PHLster Enigma: The Last Glock Holster You’ll Ever Need
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a box of random holsters lying around somewhere full of tears and regret. Someone mentions a new Glock holster, you buy it, and it’s just not what you were looking for. And when I saw the PHLster Enigma holsters, I was on the fence of whether or not it would simply get tossed in my box of Glock holsters, never to see the light of day ever again. The good news is, there are several Enigma compatible holsters out there that can fit the PHLster Enigma chassis.
While a Glock holster can run you as low as around $50, you can also easily spend over $200 depending on the brand, style, accessories, color options, customization, etc. I’m one of those guys who does extensive research on something before I make a purchase. I want to read and watch reviews, I want to know the pros and cons, and I want all my questions answered before I open up my wallet. You can purchase a traditional PHLster holster to use with the Enigma or you can utilize one of the Enigma compatible holsters if you have something that works with the platform.
After hours of research, I pulled the trigger on purchasing the PHLster Enigma. And after having this holster system for two months, I’ve finally compiled my thoughts on this Glock holster setup. But it should be noted that the PHLster Enigma can fit other firearms as well, not just Glock. You can purchase a PHLster holster to fit your firearm or use an existing firearm holster as long as it is compatible with the PHLster Enigma plate.
Disclaimer: I purchased the PHLster Enigma holsters with my own money. This product was not supplied to me by PHLster, they did not pay me or compensate me to speak about their product, and the opinions on this product are solely mine and my personal experience with this Glock holster setup.
Table of contents
What is the PHLster Enigma, and Why Did I Purchase It?
The PHLster Enigma is unlike anything I’ve seen before. It’s a concealment system that is worn without the need for a belt. If you’re into health and fitness like I am, you find yourself in workout shorts and joggers daily, but they lack the structure to attach a firearm. What’s a common fix? A belly band holster.
Unfortunately, a belly band holster, from my experience, moves around too much and causes excessive sweating and discomfort around the midsection. Not only that, but when working out and moving, the last thing you want is a floppy holster that isn’t really secure and causes printing issues.
Related Article: Is the Sig Sauer P365X the Best Concealed Carry Firearm?
The PHLster Enigma holsters solve all these issues and can be worn without needing to wear a belt or be attached to your pants/shorts. You can utilize a PHLster holster with the Enigma or use any of the Enigma compatible holsters out on the market.
How Does It Work?
So, how does the PHLster Enigma work? The entire system works off the Enigma plate with an adjustable strap that wraps around your body. And unlike a belly band, it also utilizes a leg leash system to hold the Glock holster in place when drawing your firearm. A common issue with a belly band is that depending on the holster retention, you may have issues drawing the firearm as the entire belly band can shift up with your draw stroke.
But going back to the fitness side of things and the fact that most of the content I write revolves around health and fitness, why did I decide on the PHLster Enigma holsters?
Not only do I want to be able to carry a firearm at all times, but that includes during workouts or when lounging around in workout shorts or joggers. I can now fully conceal a Glock with the PHLster Enigma, regardless of the attire I choose to wear.
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I’ve ran in this holster, hit the weights, rode a recumbent bike, and more… Zero issues. The PHLster Enigma didn’t move, didn’t shift, and I barely knew I was wearing it.
Now, I’ve also worn the PHLster Enigma with jeans, hiking pants, shorts, dress pants, pajama pants, and just about every combination you can imagine, and I have yet to find an issue with concealment and comfort.
Which Model Did I Purchase?
There are two different models you can choose from: The Standard and The Express. Which is right for you? Well, it depends.
The model I purchased is the Standard model. I wanted the ability to fully adjust everything about the holster setup to fine-tune it to my body. With the Standard Enigma, I also purchased the PHLster Skeleton holster to attach rather than use one of the holsters I already have, but you can just as easily use one of the many Enigma compatible holsters if you have one.
The Standard Enigma has pre-drilled holes on both sides of the plate to allow you to adjust the holster around your body type to provide the best concealment and comfort possible. The system arrives in pieces, and you need to put it together (it is a little time-consuming setting it up perfect according to your body type, so don’t think you’ll be done in five minutes). It also utilizes a wing to help pull in the butt-end of your grip for better concealability.
How much did it cost? I’ll be fully transparent with you, it’s not the cheapest Glock holster you’ll purchase. My total with free shipping came to $147.98. Ouch! I know some of your eyes may have just popped out. But honestly, it’s been worth every penny. And I’m saying that with zero financial interest as I don’t make a dime off this review or commission from sales. The cost would be even lower if I already had one of the Enigma compatible holsters.
Related Article: Jon Hauptman Talks PHLster and Improving Concealed Carry
Then, switching gears, if you don’t want to tinker with adjusting your PHLster Enigma, you can go with the Express model, which comes pre-assembled with everything already attached, but does not allow for any adjustment like with the Standard model.
A leg leash comes with both models, and while you may think it would be uncomfortable, it’s really not, and you barely notice it’s there. The key is adjusting it to fit your body perfectly, and then it’s simply a set-it-and-forget-it system.
The PHLster Enigma holsters use a really cool Fidlock Buckle that makes taking your Enigma on and off a breeze (which I appreciate since you don’t just slide it over your belt like most Glock holsters out there).
Would I Recommend PHLster Enigma Holsters?
When I purchase gear, I test it hard. I want to make sure there are no failure points that would be an issue, I want to make sure that the Glock holster I use has good retention, great concealability, and is comfortable. This Glock holster system checked all those boxes.
I’ve worked out with the PHLster Enigma holsters, I’ve lounged around the house in pajamas with the Enigma, and I’ve even gone to business meetings with dress pants wearing the Enigma. In all situations, the PHLster Enigma was good to go.
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So, would I recommend this holster? Without a doubt. In fact, I’m finding myself wearing the PHLster Enigma more than any other Glock holster that I have. It keeps everything off of my belt for amazing concealability, and it’s one of the most comfortable setups I’ve ever worn.
I also purchased the tan Sport Belt to replace the standard belt (which is comfortable but nowhere close to the comfort from the Sport Belt) along with the EMod Enigma Optimized Modwing Insert Kit to help the PHLster Engima plate sit more flush on the modwing to further help pull the grip of the pistol into the body. The photo below shows what the Sport Belt looks like on a completed PHLster Enigma (the only difference between the photo and mine is that a Sig 365 is shown with the black Sport Belt instead of the tan).
While there is nothing wrong with the belt that comes standard with the PHLster Enigma holsters, the Sport Belt is way more comfortable and it even has pockets that you can stash a knife, flashlight, pepper spray, keys, wallet, credit card/driver’s license, tourniquet, spare mag, you name it in. The extra width on the pad itself has some elasticity to it and therefore provides some “give” when moving versus being constrictive. It’s an accessory I highly recommend.
Related Article: AIWB Holsters — What Experts Don’t Want You to Know Hurts You!
While your mileage may vary, I really think that if you’re looking for a Glock holster (or any brand firearm holster), you can’t go wrong with the PHLster Enigma holsters.
If you would like to follow Jon, his Instagram account is linked below:
Instagram: PHLster
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And as always, go out and get the proper training needed to be proficient with your firearm(s). I am not an instructor or tactical ninja, and I don’t pretend to be one on the weekends. I’m simply someone who seeks knowledge, improvement, and proficiency when it comes to self-defense and the ability to protect my family and those around me. You are your own first line of defense, seek the training of a certified and experienced instructor. And while you’re at it, go support Jon by picking up a PHLster Engima. You’ll thank me later.
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