With all the holsters and gun gear on the market, it’s difficult to know where to start—especially in the women’s market. Picking the right one can feel like taking a shot in the dark, or even playing Russian roulette. Fortunately, CrossBreed Holsters has been working to meet the needs of women and has some great options for you.
She Shoots 2 is sponsored by Crossbreed Holsters
CrossBreed introduced its Mini Appendix Holster, also called the Women’s Appendix, in the late spring of 2015. I was fortunate enough to get my hands on one shortly thereafter. At that time, I hadn’t planned to write a review on it. I simply wanted to see if it would be viable as my everyday carry holster, and I’m pleased to say it has been.
This holster was designed with women in mind. The corners were smoothed out and its leather material is softer than the company’s other holster models. As an appendix holster, it is intended to be used with a small firearm, such as the Ruger LCP, SIG Sauer P238, Smith & Wesson Bodyguard and similar guns. A larger holster and gun wouldn’t be as comfortable or practical in the appendix position.
Women’s Appendix Holster
This wasn’t my first rodeo when it comes to CrossBreed holsters. I’ve carried a larger gun in a SuperTuck, and the number one thing that I love about these holsters is the way they conform to my body after minimal usage. It’s as if the holster becomes a part of me, and before long I forget I’m wearing it.
My Mini Appendix is made of horsehide leather, which makes it much thinner than cowhide, yet still provides the same stiffness. Horsehide leather also holds up better in high-moisture environments due to its high density, according to a CrossBreed rep. This is beneficial to me, as the humidity during a Missouri summer can be brutal.
The Mini Appendix also comes with one Snaplok—a powder-coated steel clip, already attached. This heavy-duty clip keeps the holster in place on my belt all day and lets me draw my gun without pulling my holster off as well, yet is easy enough to remove without taking my belt off.
Concealability is excellent, as far as I’m concerned. I was talking with a friend the other day who, after seeing my holster and gun, couldn’t believe that I carried it every day; she never knew by just looking.
My holster is worn, but comfortable!
My holster has worn well and shows no sign of giving up anytime soon. Compare my used, broken-in holster side-by-side with a brand-new one in the photo below. The leather on mine is slightly worn and has molded to my body, but otherwise looks like new. The Kydex and the Snaplok have held up well.
One last thing to point out about CrossBreed holsters is the company’s two-week try-it-free guarantee and a lifetime warranty. If you don’t love your Mini Appendix, send it back. I doubt you’ll want to, however. MSRP: Starts at $59.50
CrossBreed Reversible Women’s Carry Belts
Another addition to the CrossBreed family is the Ladies Reversible Carry Belt. It was designed by women, for women. Each belt is made of top-grade finished leather, black on one side and brown on the other, with a black finished edge. It’s 1¼ inches wide and 1/8 inch thick, allowing me to wear it with some of my jeans that have smaller belt loops. To reverse the belt, simply pull down on the flat base of the buckle and rotate. The buckle itself is available in chrome, gunmetal and gold.
After wearing this belt for several months, I’ve found that it performs well. It’s sturdy enough to support my holster without being so rigid that it’s uncomfortable.
Each belt has 5 holes to adjust size.
The ladies at CrossBreed also decided to make each belt with 5 holes at ¾ inch apart for a fully personalized fit. I don’t know about you, but my pants sometimes fit a little tighter or looser, depending on the day. Being able to adjust my belt up or down a small amount makes me happy. I love this belt so much that I chose it as one of my Top 5 products at SHOT Show 2017. (You can see all of my Top 5 choices here.) MSRP: $64.95
Freelance writer Stacy Bright holds instructor certifications from the NRA in Pistol & Rifle, as well as being an Range Safety Officer and Refuse to be a Victim instructor. In addition to her NRA credentials, she also is a Missouri CCW instructor and teaches various other home and personal defense courses. “In a field dominated by men, I feel I bring a unique perspective to firearms and training, especially to women. I'm passionate about educating, empowering and developing confidence in those I train. In November of 2014, I started the Southwest Missouri chapter of The Well Armed Woman,” said Stacy. Stacy lives in southwest Missouri, and has been married for 20 years. Visit TWAW Facebook page: The Well Armed Woman-Springfield, MO Chapter. View all posts by Stacy Bright
I am wanting to purchase the Crossbreed ladies reversible belt. I am concerned about sizing. You order by pant size. That varies by brand. How did you determine the correct size?
Hey Tonia! Thanks for the question! I reached out to Crossbreed to get their specific sizing for the Women’s Belt. Here it is:
Size 0 – Petite XS = 31″
Size 2 – Petite S = 32″
Size 4 – Small = 33″
Size 6 – S/M =34″
Size 8 – M =36″
Size 10 -M/L =38″
Size 12 – L =40″
Size 14 – L/XL =42″
Size 16 – XL = 44″