsters of this design before, but none were built as stout as the CB. The leather backer is thicker than I expected, and the clips are stronger than any belt clips I've ever seen on an IWB holster. The kydex is also formed perfectly. The dual clips are independently adjustable for ride height and cant. I raised the front clip one hole (I like a deep ride and slightly more forward cant than normal), put it on and left for an appointment.

I was not disappointed...after about 5 minutes I didn't even notice it. It was very comfortable and felt quite secure. I also like that it was always where I wanted it to be, thanks to the front/rear clip design. Also, on the Crossbreed I didn't spring for the "Combat Cut". I figured I'd rather have the full backer and cut it myself if I wanted to. 30 seconds with my knife and it was right where I wanted it.

So, here's my totally (as in it's all about what I think) comparison of the two:

Comfort: N82 by a nose
Security: Crossbreed (by security I mean it stays where you want it on your belt...both hold the gun just fine)
Ease of drawing: Crossbreed
Ease of reholstering: Crossbreed totally (you're just not gonna do it with the N82 due to the design)
Adjustability: Crossbreed (the N82 isn't adjustable)
Bang for the buck: N82 all day long

Would I buy them again? Absolutely. They will both have their place. I see the N82 being more of a "throw it on for a quick run to town" and the Crossbreed being the "wear it all day". Both are great holsters and I'd recommend either of them. The only wildcard at this point is the durability of the N82. I wonder how well the elastic is going to hold up, but this is not a holster where you're going to be drawing/reholstering a lot (because you're not going to reholster without removing it from your belt). The Crossbreed, on the other hand, seems bulletproof. I used to think they were overpriced, but they are built like a tank.

Bottom line? You won't go wrong with either one. I'll continue using both of them.

Crossbreed Supertuck:


N82 Tactical:

[Goldstar225]

Nice review. I bought the Crossbreed last fall and have been very pleased with it. I just oedered and received a Crossbreed belt with the V-clips. With that the CBST should just totally disappear.

[cshoff]

I have the Kholster, which is very similar to the Cross Breed and it is extremely comfortable. I've been wearing it every day for nearly 3 years now. Here is a picture of the rig right after I got it:



I have since made my own "combat cut" and installed Kydex belt clips in place of the steel clips (much easier on the pants and shirt). Strapped in with a Wilderness Tactical 5-stitch Instructor belt, it's hard to beat for comfort, accessibility, and retention.

[27145]

How are those holsters on a blued gun? Looks like they are made for stainless, must wreak havoc on blued guns?

[ab4ka]

Originally Posted by crazybastid83

How are those holsters on a blued gun? Looks like they are made for stainless, must wreak havoc on blued guns?

I'd think the N82 would be real easy on a blued gun.

[Rick Shaw]

I have just started the break-in period on a Supertuck for a Glock 27 and one for a full-sized 1911.

I love the way the Supertuck balances the weight of the all steel 1911 on the belt. It really seems to cuty the weight in half, compared to other IWB holsters I have tried.

I am however noticing that at the moment, I can only wear the Supertuck a few hours at a time, as the forward edge of the backing leather (right under the front belt clip) is stiff and new, and digs the beejeebers out of my hip.

This being said, the company is VERY clear that there is a natural and necessary break-in time before the holster is comfortable. I am currently in this break-in period, and look forward to near total comfort (all things considered, of course)

Presentation from the holster from concealment and returning it to the holster without looking is aces!

Rick

[Cdnbacon]

I just received my N82 for small revolver. Its a good fit for a j frame and sp101, and can stretch out for a K frame snub, although it seems a little over stretched for the K. One of the Nates I spoke with said it would be no problem to make one a little bigger for a k frame if I traced out the gun and faxed/sent him a copy. He also moved the clip towards the trigger guard end of the holster a little bit so that the clip wouldn't be right on top of the widest part of the cylinder, at my request. The holster arrived in around a week, or less, from the time I placed the order. So far it performs as advertised and is quite comfortable and secure. I am pleased with the depth at which the revolver sits, as it places the top of the cylinder just below the top of the belt, which keeps plenty of grip above the belt to facilitate the draw, but does not shift the center of gravity too high, which is a problem with many IWBs for snub revolvers. I have tried it briefly as a cross draw, and the (neutral angle) clip has enough length to allow the rig to cant slightly on a 1.5 inch belt. The suede back keeps the rig from shifting around. For strong side carry, it sat at a comfortable straight cant, but could be shifted slightly. One concern may be the full back shield, which would hinder obtaining a full grip prior to drawing; however, it also prevents you from gripping and drawing your shirt with your revolver. It has yet to fully conform to the gun, and me, but works pretty well. Thus far, it looks like a good deal for the money, and provides some flexibility for gun choice and cant. The Nate I spoke too seemed like a really nice guy too, and was more than happy to accomodate some special requests.