Vetter vs. Alabama kydex pocket holsters.

andyo5

andyo5

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What is your preference for a Kydex front pocket holster for a Shield or similar polymer framed pocket sized pistol?
It seems like the Vetter version would print more because it is shaped like a gun on both sides, while the Alabama holster version is more flat on the side that faces outwards.
Personal experiences with these holsters would be of great interest.
Thanks!
 
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I had to look them up. I doubt it makes a difference, The pants pocket is not going to conform to the ridges like the Kydex holster does. The Vetter is molder closely to the shape but that will not show I don't think

I am guessing cargo shorts or pants with a LARGE pocket??

For pockets on smaller guns I use the sticky kind Desantais Remora or whatever.
To me a Shield or similar is pretty big for a pocket at least my Docker type shorts,


Nemesis


CCW, Duty Gear, Colt, Glock 21, Gun Leather Holsters, Springfield, Leather Holsters for 1911
 
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I have both the Vedder and Alabama. I carried my Sig P 365 in the Vedder for quite a while. When I got a Sig LIMA laser sight for the 365, I went with the Alabama because Vedder doesn't make a pocket holster for a LIMA equipped 365. I ordered the Vedder with the lip for thumb release. The Alabama comes with the lip. I like the Alabama better because of the open bottom which allows dirt and debris to pass through. They are both close in design and both are top quality. I'm a big guy and the pocket holsters both fit in my pants pocket, even jeans. I've never been "called out" for my gun/ holster printing.
 
I’m with Be Mike. For me, a pocket holster has to have an open bottom.
I have tried Vedder and a few nylon holsters. The problem for me was the holsters wanted to come out with the gun. The thumb push off works, but I don’t want any extra steps when drawing.
A pocket holster serves two main functions, One is to keep the gun upright and the second is to cover the trigger guard.
For me a simple leather holster like snubbyfan shows is the way to go.
It should have an open bottom and if sized properly, the holster will stay in your pocket when the gun is drawn without any issues.
Alabama holsters are good ones. I have 2 Vedder holsters (open bottom) for AIWB carry and still looking for a leather one for pocket carry of my M&P 380.
I prefer Kydex, but would have to heat and stretch to let the gun come out easily. Not worth the money or effort. Just my 2 cents!
I’m open for suggestions for the 380!

Be SAFE and Shoot Often!
 
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I might add that I've never had any problem with the holster coming out with the gun without using the thumb release, but I think that the thumb release might be handy in a situation where I might want to release the gun in the pocket before drawing. I've tried the Desantis Nemesis and Blackhawk pocket holsters and found that the Vedder and Alabama keep the gun in position better than those two. The kydex also keeps sweat off the gun better for me than those fabric holsters.
 
andyo5 said:
What is your preference for a Kydex front pocket holster for a Shield or similar polymer framed pocket sized pistol?
It seems like the Vetter version would print more because it is shaped like a gun on both sides, while the Alabama holster version is more flat on the side that faces outwards.
Personal experiences with these holsters would be of great interest.
Thanks!
Click to expand...

Unless you are wearing really tight pants, a flat sided holster doesn't print any less like a gun than a contoured imo. If anything, the flat one being bulkier will draw more attention.
 
I'm thinking I will go with the Vedder. I read a few online reviews since I posted this comparing a variety of pocket holsters. Thanks for all the replies.
 
andyo5 said:
I'm thinking I will go with the Vedder. I read a few online reviews since I posted this comparing a variety of pocket holsters. Thanks for all the replies.
Click to expand...
Between the two, there really isn't a bad choice.
 
I use a Blue Force Gear pocket holster. If you want thin, the BFG is a thin as you can get.
 
I have bought 4 of the Alabama holsters. Three for pocket and one for IWB.. I couldn't be more pleased. They were perfect fits. Three were for Sig P365's and one was for a S&W 642. One of the 365's has a laser and it fit perfectly.
 
I like a blackhawk Usually a #3. Its thin neoprene. Breaks up the shape so you cant tell what it is, after break in it stays in pocket on draw. I've use it for several pistols.
 
I use a Mika and I like it a lot.
I have used one like Snubby, too, and it is quite satisfactory - rough side out helps keep it in the pocket, and the wide bottom keeps it in position.
 
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