FIST ultra-thin Kydex

[mr.72]

I bought a FIST K3 last fall at my local gun store, it was about $43 including tax, which I thought was pretty high for what you get. But it has been very comfortable and super functional this whole time.

My complaints were that the belt hook didn't really fit a 1.5" belt very well even though that's what size it is purported to be, and, well that's about it.

It cracked. I don't know how long it's been cracked but I noticed just the other day. This has not been abused, but it has been used semi-daily for close to a year. I would have expected it to last a LOT longer than that. I called FIST and they offered to give me a replacement holster for half-price.

FIST's price is $34.95 for a K3. Half price then is about $18. They charged $9.75 for shipping, and say it will take 3 weeks. Insane.

OK, so if I had it to do over again, I think I would have bought a Comp-Tac Infidel instead. Maybe I should have replaced the K3 with a Comp-Tac.

My backup plan is to make my own Kydex holster. Maybe I'll start by making one for my LCP and then move on to making one for my CW9. I think in the end I can do better rolling my own. I just don't know how well my poly pistols will tolerate the heat gun for forming.

[flechero]

I don't know anything about the #3, but I could see that depending on where you wear it, you'd be really putting stress on it since a seated position would want to bend it from the clip. Anyway, you are way past the warranty period so I think a new one for 1/2 price is pretty cool on their part.

I still have my fist #1 that made from the ultra thin kydex... had it for over 5 years and it's been my daily carry (well 4-5 days a week anyway) for 3 years.

Why not get the 1/2 price one made in thin kydex... it's much much stronger and still very thin.

Keep in mind that you would have paid much more for a good custom leather rig, and maybe still be waiting for the 1st one to arrive.

Thinking out loud mostly... I know you wanted to vent but it could be worse.

[WildBill]

I don't believe that a polymer gun would be harmed by using it to form a holster. It does take much in time or temperature to form Kydex. It heats up and cools down within a couple of minutes. Some websites sell kits for forming sheaths for knives that have a press filled with foam to contour the softened Kydex. If it doesn't harm the foam, I would think that a polymer frame would easily handle the heat.

A friend made a couple holsters for a couple of his "odd-guns" without a problem. He used popsicle sticks and duct tape to form channels for forming the Kydex around the safety and front sight.

By the time you buy the materials and equipment it might be cheaper to buy a Comp-Tac. I like mine.

[mr.72]

I figure I'll give the new FIST a chance, and if it cracks again, Comp-Tac it is.

Like I say, I really like the holster. I just don't like the crack :)