Comp-Tac International Holster

I have been thinking about trying out a new competition holster for a while. I needed a drop and offset holster since I've definitely got some hips and it is the type of holster that I am used to using. Women are allowed to use drop and offset holsters in competition because of our build. It puts the gun in a more natural position for the draw.

I eventually settled on the Comp-Tac International Holster. Actually, Gene has been using a Comp-Tac holster for years with his 1911 and loves it.  Now, the International is not only made for women. It can be used in the standard configuration that it is shipped in or as a drop and offset holster. It can be worn on a belt or the paddle mount can be used. The holster can be canted as well. In total, it can be set up in 16 different configurations which makes this a very versatile holster.

The International can be used on a 1.5" or 2" belt, however once it has been adjusted for a 2" belt, it cannot be adjusted back to 1.5" usage. I wear two different types of 1.5" belts myself and the holster fits both of them perfectly. One belt is a reinforced leather Flashbang belt and the other is a nylon Tuff Products competition belt. I switch belts depending on what type of match I am doing. The tab on either side of the holster kept it very stable on the belts. It is very secure and I really like that I do not have to worry about adjusting shims and possibly losing them during a match. I have had that problem somewhat recently with another holster.

As I mentioned earlier, the International Holster can also be used with the provided paddle mount. I am not a paddle mount girl myself, but Gene uses this set up for his Comp-Tac holster. He actually prefers it over wearing it on a belt because to him it is easier to put on and take off. Another benefit is that it is more compatible with all pants types, so you do not have to worry about where the belt loops are located.

The holster is made of rigid kydex and the inside is very slick which will protect the gun's finish and promotes ease of draw. It has three adjustment points which allows the user to adjust the retention for their intended use. An example of this is that a 3 Gun competitor may want to tighten the retention since there is more running with the handgun in the holster versus some other competitions.

This holster has a cutout in the front which allows the gun to clear the holster faster while still maintaining safety. The competition holster that I was using did not have this feature. I was very impressed with the smoothness and speed of my draw with my International holster.

Another unique aspect to Comp-Tac holsters is that they have raised lettering on the outside of the holster which specifies the make and model of the gun that the holster is made for. This way you can be sure not to grab the wrong holster when packing up for a match or a day of practice at the range. This will be especially helpful as Gene and I acquire more of these holsters.

Now for the fun stuff, color. This holster is available in five colors. Black, red, pink, blue, and my favorite purple. Of course, you know what I color I chose. It goes great with my gear and shooting jersey. Regardless of the color you choose, all of the hardware that comes with it is black.

I am very happy with my new International holster and I recommend it to anyone regardless of how you prefer to wear it.