I'm waiting for the S&W M&P 9mm 2.0 compact to come in the shape shift 4.0. I had to buy the 3.0. I really like the 3.0. It's VERY comfortable. Can't wait.
DEB CIESLEWSKI- I WEAR MY TAURUS P111 GEN2 DAILY WITH THE ALIEN HOLSTER PADDLE AND RECENTLY I SWITCHED TO THE MOLLE HOLSTER,I ALSO OWN THE WHOLE SHAPE AND SHIFT KIT, THE ANKLE HOLSTER WHICH IS VERY COMFORTABLE TO WEAR AND NOW I'M GOING TO PURCHASE A SHOULDER HOLSTER. I HAVEN'T USED MY BERRETTA PIETRO IN A WHILE,I LOVE THE TAURUS FIREARM AND KNOW I'M LOOKING AT THE WALTHER P 365 FIREARM AND THE MAX 9,THOSE ARE 2 FIREARMS I WILL PURCHASE,BUT NOTHING IS BETTER THAN THE ALIEN GEAR HOLSTER,MY OTHER HOLSTERS ARE NOW IN THE TRASH, I ALSO PURCHASED THEIR MAZAGINE HOLDERS SO I DO HAVE 2 AND I BOUGHT A UPLULA SPEED LOADER TO MAKE IT EASIER ON MY FINGERS
Hey Birdman Media, I have an XDM Compact 3.8 in a Raw Dog Holster that has absolutely Dog shit retention (no pun intended). I’ve been hitting UA-cam hard looking for a good holster to replace my single clip raw dog with. I want to say thank you for taking the time to actually wear the holster and not just post a video of all the junk that comes in the box. Regardless, I’m anxious to see whether the 3.5 or the 4.0 carries better for you...because of the lack of accuracy of 90% of the other “reviews” on these holsters, I’ll probably make a decision based on your input. Plus I feel like their 30 day test drive takes a lot of the risk out of it. Again, thanks for taking the time to do a real review. Erik
Thanks for the review! My wife and I have the same guns. Thinking of getting the ShapeShift Core Carry Pack and sharing it. Would that work as long as we don't both need the same carry position/style? Do you have to buy another shell to both carry? Is this a good cost effective or stupid idea?
Great review. Did I see you put the Gen 5 into the Shapeshift shell and it stayed in? I've been told the Shapeshift for the Gen 4 is not compatible with the Gen 5. This is the main reason I'm getting the IWB 4.0, because that one is compatible with the Gen 5. Thanks in advance for any information you can share.
Yes, you did see a Gen 5, however it only works with half of the shell. If you try to use the full shell it will NOT work. I spoke with AG just last week and they almost have that solved.
It's the first holster that I have bought that was not leather.At first I hated it,and felt overwhelmed by it,and all the parts. Now,I'm still not loving it,but like it little more,the only configuration I like a little,is the OSW,that pulls real close to you,but I really prefer a Bullard or Stoner custom leather,that I add a liner to for a few extra bucks.
Can I ask you why you don’t like the alien gear holster? I’ve been eyeing the holster a lot, but I want to know the flaws that other people are experiencing.
Looks like a good upgrade but I have 6 CCW guns I carry depending on the season where I’m going and clothing single or double stack and have the alien gear 3.0 IWB and OWB and I can’t justify spending another $60 for each. I haven’t ever had an issue with retention on my 3.0 and actually have made it less tight because it was to tight when trying to draw. They all click into place even when it’s not on my body. I am not a fan of the older kydex leather OWB they made but I never really carry that way anyways.
Hello Birdman. Great video. I have one question. Did they make this one with more room between pistol grip and the edge of the holster? I have the previous version and I discontinued use because I was hurting my fingers everytime I grabbed the gun to draw.
OK, I don't want to come off as avoiding the question, but it's hard to answer your question as asked, because the area you refer to in your question, isn't exactly where your finger hits. And yes, your finger hits, but it does so on the wing below the trigger guard on the 3.0. They can't make more room between the grip and the holster, because it is at the trigger guard on both. However on the 4.0, it is just the guard and then is nothing below, because they have no attachment there at all. So there is nothing for your finger to hit. If you would like I can take a pic or video to show the difference if you'd like? Please let me know.
Thanks for responding. For what you say, and what I see in the video, it seems there is more room in the area below the trigger guard. I think Alien Gear listened to many users and fix 'the problem' of customers with big hands. Thank you.
I am committed to concealed carry and I will try this Alien Shape IWB Holster. I really don’t plan on carrying any other way, but would it still be wise for me to buy the whole kit at $99? Also, I love your review because it is a real life review from long term personal use. Most reviewers open the box in front of you and review it - maybe shoot a little wearing it. Not a lot of value to me. Is there a discount code for Alien Gear purchases? Thanks.
I don’t have a discount code. If you only want an IWB, just buy it that way, versus a lot of extra stuff. You can get just the extra parts you want as you go.
Birdman i just got an hk vp9, im looking at the store and see a 3.5 cloak tuck and that shapeshift 4.0. Which one will be more comfy and any other comments of which one and why you think which should be best for me. Thank you so much again, and great video.
They both will wear and feel almost identical. I really struggle to tell any difference between the two in that regard. The ShapeShift really shines when it comes to retention, both in how it holds and the fact you will hear/feel it click into place. It’s superior because of that and I’ll always pick it for that reason.
Yeah. I ordered a shapeshifter for my gen 4 glock 17. It was garbage. When I tried to adjust retention. It didn’t work (defective part they said) sent it back
Doesn't seem like they support a lot of SIGs with the 4.0...only 2 that i can see. I'll have to call them and find out if they're gonna add support for any others. Hopefully the p320s.
they said they're working on the P320s but couldn't estimate a release date....so we still know nothing lol. I also asked about fitting lights into the holsters and they said there's basically a list of some sort and they only make stuff there's a demand for when people speak up enough that an item gets on the list.
Can you please do a comparison between the shift holster and crossbreed holster? I hear both of them are awesome for all day carry and I want to make the best choice.
Hmm, I had a Crossbreed holster. It’s what the Alien Gear replaced. I never went back. I know exactly why as well. I guess I could give an experience comparison.
So what position do you wear it while driving? I have a few holsters and firearms, just received my license a few months ago, driving is my main issue, seems very uncomfortable so far.
I wear mine at 4 o clock and I have no issues. I drive a Silverado very comfortable. Still comfortable in my wife's bug but I can tell the difference guess depends on your seats!
Do NOT get the 3.0 iwb holster if you have a small waist/hips. I wear 29 inch waist pants and on the hard mold area on the 3.0 there are two “wings” on either side(the hard sections where the 4 tension screws are at )that make it feel like you place a book in your belt.. very uncomfortable and more visible .... I got told to keep using it by friends and it’ll break it in, but all that did was waste time so I couldn’t return it.. I’d say you’d be safe with a 33” waist or larger..
Yea, its not the end of the world, but I should have returned it when I had the chance. The 4.0 did not exist when I go mine and I wanted the holster to work, so I kept using it hoping it would get better... I plan on getting the 4.0 as it does not appear that I will have the same issue because the "wings" are gone and the polymer portion is attached only on one side, allowing the neoprene to wrap the body better.. but I am still broke college student so I will have to have to stick with the 3.0 for now hahah... Im just about done with school then I can buy more gun stuff again :D
Perfectly fine. The trigger Gaurd is the only place that has any mark (which is ver hard to see.) No nose rub or anything like that. I’ll post a couple photos on Instagram in the next few days. And I still carry with this holster and gun daily.
Yeah, it would require taking it off of the base, removing the trigger guard and adding the other half of the shell. Maybe a 2-minute max procedure, no tools required.
@@BirdmanMedia_Reviews That's what I thought. At first, using 'Modular' and 'Transform' along with showing the ball-joint attachment threw made me think otherwise. The 3.0 is still kicking after 2 years though. Thank you for the swift reply.
Hey yall, I'm 20 years old. I turn 21 in less than a month. I was gifted a Taurus G2S for Christmas. I dont have a holster and I have seen positive feedback on the aliengear shapeshift for my gun. I really want to get it bc of the diversity and seems durable. Is this a bad idea for my first holster?
I'm trying to decide between the 3.0 and the 4.0. I can't find any information on this: is the 4.0 thicker than the 3.0, from the backing to the outside shell?
The thickness isn’t really much of a deal, based upon how it fits and how it holds the gun. I’ll caliper it for you to give you exact details on the Glock 19. What gun would you be carrying and I can give you a better opinion.
Birdman Media - Patriot Edition Thank you, Birdman. I'll be alternating between a G43 and G26 seasonally. It looks like the Shapeshift has a little bit of extra bulk due to the retention adjustment hardware and the mounting slide, but that appears minimal. If however it is thicker also, then it all adds up.
Yeah, that's the thing. It looks like it is more bulky, but it doesn't fit that way. In fact it holds the gun more snug to the body, so it doesn't protrude out as much, as it adapts to your body better. And I cannot stress how much better the retention of the firearm is, it really is an upgrade.
They don't seem to have shells for any Walthers yet. I checked and they said the shell for my PPS M2 would be released by end of year but not sure if that goes for other Walthers. But wtf are you trying to carry a 22 concealed for anyway? That's not a self defense caliber.
I’d be hard pressed to pick one of the 3 over the others, with that single factor. But from a confidence standpoint I’ll only use the 4.0. It’s significantly better in terms of retention.
I have the entire shape shifter kit,brand new,with the shells for an XDS mod 2,and a Shield .45,plus a single mag holder,thats almost 200$ bucks,if anyone wants to trade or buy cheap,its brand new,not for me?
Harvey Birdman Attorney at Law was a show on adult swim on cartoon network based on the old hannah barbera cartoons...Stephen Colbert did some voice work on it. so...he was making a joke.
Interesting, in actuality it isn’t much thicker. In fact the G19 holster is only thicker in one area and thinner everywhere else. I’ll post up an explanation with caliper measurements soon.
To what product are you comparing the 4.0? i've not found that it is much different from the 3.0 that much....although I am using a G19, not a smaller gun.
I'm waiting for the S&W M&P 9mm 2.0 compact to come in the shape shift 4.0. I had to buy the 3.0. I really like the 3.0. It's VERY comfortable. Can't wait.
Thanks a Lot for the review. I am looking to upgrade from the 3.0 myself. Good stuff Thanks man.
DEB CIESLEWSKI- I WEAR MY TAURUS P111 GEN2 DAILY WITH THE ALIEN HOLSTER PADDLE AND RECENTLY I SWITCHED TO THE MOLLE HOLSTER,I ALSO OWN THE WHOLE SHAPE AND SHIFT KIT, THE ANKLE HOLSTER WHICH IS VERY COMFORTABLE TO WEAR AND NOW I'M GOING TO PURCHASE A SHOULDER HOLSTER. I HAVEN'T USED MY BERRETTA PIETRO IN A WHILE,I LOVE THE TAURUS FIREARM AND KNOW I'M LOOKING AT THE WALTHER P 365 FIREARM AND THE MAX 9,THOSE ARE 2 FIREARMS I WILL PURCHASE,BUT NOTHING IS BETTER THAN THE ALIEN GEAR HOLSTER,MY OTHER HOLSTERS ARE NOW IN THE TRASH, I ALSO PURCHASED THEIR MAZAGINE HOLDERS SO I DO HAVE 2 AND I BOUGHT A UPLULA SPEED LOADER TO MAKE IT EASIER ON MY FINGERS
Hey Birdman Media,
I have an XDM Compact 3.8 in a Raw Dog Holster that has absolutely Dog shit retention (no pun intended). I’ve been hitting UA-cam hard looking for a good holster to replace my single clip raw dog with. I want to say thank you for taking the time to actually wear the holster and not just post a video of all the junk that comes in the box. Regardless, I’m anxious to see whether the 3.5 or the 4.0 carries better for you...because of the lack of accuracy of 90% of the other “reviews” on these holsters, I’ll probably make a decision based on your input. Plus I feel like their 30 day test drive takes a lot of the risk out of it. Again, thanks for taking the time to do a real review.
Erik
I'm going to start wearing the 3.5 tomorrow and switch back and forth between the 4.0 and it every other day. I'm glad you like my review philosophy.
It does work with gen 5. glock 45 fits not snug but no problem once inside the waistband. thank you Alien gear!
Thanks for the review! My wife and I have the same guns. Thinking of getting the ShapeShift Core Carry Pack and sharing it. Would that work as long as we don't both need the same carry position/style? Do you have to buy another shell to both carry? Is this a good cost effective or stupid idea?
Great review. Did I see you put the Gen 5 into the Shapeshift shell and it stayed in? I've been told the Shapeshift for the Gen 4 is not compatible with the Gen 5. This is the main reason I'm getting the IWB 4.0, because that one is compatible with the Gen 5. Thanks in advance for any information you can share.
Yes, you did see a Gen 5, however it only works with half of the shell. If you try to use the full shell it will NOT work. I spoke with AG just last week and they almost have that solved.
@@BirdmanMedia_Reviews Great, thank you!
I'll be dressing this is the 1-Year Review that will be posting in the next week or so. It's a yes/no answer, works in half shell, but not full shell.
Actually full shell outside carry with thumb release works just fine with gen 5 19X. A buddy of mine has the 19X snapped in place no problem.
Yes, I cover that in an upcoming review. You are correct.
It's the first holster that I have bought that was not leather.At first I hated it,and felt overwhelmed by it,and all the parts. Now,I'm still not loving it,but like it little more,the only configuration I like a little,is the OSW,that pulls real close to you,but I really prefer a Bullard or Stoner custom leather,that I add a liner to for a few extra bucks.
Can I ask you why you don’t like the alien gear holster? I’ve been eyeing the holster a lot, but I want to know the flaws that other people are experiencing.
Looks like a good upgrade but I have 6 CCW guns I carry depending on the season where I’m going and clothing single or double stack and have the alien gear 3.0 IWB and OWB and I can’t justify spending another $60 for each. I haven’t ever had an issue with retention on my 3.0 and actually have made it less tight because it was to tight when trying to draw. They all click into place even when it’s not on my body. I am not a fan of the older kydex leather OWB they made but I never really carry that way anyways.
That’s quite a few options. I used to use 3 different guns. I was able to eliminate 1 from rotation and mostly always use the 19 now.
Hello Birdman. Great video. I have one question.
Did they make this one with more room between pistol grip and the edge of the holster? I have the previous version and I discontinued use because I was hurting my fingers everytime I grabbed the gun to draw.
OK, I don't want to come off as avoiding the question, but it's hard to answer your question as asked, because the area you refer to in your question, isn't exactly where your finger hits. And yes, your finger hits, but it does so on the wing below the trigger guard on the 3.0. They can't make more room between the grip and the holster, because it is at the trigger guard on both. However on the 4.0, it is just the guard and then is nothing below, because they have no attachment there at all. So there is nothing for your finger to hit. If you would like I can take a pic or video to show the difference if you'd like? Please let me know.
Thanks for responding.
For what you say, and what I see in the video, it seems there is more room in the area below the trigger guard. I think Alien Gear listened to many users and fix 'the problem' of customers with big hands.
Thank you.
Can’t wait to put some holster wear on my glock 19
Which is slimmer of the 2?
I am committed to concealed carry and I will try this Alien Shape IWB Holster. I really don’t plan on carrying any other way, but would it still be wise for me to buy the whole kit at $99? Also, I love your review because it is a real life review from long term personal use. Most reviewers open the box in front of you and review it - maybe shoot a little wearing it. Not a lot of value to me. Is there a discount code for Alien Gear purchases? Thanks.
I don’t have a discount code. If you only want an IWB, just buy it that way, versus a lot of extra stuff. You can get just the extra parts you want as you go.
Birdman i just got an hk vp9, im looking at the store and see a 3.5 cloak tuck and that shapeshift 4.0. Which one will be more comfy and any other comments of which one and why you think which should be best for me. Thank you so much again, and great video.
They both will wear and feel almost identical. I really struggle to tell any difference between the two in that regard. The ShapeShift really shines when it comes to retention, both in how it holds and the fact you will hear/feel it click into place. It’s superior because of that and I’ll always pick it for that reason.
Yeah. I ordered a shapeshifter for my gen 4 glock 17. It was garbage. When I tried to adjust retention. It didn’t work (defective part they said) sent it back
lol rookie
nice review.thanx for the details.
Question between the Alien Gear Shapeshift 4.0 IWB holster and the LAG defender holster, which one do you like better?
For IWB the Alien Gear, for OWB the LAG.
2 years later. Still holding up?
Funny story, last night I looked at it as I took it off my belt and thought “I should do a 2-year update.” And yes, it’s awesome.
Does the H&K VP9 conceal well with shapeshift?
Doesn't seem like they support a lot of SIGs with the 4.0...only 2 that i can see. I'll have to call them and find out if they're gonna add support for any others. Hopefully the p320s.
Let's us know please.
they said they're working on the P320s but couldn't estimate a release date....so we still know nothing lol. I also asked about fitting lights into the holsters and they said there's basically a list of some sort and they only make stuff there's a demand for when people speak up enough that an item gets on the list.
Thanks for the feedback.
Long time later, but do you know if there’s a way to cut it down to put an optic on my pistol?
Can you please do a comparison between the shift holster and crossbreed holster? I hear both of them are awesome for all day carry and I want to make the best choice.
Hmm, I had a Crossbreed holster. It’s what the Alien Gear replaced. I never went back. I know exactly why as well. I guess I could give an experience comparison.
So what position do you wear it while driving? I have a few holsters and firearms, just received my license a few months ago, driving is my main issue, seems very uncomfortable so far.
4 O’Clock IWB.
Like anything you’ll find a position that works best for you and adapt to how to sit in a vehicle.
I wear mine at 4 o clock and I have no issues. I drive a Silverado very comfortable. Still comfortable in my wife's bug but I can tell the difference guess depends on your seats!
This is still a right handers world lol... sucks being left handed
peninsulamike I agree back pad needs to be bigger beavertail digs into my side 1911 holster
Can you use that thumb release in any configuration?
twisted intentions yes I just got mine yesterday and you can put it on any configuration with the 4.0 ShapeShift holster
Do NOT get the 3.0 iwb holster if you have a small waist/hips. I wear 29 inch waist pants and on the hard mold area on the 3.0 there are two “wings” on either side(the hard sections where the 4 tension screws are at )that make it feel like you place a book in your belt.. very uncomfortable and more visible .... I got told to keep using it by friends and it’ll break it in, but all that did was waste time so I couldn’t return it.. I’d say you’d be safe with a 33” waist or larger..
Oh wow, that sucks you missed the 30-day test drive time frame. I wonder if the new base sizes would benefit a person such as yourself?
Yea, its not the end of the world, but I should have returned it when I had the chance. The 4.0 did not exist when I go mine and I wanted the holster to work, so I kept using it hoping it would get better... I plan on getting the 4.0 as it does not appear that I will have the same issue because the "wings" are gone and the polymer portion is attached only on one side, allowing the neoprene to wrap the body better.. but I am still broke college student so I will have to have to stick with the 3.0 for now hahah... Im just about done with school then I can buy more gun stuff again :D
How's the Finish holding up on your Gen 5
Perfectly fine. The trigger Gaurd is the only place that has any mark (which is ver hard to see.) No nose rub or anything like that. I’ll post a couple photos on Instagram in the next few days. And I still carry with this holster and gun daily.
Is the wear come from just wearing it? Or did you draw it a whole bunch?
Well, it comes from being draw and re-holstered. But just wait till you see the 4.0. (Hint, it is better.)
I saw the wall mount that works with a few other pieces, but it appears that it would not be instantly interchangeable with the IWB?
Yeah, it would require taking it off of the base, removing the trigger guard and adding the other half of the shell. Maybe a 2-minute max procedure, no tools required.
@@BirdmanMedia_Reviews That's what I thought. At first, using 'Modular' and 'Transform' along with showing the ball-joint attachment threw made me think otherwise. The 3.0 is still kicking after 2 years though.
Thank you for the swift reply.
What size belt is best for this system? 1.5”?
Yes, that’s what I use daily
@@BirdmanMedia_Reviews Thank you and have a great one.
This is the best review I seen for this and I'm not a fan of Alien Gear
Thank you.
Hey yall, I'm 20 years old. I turn 21 in less than a month. I was gifted a Taurus G2S for Christmas. I dont have a holster and I have seen positive feedback on the aliengear shapeshift for my gun. I really want to get it bc of the diversity and seems durable. Is this a bad idea for my first holster?
Not a bad idea at all. Make sure you fit it and get comfortable with your gun unloaded first.
I'm trying to decide between the 3.0 and the 4.0.
I can't find any information on this: is the 4.0 thicker than the 3.0, from the backing to the outside shell?
The thickness isn’t really much of a deal, based upon how it fits and how it holds the gun. I’ll caliper it for you to give you exact details on the Glock 19. What gun would you be carrying and I can give you a better opinion.
Birdman Media - Patriot Edition Thank you, Birdman. I'll be alternating between a G43 and G26 seasonally. It looks like the Shapeshift has a little bit of extra bulk due to the retention adjustment hardware and the mounting slide, but that appears minimal. If however it is thicker also, then it all adds up.
Birdman Media - Patriot Edition I just saw another video where the reviewer says the 4.0 is slightly thinner on his model.
Yeah, that's the thing. It looks like it is more bulky, but it doesn't fit that way. In fact it holds the gun more snug to the body, so it doesn't protrude out as much, as it adapts to your body better. And I cannot stress how much better the retention of the firearm is, it really is an upgrade.
Order the 3.5 makes 3.0 way better.
Can you wear your shirt tucked in with the IWB holster?
You can with a certain one of the clips. I’ll be honest, I don’t, but I have seen them used.
Can my walther p22 qd .22lr pistol fit perfectly?
Not sure, you need to check with Alien Gear directly.
Birdman Media - Patriot Edition awww 😢 you wouldn't happen to know any good cc holster for it?
They don't seem to have shells for any Walthers yet. I checked and they said the shell for my PPS M2 would be released by end of year but not sure if that goes for other Walthers. But wtf are you trying to carry a 22 concealed for anyway? That's not a self defense caliber.
Can you use the thumb release in its iwb or only in the owb set-ups?
I’m going to cover this in the year wrap, which is just a few weeks away. It’s a yes/no....mostly no.
Do you have one for left handers
I believe they make them all for left handlers.
Which conceals better, the 3.0/3.5 or the 4.0?
I’d be hard pressed to pick one of the 3 over the others, with that single factor. But from a confidence standpoint I’ll only use the 4.0. It’s significantly better in terms of retention.
I have the entire shape shifter kit,brand new,with the shells for an XDS mod 2,and a Shield .45,plus a single mag holder,thats almost 200$ bucks,if anyone wants to trade or buy cheap,its brand new,not for me?
I cant imagine wearing all that inside the paints,especially in the southern summer😳😬🙄
It’s not optimal in all situations. But perfect for some.
Alien gear shape shift 4.0 or Black Arch Protos -m???
I’ve got no feedback on the Protos.
You should do a review on the black arch protos m
I’ll reach out to them.
Let me know what you think!!!
Birdman Media - Patriot Edition I’m looking into trying the alien gear appendix carry. Have you tried it?
Are you an attorney at law?
Did I say I was?
Harvey Birdman Attorney at Law was a show on adult swim on cartoon network based on the old hannah barbera cartoons...Stephen Colbert did some voice work on it. so...he was making a joke.
Now I get it. LOL
I wasted $100 on a Shape Shift kit because it is way too big to be practical. It cannot be concealed.
Well, I do it daily, but it certainly might not work for you. Alien Gear has a 30-day return policy. Hopefully you didn’t wait too long.
This system is so fat I cannot use it for concealed carry with my G26. Too many parts sticking out to be practical.
Interesting, in actuality it isn’t much thicker. In fact the G19 holster is only thicker in one area and thinner everywhere else. I’ll post up an explanation with caliper measurements soon.
To what product are you comparing the 4.0? i've not found that it is much different from the 3.0 that much....although I am using a G19, not a smaller gun.
Also, posting a comparison video today on the channel.