M&P9 IDPA holster

[nanney1]

Planning to try IDPA next weekend. Looking at a couple of holsters for my M&P9 2.0 4.25". One is a paddle OWB and the other is a typical Kydex IWB model.

I'm guessing for IDPA, the OWB paddle will be more convenient and comfortable. But, if I ever choose to carrry this pistol, the IWB would be a better option.

 

[Ziggy2525]

Planning to try IDPA next weekend. Looking at a couple of holsters for my M&P9 2.0 4.25". One is a paddle OWB and the other is a typical Kydex IWB model.

I'm guessing for IDPA, the OWB paddle will be more convenient and comfortable. But, if I ever choose to carrry this pistol, the IWB would be a better option.

If you’re just trying, you might want to check to see if the Blackhawk CQC will fit your pistol. They come with both belt and paddle attachment. $23 bucks. The CQC is only passive retention - it doesn’t have the finger lock retention thingy everyone hates.

https://blackhawk.com/products/holsters-accessories/holsters/concealment/injection-molded/standard-cqc-holster

 

[RobzGuns]

For just getting your feet wet in the IDPA arena, the Fobus adjustable paddle holsters will do the job without breaking the bank.

Once you decide that you like it enough to get serious about competition, a Google search will find you some good competition rigs.

Just about the time that I was getting serious enough to invest bigger bucks in a rig, life threw some curve-balls and I wasn't able to participate anymore. Glad that I didn't just jump in and spend all that money right away.

 

[Jim Watson]

OWB is best for IDPA, faster on the draw, safer on the holster.
A friend is trying to get by with a Fobus and it isn't pretty.
I do know a guy with a Blackhawk CQC NON-SERPA and it is ok. (Some ranges don't even allow SERPA or other trigger finger latch holsters.)
There is a Safariland Safarilaminate holster that is good and not too expensive.

So, what paddle holster are you looking at?

 

[nanney1]

Bought the Serpa and then returned it. Looking at the Swift Draw Holsters Paddle.

 

[Jim Watson]

Looks ok.
Similar BladeTech
https://blade-tech.com/products/signature-holster?variant=8169845325914

One suitable Safariland economy model
Model 5196 Open Top Concealment Belt Slide Holster - The Safariland Group

 

[CB3]

IDPA is a great game with some practical training benefits for concealed carry. However, just like with some concealed carry training, usually basic level, organizations feel more comfortable with folks using OWB holsters mostly for safety reasons, and typically mounted on or behind the hip.

That’s a good place to start for IDPA, and it keeps the cost down. You don’t need retention devices, just a good fit holster (not generic) that retains it well. Kydex usually does this better for les $$ than leather. Fancy mounting/attachment points add complexity, often increase bulk and reduce concealabity, and can be the weakest points in a mounting system. The flexibility they can add for mounting may be an advantage for some, but I prefer KISS single use holsters that do one job well rather than multiple jobs just OK.

 

[OKFC05]

Comp Tac, Blade Tech, Safariland in Kydex, OWB and you only have to buy once for action pistol games.

 

[CBStuard]

If you’re just trying, you might want to check to see if the Blackhawk CQC will fit your pistol. They come with both belt and paddle attachment. $23 bucks. The CQC is only passive retention - it doesn’t have the finger lock retention thingy everyone hates.

https://blackhawk.com/products/holsters-accessories/holsters/concealment/injection-molded/standard-cqc-holster

I second this strongly. I use this for IDPA and think it is great. I use the paddle attachment because it is easier to get on and off standing around among other shooters. I have it adjusted to nearly zero retention tension so the paddle works out just fine w/ my belt super tight.