Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster Review

First Impressions of Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster

The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster promises versatility, offering both outside-the-waistband (OWB) and inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry options. Made by Fobus, a well-known name in polymer holsters, the APN aims to be a customizable solution for concealed carry weapon (CCW) holders. Its ambidextrous design and adjustable retention are immediately appealing, suggesting a holster that adapts to the user rather than the other way around.

Like many, I’ve struggled to find a holster that seamlessly transitions between OWB for range days and IWB for discreet everyday carry. I needed a holster that was versatile enough to accommodate both needs without sacrificing comfort or security. The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster seemed to offer exactly that.

My first impression upon unboxing was that the polymer felt sturdy, though somewhat basic in its finish. The included paddle and belt clip seemed adequately constructed. It was immediately apparent that this was a no-frills, functional design.

Compared to similar hybrid holsters I’ve tried, such as those from Alien Gear or CrossBreed (which offer leather or Kydex combinations), the Fobus APN takes a different approach with its all-polymer construction. While those options focused on comfort through a broader contact area, the Fobus APN seemed to prioritize simplicity and adaptability. I chose this Fobus holster because I was looking for a lightweight, easily convertible option, even if it meant potentially sacrificing some of the “premium” feel of other holsters.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The low price point and promises of ambidextrous carry and adjustable retention piqued my interest. Whether it could deliver on those promises while maintaining acceptable levels of comfort and security remained to be seen.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster was at my local outdoor range. I tested it with a Glock 19, switching between the OWB paddle and the IWB belt clip configurations. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for an initial assessment.

The OWB paddle was easy to attach and felt relatively secure during static shooting drills. The IWB clip, however, required some adjustments to achieve a comfortable and concealed fit. I initially found the draw stroke a bit stiff with both configurations, but the adjustable retention screw allowed me to fine-tune it to my liking.

After the first few draws, I noticed the polymer began to smooth out slightly. There were no major issues initially, although the IWB carry felt less comfortable than my dedicated IWB holster. The sweat guard was appreciated, even in dry conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster has proven to be adequately durable. The polymer shows some minor scuff marks from repeated drawing and re-holstering, but no significant wear or cracking. The paddle and belt clip have remained securely attached.

Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to leather or hybrid holsters, the polymer construction requires significantly less maintenance. While it hasn’t replaced my dedicated OWB or IWB holsters, it remains a viable option for situations where I need a single holster that can do both.

The Fobus APN does not outperform dedicated holsters in either role, but it’s a functional compromise for those prioritizing versatility and simplicity. After extended use, the initial stiffness lessened, and the draw stroke became smoother, but the IWB carry remained less comfortable than a dedicated IWB holster with a wider contact area.

Breaking Down the Features of Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster

Specifications

The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster is constructed from a durable black polymer. It is designed to be ambidextrous, accommodating both right- and left-handed users. The holster is categorized as a medium size and fits a range of popular handguns.

The holster supports both outside-the-waistband (OWB) and inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry styles. Retention is passive and adjustable via a screw. It features an open-top design for quick access.

The Fobus APN includes both a paddle for OWB carry and a belt clip for IWB. It also includes an optional, detachable ambidextrous sweat guard and a removable concealment wing for right-hand use only. The inclusion of both carry options significantly increases the holster’s versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster performs adequately in both OWB and IWB configurations, although it excels in neither. Its primary strength lies in its adaptability. The adjustable retention allows users to customize the draw stroke to their preference, which is essential for both speed and security.

While the Fobus APN meets basic expectations for retention and accessibility, its comfort level is lower than that of dedicated holsters. Its lack of advanced features, such as active retention mechanisms, might be a weakness for those seeking maximum security.

Design & Ergonomics

The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster sports a simple, utilitarian design. The polymer construction is lightweight but lacks the refinement of higher-end materials like leather or Kydex. The build quality is decent for the price point, but there are visible molding marks and a general lack of attention to detail.

The design is relatively user-friendly, with the paddle and belt clip easily interchangeable. There is a slight learning curve in adjusting the retention screw to achieve the desired draw stroke. The holster’s low profile aids in concealability, especially in the IWB configuration, although comfort could be improved.

Durability & Maintenance

The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster‘s polymer construction suggests decent long-term durability. While it’s unlikely to withstand extreme abuse, it should hold up well under normal use conditions. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down is usually sufficient to keep it clean.

The simplicity of the design means there are few parts that could potentially break. Unlike leather holsters, the polymer is resistant to moisture and sweat, reducing the risk of degradation over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster comes with a paddle for OWB carry and a belt clip for IWB carry. It also includes a detachable ambidextrous sweat guard and a removable concealment wing (right-hand only). While there are no specific Fobus branded accessories, the holster is generally compatible with standard belts and clothing.

The adjustable retention screw allows for some degree of customization, but overall, the Fobus APN offers limited customization options compared to modular holster systems. Its basic design prioritizes simplicity and affordability over extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Fobus APN OWB/IWB Paddle Holster