C&G Holsters 1 Minute Out MOD1 IWB Kydex Holster System: Full Review

This is a thing now.  Wearing an appendix inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster featuring a spare magazine attached to it is a trend that we’ve seen develop in the everyday carry (EDC) community. For most practicioners, AIWB carry is faster to draw from than other holster positions, and those of us who have training appreciate the importance of a spare magazine as part of our EDC. Wearing a spare magazine over the hip opposite of a pistol can disfigure the appearance of any waistline under a concealment garment, and it can be difficult to find a setup that doesn’t require the complete removal of a belt to thread-on a pouch. Also consider that the front pocket is not always an option for the concealed carry of a spare magazine. This is why using an AIWB holster with a spare mag pouch attached adjacently is catching on.

Many holster companies offer this type of solution, too many to list here. However, Chris Burns, a law-enforcement veteran, surrounded himself with other talented military and law enforcement vets to stand up Pittsburgh-based C&G Holsters in 2008. His leadership and systematic approach to holster development has made the C&G brand a serious contender in this competitive field. What makes the Mod1 Kydex Holster System different than other similar style of rig is that it is uniquely flexible for comfort, configurable to one’s preferences and readily adaptable to future enhancements.

I first used C&G Holsters’ products during an August 2021 media event at the Gunsite Academy. Issued a custom outside-the-waistband (OWB) Kydex holster and dual magazine combo, as well as a single AR-15 magazine pouch, I wore it exclusively for a week of training. I was so impressed that I reached out to C&G Holsters and attempted to order another, but Burns called me back. He told me about the new Mod1, which was developed in partnership with former U.S. Special Operations soldier Jamey Caldwell. I received a sample for a SIG Sauer P365 with no light attached.

Caldwell is the man behind 1 Minute Out. He distinguished himself as a Unit operator for 14 years with 14 deployments to Afghanistan, Bosnia, Iraq and other places since 2000. He’s retired and now specializes in teaching military and law enforcement officers how to setup and use night vision and thermal devices. 

The mindset behind the Mod1 is Caldwell’s “1 Minute Out” mantra. In a combat zone, there are different time hacks. When moving to a target, there’s usually a lot of light conversation and banter; the mission has already been planned out. When troops get the “1 Minute” call, a switch is flipped; it’s when everyone gets serious. Senses are heightened and you’re ready. The same mindset should be applied when we carry a gun. Holster selection should support our mission to conceal and access a pistol for the most efficient presentation that we’re capable of.

The Mod1 holster component features extra-tall sight channels to accommodate suppressor-height sights. It has a red-dot cut to accept any pistol optic on the market, including the Leupold DeltaPoint series, SIG Sauer Romeo (tested), Trijicon RMR and SRO to name a few. The muzzle is open, which works great for pistols with longer slides, threaded barrels or compensators. C&G’s Dark Wing is included to aid concealment, which pushes against the inside of the belt to keep the pistol tight against the body and reduce printing. (It can also be removed.) Additionally, the Mod1 is held to a 11/2- or 13/4-inch belt by incredibly secure spring-steel belt clips from Discreet Carry Concepts.

The hinge system conforms with your body during movement, and locking retention produces a confidence-inspiring click when the pistol is inserted.

Future options will highlight the modularity of the Mod1. These will likely include a flashlight pouch and knife sheath worn in lieu of a spare mag pouch. 

The Mod1 holster system also comes with my strong recommendation.

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1 Minute Out MOD1 IWB Kydex Holster System

• Materials: Kydex (pouch); polymer (hinge and wing); steel (clip and hardware)
• Carry Type: Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB)
• Retention Type: Level 1; triggerguard locking mold, tension adjustable
• Adjustability: Height (magazine pouch); cant (magazine pouch clip); angle (hinge)
• MSRP: $130
• Handgun Fit: G17/19/43 48X, HK VP9, SIG Sauer P365/P365XL, P320, Walther PDP
• Accessory Rail Accommodations: Lima series avail. for all majors incl. Streamlight TLR7/A, TLR7 Sub
• Positions to Carry: AIWB, right hand (tested); AIWB, left hand (optional)
• Average Time to Attach: 1 min.
• Comfort Rating: 3.5/5
• Concealment Clothing: Untucked t-shirt (minimum)
• Average Draw-to-Fire Time: 1.27 seconds
• Manufacturer: C&G Holsters, 724-858-2856, candgholsters.com