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3 Reasons I STOPPED Recommending Sidecar Holsters
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- Опубліковано 18 сер 2024
- A few weeks ago I did a Q/A, and one of the questions was "why don't you advocate for sidecar holsters anymore?". I answered that question, but for a lot of you it was just too vague, so here we are in todays video outlining the THREE reasons I stopped recommending sidecar holsters back in 2021.
This video is very intentionally brand agnostic. Regardless of brand, all sidecar holsters (that I've encountered) have at least one of the three issues I'll discuss in this video. This video is not intended to call out any specific brands, but rather to highlight inherent flaws in a holster that is attached to a magazine carrier. This is NOT a review.
CHAPTERS:
0:00 Intro
0:32 DISCLAIMER
0:49 What are they?
1:20 My sidecar journey
1:56 How concealment works
3:42 REASONS WHY
6:17 Bang for your buck
7:29 Advantages?
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Hey guys, thanks for your comments! If this is your first time on my channel, welcome here! Stay a while, check out the rest of what is going on in this corner of UA-cam.
Thanks. I run a very simple setup.
You angered the sidecar gods at the end.
Another thing about a sidecar holster for a man is it can rest directly on the junk which makes sitting very uncomfortable. An independent holster and mag carrier can be positioned to each side of the johnson.
I'm starting to lean toward the neomag alias system. Havn't got one yet but i do want to try it out.
women..... fyi concealed carry is never smth to be like no carry, its a fucking metal(or other type) of material in ur facking wasteband. if u want attention from guys wearing tight shit, then yes u shouldnt carry at all or let ur man carry one and do the job. the fact u complete forget about the fact that ccw is not for fun or like jewelry its meant to save urself and others from dangarous people. so cut the shit, stop acting asif ur reviewing a facking watch and se ccw as it is... Im not even american (so not able to ccw) and even I understand the concepts better than u...
This is why I prefer the T-Rex Sidecar because it can basically be a standalone holster as well.
Same the side car 2.0 is a decent holster for sure
Love my t.rex. I removed the mag carrier and use that additional attachment for dual clip. I prefer that setup over a typical stand alone holster.
My brother just recommended T-Rex arms sidecar to me but I'm going with the enigma
@@nateoglesbee7341 The holster she shares is the old model. The new model negates about everything she share. It also works as an independent holster so you can wear strong side as well.
Most can
I used to work in firearm sales before the job that I’m at now, and I would always tell people that holsters are like shoes; meaning there isn’t a “one size fits all,” method to the “best,” holster.
If you need ABSOLUTE concealment because you’re around people that are uncomfortable around guns, or in a big public place, or for whatever reason, then a below the waistline gun-only holster is king (I even recommend getting multiple belt clips to paint to match your pants/belt as well if you want to cover all of your tracks).
But if you’re in an area that’s much more questionable/uncomfortable and you’re around people that are more accepting of concealed carry firearms, then a sidecar works great and gives you a rigid platform to pull from an extra mag!
Also, it’s going to be the people that are already familiar with guns in public that would notice you printing more often than not, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t a potential threat/not on your side 👍
Stay safe out there guys! And keep your head on a swivel 👍
Nice video. I've used a side car holster for a few years now and after 12+ years of carrying with an independent holster, at my AIWB I now always prefer a sidecar. I think it also depends on body type and holster company that makes the sidecar. With that being said, everyone is different and I am just glad more people are carrying and people definitely need to hear all the good points and opinions to help them make the best carry option for them. Keep doing what you do, You're doing great!!
Hear, hear! 👍🏻
Thanks for sharing your perspective, and for sticking around on my channel, watching, and commenting! I appreciate your consistency here :)
@@tessahbooth we gun channels gotta stick together! 🤜🤛 It has been awesome watching your channel grow. Pushing 40k is a huge accomplishment! Thank you for creating great content👍 Keep crushing it!🤘 ~Drop It Like It's Scott
Body type definitely matters. I used to be able to conceal a Glock 19-sized gun and spare mag in a sidecar holster. Then I got that pandemic belly and there's no way I can do that anymore. I now use separate carriers and have the gun and mag on each side of my belly bulge.
I use Tier 1 exclusively and imo the best holster company around at this time
The biggest advantage to a sidecar for me is that the gun does not rotate, thus keeping my draw more consistent. I’m more concerned about my draw/presentation being good than slightly worse concealment. Though it’s different for everyone so you do you boo
just a hypothetical, lets say that guns are just out right banned, or you are going to places where law enforcement or authorities will know what to look for in someone that is printing or carrying in general, it would be better to have it completely concealed where no one but you know that it is on you rather than be printing just because its more consistent, just how trex arms went to California recently and was carrying the whole time, mind you it was a full size gun and spare mag and he fit in all the better cause he dressed like local resident; what I'm ultimately getting at is that the full concealment is something to consider and not knock just because it isn't as consistent.
@@joshuahernandez2409 I’m not knocking concealment but I think it is over weighed versus other aspects. A 32 keltec is super concealable compared to a Sig 226 but I would much rather have a 226 in a fight. And most people are not looking at you. It’s all balances and compromise and each person has to figure out what’s right for them. But if the argument you are using for concealment is carrying in legally prohibited places or ban states, the bigger issue I would worry about is the court case after you use that gun cause the prosecution will butcher you
Agreed. I have a tier one axis that I carry with a g19 with a x300u, and a spare mag. It does not conceal as well as my phlister enigma, but when I use the enigma I lose my light and my spare mag(unless I put it on a pocket of course).
That being said I get a much better and faster draw from the sidecar style due to where it is placed, much faster reloads, and I don't want to say it's more stable but I like having two clips holding the gun in place.
I use both depending on what I am doing. For work I use the enigma as I am always in a well lit office and it is much more comfortable, I use the enigma for weddings or fancy stuff as well.
When I am a bit skinnier or wearing more clothing, I live in Washington state so I wear a light coat 75% of the year, I use the sidecar for all the above pros, and it is very easy to conceal with more clothing on.
@@joshuahernandez2409 dude. no one can see your gun printing. the average Joe at the grocery store can't tell who's carrying.
Y'all remember the old Colt Trooper Mk iii's? I carry one with a 4" and a speed loader for it. I'm 6'1" and weigh 170. A "string bean," if you will. South Texas, so it's a fairly common physical build for us white boys🤣. But no one has ever known when I carry except my wife. And that was only when I MADE it print against my shirt and show her.
I've carried sidecar with anything from a g19 all the way down to a g42 and a p365 for about 5 years while running and rolling around on garage floors fixing cars and never broke one. Personally, I get better concealment out of a sidecar but I never play with wedges, poke and check, or even move the gun to a more concealable spot. Out of the box they do better for me with no additional work. I'll try the separate the mag carrier and play with concealment concepts and see how it goes. Thanks for another great video!
Thanks for watching! I'm glad to hear that you're getting acceptable results with your current set up. If you wind up playing around with the pieces separated I'd be interested to hear how that goes!
Great video! You should check out Trex Arms newer side car. I find playing with the side wing placement has been key and fixes many of the issues you mention.
There is a specific word, hypervigilance. I've been told that technically it is a mild form of PTSD. It refers to having an acute sensitivity to noise and often a phyical reaction to it, i.e. jumping whenever a phone rings or door slams. Nothing to do with being a drama queen. It just some past events have programmed the auditory sections of your brain with extreme priority. Like being the only person in the room who hears a faucet dripping at one a.m. on the other end of the house. I spent some time at a remote helo base and every time an incoming helo cleared the mountains, I was way first to hear it. They nicknamed me Radar, as in MASH. It's a mixed blessing, but a survival traight. Unless you draw on the light bulb.(g)
That's an interesting insight, thanks for sharing!
Hypervigilance can be more than noise. Some ptsd people clear the house every time they enter, or checking under the bed.
light bulb better think fast
This is one of those topics where the supposed right answer changes every few years. At the end of the day you should pick a holster type that works with your body and your needs. If an aiwb works with your body then it is probably the most capable option. But all that really matters is the individuals experience.
There is no right answer… UA-camrs make videos to get views
I find with my sidecar, a better counter balance to the firearm, that prevents any need to adjust or fidget while carrying and I have zero issues with printing.
Thanks for sharing! That was one of the things I liked about my sidecar holster when I was still using it.
If you ‘liked’ something about the sidecar style set up, why go back to older IG vids and even say ‘I nO lOnGeR rEcCoMenD sIdEcAr StYlE hOlStErS’ when you know damn well it’s still a viable option, just not for YOU? Huge miss: being someone who wants to help give people options, this does not make any sense of you. PS: you say ‘just Incase for anyone in the back: I’m not saying you shouldn’t use a sidecar holster’….*literally says you shouldn’t use a sidecar holster for x, y, z reason
just binged a few of your videos. great content presented in a wonderfully organized manner! keep it up!
great content. I do believe it depends on body type and holster company. I've went with Vedder holsters for my Glock 43x mos and glock 19 mos and recently changed over to a Tier 1 elite axis holster and the concealment is great and even more comfortable (for me) than single holster in appendix.
keep up the good work!
This is a good video I've tried both I found that side cars for me made presentation from concealment consistent and spread the weight more consistently. When I used independent holder I found that it would leave a uneven bulge while a side car was more evenly disppersed making it less noticable for me. That and I'm lazy and having one piece to put in my waist band more easier than putting them and adjusting them. Noticed they would rotate when they seperate. Everyone will find what works for them just be mindful of what your needs are.
Something you should try is making your own wedges. I am a college student, so I just don't have the money to spend to find different holsters. I would rather spend my money on ammo to train; I truly believe you get what you pay for. I bought a perfect sidecar holster from T.Rex Arms and have made my own wedge from construction kneeling pads. I was experiencing what you were experiencing and decided, what if I put a small wedge on the mag carrier? And it has made a world of difference.
I would NEVER recommend for/against any style of holster. I will ALWAYS recommend someone try several different styles of holsters and use what works for their personal application.
Yep. Never had one since I seldom carry spare mag, and when I do I have a mag carrier...
Always carry a spare mag
@@nokachi3339 Do you bring a spare mag into the shower with you?
@@CliftonHicksbanjo along with a back up ankle carry
This is the first I'm hearing of sidecars breaking I'm very active and haven't broken mine in 5 years so thats new info to me thanks, my priority is speed and consistency of grabbing my gun and spare magazine so I've preferred the sidecar over the independent holsters I've tried (im about a .6-.7 draw time it makes a difference)
I’m at 3 years, and had no issues with either of mine.
Being a narrow dude, it makes my whole front side more even, so it’s easier to conceal.
I think she means more parts, more stuff to break, fail, etc. A general truth.
.6-.7 draw to first shot is really solid! Gotta love those dryfire reps.
@@theKashConnoisseur thanks trying to get to .5 but my reaction time isnt there yet a lot of it js body mechanics
@@joeschmo5403 average human reaction time is 0.3 so anything close to that is pretty stellar. Probably comes down to muscle fiber twitch speed at that point.
The graphics and editing on this video are really good!
Thank you!
I have been using a Black Arch sidecar holster for 2 years. I am what i would call an average male. A little extra around the middle. The Black Arch has the sidecar attached with rubber/fabric weave that holds the mag carrier about 1/2" away from the gun holster. It will almost fold in half. Plenty of movement options and I have two points of contact for stability on draws, mag removal and re-holster. I switched from a 4 o'clock IWB holster with a mag pouch horizontal on my support side. I would never switch back to that config. You make good points for your situation and your preferences. Good info to use when choosing your rig of choice. Finding this Black Arch earlier would have saved me a few hundred bucks on failed holster choices. My first AIWB choice was a single piece of kydex and it was abismal. But live and learn. Stay safe a keep packing.
I got a T.Rex Arms 2.0, and I’ve been a little disappointed with it so far. It conceals fine, but it digs into me and extremely limits my movement. I have a little bit of a belly, but I didn’t think it was going to be this much of a problem.
On the bright side, I can just split it into two separate parts, and I’m planning on doing that to see if that will improve the carrying experience. I think moving them away from the straight 12 o’clock position to more of a 1 o’clock and 11 o’clock position for the gun and mag respectively will help.
is your raptor wing in the front or back ?
Hey man, have you heard of gunzee? I recommend checking them out if you haven't already.
I thought there was something off in the performance of my sidecar holster, but I couldn't figure out exactly what was wrong with it. I ended up just ditching it for separate holsters for my firearm and magazine, and I still really couldn't figure out why I liked this more and just assumed I made a bad purchase earlier. This video spells it out for me. Thank you!
I used to carry a T1C and loved it. But I switched to the new Trex arms sidecar and it conceals much better. I think it's the best concealment while also providing the best and fastest way to get to your gun. Also if it does print, a gun on its own is kinda obvious, but the gun and mag make it a wider footprint and doesn't look like a gun. Also I like sidecars since it makes it so you always have a spare mag no matter what.
Same story for me. Love the new trex side car 2.0
I like their Ragnarok but I ended up going LAS for my Sidecar. Very similar in design but the LAS holster had the option to have a flush fit extended mag holster. So I can carry a spare 21 round mag that sits the same height that a 17 rounder would. I figure, if you need a reload, having a few extra rounds would be very welcome.
It's funny cause I always hear everyone switching from TRex to T1C for better concealment
@@cross8215 Don't fall for it! These are T Rex employees trying to pursued you 🤣
I’d rather have a neo mag in my pocket than the spare mag attached to my holster. Rather my waist be only carrying the CCW itself.
Good vid. Couple misc points in no particular order. 1) The "grab and go" capability of a sidecar holster is easier/better than 2 separate pieces. 2) For me, balance of the rig is better. 3) I've been carrying appendix w/ a sidecar for 7-8 years. 4) You're right about breakage when the mag carrier is on the same piece of kydex as the holster. I had a Gcode incog break (which they replaced w/ no questions asked) after about 5 years of practically daily use (I had "rigged" it up w/ some thin aluminum sheeting before it finally took a dump. 5) I'm 6'3" and 230#, so my hip to hip bone measurement is somewhere between 12" and 13", which is plenty of room for a sidecar. 6) I wear dark shirts or those with patterns, so I don't worry about "printing". 7) Depending on location, I don't really care about printing anyway. Deuces!
I'm with ya. I think the pistol carries much more balanced with a sidecar.
I dunno. I rock a Werkz holster and mag carrier. It is modular so you can attach them together or run them separate and while I run them separate, they damn near are in the "sidecar" holster configuration where I wear them. I do see the financial consideration as being a solid point as some of the top market sidecars are over $100 where as my setup is just around or maybe a little under $100 even having a WML holster. Honestly, I am not a huge fan of sidecars as I don't like the rigidity and as you said, I don't always carry a spare mag.
I appreciate your point of view. It’s important to have different perspectives, especially for new shooters that don’t know what they’re looking for yet. It’s also helpful for those that aren’t about trying something new. For met personally, I’ve tried several independent holsters and sidecar style. For my body and carry preferences, the sidecar works better for my edc. If I want the utmost in concealment, I’ll use a single holster and a smaller than usual carry choice. But that’s the exception for me, not the rule. Great video and thank you again. These are great for women and men alike!
The main issue I have is the holster pivoting on me because there is usually only one clip on the holster.. having the sidecar, it adds a second clip and would seem more stable. Unfortunately, I do not have SEVERAL hundreds of dollars just laying around to buy and try a dozen different holsters just to hate them and throw them in a box in the garage. Then again... I also dont have the budget for a new holster every year!
All great notes as I get ready for my concealed setup. Especially as a bigger boy where a couple of my curves are a little more... outward. Buddies are all workin' and recommending sidecars but it never seemed practical to me personally. Think I'll go independent!
I use a regular appendix holster with a wing and a separate neoprene mag pouch as if I had a side cart.
I used to use a sidecar, one of the ones with a pivot in the middle. I carried and concealed a Glock 19-sized gun + TLR-7 light + spare mag. It was bulky and expensive but fine. I don't use it any more because I got a pandemic belly and can't conceal it because it can't go anywhere but atop my new bulge. I went back to having a slightly smaller gun on one side of my belly bulge and the spare mag on the other. I recognize that spares aren't useful in a gunfight but I like it to balance out my profile and belt. My non-sidecar holsters are by JM Custom Kydex because holsters aren't something you should cheap out on. My spare mag carrier is some cheap neoprene thing off Amazon that just works.
I've found my sidecar to just feel better. It doesn't conceal as well as an independent with my enigma but it just feels good. I think the fact that its wide helps spread the force out so there's not a pressure point. It also doesn't rotate like others have mentioned. Being a dude and having a wider waist I can conceal a sidecar pretty good and I actually put a wedge and it does help out a lot. So they work for me, but everyone is different. An enigma setup is still the best for concealment and it is really comfortable but a sidecar for me is just as comfortable with only a slight trade off in concealment.
Interested to see where this goes considering I run a sidecar style holster exclusively.
On concealment mechanics: I've used both a fastener-secured (Worx) and a bungee-secured (LAS Concealment) sidecar style holster, and I found both designs to be very responsive to properly applied concealment mechanics. Given my body and my holster positioning, all of my gun's printing was occurring with the gun itself. The attached mag holder never posed an issue, as the connection to the hostler was always flexible enough that belt pressure securely tucked it in. Using a proper wedge and wing combination along with a quality gun belt completely eliminates all printing. Without them, it looked kind of like I had a 2 inch binder tucked into my pants. And mind you, I'm carrying a full sized P320 with a weapon light. Obviously, what works for me will not be universal to everyone. But I'm pretty close to the statistical "average US male" in physical metrics. So it would stand to reason that the things which works for me would work for many guys in this country.
On premature damage: It's all about design, isn't it. On my Worx holster, it was secured using threaded fasteners and the kydex itself provided the flex. Mine did eventually crack, but only after I applied some threadlocking compound to the fasteners, which on the tube states that it can damage plastics if in contact. And unfortunately, I did accidentally get some threadlocker on the kydex. On my LAS Concealment holster, it's secured with elastic bungee cording, and the connecting space between the mag carrier and the holster is cut out in relief so that the articulation between them is free floating. It's been a few years now and the flex point has no wear. Also, being a frictionless articulation, there's no counterpressure to the various concealment mechanics.
On getting more for one's investment: personal tastes, really. I find it easier to conceal a sidecar style setup than a separate mag carrier and holster. If there were no sidecar holsters, I'd very likely forgo carrying a spare magazine. Also, with many sidecar systems you can attach other things; tourniquets, rifle mags, handcuffs, flashlights, etc. Trex Arms even has 3D printing files for a meme-able dual pistol holster setup. And if desired, one could simply remove the mag carrier from many systems and use the holster standalone. Not to mention that the thrifty mindset can also lead folks to holsters which are completely substandard! Those crappy Amazon offerings for $30 that don't even secure the trigger guard, much less offer a solid concealment platform, for instance. If you get a sidecar holster from a solid company, a quality gun belt, and a quality concealment wedge... there is no reason why anyone should be unable to comfortably and clandestinely carry on-body. Sidecar or not.
Great video! I see your point and it does make sense. I believe the reason I have sidecar holsters is mostly social media and seeing all the “influencers” posting about them and they just look cool. That was my main reason tbh at first. Then after getting my first one I really liked how it felt. Of course that was because of my body type, they fit pretty good on me. I have one for almost every single one of my rotation guns. And every now and then I play with them and remove the extra mag carrier and that feels good as well. Just prefer having it on. Thank you for the content!
I carry few other ways here and there, but by far the most is with an appendix “sidecar-style,” and for many years now. I’ve tried almost everything at this point but always return to the attached appendix rig.
I’ve yet to find a good way to carry a spare mag that works well for me in virtually all situations, aside from the attached holster-carrier appendix set, so I’m sticking with it.
I almost exclusively carry gigantic full-size duty guns, all with extended barrels, X300 lights, and optics (P30L, M9A1, G19X, etc.), and far and away the easiest place/method for me to conceal those and a mag is with an appendix sidecar-style holster.
Each person’s body is different, so maybe don’t say, “I don’t recommend these anymore,” but instead say, “they could still work for some people, but personally I prefer other types for me.”
Thanks!
Sorry doll. I’ve been carrying side car holsters since before you could walk. No issues what so ever. Train hard, draw stroke perfection, dry fire daily. 👍
Oddly enough I didn't mention anything about the sidecar holster being suboptimal for any of the purposes you alluded to above.
Wonderfully produced video and great points! Just to add onto these points, another good reason to ditch the sidecar holster and spare magazine altogether is for practical reasons…I’ve only been in a few gun fights in my life so I may be speaking out of line but according to the data, LEOs and military personnel are often the only people who have ever come across scenarios in which a gunfight reload was needed….think suppressive fire. On the other hand, I have not seen one video or even heard of an event in which a civilian engaged a threat and needed to reload their handgun in order to get a bad guy to stop doing bad guy sh*t. Either way, wonderful video!
I’m just shocked you’ve ACTUALLY been in a gun fight, let alone PLURAL! My worst fear.
I hope you have never been harmed. Physically AND legally. Stay safe .
@@MarazAmcTwo combat tours in Afghanistan (2007-2009).
Most civilians or citizens do not reload because they have not been trained to or do not train for an actual gun fight. This isn't necessarily their fault as many training is marksmanship or target practice based (static range). The average concealed carry permit holder may not have access to training or training facilities which would allow them to practice these skills and become proficient. I witness a lot of people training to become proficient with hitting a target but rarely to prepare, engage and act tactically after the action of a gun fight. Telling people to ditch the side car or spare magazine altogether is irresponsible. People should be encouraged to carry a spare magazine, a TQ or small IFAK as well as understand the legal concepts of a deadly force encounters. I think that :needing" and "having" the ability are not mutually exclusive. I have a sidecar IWB apendix holster, my edc has a light and RDS, I keep a flashlight on me at all times as well. Unfortunately my TQ and IFAK are in my vehicle. My understanding of local Use of force law and constitutional rights are always on my mind. Do I need all of these things to win a gun fight? no. but as a responsible CHL holder I consider them the necessities for anyone taking the liability of carrying a firearm on their person in public and private places.
Great video and great editing! Thank you, Tessah!
Not a bad idea, but I prefer the stand alone holster. Whatever works for you, works for you.
I’ve never used a sidecar. But I’ve never seen a point in trying to conceal my spare magazine. I just carry it in an OWB pouch. An untucked shirt covers it. But even if somebody sees it anybody who realizes what it is, and what it means, probably won’t care. But most people are too clueless to even notice much less know what it is. When I was a detective I wore a Glock 22 in an ALS holster on my hip, a shiny gold badge in front of it, a pair of handcuffs on my back, and 2 spare mags on my left hip, a police ID on a lanyard around my neck, and usually a radio clipped to my belt. Yet I still constantly had to explain to people that I was a cop. “No I’m not your insurance agent, I’m the detective investigating your case, that’s why I’m asking about the burglary…..” THEN they would notice all the gear….. If that’s what it takes to get more good guys carrying more ammo though, knock yourself out.
Aloha from Hawaii's 2A community 🤙🏾
That whole “blooper” part was hilarious. Nice owning who you are haha. My main issue with sidecar is drawing the next mag from a reached position. My sweet spot is gun at 2:00 on my right. I’d be reaching extra and unnatural distance to grab the mag. Speed comes from ease of flow, which means I need my mag on my left somewhere.
I use a Vedder sidecar holster with a gunzee pad that I use as a wedge. So far it’s been the best option for me, especially because I ALWAYS carry a spare magazine. I’ve used the pocket magnet clips but only for my LCP max mags. Anything bigger it makes it obvious that I’m carrying a magazine in my pocket, not to mention the added weight.
I found sidecar to be just ok. I do prefer stand alone holsters and just carry extra nag in my pocket if I feel the need. Moving it around and manipulation, as you mentioned, is the biggest reason for me.
Thank you so much for the video, very well presented. I don't use one for the same reasons you just pointed out, for my extra mag I use a 4 inch elastic band attached to my EDC belt and place the mag horizontal, it is really comfortable and you will forget is there when taking the belt off. I got mine from we the people holsters, but you just can by a piece of elastic and velcro or sew it together. You are a very smart and talented woman with mad speaking skills lady, very articulated with the right tone of voice. I have been watching your videos and you gained my admiration for the quality of information you put out, you are a true professional, congratulations.
Honestly, this was probably the best opinion based post I have seen in a long time. I am actually to test both options and see for myself. Thanks 👍🏽🇺🇸
Holy crap. I’m a tall slim guy and I could never get my sidecar Tier 1 holster to conceal the way I wanted. I thought that I needed to wear bigger clothing (I usually wear slim fitting stuff) but I always looked like I was wearing my dad’s clothes lol 😂. I watched this video and took off the side car part and now I can conceal my 365 macro and wear my normal clothes as well. Was thinking about buying another holster without the side car but now I’m glad i stumbled upon your video . Excellent video thank you!!!
Lots of good points. I think you hit the nail on the head though, when you said "they are not for everybody". You are a slender woman, I am a medium sized man (5'9", 160lbs), and the "sweet spots" as you put it, on your abs are in a different place. You also wear your jeans in a bit different spot on your waist. I've been carrying concealed for almost fifty years, and often carried in AIWB position long before it was popular or even called that. We called it Mexican carry, because many of the Mexican banditos in old movies would carry thier guns around front like that, and some of them were fast. I used to watch the early IPSC matches too, and a guy named Brian Enos carried his gun in that spot, and he was super fast. Anyway, I bought a Tier 1 sidecar holster a couple of years ago, and I like it. It conceals well, when I'm not carrying much winter fat, and it's very stable because of the width between clips, which makes acquiring my grip consistant and therefore fast. Anyway, just my opinion. Nice job on the video. 🙂
Body type matters. For my body I conceal better with a Tier 1 sidecar vs a holster and mag carrier
Yup, I've been using a T1 AGIS for 3 years - and have had 3 of them. :D (To their credit, the second 2 were free as per their lifetime warranty.) I ordered an Enigma and KSG Declaration yesterday.
funny this came up. i just got my sidecar holster today and to be honest, its SUPER comfortable and i actually didnt need a wedge...
IWB holsters comfort and conceal ability are so dependent on body shape and size. I own 2 x Tier1 Axis, 1x T-REX Sidecar, and now a Philster I mainly use in the summer months for more clothing options. The T-Rex sidecar on my body is un-wearable. It’s incredibly uncomfortable while my T1 Axis slim is very comfortable and my go to holster for a few years now. My Axis Elite is too wide and big and I can only use it with heavy clothing. For my body I prefer the sidecars because they distribute the mass more evenly across my body. I’m still playing with my Philster but am having some discomfort for stand alone type. They tend to dig into my lap when sitting down so I’m watching your videos to see what I can do to improve comfort. I have a very short torso and a bit of a belly so pretty much the least desirable body shape for appendix carry. Thanks for the good info Tessah. I found you on one of ASP Extra videos you’re a great shooter. You have awesome body position. Cheers
I carry with a sidecar holster, plus two magazine carriers linked together in the same fashion at the other side. Gives me symmetry and is comfortable for my body type.
I’m a bigger guy so I can conceal it very easy. They definitely aren’t for everyone that’s for sure but for me its the fastest and most comfortable. Also a huge part of the side car is that it flexes in the middle!!!! The Tier 1 Axis Elite with their claw system and easy clips are amazing. My wife who’s a nurse uses the Enigma and loves it as well!
I appendix carry a neo mag next to a normal holster. I like how I can adjust how high or low it sits and it’s not big and bulky.
I started with a T.Rex Raptor holster, but it moves too much on the single large clip. I went to a T1C Ziphos with dual clips, but it was too wide and rigid. I’ve ultimately gone with a T.Rex Sidecar 2.0, but wear it with the winged clip instead of the mag carrier, which conceals great, flexes with my belt and body, and also keeps the holster very stable. As a light bearing holster, it’s as wide as the non-light bearing Ziphos.
Good video! I used to have a sidecar but found it unnecessary if you get a neomag or something along those lines, but make sure to practice!
I purchased a side car holster like you because of the hype online. Gave it a shot for a few weeks but ended up going back to my AIWB Vedder light tuck. I tend to swap between OWB and AIWB depending on clothing.
Yeah to me the Sidecar is too hyped up and I’m just not a fan. I also use the Vedder Light tuck for my G26 without a claw since I carry with the flush mag.
For my Hellcat Pro I use a CYA Ridge holster with the claw. That thing conceals very nicely. Much better than a G19.
Thorough explanation and VERY well edited.
Thank you kindly!
T.REX makes probably the best sidecar on the market right now. It's robust and can be changed if you don't like having the whole thing in front of you. I personally find it easier to conceal sidecar holsters, and more comfortable than a pistol only holster.
But it's important to remember that I'm not a tiny lady, I am a 6'0 guy who doesn't look like a toothpick and I can appendix a 19x and not have it stand out.
PS. Another reason I like the Trex holster is that it's very stable, the wider placement of the clips even in the single form makes sure the gun never rocks and thus you have a consistent draw. I have a holster designed around a single clip and it drives me nuts because I end up needing to correct it from time to time.
@@dman3526 don't hold out, whose better
@@mrs.vasquezz Tier 1 and McKinnatec are good because they have the hinge in the middle.
I have multiple holster systems that I rotate between depending on clothing I am wearing. If I'm in a button down that is untucked I will wear a side car.
If I'm in a formal setting that the shirt needs to be tucked and I'm wearing a suit, then I am going to wear a independent IWB holster.
If I'm working a class as an instructor I will usually wear a OWB or even a duty rig depending on what the course entails.
1. Bought the Phlster Enigma. Used it for few months. It now collects dust. 2. Own many holsters and no matter the claw, no matter the wedge, unless I wear the baggiest of shirts they all print. Yet, printing is a figment of imagination. Have you ever walked through a crowded Costco, supermarket, etc., and said OMG, that guy/gal is printing? I guarantee that is exceedingly rare if even a non-event. 3. I accidentally ordered a sidecar holster recently. I always thought they looked ridiculous, were enormous and could never understand that they could be comfortable and concealable. I've been using it for a Canik TTI combat, not a small gun, and it works fine. And the shock cord is not going to break.
Thanks for the info and your perspective. I’ve been carrying AIWB sidecar holsters for over a decade now and tried many other types of holsters - both IWB and outside the waist band. I went thru the whole gambit of products and like others, ended up with a draw full of holsters and magazine carriers. I currently run a Glock 19x in a Tier 1 Concealment Axis Elite AIWB holster. Hasn’t cracked, no issues, use it everyday all day. It’s on the pricey side but well worth it and highly recommend it to anyone looking to carry IWB. Upgrading to their MSP PRO SERIES FLX later this year. Enjoyed watching your video. Keep up the great work. 👍
MSP pro is an amazing set up. I run it with my staccato p and tlr1. The holster is well made and very comfortable .
Also, for me independent holsters rock from side to side whenever I walk around. The stability of the Trex sidecar is what helps me conceal best appendix
Exactly!! Unless you tighten your belt to the point it cuts off circulation.
I've been carrying an "independent holster" for both a G19 and Hellcat, and neither has never rocked from side to side. Maybe Alpha Omega Kydex just makes a great holster, or maybe it's not an issue. And no, I don't have to overtighten my belt, cutting off circulation.
So many of the comments people feel the need to defend there sidecar like they missed the entire point of the video. Also you should do the bloopers on every video that was funny.
I’ll be honest, I came into this video with a pretty strong bias towards the sidecar design. I still believe the pros outweigh the cons but I see your point in terms of concealment mechanics. However, I think the damage potential and cost are completely dependent on the holster you choose. Great video!
I love your channel, but for me, I find my Tier 1 Concealment Axis Elite the most comfortable holster I've tried. And I am comparing my Axis Elite to holsters by Tulster, Philster, Concealment Express and Hidden Hybrid, among others.
I understand your reservations, but I find my Axis Elite offers me the best mix of concealability, comfort and ease/speed of draw. But that may be because of my body type and the way I normally wear. (I'm a partner in a two-attorney law firm and I wear jeans and a Hawaiian shirt unless I have to go to court in person)
Having said that, I do wish that Tier 1 Concealment offer alternatives to a spare magazine. A tourniquet carrier, for instance, would be great.
Keep doing what you do so well,
Lee
After purchasing my p365X Macro. I bought a side car holster and I love. After carrying for 6 years. This holster was my first time using it and I really like it. No issues personally.
Which sidecar did you get if you don’t mind me asking? I grabbed a trex arms for mine
I got a “black arch holster” have bought a few from them. They have all been great.
I believe I’ll always prefer the sidecar set up for me over than an addition mag carrier. Seems to fit and conceal way better on me with a good sidecar than a standalone holster. I do like it almost “evens” out with the sidecar
May I ask what independent holsters you’ve tried in the past?
@@tessahbooth Forsure, I’ve ahead quite a few over the years from Tier 1, LAS concealment, QVO Tactical, cobra kydex, etc….. I find with me being a short but wide guy the side cars from tier 1 fit my body almost perfectly. I believe that’s why there’s so many companies though selling and making holster. Different strokes for different folks 😝
I have to agree with this. I have generally had a harder time concealing single unit holsters than sidecars because of this.
Thanks for sharing that! I genuinely enjoy learning about other peoples experiences, especially when it comes to concealment. I get nerdy about this sort of thing haha.
Feel free to ignore if you'd rather not dive into it more, but when you were working with independent holster from LAS were you placing it in the same spot that you'd typically place your sidecar holster? Or did you kind of mess around with different placement?
@@tessahbooth messed around with it quite a bit. I actually am currently waiting for my sidecar from them to try it out :)
I don't use sidecar holsters because of vehicle safe storage. It's a lot to take off and store when there is a gun free zone that I need to go into. When someone carries every day pretty much all day (including home carry), there are often times you will go somewhere that it is either illegal or against policy to carry. A sidecar holster requires a lot larger vehicle storage unit, especially since the safest thing is to keep the gun in the holster in order to prevent exposing the trigger guard in order to reduce the chance of a negligent discharge. It's important when taking a handgun off and on in the vehicle and storing it that it's done discretely. I can do that easily due to using a relatively smaller gun lockbox from my driver's seat. I think it's also good to point out that it's extremely unlikely that a citizen will ever need a spare magazine in a self-defense encounter. I subscribe to the keep it simple when it comes to concealed carry gear.
I really appreciate you dropping this into the comments section. I didn't even think to mention vehicle storage, but I think this is a really solid point. Thanks!
Honestly, at the end of the day it doesn't matter. The individual needs to make their own determination. Identify the pro's and con's for both. Know what works and what doesn't for you. The most important thing you can do is ACTUALLY carry your weapon, damn near everywhere. And even more importantly, go shoot the damn thing. Don't assume you will make all the right moves. Condition yourself. Make mistakes. Learn from them.
The comment below me is from a scammer... FYI.
Thanks. Video helped me decide. I agree with your assessment. Again thanks.
Good video, lots of food for thought! I will say that I think body shape has a lot to do with it. Females are very curvy, and tend to wear tighter fitting clothes, meaning that great concealment is important. Males on the other hand have larger flat(ish) surfaces to work with, and tend to wear their clothes a bit looser, meaning that they can get away with slightly less focus on concealment. Independent makes total sense if absolute maximum concealment is your goal, while sidecars offer great convenience. Strangely, my sidecar conceals better than my light-bearing independent, but they are from different manufacturers.
I found the same thing. My independent holsters seem harder to conceal than a sidecar. It's almost like the additional side pressure from the mag holder helps to control belt pressure better, and it tucks that rear end of the slide nicely while allowing wedges and wings to control the grip side tuck.
Thank you for the video. I’m 68 and I carry every day, my carries are G19, 26, 43 and a pocket gun Ruger lcp2. I carry OWB and IWB, mainly OWB. I carried appendix for a month and it just didn’t work for me. On the hip or just behind the hip is good. I haven’t found any positions that conceal well. All the time I have carried I just don’t worry about it.
I conceal a Staccato P in a tier 1 aegis and it disappears and is very comfortable. I've also carried a Glock 17 in an axis slim from tier 1 for almost 5 years. Never had one break, and I carry heavier bigger guns. I have a holster drawer full of other brands like phlster, raven concealment, and others. The tier 1 sidecars Work best for me. And the added width of the holster helps distribute the weight of bigger guns making it extremely comfortable to carry a 33 ounce gun with a light and red dot. As Clint Smith would say, carry the biggest gun you can conceal. Draw time is definitely faster for less work with these holsters. It's a consistent movement directly in front of the center of your body. On price: if you're poor, get what you can afford, but don't cheap out on something you'll use every single day if you don't have to. If side-cars don't work for you that's understandable, but don't not get one because a small woman doesn't recommend it. Different things work for everyone, and body type plays a huge role.
Great video and interesting perspective. I refer every woman who is interested in concealed carry to your channel. You've put a lot of time and energy into the science of concealment and it shows. Meanwhile, I'm just another dude who runs a sidecar and calls it a day, lol. But, what I do isn't necessarily best for everyone.
Thanks for sending people my way! I appreciate it, and take it has a big compliment :)
Just came across the channel for me first time but I'm curious, have you tried T-Rex Arms newest Sidecar 2.0? The new design negates the problems the you mentioned in regards to not wanting to carry a spare pistol mag and potential breaking between the mag carrier and pistol carrier. The new design allows for different carry options like a spare TQ, spare rifle or subgun mag, or handcuffs if you're law enforcement. Also, the spine system grants increased flexibility between the pistol holster and attachment carrier is you're running one. A massive benefit to running a sidecar holster system over more tradition concealed carry options is the ability to keep the weapon at your front at all times; preventing someone from restraining you from behind and taking your weapon. The sidecar holster system forces you to appendix carry and with it being essentially one piece between your gun and spare mag, it prevents your weapon and/or mag/TQ holster from sliding to a different portion of your body, keeping every draw the same and consistent.
You should check out the TREX arms sidecar. It is way better then the one showed and it has an actual hinge point so it doesn’t poke out like you were showing. You can also have different attachments added to the holster other then the mag carrier.
I use a T1C Axis slim and love it. But I use the T1-M when I need better control over the gun. Both conceal very well for me and I'm 5'2 115lbs, its just less bulk is less bulk.
What brand/style hosted is the one you keep showing that has the wedge attached?
I'm surprised you didn't draw on the fallen lamp 😂
True on all points. Used to have a side car holster but it was too bulky for me and restricts some movement. Went back to a simple IWB kydex with my extra mag in the left front pocket and trained on that set up everytime I'm at the range. Much easier and simpler.
My sidecar is attached by leather with a gap between the two so I don't have any of these problems that you talk about
yet still a professional video
After finely spending about $140 to get what I thought was going to be the perfect holster a Tier 1 Axis Slim unfortunately I would have to say I agree with everything she said here, I am fairly tall and slim so maybe that makes a difference but it was the most uncomfortable AIWB holster I have tried ended up taking the mag carrier off one of many problems I had with it is the mag jabbed me in the rib when I would sit or bend (very painful and annoying) I could never get the holster in the right spot (to wide) and the mag printed worse than the gun.
I like Tier 1's wedges but not so much their holsters. LAS Concealment did a better Sidecar, IMO.
I tried my friend’s Tier 1 sidecar and it's nice and fancy but it was just an okay fit for me. I bought an AIWB Tenicor Malus holster for my Glock 17 with an optic and light. It fits better for my body.
This is such an incredibly well-presented video. Thank you!
I've carried a sidecar holster off and on for a few years. I'm a lot wider than Tessah so my holster does sit in my "sweet spot." My concealment is about the same whether I carry my sidecar or independent holster but if I'm not wearing my independent holster I have to find somewhere else for my extra magazine. I don't like independent IWB mag carriers as much because they move around more than the one attached to the sidecar. I will say this; the only kydex holster I've ever had crack was my sidecar, after wearing it for about 2 years. I don't like the sidecar (or any appendix holster) for when I'm working in the yard or doing a lot of bending over. For those times I prefer to carry at 4 oclock.
I've been using a T1C for years but recently have been thinking about independent holsters for these reasons. I'll give it a chance now, great video
At the end of the day it all comes down to the individual. There will always be a trade off. Comfort/concealment. You're never going to know until you try. Unfortunately that usually takes a while and money. It sucks but worth it in the end. We all have a box of holsters of Christmas past
Sad but true. I'm glad it only took me 4 tries and a couple dozen hours of research lol.
I have been looking at a sidecar holster but I am on the fence. As for carrying a spare magazine I use Snag a mag or Neo mag
Another well done, thorough, and highly informative video. Thank you!
Very well-produced video, as usual. I do have a couple of things that I think about a little bit differently than you, however.
I break down the act of carrying a firearm into three parts: concealability, capability, and comfortability. I call it the 3C's. Each of those categories has a score from 1-5. The three of those combined = performance score. The scores change based on the equipment, the outfit, the activity level, etc. So ideally, you find a setup of all of those that works in most circumstances for your lifestyle. At least, that's what I've found works for me.
Each person has a unique score threshold for each of those categories, so their score in each category will be different than others. For example, I may be willing to give up some concealability for capability, whereas someone else may be willing to give up capability for concealability. As I mentioned previously, the goal is to find a setup that gets good scores in every category.
Personally, I've found sidecar style holsters give me a score of 12-14 depending on the brand/particular style, etc. I don't quite get that with the independent holster/carrier combos. But, that is dependent on body type, familiarity with the design, habit, training etc.
An important note as well is that the capability score is based on the individual's current level of capability with the setup being scored. So it obviously also fluctuates based on level of training.
Who knows, I may be over-complicating things, but that's just how I've justified and broken things down in my mind.
Anyway, great video as usual, you have some interesting points!
I don't see that as overcomplicating things at all! Carrying, training with, and concealing a gun is a choice worth putting this kind of consideration into. Your perspective is well nuanced. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and your scoring system :)
Had a single kydex one, then got my holster and pouches from NSR. I prefer the independent movement - like angling. My mag pouch fits nicely IWB.
For me, keeping them separate is as simple as keeping the gun holster in a natural position for my strong hand, and the magazine convenient to the weak hand.
Very well put together video. The blooper drama queen outtake was the best lol,
After 6 years using Tier One Axis and Trex Sidecars daily, with heavy use, hiking, cardio and weight training, I have never broken one. Even the shock cord on the Tier One is just fine. This statement that twisting and shifting breaks them is obviously a sales gimmick. Honestly, they're all pretty similar and well built.
All holsters are capable of cracking and breaking over time, it's not just a sidecar thing. I was simply pointing out that there are conflicting forces on sidecars that can make them more prone to premature breaking. I have a number of pictures saved in my camera roll of sidecar holsters (varying brands) breaking just behind the wing, near the trigger guard, where much of the force is being applied. Also, certain body types and belt combos can break them at different rates. That's great that your holster is still in great condition after six years of daily wear.
That first blooper reel snippet let us know that the host has some unresolved beef "off up in dem skreets". Watch your back, lol.
On point with everything. My daily carry is a full size XD 45 in a PHLster Floodlight, I'm a small framed man so a have my spare in a Blackhawk mag carrier so unless you're giving me a hug it's hard to tell it's there.
I like the sidecar, but I am also 6ft 2in and 180lbs. When winter rolls in I can carry a Berretta 92a1 or G17 with no problem. The summer set is more fitting for what you are talking about.
Thanks for the heads up 👍.
Figures this video comes up as I ordered a sidecar today!! Nevermind, I bought the Sidecar 2.0 it negates the negatives you shared.
benefit of it being a more rigid system is that the gun and more specifically mag are not going to move or shift as much as them being independent. Which leads to more consistent draw and reloads.
Good video, I'm 68 and I can't draw fast from side carry I have to apendix, it's all about the persons mechanical ability. Thanks for sharing.