Blade Tech Signature Outside-the-Waistband Holster vs. Classic OWB Holsters
I was curious what the Blade Tech Signature Outside-the-Waistband Holster had to offer compared the the excellent Classic OWB Holster. They look very similar and yet the Signature is about half the price of the Classic. I own 3 Classic Holsters and have recommended them for years. When the new model came out, I wanted to see if I was recommending a $70 holster when the new $35 Signature was just as good.
Personally, I think that the Blade Tech Signature holster is a way for Blade Tech to lower their prices and sell more holsters. The Classic holster runs about $69.95, a steep price even for the best Kydex handgun holster. I bought 3 at this price point because I wanted the best.
I knew I was going to subject my holsters to some very hard use, and the last thing I wanted is to worry about is if my equipment was going to hold up. When I received my first Blade Tech, I knew it was indestructible, and over the years, I found I was right!
The Signature holster, as I have now determined, is almost exactly the same holster, but at around half the price of the original Classic model. Don’t let the lower price fool you, it is the arguably the same quality and Blade Tech claims it is even more durable. They will now be able to sell these to the customer that does not have $70 to spend on a holster.
Here are a few more comparison pictures (the shape is different because the Classic is a 1911 holster, the Signature is for a Springfield XDm 9mm):
I purchased the pictured Signature Holster for my Springfield XDm for around $30. I was expecting it to be considerably lower in quality than my Classic holster, but it just isn’t so. If I measure the thickness of the Kydex, the Classic may be ever so slightly thicker, but overall it would be difficult to tell the difference. The pictured holsters are for different gun models, but you can compare the general construction and quality.
Blade Tech Signature Outside-the-Waistband Holster
The Signature OWB Holster has all the great features of the classic OWB, and Blade Tech it says it is even more durable, if that is even possible.
As with the classic OWB holster, each signature holster is made to precision dimensions to fit each individual make and model perfectly. This allows the trigger guard to snap in place so that the gun is held securely and the retention is adjustable to make it just right.
Who Would Want to Buy a Blade Tech Signature Holster?
If you are going to take a defensive handgun training class at Front Sight Firearms Training Institute or other training school where you will be using an Outside the Waistband holster, this is the holster you want. It is arguably the best there is and now it is at a price point that is affordable for everyone.
This type of holster is required at training schools due to the fact that the holster stays “open” when the gun is removed, making re-holstering safer. Leather or nylon constructed holsters can collapse when the gun is not present, requiring two hands, or worse, fiddling with the gun to get it back in. Believe it or not, a lot of negligent discharges occur during re-holstering, especially with newer shooters that do not yet have the discipline to keep their finger out of the trigger guard unless they are on target.
Firearms Legal Protection
from $9.95/month
FLP is highly regarded and recommended by some of the top names in the self defense firearms industry. Be sure to check them out before you make a decision.
If you carry your firearm on your hip, either concealed or open carry, this is an excellent choice.
Also see my post on how to carry a 1911 for other methods of concealed carry.
You want a holster that retains the weapon securely, yet is easy to draw from when necessary, and stays open so re-holstering with one hand is easily accomplished.
Blade Tech holsters are an extremely popular choice for the competition circuit as well. I do not compete myself, but I know people that do, and they use Blade Tech.
Here are some of the features of the Blade Tech Signature OWB Holster
- Speed Cut (IDPA Legal)
- Precision-Molded Design
- Positive Lock Trigger Guard
- Adjustable Retention
- RMR Compatible
- Tek-Lok or ASR Included
- Lifetime Warranty
The Speed Cut refers to the U-shaped opening in the top front of the holster. This feature allows the user to start bringing the gun forward before it completely clears the holster, allowing for a faster draw. This obviously is a desirable modification for competition shooters as well as defensive use of the handgun. Any time you can get the gun out just a bit quicker is a good thing!
Precision Molding is very important in a kydex OWB holster design such as this one. A holster that is precisely designed around the exact dimensions of your particular firearms make and model will hold it safely and securely. When you need to draw the weapon, a precise fit will allow a smooth, quick craw that is the same every single time.
Positive Lock Trigger Guard is simply the feature that holds the gun in place until needed. There are tabs that snap in place around the trigger guard, creating tactile feedback letting you know the gun is locked in place. This will keep the gun secure until you need it.
Adjustable Retention refers to the ability to adjust how tightly the holster holds the gun. This is accomplished by two screws that can be tightened or loosened to your liking. I recommend adjusting (do NOT test this with a loaded gun!) the retention so that the gun does not fall out when the holster is turned upside down and slightly shaken.
RMR Compatibility means that a gun that is outfitted with an RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) optic or other reflex sight system will fit into this holster. This is a big feature as these optics are becoming more and more popular, especially in the competition circuit. Not all pistols are compatible with an RMR, so this will only apply to you if you own an RMR ready pistol, in which case you are likely already well-informed.
Tek-Lok or ASR Attachments. You will need to choose between these attachment options when you order your Blade Tech Signature Holster. As I mentioned earlier in this article, I prefer the Tek-Lok mainly due to the fact that a lot of my experience with Blade Tech holsters was using them for training courses. It is much more convenient to be able to don, adjust and remove the holster without removing my belt. I even use Tek-Lok attachments with my Blade-Tech magazine holsters for this reason.
Blade Tech Signature OWB Holster Attachment Options
Always attach your holster to a high quality belt that is designed for carrying a holster! Most regular belts are not up to the task, and you will have issues with your gear and wear out your belt quickly. I use a 5.11 Tactical Operator belt, and the 5.11 Trainer belt is also a great option.
**Important note about these belts: The Trainer belt is 1.5 inches wide and the Operator belt is 1.75 inches wide. Be sure your pants have belt loops that will accommodate a 1.75 inch belt before you buy an Operator belt. I found this out the hard way!
The Signature holster can be ordered with either an ASR or Tek-Lok attachment. The ASR stands for Adjustable Stingray Belt Loop. This is probably the most secure and stable attachment platform available. It requires you to feed your belt through it and features an adjustable shim so it will fit any belt width. You can also adjust the cant with the ASR attachment.
The Tek-Lok attachment is my personal preference simply because I can remove the holster without having to remove my belt. Tek-Lok is slightly less stable, but this is barely noticeable. It is also adjustable for belt width. It has a dual locking mechanism to keep it secure. I have used the Tek-Lok attachment on my Blade Tech Classic OWB Holster for many years of handgun training, including rolling around on the ground in the gravel, shooting prone shooting from behind and under objects and never once had my holster come loose.
The Tek-Lok attachment is inexpensive enough at about 13 bucks to purchase along with an ASR holster, allowing you to try both methods of attachment.
Blade tech makes a Signature OWB holster for all these popular Makes & Models
OR
CLICK HERE AND SELECT YOUR GUN MODEL
1911
- Government 5″
- Commander 4.25″
- Officer 3.5″
Glock
- 17/22 Gen 5
- 17/22 GEN 3-4
- 19/23 GEN 5
- 19/23 GEN 3-4
- 20/21
- 26/27
- 29/30
- 34/35
- 43
CZ
- 75SP01
H & K
- VP9
SIG
- 320C
- 320FS/X5
- 220/226
- 228/229
Springfield Armory
- XD 4”
- XD 5”
- XD 3”
- XDM 4.5”
- XDM 5.25”
- XD MOD.2 3.3” .45
Smith & Wesson
- M & P 9/40/45 2.0-4.25”
- M & P 9/40/45
- M & P Shield 9/40
Buy a Blade Tech Signature Holster
Click here and select your gun model
Having used the Blade Tech classic holster for many years, I have every confidence in the Blade Tech brand and will not buy any other holster for OWB carry and training. There are less expensive brands out there, although with the signature series holsters coming in at around $34.99 or less, you cannot go wrong.
Especially knowing there is a Lifetime Warranty on Blade Tech products, I recommend buying a BladeTech Signature holster for your Outside the Waistband training and competition needs.
Related Concealed Carry information:
If you carry a concealed weapon for self defense, have you thought about what happens AFTER you need to use deadly force to defend yourself or others? Who do you call? What do you say to the police? What DON’T you say to the police? Please read my article on Concealed Carry Insurance Coverage and Legal Protection.
About Blade-Tech
Blade Tech was established in 1995 in Puyallup, WA and has been a leader in the industry for over 20 years. Their mission is to create the best concealed carry gear in the industry.
Blade Tech prides itself in providing exceptional customer service and product value.
“Carry Confident” is the company slogan referring to the confidence one feels when carrying concealed and knowing the equipment is the very best. When your life is on the line, you need to be confident in the firearms you carry as well as the holster you use to carry it.
I am very, very new to the world of guns, and was shocked to read about all the considerations I have to make in getting a holster. I had never even thought of the fact that a softer holster can squish in and need 2 hands to reholster the gun, and I certainly wasn’t aware that many accidental shots happen when reholstering, and so I have now definitively learned about the necessity of a good quality holster. Thank you for your thoughts, it’s given me a lot to think about.
Josie,
Thank you for reading my review and leaving a comment. Getting a good holster is almost as important as the gun itself! A lot of people, including myself, tend to buy a nice gun and a cheap holster. I recommend doing some research on holsters as well and buying a good one.
Dave
My son and i have applied for our pistol permits. I have purchased my pistol, and I’m justing waiting for the approval. Meanwhile, I’ve been giving a lot of thought to carrying around my firearm, and hosters came up. I can’t help but think I’m entering the wild west with a holster, I actually just bought my granddaughter a pink fake gun and hoster at an amusement park, and she loves it. Too funny. Anyway, your review was great because I can look and see what’s available, and the different features. Thanks so much.
Babsie, thanks for reading my review and leaving a comment. The Blade-Tech Signature Holster is best for open carry or going to a training class. I have taken lot of training and this is the holster I can count on!
Thank you for this great review. I’ve recently been testing various guns at the range, as I want to purchase one and have been looking at the different accessories as well. Among them have been holsters.
I have to say the Blade Tech holsters looks pretty nice. I’m really surprised at the price difference between the Signature and Classic models. What’s more surprising is the quality/featureset being virtually identical. Is there any reason to go for the $70 version, other than bragging rights (I have enough disposable income to buy the higher priced model, etc.)?
I’m still unsure of the ASR vs Tek-Lok option. For me, the more secure the better, but that’s probably just me being paranoid and so new to the game.
Once again, thanks for this. It gives me a lot to think about.
Scott
Scott, thanks for reading my review of the Blade Tech Signature Holster. I do not think it is necessary to get the Classic. I have been using the Signature for a little bit now and it behaves exactly the same so I have no reservations at all recommending it! And it’s only $35!
I very much appreciate your details in explaining everything i needed to make my purchase. I am going to frontsight end of September. Can you please recommend a belt to carry all this equipment?
Thanks
Mark, thank you for the comment! I personally use a Wilderness Tactical Instructor Belt This belt has lasted close to 8 years so far of everyday wear and concealed carry.
There are other quality belts out there such as the 5.11 Trainer Belt.
Dave
Greetings! Thank you for your nice detailed article. Question: Does the ASR attachment allow the holster/gun to sit closer to the body (for better concealment) than the Tek-Lok? The “Classic” currently comes with both attachment options and I’m thinking that having both might be worth it.
Dave, thanks for visiting and reading my article. Yes, the ASR does hold the holster slightly closer to the body. The Tek-Lok is convenient, but the ASR is definitely more stable and secure.
Dave
There is no such a word as re-holstering. Sorry but as a Range Master it is a nagging thing with me. We drew or present the pistol then we holster the pistol. Not to feel bad as it seems to be a common misunderstanding. Similar to “irregardless” which is used but not part of standard english. Other than that, great post.
John, thanks for the comment! That makes perfect sense. I will try to use your terms in the future as they are much more accurate, irregardless of what others think, LOL! I appreciate the time you took to leave a comment on the site.
Dave
Hi again Dave,
My sincere apologies as my wife corrected me. Irregardless is a word, however considered non standard, but nonetheless it is a word.
Found your article very interesting and some of the reply’s. John corrected you on the “re-holstering” term, and you took his advice. Now for fun as I think you were using “irregardless” in jest, but in case you weren’t there is no such word as irregardless as it is redundant, ‘regardless’ is correct.
Stan
Stan,
All in fun! no apology necessary! I have heard the “irregardless” argument in the past. I do like to be grammatically correct whenever possible!
Dave