Blade-Tech Concealex

Kydex is a thermoplastic material that can be molded into complex shapes with heat and pressure. One of the pioneers of the use of Kydex in holster manufacturing was Blade-Tech Industries of Tacoma, Wash.

Blade-Tech's latest innovation is Concealex, a camouflaged form of Kydex that incorporates the camo pattern right into the plastic itself. This remarkable material is resistant to most chemicals, oils and solvents, and is absolutely waterproof. It has a permanent memory with excellent retention qualities, facilitating extremely smooth operation.

The unique camouflage patterns are integrated into the Concealex and have a matte finish for tactical field applications. They blend very well with their respective BDU patterns or solids. Patterns include Olive Drab, Arctic, Woodlands, Desert, Stealth Black, Realtree, Advantage, Wetlands and Hardwoods.

One of our favorite Blade-Tech designs is the straight-drop holster for a 1911. This holster is approved for competition, but it is secure enough for daily carry. The front is cut down to the middle of the pistol's ejection port, a "speed cut" as Blade-Tech describes the design, but it is a far cry from the radically low-cut "competition rigs" used in IPSC.

The basic Blade-Tech holster retails for $54.95, while Concealex models go for $64.95. Mag pouches are $22.95 in standard Kydex and $27.95 in Concealex.