In my Ugliest Holster Thread some nominated kydex and nylon
holsters as candidates for the ugliest. I do agree that leather
holsters are far more beautiful, but there are times and
circumstances where kydex and/or nylon can fill the bill.
In the mid 1980s when our military transitioned from the 1911
to the Beretta M9 Bianchi provided the nylon, water resistent,
holster called the m12. Over 30 years later it is apparently
passing the test of time. It also fathered other nylon holster
lines such as the Accumold that has been successful with law
enforcement. M12 and Accumold Paddle is shown below left
with M9 and SIG P220.
What if you suddenly had a chance to fly to Alaska for a weekend
of fishing. You would want to take along your bear
repellant tool. You would want a bandolier style holster so you
could wear the tool outside your coat, positioned to draw quickly
if needed. There are some very nice leather models, like the
Diamond D Guide's Choice, or Galco's Kodiak for examples.
But what if you didn't have time to wait for those leather models
or you didn't want to drop a couple of Bennys for what would likely
be a one time venture? Crossfire makes a black nylon
model they call "The Alaskan". The holster comes with the
padded bandolier and waist band. About a 4th the price of
the leather models. Show below 2nd from left with S&W Model
29 .44 Magnum.
Wilson's "Tactical Assault" is shown in the center photo with
Beretta's Model 92. Safariland's "Custom Fit" Model with belt
loop is shown with Colt's 1911 Gold Cup.
4th from left is Safariland's #518 clip on paddle holster shown
with Charter 2000's Undercover.
Far right is Uncle Mike's "Mirage" with my Colt's 1911 and
Uncle Mike's kydex paddle with my Glock .40 Model 22C.