First Impressions of N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster
As someone with over a decade immersed in the world of tactical and outdoor gear, I’ve seen my share of holsters, from the rudimentary to the downright revolutionary. When I first heard about the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster, I was intrigued by its promise of versatility, concealability, and comfort, all at an incredibly accessible price point. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype.
I was in the market for a new IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster for my Glock 19. My primary concern was finding a holster that could comfortably and securely conceal the firearm without sacrificing quick access. I had previously used a leather holster that, while comfortable, lacked the rigidity and retention I desired, and a Kydex holster that was effective but less comfortable for all-day wear.
Upon receiving the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster, I was immediately struck by its minimalist design. The smooth, gray Kydex and the integrated foam wedge seemed well-thought-out. The build quality appeared solid, despite the holster’s lightweight feel.
Compared to some of my other IWB holsters, like the Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 (known for its hybrid leather/Kydex design) and the Vedder LightTuck (a minimalist, adjustable Kydex holster), the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster seemed to strike a balance between comfort and functionality. I was curious to see if it could outperform them in daily carry. I chose this holster specifically because of its advertised focus on comfort and concealability at such a low price point.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The design was appealing, and the materials felt promising. I was excited to put the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster through its paces and see if it could deliver on its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster during a day at the range, followed by a week of everyday carry in various scenarios. These included running errands, light hiking, and simply lounging around the house. The weather conditions were typical for late spring, with moderate temperatures and occasional rain showers.
The initial draw felt smooth and consistent, with the retention holding the firearm securely in place. I experienced no issues with re-holstering, and the foam wedge provided a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to my previous Kydex holster. After spending a few hours moving around, the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster proved to be comfortable even while sitting and driving, which is a crucial quality in a holster for me.
One minor issue I noticed was that the edges of the Kydex were a bit sharper than I preferred, causing slight discomfort against my skin after prolonged wear. However, this was easily remedied with a bit of filing. The holster performed well even when wet, maintaining its shape and retention without issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster has held up remarkably well. The Kydex shows no signs of cracking or warping, and the foam wedge remains intact and supportive.
I’ve experienced no significant wear and tear, even with daily use and occasional exposure to moisture and dirt. Cleaning is a breeze, as the smooth Kydex surface wipes down easily with a damp cloth. I found that simply rinsing it with water and letting it air dry after a particularly sweaty day kept it fresh and functional.
Compared to my experience with other budget-friendly holsters, the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster has exceeded my expectations. It offers a level of comfort, concealability, and durability that I would typically expect from a more expensive product. It has become my go-to IWB holster for everyday carry.
Breaking Down the Features of N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster
Specifications
The N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster is primarily constructed from durable Kydex plastic, known for its rigidity, impact resistance, and ability to maintain its shape even under extreme conditions. It features an open-top design for quick draw and re-holstering.
The holster is designed for IWB carry and is compatible with various clip and wing options for customized positioning and concealment. It includes an adjustable retention system, allowing users to fine-tune the draw resistance to their preference. The integrated foam wedge enhances comfort and promotes better concealment by pushing the firearm closer to the body. The reviewed model is gray, and sized as medium.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, comfort, and concealability. The Kydex material ensures durability and secure retention, while the adjustable retention system and foam wedge allow for a personalized fit and improved user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster performs admirably in its intended role. It provides a secure and comfortable carry experience, with excellent concealment and a smooth, consistent draw.
Its strengths lie in its minimalist design, adjustable features, and comfortable foam wedge. The open-top design allows for rapid access to the firearm, while the adjustable retention system ensures a secure fit and prevents accidental dislodging. One area for potential improvement is the sharpness of the Kydex edges, which can cause discomfort for some users.
Overall, the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a holster in its price range. It offers a solid balance of performance, comfort, and concealability.
Design & Ergonomics
The N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster features a simple yet effective design. The molded Kydex body provides a secure and precise fit for the firearm, while the foam wedge adds a layer of comfort and improves concealment.
The holster is lightweight and relatively compact, minimizing bulk and printing. The smooth “skin-side” design prevents unnecessary abrasion and discomfort. There’s a slight learning curve, namely dialing in your personal retention setting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kydex construction of the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster ensures excellent durability. It’s resistant to cracking, warping, and other forms of wear and tear.
With proper care, the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple: just wipe down the surface with a damp cloth as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster is compatible with various aftermarket clips and wings, allowing users to customize the holster’s positioning and concealment.
The adjustable retention system allows for fine-tuning of the draw resistance. It doesn’t come with accessories, but the options to customize it are vast.
Pros and Cons of N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster
Pros
- Versatile design accommodates various carry positions and body types.
- Comfortable foam wedge enhances all-day wear.
- Adjustable retention ensures a secure and customizable fit.
- Concealable due to its minimalist design and integrated wedge.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- Kydex edges can be slightly sharp against the skin, requiring some smoothing.
- Minimalist design may not appeal to those seeking more advanced features.
Who Should Buy N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster?
The N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster is perfect for individuals looking for a comfortable, concealable, and affordable IWB holster for everyday carry. It’s well-suited for both experienced shooters and those new to concealed carry.
Those seeking a holster with advanced features such as integrated weapon lights or optic compatibility might want to consider other options.
A good quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to maximize the holster’s comfort and concealability.
Conclusion on N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster
The N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster offers an impressive combination of versatility, comfort, concealability, and affordability. Its minimalist design, adjustable features, and comfortable foam wedge make it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
Given its performance and features, the price of the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster is more than justified.
I would absolutely recommend the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable IWB holster without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a solid, no-frills holster that gets the job done, the N8 Tactical Xecutive IWB Holster is definitely worth a look.