HOSKING HOLSTERS: CHEST RIG
A REVIEW
I have switched from a convert chest carry option to the Hosking model after searching for a dedicated setup for use with my NODs in my GHB. How that system works is for another post, but I wanted to weigh in on this new holster now.
Searching the internet for pistol chest rigs, I found only two that met my needs. The original Chest Rig (as far as I can tell) from Gunfighters[INC] and the Hosking clone.
There are several other makers out there like Alien Holsters, Crossbreed, Tucker Gunleather, etc. that have their own version, but my experience with “half kydex / half leather” holsters is not favorable and except for an IWB I would never rely on one for retention, especially when it’s going to be exposed to pouring down rain which rules out leather all together in my book.
THEY WANT HOW MUCH?
The price of the Kenai at $194.00 for a light equipped gun model seemed a bit high to me and combined with their “standard” backlog (3-4 weeks) which they make you acknowledge several times before checkout, I went looking elsewhere.
I’m sure they got away with that price and backlog when they were the only ones making them, but Hosking makes a superior version in my opinion, and for almost 40% less cost.
SUPERIOR IN WHAT WAY?
I’ll let Hosking do the talking as he compares the Kenai to his version and then add my two bits at the end of his video. Notice the $$$ amounts in the video are not current for either maker and the gap seems to have closed over the years.
Video is 5 years old as of 2024.
Matt makes some good points above but besides the price, the one thing that pushed me to the Hosking was that he offered a model without the extra two buckles.
The large 2” and the extra 1.5” buckle do nothing but add noise and failure points (albeit not likely) and their only purpose is to allow an easy swap out of holsters IMO, which I have no intentions of doing.
I do like that the Kenai comes in more colors as does the harness (the Hosking harness comes any color as long as it’s black) but I could not force myself to pay for it.
WAIT TIMES
Gunfighter[INC]
Three to four (3-4) weeks verses four to six (4-6) days…
Hosking Holsters
From order to delivery was 7 days.
Ordered 10.30.24
Shipped w/ tracking 11.04.24
Delivered 11.06.24
COST
Kenai $194.00 (Did not check but assume they offer 10% MIL to offset $11.95 S&H)
Hosking $120.00 (10% MIL Discount offset $11.95 S&H)
NET DIFFERENCE = Hosking Holsters was $74.00 or 38% cheaper
HOSKING IN HAND REVIEW
Fit and retention is good. Molding is top notch.
The binder post attachment method allows it to be worn at multiple angles which is a big plus. I played with several angles before adding locktite.
The ambidextrous design is not a big deal for me, main concern was it would cause harder re-holstering without a shield to index off of. Found it not to be a problem, re-holstered gun with eyes easily.
Hardware does not seem to be the preferred NEXUS brand but I doubt it will matter as there is little stress on the hardware.
The grip angle (canted out from body) is great for ease of draw, but is not going to be something you use covertly.
The rig is very comfortable to wear all day. I recommend them.
THE ONE THAT COULD HAVE BEEN
To be honest I would have gone with the Kenai if they offered a one buckle option, shipped in 2-3 weeks and had a cost of $150.00 delivered, but fortunately for me, that is not a reality and I think I got a better deal because of it. YMMV.
I carry an M&P 10 mm in bear country. I would love to see someone make a chest rig with a flap. While you can carry inside your coat I would prefer to have the gun on the outside and protected against the weather.