When it comes to concealed carry holsters, two big names stand out – Las Concealment and Tier 1 Concealed. Both companies make high quality kydex holsters customized for your specific firearm.
But with different designs and features to choose from, how do you decide which is right for your needs? We’ll compare the pros and cons of Las Concealment and Tier 1 holsters to help you make an informed decision.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Las Concealment | Tier 1 Concealed |
| Price | $40-60 | $100+ |
| Concealment Ability | Very Good | Excellent |
| Comfort | Very Good | Excellent |
| Customization | Minimal | Fully Custom |
| Quality | Very Good | Excellent |
| Lead Time | 1-2 Weeks | 4-6 Weeks |
Las Concealment Holsters
Founded by a US Marine Corps veteran, Las Concealment prides itself on creating minimalist holsters optimized for concealment.
Some standout features of Las Concealment holsters include:
- Extremely lightweight at just 2-3 oz
- Slim profile that hugs the body
- Adjustable ride height and cant for comfort
- Red dot sight compatible
- 30 day test drive with full refund
Pros
- Very comfortable for all day wear due to lightweight and contouring to body
- Easy to conceal with slim, compact design
- Good balance of comfort and concealment
- Affordable pricing around $50
Cons
- Less customizable compared to other holster brands
- Long break-in period can be uncomfortable until formed to gun
- Limited color and design options
Overall, Las Concealment offers a streamlined, minimalist Appendix Inside Waistband (AIWB) holster focused purely on deep concealment without a lot of extras. The light weight and contouring make it comfortable for extended wear. Just be prepared for some discomfort during the initial break-in period.
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Tier 1 Concealed Holsters
Known for innovation and customization, Tier 1 Concealed was founded by two Special Operations veterans. Their focus is enabling absolute concealment without sacrificing all day comfort.
Standout features of Tier 1 Concealed holsters include:
- Proprietary two piece design with separate mag carrier
- “Concealment wing” pushes grip of gun into body
- Custom molded for over 200 weapons models
- Fully customizable with 35+ color/pattern options
- Optics ready including RMR sights
- 45 day test drive with full refund
Pros
- Extremely comfortable and customizable fit
- Unparalleled concealment with concealment wing
- Quick access from multiple draw positions
- High quality construction and materials
- Great customer service
Cons
- More expensive around $100+ per holster
- Heavy duty construction weighs slightly more
- Long lead time of 4-6 weeks due to full customization
Tier 1 Concealed holsters live up to their reputation for enabling the absolute best concealment through innovation. The proprietary concealment wing and fully adjustable/modular design provide unparalleled comfort no matter your body type or carry position. You pay a premium but get one of the highest quality, customized holsters on the market.
Key Differences
While both Las Concealment and Tier 1 make high performing AIWB kydex holsters, there are some notable differences:
Concealment – Tier 1 edges out Las Concealment when it comes to pure concealment. The concealment wing and contouring enable deeper, tighter carry against the body.
Comfort – Tier 1 also wins for all day comfort with the fully customizable fit to your exact firearm and adjustable ride height, cant, retention. The separate mag carrier further reduces bulk.
Customization – Tier 1 holsters are molded precisely for each firearm and have exponentially more options for colors, patterns, optics compatibility.
Price – Las Concealment definitely wins on price at around $50 Vs. $100+ for a Tier 1 setup. You get more “value” in that the minimalist design still performs well.
Quality – Both use high quality .08″ kydex and mounting hardware. Tier 1 uses more premium materials overall but Las Concealment delivers on quality given the price point.
So in summary, Tier 1 Concealed holsters win out in terms of maximum concealment capability, all day comfort due to extreme customization to your body and firearm, and premium quality materials. But you pay more for these features while Las Concealment delivers an extremely lightweight, quality holster optimized purely for deep concealment at a more budget friendly price point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main difference between Level 1 and Level 2 holsters involves the retention mechanism that secures the firearm.
Level 1 holsters have passive retention relying on friction from molding or tension screws. Level 2 adds an active locking system requiring you to press, pull, or twist to release the firearm when drawing.
Level 2 holsters offer increased security and safety from gun grabs during defensive scenarios but are slower for concealed carry draws. Most prefer Level 1 holsters for EDC as they allow faster access when needed and still adequate retention through precise molding.
Appendix carry located near the 1-2 o’clock position has grown exponentially in popularity due to optimized comfort and concealment.
The appendix position tucks the grip of the firearm into the natural curve of your stomach for a hidden profile under clothing. It also balances the weight forward on your body unlike behind hip carry. Quick, seamless draws are also easier from the appendix position.
Most find between the 12:30 to 1:30 positions optimal for appendix carry. This orientation tilts the rear sights and barrel away from critical femoral arteries in the leg while enabling a straight, fast draw.
Any further towards 12 o’clock risks the long axis of the holster and firearm muzzle pointing at your leg. Any deeper than 1:30 requires twisting that slows and fouls the draw. So keep your appendix holster positioned between 12:30 and 1:30 for ideal concealment, comfort, and draw efficiency.
The main differences between appendix and traditional 3 o’clock behind hip carry include concealment, comfort, and draw efficiency:
Concealment – Appendix enables much deeper concealed carry under shirt drapes and stomach contours Vs. awkward clothing bulges with 3 o’clock.
Comfort – Appendix evenly balances weight on torso while 3 o’clock carry shifts everything towards one hip causing fatigue. Those with back issues strongly favor appendix carry.
Draw Motion – Appendix allows seamless draw stroke in front of body with sights and barrel naturally prealigned. 3 o’clock requires clearing cover garment, twisting torso, and reorienting sights in awkward manner.
So appendix carry at 12-1 o’clock is generally superior in key aspects of concealment, comfort, and presenting the firearm quickly and efficiently from concealment. The only advantage of 3 o’clock carry is familiarity for those used to it.
Also Read: Pelican 1150 Vs. 1170: Comparing Two Rugged Protective Cases
Conclusion
Las Concealment and Tier 1 make some of the most innovative, well-designed appendix IWB holsters for concealed carry. While the Tier 1’s extreme customization and proprietary concealment wing enable best in class performance for comfort, concealment, and draw efficiency, you pay a premium price.
Las Concealment delivers impressive minimalist performance with their lightweight, contouring design – just without the premium custom options. At the end of the day, choosing between the two brands comes down to your budget and desired features. But either way, you can feel confident carrying discreetly and comfortably for self defense needs.