Holster Material: Kydex vs. Boltaron
Published by Dara Holsters on May 14, 2024
You've heard it before, most companies and customers throw out the phrase "kydex holster" as if the term refers to a category or style of holster. In reality, they're actually unknowingly referring to a company that manufactures the thermoform plastic used in holster making, instead of the type of holster.
Ever found yourself pondering the age-old question: Kydex or Boltaron®? If you've been in the holster game for a while, you've likely come across these two heavyweight contenders. But what sets them apart, and which one reigns supreme? Let's dive deeper into the intricacies of these thermoform plastics to shed some light on the matter.
First off, let's address the elephant in the room: Kydex and Boltaron® are essentially two peas in a pod. Sure, there are subtle differences, but for the most part, it boils down to brand preference. Both companies, Sekisui SPI and Boltaron®, respectively, are reputable manufacturers delivering top-notch products.
Now, let's break it down. Boltaron® boasts two main offerings in its plastic lineup: the 4332 and the 4335. The 4332 stands out as a high-impact modified plastic, ideal for specialty textures like carbon fiber. On the other hand, the 4335 is your go-to for that classic matte finish seen on most holsters and knife sheaths.
In the Kydex corner, we have the Kydex T. It's another impact-modified plastic with slight differences in hardness compared to its Boltaron® counterparts. But fear not, for all three options hold their ground when it comes to durability and performance.
So, which one do we prefer at Dara Holsters? Well, the truth is, we're not picking sides here. We believe in leveraging the strengths of each material to tailor our products to perfection. Depending on the specific requirements of the product, whether it's thickness, texture, or color, we may opt for Kydex T or one of Boltaron®'s offerings.
For instance, Kydex T shines when it comes to intricate patterns and textures, making it our go-to for eye-catching designs like Multicam. Meanwhile, Boltaron®'s 4335 takes the spotlight for its reliability and timeless matte finish.
But here's the bottom line: whether it's Kydex or Boltaron®, you can rest assured you're getting a top-notch product. Both materials are UL listed for fire retardancy, boast excellent impact resistance, and offer crack resistance for added peace of mind. So, when you're shopping around and faced with the Kydex versus Boltaron® dilemma, remember this: you can't go wrong with either choice.
In conclusion, it's not about which material is better; it's about finding the right fit for your needs. And with Dara Holsters, you can trust that whichever material we use, it's backed by our unwavering commitment to quality and durability. We test and inspect each batch of materials prior to using them in our manufacturing to ensure 100% quality and consistency with our products.
So, there you have it, folks. We hope this sheds some light on the Kydex versus Boltaron® debate. Thanks for tuning in, and remember to check back for more insightful content. Until next time, stay safe and carry on!