[Ryguylears]

I purchased my first handgun, the VP9 after months of research waiting for my LTC. I have a few hundred rounds through it and I love the gun. Easy to shoot, and after adjusting the back straps, it fits my hand like a dream. So im starting to look at iwb holsters and Ive heard stealth gear makes the best, and i dont feel like buying a bunch of cheap ones to start.

So my question is, has anyone tried both the Onyx and the mini? I would like something a little smaller as I work in construction and at times i would need to remove it and keep it in my truck while i work. I am just picturing this big flappy thing flailing around in my truck as im trying to be inconspicuous. I feel smaller and more concealable would be better, but I have also read the bigger the spread the more comfortable.

So if anyone has tried both the mini and the full size I would appreciate your feedback. I wish they had a store where you could try every holster, instead of buying and trying 10 of them before you find something you can stick with.

 

[PorterN]

I have both the Onyx Mini and the original Onyx. I will get some pictures and can write up a little review. I'll have it up in a bit.

 

[PorterN]

In 2013 I worked at a pawn shop. The owner of the pawn shop hired me on reference from the shop's FFL, Dave. I was a customer of Dave's and we had become friends. While I was working there, I needed a new holster, and Dave referred me to Stealth Gear - a small operation that had started in the building next to Dave's original shop before he moved to be the FFL for the pawn shop.

I haven't worn another IWB since.

It's greatest selling point is that it's more "breathable" than leather, and it's very true. I feel like it's also the most comfortable holster I've ever tried, and fairly priced for what it competes with (crossbreed, and the like)

As for the difference between the Mini and the Full sized:
I have had the original, full sized Onyx for the longest. It's molded to my hip curve, but at the same time, not fraying or worn in the least. This was old enough, it came with metal clips. I like the spread of the clips on the full sized because it spreads the weight out, doesn't add any width to the overall ensemble.

As for the Mini, the clip-to-clip length is definitely shorter, and if the clips being closer (whether that's to be more concealable or for whatever reason) is a plus or minus, it's up to you. To me, it's a bit of a negative. As much as I like a good, small holster, i feel like the clips are close enough to the kydex body of the holster that it doesn't form to my hip quite as much and holds my belt out a bit more, if that makes sense. iI haven't noticed that its any less comfortable, though.The mini also came with plastic clips - i'm not sure if it's now standard, or if it was what they had available, but I just walk in and buy what they have available if they have any models available.

I haven't had any issues with the integrity of either holster. The only one I haven't liked was their Gen1 AIWB. but I do believe that Appendix carry just isn't my thing. They've since adjusted the AIWB design again.

Here's a couple quick comparisons. The mini is just for the G26; the full size is for the G19.

 

[Ryguylears]

Thank you for the write up. Exactly what I was looking for. I think the plastic clips are the standard for both now from what I've read. Looking at your comparison, the full size doesn't look that much bigger. You and many others have said it better distributes the weight a little better. Leaning towards the full size now. Ty.

 

[Klaustrophobia]

Not an apples to apples comparison, but I have a VP9 with an alien gear holster and a P30sk with a mini stealth gear. The size and shape of the alien gear looks pretty damn close to the full size stealth gear, obviously different materials though. I think I like my alien gear a little more. The material, while not as breathable, is more comfortable to me. The stealth gear mesh I find a little scratchy. I like that spring steel backing in the alien gear also. I can't say I notice a difference for weight distribution between the sizes. Despite being different guns, they are almost the same weight. The stealth gear mini does have a problem for me with my waist pushing the sweat guard out over the kydex and blocking it off, making re-holstering a pain. I've got a little extra around the middle, but I'm not badly overweight at 6'2" 230ish. The alien gear does this slightly, but not nearly as bad. The drawback for that one though is the shell is lower and at my preferred ride height the lip is below my pants line, allowing the waist of the pants to get in the way a little.

 

[PorterN]

certainly!
I've never figured the full size to be too big, and it's definitely well-worn, but hasn't lost its rigidity or gotten floppy.

I live real close to their storefront/factory, and they're all absolutely awesome guys.

 

[Tidewater]

I have tried stealth gear it wasn't for me. As for IWB G-code Incog is solid holster I've used in different pistols. There are several makers of great minimalist style holsters that could fit the role you have described.