I’m specifically interested in the paddle version, which they offer but don’t actually picture. Blade Tech has two versions of paddle for their other holsters, the old crappy looking one here:
I’ve got one, it has already stretched a bit. The mag carrier doesn’t really have an even tension - if the front mag is too tight the rear is just right. If the front mag is just right, the rear is loose. The holster is pretty good, but as I said it has stretched or lost tension a bit already. If you are looking for a range holster I guess they are OK. If you are looking for a serious carry holster I would say save your money.
I’m not digging the injection molded stuff from Blade Tech. It’s not as good as their traditional Kydex stuff. (I’m also not digging the “Stingray loop”…)
If you want relatively inexpensive and good, try out Raven Concealment. Their stuff is the new flavor of kool-aid and all the kids from the Low Light course who tried a sip seem to like it thusfar.
I like Blade Tech’s regular line as well over the Revolution line. And unlike my esteemed friend from VA, I am a big fan of the Stingray loop, over their old style.
The Raven Concealment stuff has definitely grabbed my interest though…
Thanks guys. Looks like I should definitely stick with something kydex.
Raven’s web site isn’t completely fleshed out yet, but from what I could see they don’t offer any kind of paddle. I know some will disparage anything non-beltloop, but the paddle for my G19 has worked out so well I’m sticking with that platform for now. Relying on my own experience on this call.
I’m going now to take another look at Blade Tech’s kydex paddle and probably go ahead with the purchase. Need to get the new M&P into something soon to start doing some drawing drills.
ETA I actually just did a little more shopping around and ended up getting the Comp-Tac paddle, shown here:
I’d heard good things from reliable sources about some of Comp-Tac’s other products, and I like the idea behind the widely spaced inside hooks on their paddle. Shall report back with results.
So far I have only gotten mag carriers from Comp-tac, but have been very impressed with them and plan to pick up a holster from them after the holidays. I think you will be very happy with your purchase!
Well the post-purchase communication has certainly been positive so-far. Got 4 emails already from placing the order just this morning, with initial confirmation, status update, expected delivery time, etc.
It looks like they make them as they’re ordered. Last email said it would take a week to get mine out the door. I can accept that, assuming the quality will be there upon arrival.
Good choice, Randy. I’m using the Comp-Tac belt slide and love it. I stuck w/ Comp-Tac for my M&P after having used a C-T.A.C. for years carrying my 1911. Hope to see ya at CAVRPC soon.
Comp-Tac paddle arrived yesterday. Looks and feels great so far.
It’s an all-one-piece design, with the paddle molded as an extension of the holster body. A lot more stout arrangement than the typical screw-on type, although precludes any cant adjustment. You must specify the desired cant angle when ordering. I got the “FBI” to accommodate the long grip of this gun. Molding is very precise, and with a very deep front-sight channel.
Another big difference from other paddle holsters: the out-turned nubs on on the leading edges of the paddle engage through the pants fabric with the bottom edge the belt. To test the effectiveness of this arrangement, I tried it on with heavy denim jeans and a full-width belt. Unit held solid through repeated rapid draws.
The wide spacing of the nubs also really improves stability to mitigate the rocking/pivoting problem common with paddle holsters. The gun is pulled in as tight and close as any belt-loop holster I’ve tried.
Comp-Tac’s order service was excellent, with no fewer than 6 emails from confirmation through to notification of shipping. Item was received within 2 days of ship date by USPS.
I’m sure you’ll be very happy with Comp-Tac products. I’ve used many different kydex products from most of the well-known manufacturers and have settled on Comp-Tac. Their products are well-made and available quickly.
My most recent purchase was a new belt holster and mag pouches for an M&P 9. I placed the order on a Saturday and received it on Wednesday. That’s good service!
I use a Comp-Tac paddle holster for EDC. It fits great, is secure on the body, and comfortable during all-day wear.
+1 on the Kydex versus this "Thermo Injected Molded “Plastic” Hooey! I’ve tried these in Mag pouches from Blade Tech and they are definitely inferior to Kydex in form, fit, and function.
The belt is 1-and-3/4 inch, and just fills the width between the top edge of the paddle and the nubs.
On the last photo (the from-the-front shot), you can just see the front nub slightly printing through the pants fabric, below the bottom edge of the belt and just above the watch pocket.
I’ll need more in-field time for a final verdict on this design, but looking good so-far. Quality is definitely there. If the paddle ends up not suiting me, I may try their IWB.
I’ve been using a CTAC for years and couldn’t be happier. It’s the best concealment holster I’ve ever used. I backed mine with moleskin, primarily in areas where hardware can come in contact with your skin. That took care of all comfort issues.
Comptac makes good gear.
+1 on Comp-Tac’s quality. I think you’ll be pretty happy with it. I used the same type paddle for a G19 to do some IDPA weekly club shoots for quite a while. During “jacket weather” I always carry with that same paddle, and during the hot months (10 out of 12 here) I use a CTAC. Being located in Houston, they’re in constant supply, too.
