The Perfect Appendix Carry or Too Much?
When it comes to concealed carry, comfort, accessibility, and preparedness are paramount. For appendix carriers, finding the right holster that balances all three can be challenging, especially if you want the option to carry a spare magazine without adding unnecessary bulk. The Guerrilla Tactical Side by Side (SBS) Holster is designed to address all these needs. With its integrated magazine carrier, durable construction, and thoughtful design features, the SBS is a standout option for anyone serious about concealed carry. At a price point of $110, it offers both quality and functionality that justify the investment.
Our team at Guerrilla Tactical is going to break it down.
Design and Build Quality
The SBS holster is made from .08″ Kydex, a material known for its durability, rigidity, and lightweight properties. This ensures that the holster maintains its shape over time, providing consistent retention for your firearm while resisting wear and tear from everyday use. Kydex also allows for precise molding around your specific firearm, so you can expect a snug, secure fit that doesn’t compromise draw speed.
The holster comes equipped with two 5-hole straight clips, which give you flexibility in adjusting the ride height for maximum comfort and concealability. Whether you prefer a high ride for easier access or a slightly lower position for comfort under clothing, the adjustable clips make customization straightforward. Additionally, the straight clip design works well with tucked-in shirts, helping to maintain a professional or discreet appearance without sacrificing accessibility.
One of the SBS’s notable features is the custom claw attachment. This small but significant addition presses against your body to reduce printing, making the holster less visible under clothing. Printing can be a concern for appendix carriers, as the position of the holster naturally tends to protrude slightly. The claw helps mitigate this, allowing the holster to remain discreet even when wearing lighter or more fitted clothing.
Another thoughtful design element is the funneled opening, which guides the firearm back into the holster during re-holstering. This “no-look” re-holster feature is especially useful for everyday carry, as it allows for smooth, reliable placement without needing to constantly glance down. This can also help in high-stress situations, where a quick and confident re-holster could make a difference.
The SBS is compatible with a wide range of firearm configurations. It accommodates pistols equipped with RMR/red dot sights, suppressor-height sights, and even threaded barrels. If you use a compensator, Guerrilla Tactical allows you to note your specifications at the time of order to ensure the perfect fit. This level of customization is not only convenient but demonstrates the brand’s understanding of the diverse needs of modern concealed carriers.
Integrated Magazine Carrier – The Key Feature
The hallmark of the SBS holster is its built-in magazine carrier, which positions a spare magazine directly alongside your firearm. Having a second magazine immediately accessible is one of the most important considerations for self-defense and tactical preparedness. In a critical situation, running out of ammunition without a readily available backup can be catastrophic. By integrating the magazine into the holster itself, Guerrilla Tactical ensures that you are always prepared, without needing to reach into pockets, bags, or separate carriers.
Some users may worry that the addition of a side-by-side magazine carrier makes the holster bulky. Indeed, the SBS is slightly larger than a standard appendix holster that carries only the firearm. However, the trade-off is significant: the ability to access a spare magazine in seconds can be crucial in life-or-death scenarios. For most carriers, the minor increase in bulk is outweighed by the added peace of mind and readiness that comes with having a second mag at your fingertips.
The magazine carrier also features the same precision Kydex molding and retention as the main holster. This ensures that your spare magazine remains secure, even during vigorous activity, while still being easy to draw when needed. Whether you are moving through crowded urban environments, hiking, or engaging in tactical training, the magazine stays in place until intentionally drawn.
Comfort and Concealability
Comfort is often the biggest challenge for appendix carriers, as the holster sits close to the body. The SBS addresses this in several ways. The adjustable ride height allows you to find a position that minimizes discomfort while still being easily accessible. The optional Discreet Carry Concepts 1.75″ clips can further enhance comfort by providing a wider, more supportive attachment point to your belt. Many users report that these clips make the holster feel lighter and less obtrusive, which is especially important if you plan to carry all day.
The custom claw attachment also contributes to both comfort and concealability. By reducing printing, it allows you to wear the holster under lighter clothing without drawing attention. This is particularly valuable for professionals who need to carry discreetly during work hours, or for anyone who prefers a clean, low-profile look.
Another factor in comfort is the holster’s sweat guard height. This protects both your firearm and your body from contact, reducing irritation during extended wear. The SBS’s Kydex construction does not absorb moisture, and its molded design keeps the firearm secure and comfortable against your body.
Ease of Use
The SBS is designed with speed and efficiency in mind. The funneled opening for the firearm and the precise magazine placement allow for smooth draws and re-holstering, even under stress. Appendix carry is all about accessibility, and Guerrilla Tactical has optimized this holster to minimize any friction in the draw.
For those who train regularly, the SBS also accommodates a variety of firearm modifications, including red dots and compensators. This versatility is rare in appendix holsters with integrated magazine carriers, as many designs require additional purchases or modifications to work with advanced firearm setups. Guerrilla Tactical’s attention to detail ensures that your holster is ready to perform exactly as needed.
Price and Value
At $110, the Guerrilla Tactical SBS holster is priced competitively for the features it offers. Many holsters with integrated magazine carriers can cost significantly more, especially if they accommodate red dots or threaded barrels. Considering the build quality, custom fit options, and integrated mag carrier, the SBS represents a strong value for those serious about concealed carry and tactical readiness.
Pros:
- Durable .08″ Kydex construction
- Built-in magazine carrier for rapid access to a spare mag
- Compatible with red dot sights, suppressor-height sights, and threaded barrels
- Adjustable ride height for comfort and concealability
- Funneled opening allows smooth “no-look” re-holster
- Custom claw reduces printing under clothing
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than single-mag appendix holsters
- May require optional clip upgrades for maximum comfort
Conclusion
The Guerrilla Tactical Side by Side (SBS) Holster is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dedicated appendix carry system that combines accessibility, comfort, and preparedness. While the integrated magazine carrier does add some bulk, the benefits of having a spare magazine immediately available far outweigh this minor drawback. In real-world self-defense situations, every second counts, and the SBS ensures that both your firearm and backup magazine are within reach at all times.
Whether you are a first-time appendix carrier or a seasoned professional, the SBS provides a high-quality, versatile, and thoughtfully designed solution. Its durable construction, compatibility with a wide range of firearms, and ergonomic features make it a holster you can rely on day in and day out. At $110, it represents an investment in both safety and convenience, offering a level of readiness that few other appendix carry holsters can match.
For those who prioritize preparedness and peace of mind, the Guerrilla Tactical SBS holster is a clear winner. It allows carriers to balance speed, accessibility, and concealability while providing the critical advantage of an immediately accessible spare magazine. For anyone serious about concealed carry, the SBS is more than just a holster—it’s a reliable extension of your defensive strategy.
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