FDO Industries IWB Kydex Holster

This item is a Kydex IWB holster (Inside the Waistband) designed for concealed carry, with an optic cut (i.e. the shell is cut or shaped to allow attaching a red dot or similar sight) and a claw / “wing” or appendage meant to help stabilize the holster and reduce printing (the outline of the firearm showing through clothing). It uses a 1.5" metal clip (for attaching to a belt or waistband). The manufacturer markets it as made in the USA.

Key characteristics:

• Material/construction: Rigid Kydex, molded to the firearm’s specifications, including cutouts for the optic.

• Retention/adjustment: Has adjustable retention screws.

• Carry comfort/concealability features: The claw is an anti-print feature that forces the grip face of the gun closer to the body to reduce visible outline. The slim profile and rigid construction aim to keep the holster tight and flush.

• Clip style: A 1.5-inch metal clip is included, intended to secure to belts or pants; metal is preferred by many users for durability over plastic.

• Fit/compatibility: Because it’s molded, it’s meant for specific firearm models (with or without red dot, depending on whether the optic cut is allowed for your configuration).

• Country of origin/branding: Marketed as USA-made, which many buyers view as a positive.

What Reviewers Say: Strengths & Weaknesses

Based on user feedback and comments (from review aggregations and buyer reviews), here’s how people tend to assess the holster:

What Users Like

• Concealability / low profile: Many users mention that the holster does a good job of staying close to the body and not printing (i.e. not showing the gun outline clearly through clothing). The claw is often highlighted as helping with that.

• Build quality & materials: People commonly praise the rigidity and precise molding of the Kydex, noting that edges and cuts are clean. The metal clip is viewed as more durable and reliable than plastic alternatives.

• Retention: Users often say the retention is solid; the firearm stays firmly in place, yet can be drawn smoothly when desired.

• Optic compatibility: For those running red dot sights (or considering doing so), the optic cut capability is appreciated, enabling a compact solution without needing a full slide cut or custom holster.

• Value: For the price point, many find it offers features typically seen in more expensive holsters (e.g. optic-cut, claw), making it “good value” in its class.

Common Criticisms / Areas for Improvement

• Comfort on prolonged use: A few reviewers note that over long wear times, especially while sitting or bending, the rigid Kydex and the claw can dig or press uncomfortably in certain body positions.

• Clip placement/belt angle: Some users mention that the clip could be more adjustable in terms of cant/angle. The fixed clip design may not perfectly suit all carry styles or body shapes.

• Fit issues/tolerance variance: As with many molded holsters, the exact fit can vary; a few people report slight differences in tightness or that the holster needed light hand tweaking (sanding, bending) to get perfect draw or reholster feel.

• Edge finish/sharpness: Some minor complaints around sharper edges on the Kydex shell or the claw, which may rub on clothing or skin unless smoothed.

• Limited adjustability of the claw: While the claw is a strong feature, some users wish it were more adjustable (angle, depth) to better tailor concealment for different clothing thicknesses or user body shapes.

Overall Sentiment

The general consensus leans positive: users tend to feel this holster delivers a strong feature set at a reasonable price. The inclusion of an optic cut and claw in this class is viewed as a competitive advantage. Its drawbacks mostly relate to the typical tradeoffs when using rigid holsters (comfort, micro fit adjustments, clip options), rather than fundamental design flaws.

Many buyers conclude that once tuned (if needed), it offers a reliable, discreet carry solution; especially attractive for those who want to run a red dot on a carry gun without going into full custom holster territory.