When you’ve been carrying firearms for any length of time, you inevitably accumulate what most of us call “the holster box.” You know the one – that collection of holsters that seemed perfect in the store but turned out to be just slightly off for your needs.
Multi position modular holsters promise to solve this problem by offering multiple carry configurations in a single package. But do they actually deliver on that promise, or are they just another marketing gimmick? Let’s dig into what makes these multi holsters tick and whether they’re worth your hard-earned money.
Multi Position vs Multi Fit Holsters
Before we dive deeper, it’s important to clear up some confusion in the holster world. Multi position holsters are different from multi-fit or universal holsters, though the terms sometimes get mixed up.
Multi position holsters (aka modular holsters) are designed for a specific firearm model but can be configured for different carry positions – think inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), or appendix carry (AIWB). You’re getting one holster that adapts to different locations on your body.
Multi-fit holsters, on the other hand, are designed to accommodate multiple firearm models. The Blackhawk Omnivore is a prime example – it uses the weapon light as the retention point, allowing it to secure over 150 different pistol models. These holsters sacrifice some gun-specific fit for versatility across platforms.
Hybrid holster is a type of holster defined by the materials it’s made from rather then the guns it accomodates or positions it allows to carry one in. Just so you know, unlike purely leather or purely Kydex, a hybrid holster is features two materials in its construction. Usually, it’s a molded Kydex or polymer shell on the gun side bonded to a flexible backer (leather, neoprene, or mesh) against the body for comfort.
So what qualifies as an Multi Position Modular Holster:
- Converts between at least 2 of the 3 common waistband modes (IWB, AIWB, OWB) without buying a second shell.
- Retains pistol-specific trigger protection (unlike true universal holsters).
- Offers tool-free or minimal-tool attachment swaps the end-user can perform quickly at home.
Advantages of Multi-Position Modular Holsters
Multi position holsters offer some great advantages, especially for shooters who are still figuring out their preferred carry method or those who need flexibility based on different situations.
The biggest selling point is, of course, versatility. Instead of buying separate holsters for appendix carry, strong-side carry, and open carry, you get one system that handles all three. For someone new to concealed carry holsters who wants to experiment with different positions, this can save both money (and drawer space).
Many modern multi position rigs also offer impressive adjustability. Take the newer GRITR Omni holsters, for instance. They feature stackable concealment claws, multiple retention adjustment points, ambidextrous design, and compatibility with aftermarket mounting systems.
The convenience factor can’t be overlooked either. If you carry differently based on your outfit, activity, or season, being able to quickly reconfigure your holster beats swapping between entirely different rigs. Some systems can be adjusted without tools, making the transition even smoother.
To sum up, this is when multi-position holsters excel:
- Seasonal wardrobe rotations – Shift to OWB under winter jackets, return to AIWB when heat forces light shirts. One rig, no re-training.
- Long-haul driving – Cross-draw or appendix adjustment reduces hip pressure during interstate trips.
- Training classes – In a two-day pistol course, quickly swap to OWB for range administration and back to concealed rig for scenario work.
- Experimenting with carry positions – With an omni holster, you can try carrying is different positions to figure out what works best for you without investing much.
Limitations of Multi Position Modular Holsters
Despite their versatility, multi position carry holsters come with some trade-offs.
The most significant compromise is in optimization. A holster designed specifically for appendix carry can be engineered with the exact cant, ride height, and profile that works best for that position. Multi position holsters, by their nature, have to make compromises to work adequately in multiple configurations rather than excelling.
Bulk is another common issue. To accommodate the hardware needed for multiple configurations, these holsters often end up thicker or wider than dedicated alternatives, which might mean more printing in light clothing
Retention can be inconsistent across different configurations. A holster that provides perfect retention in the IWB configuration might feel loose when switched to OWB, or vice versa. This inconsistency can affect both security and draw consistency.
Best Multi-Position Modular Holsters on the Market Right Now
GRITR Omni Holster
GRITR’s approach focuses on precision-molded shells for specific firearms, paired with modular mounting systems that accommodate IWB, OWB, and appendix carry. The .093-inch Kydex construction immediately feels more substantial than typical .080-inch holsters. The mold fits like a custom holster, providing zero play and great retention.
The open muzzle design accommodates threaded barrels and compensators without modification. The optic cut handles most red dot sights, including the larger footprint options that cause problems for other systems.
Now let’s highlight the main features of the GRITR Omni holster. First off, the stackable concealment claw system. The claw tilts the grip toward your body, which reduces printing. Unlike fixed systems, you can adjust the height and angle by adding or removing stackable pieces. Short torso? Remove a piece. Need more aggressive rotation? Stack them higher. The ability to customize rather than accept whatever the manufacturer decided works for “average” users makes a real difference in how effective your concealment will be.
The holster boasts excellent retention with multiple adjustment points – one below the trigger guard and another near the trigger guard for precise tuning.
The aftermarket compatibility impresses most. The system works with Safariland QLS and G-Code RTI mounting platforms, opening up professional-grade mounting options typically reserved for duty holsters. The QLS compatibility alone provides dozens of mounting options, from belt slides to drop legs to vehicle mounts. You’re not locked into proprietary accessories that may disappear if the company changes direction.
This compatibility makes the OMNI series particularly attractive for users who need to transition between civilian and professional applications.
The ambidextrous design doesn’t feel like an afterthought – left-handed users get full functionality without compromise. The tuckable IWB attachment maintains a professional appearance while providing quick access when needed.
Quality control appears excellent, with consistent molding and smooth edges throughout. The lifetime warranty provides additional confidence, though the construction quality suggests you’re unlikely to need it.
As of the date of this post, GRITR Omni IWB/OWB series offers a more limited selection, which, however, covers all the popular gun models shooters choose for carry or competition. So if you’re looking for a 1911 holster that accomodates, say, a railed 1911 with an ambi safety, or a S&W M&P holster for your all-metal pistol, you have it.
Pros
- Ambidextrous out-of-box; no extra purchase.
- Light and optic-ready open muzzle fits threaded barrels.
- Lifetime “Unlimited GRIT” warranty covers breakage.
Cons
- Twin retention screws migrate after 300 draws unless Loctited.
- Wider belt clip spread than single-clip dedicated AIWB designs so hides best under looser garments.
GRITR OMNI IWB/OWB Ambidextrous Kydex Holster
$64.99
Price accurate at time of writing
- A modular holster system offering multiple carry position options.
- Converts seamlessly for left or right-hand draw.
- Compatible with most aftermarket belt attachments including the QLS & RTI systems.
- Stackable claw system rotates your grip inward to eliminate printing.
- Multiple adjustment points allow the perfect balance of security and speed.
- Accommodates red dots, threaded barrels and compensators.
Alien ShapeShift Core Carry Pack
The Alien ShapeShift system builds around a pistol-specific hard polymer shell that drops into multiple bases – AIWB, 4.0 IWB, OWB belt slide, OWB paddle, plus desk/car dock – with twist-lock couplers.
The IWB configuration impresses most. The large paddle base distributes weight beautifully, and the cutaway design allows a full firing grip before you even start your draw. Those belt clips are surprisingly robust – strong enough that you need to partially undress to properly don or remove the holster.
The soft, padded backing clings just enough to prevent that embarrassing moment when your holster comes out with your gun during a speed draw.
But comfort comes with bulk. The modular design requires more material than a dedicated holster, making concealment challenging in warmer weather. The twist-lock system, while secure, adds thickness that some users will find problematic for deep concealment.
The retention adjustment works well, though it requires some experimentation to get right. The system holds the gun securely without making draws sluggish, but you’ll want to spend time dry-firing before trusting it in a defensive situation.
Pros
- Broadest configuration set (10+ with extra add-ons)
- Tool-less ride-height and cant indexing
- Alien Gear’s Forever Warranty, free shell trades on gun upgrade
Cons
- Full kit weighs 14 oz; heavier than single-purpose Kydex
- Proprietary hardware cannot be sourced at hardware stores if lost
- Initial assembly overwhelms some users
BladeTech Total Eclipse 2.0
Blade-Tech approached the multifit challenge differently with their Mod-Lok system. Instead of relying on interchangeable shells, they created a single holster that transitions between IWB and OWB configurations with the help of the Mod-Lok system – an auto-locking, tool-free interface.
In simple words, the system employs spring-loaded hubs that accept different “mods” (attachment points) that allow you to customize how you carry your gun. This eliminates the screw-and-allen-key complexity that plagues many modular holsters.
The OWB Belt-Lok mod deserves special attention. Those hinged polymer loops snap closed around your belt, allowing you to don and doff the holster without threading your belt through clips. For anyone who’s fumbled with traditional belt attachments in a parking lot, this innovation alone justifies the system.
Overall, this multi-position holster has excellent retention and minimal movement once properly mounted. The dual sweat guards protect both gun and shooter while accommodating mounted optics. The audible click when holstering provides positive feedback that your firearm is properly seated.
The Mod-Lok system truly shines in its simplicity. Switching from wide IWB mode to narrow OWB configuration takes seconds, and the retention remains consistent across both setups. The 180-degree swivel capability allows the holster to move naturally with your body.
However, this engineering comes at a price, literally. The Total Eclipse 2.0 costs significantly more than competing systems, though the build quality justifies the premium. The modular design also means you’ll need to purchase additional mods for specialized applications like FBI cant.
Pros
- Quick and tool-free configuration changes with the Mod-Lok system (under 10 seconds).
- Ambidextrous design
- Adjustable retention with a positive trigger-guard detent
- Weighs approximately 5.5 oz complete
Cons
- Retention screws may loosen over time
We The People Freedom Platform
We The People’s Freedom Platform takes the opposite approach from Blade-Tech’s simplicity, embracing complexity to achieve what they claim are over 2,500 possible configurations. Opening the box feels overwhelming – multiple bags of hardware, clips, loops, and attachments that could outfit a small army of holsters.
The system provides a Kydex shell with mounting holes everywhere as well as multiple clip types, and a detachable magazine carrier that can be positioned independently or linked via shock cord. The system accommodates everything from J-hooks to belt loops to OWB paddles, with adjustable cant and ride height throughout.
OWB configurations are most practical. Both paddle and belt loop setups hold securely during draw practice, with no slippage or shifting. The 1.5-inch belt compatibility covers most tactical and dress belts, and the hardware feels solid enough for serious use.
The integrated magazine carrier offers interesting possibilities, particularly in appendix configuration where it can be adjusted for comfort and accessibility. This addresses one of the common complaints about modular systems – the awkward relationship between holster and spare magazine storage.
But all this versatility comes with complexity. The learning curve is steep, and you’ll spend considerable time figuring out which configuration works best for your needs.
The lack of adjustable retention stands out as a significant oversight. While the factory setting works adequately, the inability to fine-tune retention to user preferences limits the system’s adaptability.
Pros
- Excellent configurability
- Precision-molded Kydex shell with optional carbon fiber finish
Cons
- Initial setup is time-consuming
- Retention can become inconsistent after hardware swaps
Crossbreed Reckoning
The Reckoning represents Crossbreed’s entry into the modular market, combining their traditional hybrid holster design with modern adjustability. This system pairs a precision-molded Kydex shell with their signature leather backing, creating a holster that converts between IWB and OWB carry.
The hybrid design immediately sets the Reckoning apart from pure Kydex competitors. The thick leather backing distributes pressure across a large area while providing the comfort that made Crossbreed famous. The material is substantial enough to maintain its shape during reholstering.
Also, the leather backing breathes better than solid Kydex while providing natural cushioning against your body. The material seems to conform slightly to your specific shape over time, improving comfort with use.
The retention system offers multiple adjustment points, including screws that control how tightly the Kydex shell grips the gun and additional tension adjustments for the overall shell-to-backing relationship.
The modular accessories expand functionality significantly. For instance, optional magazine carriers attach directly to the holster body, while the wing helps reduce printing.
Switching between IWB and OWB configurations requires changing the belt attachments, which takes a few minutes with basic tools. While not as instant as some competing systems, the conversion is straightforward.
The main limitation is seasonal adaptability. While incredibly comfortable in cooler weather, the leather backing might become warm during summer carry. The hybrid design also adds bulk compared to pure Kydex systems, though many users will find the comfort trade-off worthwhile.
Pros
- Leather molds to hip, minimizing hot spots in all-day carry.
- Dual retention ensures audible “click” draw yet one-hand re-holster.
- Converts to strong-side OWB for range quals with Speed Clips.
Cons
- Leather adds 0.75 in extra thickness over pure Kydex.
- Leather backer darkens and softens in humid climates after 6-month heavy use.
Multi-Fit Options Worth Considering
If you’re looking at multi-fit rather than multi position capabilities, the Blackhawk Omnivore remains the gold standard. It locks onto weapon lights rather than the gun itself, allowing it to securely hold a wide variety of pistols. The retention is positive and the draw is smooth once you get used to the thumb release mechanism.
That said, the Omnivore has limitations. The trigger guard coverage can be questionable with some pistol models, and it’s definitely not a concealment-focused design. It excels as a range holster or for situations where you need to accommodate multiple firearms, but it’s not replacing your dedicated carry holster anytime soon.
The PHLster Floodlight offers a different approach to multi-fit carrying. Instead of mechanical retention, it relies on friction fit around the weapon light. This creates a more traditional draw stroke while still accommodating multiple pistol models. It’s gained a strong following among those who want multi-gun capability without the bulk or complexity of the Omnivore.
* Prices accurate at time of writing
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