Choosing the right concealed carry holster is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by factors like body type, firearm preference, and preferred carry method. Two brands consistently topping many "best of" lists are Crossbreed and Alien Gear. This in-depth comparison will help you understand the key differences between these popular holster manufacturers, enabling you to make an informed choice.
Key Differences: Design and Materials
Both Crossbreed and Alien Gear offer a variety of holster styles, but their core designs differ significantly. This directly impacts comfort, concealability, and durability.
Crossbreed Holsters: Hybrid Design
Crossbreed holsters are renowned for their hybrid design. This typically involves a combination of:
- Kydex shell: A rigid, durable polymer shell that securely holds your firearm.
- Leather backing: Provides comfort against the skin, aiding in all-day carry. This leather backing often contributes to a more refined aesthetic.
This combination aims to deliver the best of both worlds: the secure retention of Kydex with the comfortable wearability of leather. Crossbreed's signature SuperTuck is a prime example of this hybrid approach.
Alien Gear Holsters: Focus on Adjustability and Value
Alien Gear focuses on versatility and adjustability. Their holsters are primarily made from Kydex, but the company emphasizes customization options and often includes features such as:
- Adjustable retention: Allows you to fine-tune the fit and security of your firearm.
- Multiple carry options: Many Alien Gear holsters can be adapted for different carry methods (IWB, OWB, etc.) through the use of additional attachments or shell swaps.
- Shell options: Allows users to quickly swap between different firearms, if they own multiple.
Alien Gear often emphasizes value for money, offering competitive pricing and a satisfaction guarantee.
Comparing Key Features:
| Feature | Crossbreed | Alien Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Primarily Kydex and leather hybrid | Primarily Kydex |
| Retention | Secure, typically passive retention | Adjustable retention |
| Comfort | Generally comfortable due to leather backing | Can be comfortable, but depends on individual design and adjustments |
| Adjustability | Limited adjustability | High degree of adjustability |
| Price | Generally higher price point | Generally lower price point |
| Warranty | Generally strong warranty | Often includes a lifetime warranty |
Concealability and Carry Methods:
Both brands offer Inside the Waistband (IWB) and Outside the Waistband (OWB) options. However, Crossbreed's hybrid design often lends itself better to all-day IWB carry for many users, while Alien Gear's adjustability allows for more customization to achieve comfortable carry regardless of body type or firearm size.
The Verdict: Which is Right for You?
There's no single "better" holster between Crossbreed and Alien Gear. The ideal choice depends on your individual needs and preferences:
- Choose Crossbreed if: You prioritize comfort and a sleek, refined design, prefer a comfortable IWB holster for all-day carry and value a balance between comfort and secure retention.
- Choose Alien Gear if: You need adjustability, value for money, multiple carry options, and a wider range of customization options for your specific firearm and body type. You're willing to experiment to achieve optimal comfort and retention.
Ultimately, reading detailed reviews of specific holster models from both brands, considering your firearm, body type, and preferred carry method will provide you with the most accurate assessment. Don't hesitate to invest time in research before making a purchase. Your comfort and safety depend on choosing the right holster.
