An honest, full-size, all-metal pistol literally made for competitive shooting. Thanks to the steel frame, which doesn't end behind the trigger but extends along the bottom of the entire slide all the way to the muzzle, the CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow is "front-heavy," meaning it has minimal muzzle flip and "kicks" less during firing.
What you will appreciate most in sport shooting might not seem as advantageous for concealed carry. The CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow is almost never used for EDC (Everyday Carry); it is truly robust and heavy.
Holsters for specific models
Holsters are custom-made for each model using a precise mold to ensure the weapons fit perfectly. In this category, you will find holsters for the CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow and CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow Orange.
We offer holsters for standard factory models, as well as models equipped with a red dot. If you mount optics, a frame mount, or other accessories that fundamentally change the pistol's profile, keep in mind that you will need a custom-made holster.
The range of holsters also corresponds to the character and most common use of this weapon. For comfortable carry, Kydex holsters attached to the outside of the waistband (OWB) are most suitable.
In this article, we will now focus on the individual materials used to manufacture holsters and the different ways of carrying them.
Kydex or leather?
In our offer, you will find holsters made of Kydex or leather. Based on our own experience and customer feedback, we have concluded that these are the two most practical materials for manufacturing pistol holsters.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of these two materials?
Kydex: A highly functional material
Advantages:
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Constant shape: It does not stretch, loosen, or compress. The holster remains open, allowing you to easily return the pistol with one hand.
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Safety: The weapon is held firmly inside. You can recognize the correct seating by the characteristic "click" heard upon insertion.
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Fast draw: Kydex offers minimal resistance and does not stick to the weapon like leather. You only need to overcome resistance at the initial moment—where the holster grips the trigger guard—after which it slides out completely smoothly. You will appreciate this in situations where every second counts.
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Easy maintenance: Or rather, practically zero. Simply wiping the holster with a damp cloth is enough.
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"Indestructibility": The material resists sun, sweat, frost, oil, and most chemicals.
Disadvantages:
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Discomfort: Hard plastic can press against you, and the larger the model, the more significantly you will feel it. At the same time, the physical constitution of each shooter must be taken into account.
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Weapon wear: Abrasion may occur in places where the weapon rubs against the holster (on the trigger guard and the edges of the slide).
Our tip: Holsters from RH Holsters have a very smooth internal finish, which minimizes this issue.
Leather: Aesthetics and classics
Advantages:
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Comfort: The biggest benefit. Leather is a pleasant, soft material that conforms to both the body and the weapon. It doesn't press against you even if you carry the firearm all day.
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Protects the weapon's surface: It does not abrade the finish like plastic does.
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Style: For many, cold plastic is visually uninteresting. Leather, by contrast, looks stylish and elegant.
Disadvantages:
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Maintenance: As a natural material, leather is malleable and adaptable, but it also "works" and requires proper care—treatment with special leather products to prevent cracking or drying out, or cleaning if it becomes soaked with sweat.
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Flexibility: Over time, the leather may soften so much that the opening "flattens" after drawing, meaning you might need both hands to re-holster the pistol.
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Requires break-in time: A new holster can be tight, and it takes some time before it yields enough for the weapon to be drawn and inserted easily. Conversely, after long-term use, there is a risk of stretching and increased play.
Summary
Leather is a soft, pliable material that adapts well to the body. However, it requires more maintenance and is more prone to stretching over time.
Kydex is the exact opposite—it has zero play, is firm, and remains constant. It requires no maintenance, though its hardness may be uncomfortable for some users.
OWB or IWB?
Do you want to carry the pistol on the outer side of the waist (OWB – outside the waistband) or from the inner side of the trousers (IWB – inside the waistband)? Each holster can be worn in only one of these ways.
In an IWB holster, you can hide the weapon better, making it appear more discreet; on the other hand, it may press against you under your trousers. A loaded CZ 75 SP-01 Shadow weighs around 1.5 kg, which does not make it an ideal candidate for carrying inside the pants.
OWB holsters are much more comfortable for carrying, but they do not hide the weapon as effectively. With an OWB holster, you have easier and faster access to the firearm.
When deciding whether to get an IWB or OWB holster, consider which method personally provides you with greater comfort and better fits the purpose for which you use the pistol.
Choose based on personal preferences
The choice of a suitable holster doesn't depend solely on facts; it’s primarily about personal preferences. These include your relationship with specific materials and carrying styles, how you use the weapon, as well as your physique and which holster feels best for you to wear.
