Leather VS KYDEX Holster | Which Is Better For Long Term SHTF?

Leather VS KYDEX Holster | Which Is Better For Long Term SHTF?
As preppers, we often view gear and equipment through the lens of long term durability for surviving SHTF. So, how do you choose materials?
When buying a belt, sheath, holster or anything else you may wear on your belt or body, considerations have to be made based on function. And often, these arguments will not matter in usual day to day life. But, when your determining factor is that your gear must survive a long term SHTF event, certain characteristics become more important than they would otherwise be. Hopefully this video helps you make the right choice when deciding between leather or KYDEX (polymer) for your survival gear!
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#Prepping #SHTF #Preppers

[@MagicPrepper]

What do you prefer for your holsters, sheaths & belts? Are there certain properties you look for when it comes to materials used in gear for survival or long term durability? To get high quality coffee, support a veteran owned American company that isn't BRCC (for reasons) and support this channel at the same time, check out Invader Coffee here: bit.ly/2UJHq5I

[@hjgraybill]

Prefer what works best...but to wear the look of a nice leather holster is a must have experience.

[@uncletom-e4461]

I'm surprised you didn't mention ballistic nylon, as is has some qualities of both polymer and leather...!!! Edit: If you did mention nylon, I just missed it...!

[@hjgraybill]

Ballistic nylon..darn I forgot I have an assortment of those too. Thanks for reminding me.

[@ernestwalden3894]

Guess I'm old fashioned but I like leather. It seems to fit me better and as time goes by it gets softer and forms to my body. I have a special black leather holster for my glock 19 and my Smith n Wesson shield.

[@TrashPanda71]

Nylon belt and Kydex holster.. for survival. Leather is great for the now, love Leather and have it, use it. But it won't be my choice when it's time to get real.

[@OCCULTPREPPER78]

Just catching this video today..... thank you for a very informative pro and con video

[@1or2kayaks]

What is the number 1 use of leather on earth? To hold cows together.

[@theprepperrevelator]

Ha!

[@exasa244]

One thing I didn't hear mentioned is Kydex is nearly always gun specific, whereas leather can be adapted for similar size firearms.

[@saltysaty8686]

Just heat it up over a fire and some pressure and you can mold kydex into anything.

[@ottoskorzeny8701]

The Bianchi UM84 holster the US military used for the M9 is a great choice for SHTF . It will fit almost all mid and full size semi autos. Blackhawk also makes a really versatile holster called the Special Operations holster. Its a thigh rig,made out of nylon ,has a flap to protect your pistol and has a thumb break snap and the flap also has a fastex buckle for more weapons security. Ive used both of these in combat and still use them today for my SHTF gear . Theyre both still as good now as when i got them around 25 years ago.

[@exasa244]

Sure, go ahead ,video that and post it for us.

[@gregthompson8062]

Not if leather is wet molded. Then leather is supreme.

[@marrsm1]

I’m digging the sticky holsters for small guns

[@bluecollarprepper7405]

Leather is just to versatile to pass up, gotta go leather, but kydex does have its place no doubt

[@MagicPrepper]

I like leather for its flexibility. But, I had to go Kydex with a back up plan of course.

[@bluecollarprepper7405]

Of course

[@harveyblack2699]

thanks

[@patricksmith8844]

I like them both

[@sarge8632]

Kydex..#1

[@wolfiethefearless7902]

Just in time for my hyperfixation on leather working.

[@MagicPrepper]

Man isn't leather just gorgeous? Good luck in the new endeavor!

[@clear_gray_sky539]

I’m using human leather to blend in with the marauders

[@LeeEngle]

Allergic to formaldehyde which is used to cure leather, so have had to switch everything over to kydex

[@Anw120]

Does every US manufacturer use formaldehyde though? Even higher end like Milt Sparks and Kusiak?

[@bubbahotepjr.2983]

Have both, but prefer leather.

[@MagicPrepper]

Good to know. It's hard to pass up.

[@TheWtfnonamez]

Brilliant discussion. Leather versus Kydex is like scandi grind versus sabre grind. They both excel depending on how far away from home you are, and how well you can maintain it. Personally I think leather is the most wonderful material out there, and my personal choice in any scenario where I am close to home. Nasty plastics like kydex are my personal choice when Im far from home, have no ability to maintain my kit, and I dont want something to rot. Moisture and access to maintenance is the deciding factor in which is "better" in my humble opinion. I love leather and wood, I even make my own leather oils and waxes, but if I was heading off into the jungle for 3 weeks I would replace every leather item with a plastic alternative.

[@heyoldtime8969]

WW1 and WW2, Korea , Viet Nam battle gear was heavy canvas. Dried out when wet, tough and lasted a long time, versatile.

[@Blackflag.actual]

Hybrid are nice too

[@patrick014]

My duty gear gets the kydex touch and my colts and revolvers get the leather love

[@bigjermanprepared3164]

Kydex all day leather absorbs moisture

[@MidwestPrepper]

I’ll take leather. If it’s the end of the world I can always get more leather. I can form leather. I can add buttons and rivets. I can’t do that with Jude and those polymer adjustment screws on so many are gonna go bad faster than people will admit in uv. Leather is the smart choice.

[@MagicPrepper]

All good points!

[@MichaelR58]

Good points , thanks for sharing , God bless !

[@MagicPrepper]

Thanks Michael!

[@jamesgreeley8011]

My crossbreed holster is a leather back and a kydex front

[@thegoodlife7337]

Yea, after buying 3 holsters, i bought a crossbreed, i like it the most. My second favorite might be an airsoft leg holster, came with battle belt,holster,and 2 mag pouches for 18 bucks. The good one that is almost the same is 100 and you dont get 2 mag pouches. But the hundy gives you way better quality lol

[@robg8433]

Leather remains flexible or less likely to crack when very cold... polymers get brittle in freezing conditions.

[@gnarly3000]

Especially if you keep it oiled.

[@TheWtfnonamez]

I gave you a thumbs up but Ive seen some testing that shows that plastic is still fairly "plastic" at low temps Rob. I would also note that Ive never seen leather or plastic fail at low temps. Ive seen leather fail because it was not conditioned and cracked, Ive seen polymers fail from fatigue, but I have literally never heard of any item failing at sub zero temperatures. Im sure it happens, Im just noting I dont think its a common problem outside of Everest and the British Antarctic Survey.

[@Prepare2Survive]

There's a 3rd option which is something like the military issue Bianchi UM-84 holster. It doesn't absorb moisture like leather, it has retention like kydex, but it wont crack or break like kydex when it gets cold.

[@DIYDad1]

@@Prepare2Survive those are good but they aren’t molded to a specific firearm so the level of “passive” retention isn’t really there other than the strap that holds it closed but that would be a good option to have as a “universal” holster although I still prefer kydex it’s just never been a problem for me and I beat mine up on the range going from prone to standing, brushing up against trees, it hasn’t failed me yet so I’m pretty confident in it but I might need to get one of those universal holsters anyway they seem like a good option especially if you’re going to carry a DA/SA gun and keep it decocked as an added safety measure because of the loose fitting nature of a universal holster. Good suggestion though.

[@Prepare2Survive]

@@DIYDad1 Yeah, I like Safariland ALS holsters and have several of them. The military issue Bianchi UM84 holsters can have a loose fit on some guns when using just the thumb strap or if the UM84 holster doesn't have the plastic trigger guard shield, but if you're using the larger top flap and/or the holster has the trigger guard shield it holds the gun very securely. It works for most compact and full size handguns. Not just DA/SA guns. They work for glock 19/17 glock 20/21 and a bunch of Sigs, Rugers, S&W, Springfield, 1911, etc. The holsters with the trigger guard shield are called the UM92. Plus there's a bunch of different attachments that you can get for those holsters to carry them in a lot of different ways. The most common is the drop leg attachment, but they also have chest rig and shoulder rig attachments too.

[@justinmercer1244]

Both options excel in certain settings. SHTF on the home ranch where backup, resupply, and rest is at hand I'm going with my good ol leather duty belt. But it's heavy. For more hi-speed, on the move operations kydex holsters and sheaths mounted on a nylon line belt is the way to go

[@tomcatt998]

What's the military use

[@beri232]

@@tomcatt998 I would imagine nylon molle

[@approachingtarget.4503]

I still have a 50 yr old buck. Any SOG with plastic thst old?

[@MagicPrepper]

Probably not yet. But those old Buck knives are amazing.

[@tactical0074]

I choose kydex

[@Infantry2011]

I'm going with kydex boots. The future is now old man

[@MagicPrepper]

Haha I like your style. Who needs flexible boots when you can just jump everywhere.

[@obsidianet]

I can’t wait until Glock makes their handguns out of leather.

[@Infantry2011]

@@MagicPrepperon a serious note we all appreciate your content. You give a lot more insight into things outside of simply having a bugout bag and 1,000,000 rounds of loose ammo

[@MagicPrepper]

@@Infantry2011 I appreciate it!

[@joshwebb4442]

I have a rh pal 36 knife that is over 70 years old and the leather is still fantastic. I oiled it several times and it looks great. If you take care of it it'll never wear out

[@Steamrunner]

I keep trying to find a Kydex holster for a S&W 686 P 6-inch and I have a feeling I'll discover the secret to the Everlasting Gobstopper first.

[@gnarly3000]

I like a leather belt (or possibly nylon) and kydex / polymer holster. Leather or nylon for a knife unless the knife already includes a good polymer, locking holster (that's not too tight).

[@twinarrowssurvival.2.065]

Depending on what where and how I am carrying depends on what I choose

[@MrGreblin]

my qstion is what about nylon type holsters vs kydex

[@steverussell6642]

Great topic 👍 definitely some stuff in there I never thought about thank you.

[@hjgraybill]

For the long term, versatility...I have both for my main carry (92fs). Even "nylon" generic size for the main pistols as well as most of the other handguns. Extra of holsters...and just about ever other supply or essential is part of prepping.

[@MagicPrepper]

Redundancy is key!

[@hjgraybill]

I think being told I have undiagnosed OCD and Asperger's and being a nurse kinda supplies traits useful for prepping. ( My son does have Asperger's, and I see in myself those thought processes and traits. Lol. But I use my powers for good, not evil.

[@hjgraybill]

@Magic Prepper

[@Prepare2Survive]

For SHTF and the beretta 92 the military issue UM-84 holster would be best. It has all the advantages of leather and kydex, but none of the drawbacks.

[@DarknessNation]

Whoit whoot.... another Beretta user. I love my modified m9-a1 and my 92-a1. Can't go wrong with them.

[@robertharing7031]

I have both styles and I couple of Velcro clothe type and not all Uncle Mikes

[@ottoskorzeny8701]

The UM84 holster from Bianchi is a great holster for SHTF situations . Also the special operations holster from Blackhawk is also another great choice. I have both of these and they fit all of my mid and full size semi autos. Ive used these holsters in war and still use them and they are just as good now as when i bought them around 25 years ago.

[@heavenbound358]

You would have to submerge it to soak it to that level. You can waterproof it as well. Slight wetness isn't an issue

[@JohnDoe-gj4dv]

Have Both ...........................

[@HeartsOfDarkness]

If your not happy with your choice, shop for another option at the SHTF version of MidWayUSA, battlefields. Slightly used items available at a five finger discount, some cleaning may be required.

[@redroofarms1292]

Kydex is best. Many years of molding, carrying and competing to back it up.

[@gnarly3000]

Nylon is also an option for things like belts. Hemp as well.

[@bowlofrice8]

Buy a few surplus beretta holsters they will fit most anything

[@tomcatt998]

Carbon steel versus Stainless,, i was Carbon Steel when i lived in WV,,, when i moved to FL i quickly became Stainless,, same happened to me with leather versus kydex/nylon ,, my blued 10/22 & my Carbon steel blade's quickly rusted,, my leather belt quickly streched outta shape due to constant sweat & humidity. So it depends on yer situation

[@vikingzombie2487]

I has 2 kydex holsters and after excessive use began to crack at clip where the screws go. Bought a leather desantos holster and been using ever since. I do carry kydex oow.

[@tomcatt998]

I'm working on breeding a "leather" cow with a "kydex" cow so i can have the "perfect" all round material...🤔

[@swampwolf]

I don't want to ID myself but I make custom English saddles, riding boots and just about everything under sun. My edc holster is nylon lol. I have made a few personal items out of kydex and am still field testing it and agree repairs would be difficult.

[@michaeldunwoody3629]

Perhaps the concern about exposure to sun, rain, and temperature extremes is why they now make saddles out of Kydex .... 😁 Properly maintained, leather will exceed the demands. Ask the cowboys, indians, belt, and shoemakers. But I do appreciate your review and serious examination of the current options. I even attach my leather holsters to my plate carrier and battle belt. Great video, as always. Thank you!

[@macrocrypto112]

In shtf noone is going to care what color anything is. Only how full your pockets or bag appear to be

[@thecentralscrutinizer2681]

Wet weather will Rust whatever you put in it

[@jasonlopez4855]

I'm going to try it on my leather holster.⁉️🤔 Kide x holster on my dashboard im in the Desert. I'm a biker us leathers Evy day this will be a good test results.

[@jackwagonhoedown4114]

I have dug up US Civil War boots and belts with a metal detector. Believe it or not the leather is still flexible. I preserve my relics with antifreeze …

[@tomcatt998]

I'm a old relic & i preserve me with Jack Daniels

[@fixerupperer]

My vote for shtf holsters and sheaths is primarily kydex and nylon. If I ive long enough I can make or source and repair leather or fabricate something functional. If my kydex breaks Im confident I can figure out something else. Whether its Duct-tape/gorilla tape or something else.

[@Bigbearjblaze]

You can make a leather holster of your own if shtf better to get the stuff you’ll never be able to get again now while you can

[@waynebattersby9461]

I have young kids so Kydex is for me, leather is beautiful but I need simple things and less maintenance

[@youngguns1319]

I’m a leather guy easy to fix with some hand tools and it much more comfortable wearing all day and i know it does matter in shtf but never had a gun get stacked by leather befor lol

[@LadyTSurvival]

Prefer kydex knife sheath, but nylon is ok, leather is nice but it takes upkeep and water will damage it

[@MagicPrepper]

Agreed!

[@Jam3s99]

Sometimes I tune in just thinking maybe just maybe I will see a card trick. Than nothing. I will keep the dream alive.

[@unchiekun]

Leather

[@subdawg1331]

if it lasts long enough for things to be settled etc.. leather will work depending and what other equipment you have I have a leather setup I used for hunting well that is what my holster s going to be ordered in

[@wesleychristensen6900]

One other reason i dont like plastic is some plastic holsters will scratch finish on your gun way more than leather happened to ne with a brand new glock and i was not happy i still have that 90 dollar holster and its in a box in garage

[@jamulAK]

Get both! Extra leather, kydex sheets, and screws as well. All are cheap and easy to form/repair.

[@4spida2fingaz0]

I prefer a regular old soft pouch with the kydex clip. It’s the most comfortable and discreet for iwb

[@brettdoney1307]

I use to use, primarily, kydex with leather backed IWB. I developed sciatic pain over the years. I now have a nice leather holster that I use occasionally. My current primary carry option is a "Hill People Gear", Kit bag, worn across the chest. I have a kydex trigger guard that is attached to a loop inside, made specifically for this purpose..I have been using the kit bag for 3 years now, and love it. And,,,, it can be thrown into the washing machine and dryer when it gets dirty!

[@jamesgreeley8011]

I'm kinda down with both. L&K

[@kenf2662]

As a Engineer in thermoforming. Deforming, leave that plastic holster on the dash of your car in the hot summer and see what it does.

[@albinorhino8732]

I have nylon back up holsters in the event of failure. Plus side of most nylon types is they fit multiple sizes/makes.

[@RealWorldReport]

I have a Kydex holster I really don't like it unless I'm trying to conceal my weapon. I'm a 64 yo female and prefer a nylon drop holster and belt. It makes my side arm readily accessible and is more comfortable as it gives as I move. I never even considered leather as an option. I have to say I'm a bit disappointed I keep expecting an occassional magic trick from you Magic Prepper.

[@MagicPrepper]

Haha I will work on it!

[@columbiariverpussycat3769]

No kidding. Not one magic trick on this channel! Lol

[@jasonlopez4855]

My leather will always work perfect. Others last around 15 yeas. Cowboy's never had one problem.

[@lewisbales6190]

I have leather and nylon. If it's not going to rain, I use the leather. If it's going to rain, I use my nylon with rain gear.

[@bretlemieux2489]

Honestly I have leather sheaths for my swords but I have also made plastic ones that fit those same blades I inlay the plastic with cloth to silence the noise a bit it helps as with my holster for my shotgun it works well but is not perfect

[@cazarilolsen4630]

Leather!

[@wendigotactical9892]

I’m like you man, I think both are great for different applications. I personally work with leather for my work, and I love the beauty and nostalgia. A full copy of my go to war belt in leather will be in the works soon!

[@I_name_All_my_guns]

I’ve been riding motorcycles for about 8 yrs now. Still have the same leather jacket that’s gotten wet from the rain and spray down wash and it’s still holding together fine. Never used any cure/leather treatment. Same with my holster

[@fishstix1299]

I like both but my Fobus has worn the blueing off my gun at the contact points. And has also pitted my trigger guard from sitting upright in my vehicle. Not from rust pitting but from bouncing while driving around.

[@johnree6106]

First off I don't think that the causal look is a plus but a minus if SHTF you want it to stand out because it could act as a deterrent, it is probably good as EDC for before because as you stated it will attract less response to it and of course it looks great. The problem with leather is that it requires care to maintain and in my environment the tropics it will rot without such care.

[@MagicPrepper]

All good points thank you!

[@universalexportsmk]

Leather is quiet, kydex makes noise. Even the hybrids make noise going in and out.

[@savagelee6973]

I got a set-up of each. I mean, why not both. Be flexible for what the situation calls for.

[@bubbaredneck75]

BUT you need the leather cleaner nutrient rub stuff for leather. Mine is kydex wifes is leather

[@theprepperrevelator]

I’m a 1911 guy so obviously leather for me. When I carry a Glock I will use kydex. They both have a time and a place and Pros and cons. Magic you did a great job explaining both the positives and negatives. Rick Rick

[@MI_Prepper]

Kydex weighs much less typically, big benefit IMHO also.

[@dababycar2899]

Any Monetization update?

[@kb6lcw99]

I have a very nice leather Texas BBQ rig. All the things you talked about... BUT Kydex/polymer does not soak up Blood, sweat or water And in day to day real life or combat you will not have leather work well. Kydex you can wipe with a cloth and get back to work. You will have issues getting your gun or knife out or back in will be a real issue in leather. You can look good at a BBQ or you can have gear to fight in. Make your Choise! MGySgt sends...

[@jerold8908]

Well done, very well thought out. What brand is that Kydex holster? Ope, Safariland later in the vid.

[@MagicPrepper]

No worries. These are the things that keep me up at night so I have to share my nightmares with everyone haha.

[@Rusty_ok]

I have an embarrassing large collection of holsters. I bet I have 10-12 just for a Glock 19. Wear concealed IWB everyday for the last 10-12 years. Discovered holsters are very hard to find one that fits and works right. I tried leather, looked fine but it got wet when I got sweaty. Took a day to two to dry out, guns had to be removed and moisture removed. I exclusively use kydex now but have gone through many to find one that does not print, does not snag cover garment while drawing, and does poke my soft parts. I have never even come close to breaking a kydex holster and I abuse them. A few good kydex companies are T-Rex, zorn holsters, and a few others I can’t remember.

[@kroninn]

Buffalo Bill liked leather goods. Think about that when you pass up kydex

[@JBBooks-rl3ec]

Remember Law Enforcement has used leather gear for decades and they are out in the rain, snow, heat etc. and it holds up throughout their careers. Nice video sir!!

[@davidwalt7332]

if you live in brushy country leather is the way to go it's quieter than plastic in a shtf situation quiet is better

[@dandildarious4849]

It's a good idea to have some thermoplastic sheets on hand, they have many uses besides holsters.

[@TripleAAA53]

“Tactical douchebag” - PERFECT !!!

[@AlaskanBallistics]

Kydex doesn't trap moisture so no brainer

[@Prepare2Survive]

There's a 3rd option which is something like the military issue Bianchi UM-84 holster. It doesn't absorb moisture like leather, it has retention like kydex, but it wont crack or break like kydex.

[@aqualust5016]

I pocket carry no holster cuz I hate myself

[@tlonnan84]

Kydex for me. But a good tactical belt is very important as well. I've got a couple belts from KORE. Great belts.

[@geekygrandpa]

I prefer leather even with it's water absorbing ability. One thing you didn't mention is the fact that you will likely be sweaing in any situation. So the leather will absorb some sweat which will have salts of different kinds. This can cause the leather to deteriorate faster. But as for me, leather breathes better and doesn't trap heat under it as bad as polymers do. Others may find that to be different for them. But I still prefer leather, even with all of its drawbacks. At 74, I don't need it to last for 40 or 50 years.

[@gateway199999]

Leather been around a lot longer. SHTF can't call china and ask them to make a new one.

[@MagicPrepper]

This is true!

[@howtodave1725]

I think that any Mill spec-looking gear may not be well received in shtf. The government or their agents may not get a warm reception and if you show up looking like them you may not either. I don't think SHTF is a forever event I think it would be at most 4-5 years before things stabilized.

[@marytica123]

NEVER GET LEATHER ! We live in Florida, with wet & humid outdoor conditions. Leather absorbs water, is difficult to dry, and cracks when it does. Synthetic materials are far better.

[@ColossalSwordFormAndTechnique]

Leather straps even on armor. To fit onto warrior body.

[@danielwade7.62x51]

Leather will rot eventually out in the elements , even though I love leather, but for performance and longevity I go kydex or injection molded polymer type holster and nylon belt ...

[@TangoPapaWhiskey]

They both have their place, just try not to get leather wet and try not to get kydex too close to a camp fire.

[@Eddy2512]

I prefer kydex or a hard polymer material. Leather is good but during SHTF maintaining it it’s difficult because there will always be rain and other weather factors that will require frequent maintenance.

[@jopiaspieder1184]

In cold weather..leather is not your friend