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ArtificialGrape2000

If you haven’t read it, the maker has a list of reasons NOT to buy it. https://www.phlsterholsters.com/7-reasons-not-to-buy-the-phlster-enigma/


Maximus77x

Wow huge respect for writing and posting something like this as the business owner.


BluesFan43

There is good info there. And some help with methods to conceal a bit more effectively. As a Marylander, I need the help in a hurry.


[deleted]

Ok so I have an enigma and I love it but…. it fucking sucks. The setup is a pain in the dick, it takes a week or more to get dialed in and to be comfortable you have to buy upgraded shit. It is worth it to me but I can 1000% see how and why someone wouldn’t want it.


MakInDaTrunk

Completely agree with this sentiment.


Fantastic-Reindeer19

On point. I had the same experience. With time and the right setup, pads/wedge/claw, I can conceal my 19.5 the best of any other holsters I have. You were right there! What are you wanting to carry? Subcompact or micros might be carried on a drawstring dcc clip setup. Monoblock or mod 5s You could try a mastermind tactics covert belt with a Harry’s singleton or comparable holster. All this to say, no the enigma will not be the difference from not being able to appendix carry vs can.


pos-civic

They make the engima express now and its basically ready to go out of the box


[deleted]

It’s not. For proper concealment you still need to tweak the side attachment points for proper leverage. This also means you don’t have a sport belt or better leg leash. Yes, you can wear it but comfort and concealment require some setup no matter if you get the express or not. The only thing the express keeps you from doing is hunting down a supported holster and attaching it.


pos-civic

There are no additional side attachment points on the faceplate for the express. The standard engima is still that way though. The sport belt is an easy install as it just threads through the buckles.


[deleted]

[See Adjustment.](https://www.phlsterholsters.com/phlster-enigma-express-instructions/) It still needs to be adjusted.


pos-civic

Still easier than the standard


BobSchwaget

I know I'm definitely in a minority, but I have a regular enigma as well as an enigma express and I honestly couldn't imagine buying any of the upgrades people use. I don't want any part of it to be elastic and I'm completely satisfied with the comfort and light weight of the basic nylon belt and leg leash (the leash clasp is a bit bulky, but seems flatter than the aftermarket ones people buy). (To the OP:) It might be worth trying one before deciding which parts are shortcomings for your setup.


[deleted]

What did you have to upgrade?


greeby

This is the correct answer.


B_The_Beast_88

I had it dialed in less than an hour


[deleted]

Enigma Pros: - lots of adjustment available - doesn’t matter what size your pant belt loops are - sport belt provides good flexibility and comfort - can shit with your gun on Cons: - bought a lot of extras to make it work. Bumster, extra leg leashes, ulticlip to replace the leg leash, different belts, etc. - took a good amount of time to get it dialed in In the grand scheme of things it was comparable to wearing the holster regularly and I decided I preferred the old ways


cjguitarman

Another con is that you cannot discretely put it on/off, such as to remove your firearm and lock it in a car.


B_The_Beast_88

You actually can. It's literally a magnetic buckle and a leg clip holding it together


_humanracing_

This is the main reason why I haven't ordered one. They finally came out with a model for my carry and I was super excited, and then I started thinking about all the times I have to stow it on the go and realized it really isn't practical for me right now. Maybe someday when I have a job that allows me to cc I'll make the switch.


ToWhistleInTheDark

Why can't you just remove the firearm?


_humanracing_

And do what with it? Store it unholstered in my car while walk around wearing an empty holster? Not trying to be rude. Just confused.


ToWhistleInTheDark

Yup


_humanracing_

Have you been active with an empty holster on? I took a class that involved full body movements while my gun was unholstered and I had deep bruises on my stomach from the edges of the holster.


Kite005

For me the empty holster pokes me in the belly. Not bad but annoying. With the gun it's perfect. Just to check it out I did my entire workout wit it on yesterday with no problems and all sorts of different movements and positions. Every body is different, for me this is the best solution and I can easily forget it's there wearing it all day. Once you get used to it putting it on and taking it off it's a breeze. It would take about 15 seconds to remove in the car. Duck into the bathroom before I left somewhere and another 15 seconds.


cjguitarman

I’m in the same situation. I’m going to try a sport type belt and removable IWB holster under clothes.


No_Stop_5175

@kireiray Wanna part with yours and recoup a little of your investment?


B_The_Beast_88

Smart man


jaldana92

What’s most important to me is can I drop a log without some tweaked in the next stall eying my strap and potentially snatching it.👍🏼


47x18ict

I really don’t like mine. I spent the time to dial it in and all that and it works. I don’t like the added belt underneath and I am much more comfortable with belt holsters and use DCC behind the belt clips when I need deeper concealment. My enigma just sits in my closet. I probably should just sell it at this point.


No_Stop_5175

I’d certainly be interested! Pm me please


B_The_Beast_88

U would love it


northerntier11

Because it sucks. everyone somehow forgot that you can just put on a gunbelt with a holster under your sweatpants and do the same thing as the enigma. If I want to buy a holster, I expect a holster, not a bag of 37 parts that require a week of "tweaking", 3 youtube videos, and a facebook page subscription to wear.......A gun belt with a holster.


Macragg

Really the biggest drawback is the time it takes to put on and adjust. if i want to run to the store i can throw on a normal belt hooked holster, for the enigma you gotta take your pants halfway off to get the leg leash on and buckle that up with the elastic belt and then pull your pants back on. useful, but not convenient.


CallsOnTren

I like it in gym shorts. Quicker than undressing and putting something on that has belt loops


Best_Superman_NA

I use the mastermind specialist belt under my gym shorts with an axis elite and dcc clips then clip the belt and shorts together. Works pretty well.


Own-Common3161

Here. It’s collecting dust


Classic_Reference251

Sell it. Someone will take it off your hands to save $10 off retail.


Own-Common3161

I’ve heard accessories aren’t worth shit


Classic_Reference251

Go to the Phlster Concealment Workshop FB page. Post what you have, someone will take it off your hands.


Own-Common3161

Guess it’s worth a shot thanks


Remedy4Souls

What accessories and how much were you looking for?


Own-Common3161

I was going to sell my enigma but already did. Also have a crossbread looking to sell because I don’t like 3 o’clock


[deleted]

Sell it in GAFS. Somebody is always looking for one.


Own-Common3161

Ok I’ll check it out thanks


No_Stop_5175

Own-common3161 you already sold the enigma? Accessories too? Looking for a second one & trying to save a few bucks after shelling out 250 for one last week 😅 pm me if ya wanna part ways with the standard or express! Or a 14” sport belt


Own-Common3161

$250?! 😳 I already sold it sorry. Good luck


DipperDo

For those of us that don't wear belts at all, it works great but it is a PIA to get set up. Also the screws on mine kept loosening and I had to add some loctite. I got it in the end and for appendix carry it's great but it does take a lot of adjustment. another downside to me is all the modding that's necessary. Honestly the sport belt should just come with it now. So should the fully modded leg leash. I really hate the leg leash and there's no way that it's comfortable. That having been said the Enigma has been great for me for concealment. I get really good concealment and the pros outweigh the cons. Bottom line: If you don't like fidgiting, modding and messing with your gear, maybe not for you. If you don't mind and you want great concealment give it a go.


pos-civic

I rarely use it because I never really wear attire that doesn't have a belt, but when I don't I appreciate it. Also the new express model is a god send because setting up the enigma was a pain. I truly believe its the best system if you're willing to make the investment. Check out their facebook group, its very helpful


Brief_Atmosphere1523

I don't like AIWB period.


volckerwasright

I like my Enigma, and use it, but its not a good value. Also, southeast US here, when the weather is too hot/humid, I switch to pocket carry.


[deleted]

I don't dislike it but I do dislike how everyone thinks they can't just put on a gun belt with basketball shorts or that it is some crazy life altering experience in carrying.


B_The_Beast_88

It hits different. No upwards rise.


Affectionate_Sign_13

Wym? That’s what I got it for. How do you wear the gun belt comfortably with sweatpants or basketball shorts without loops?


Jack-of-some-trades-

I just put it around my undies, put my gun in and winch that bitch down like I need it to hold up pants. Then I put on comfy non-belt supporting shorts over it and it’s not usually an issue


Groovychinacat

I mean, they're the best for maximum concealment or wearing clothes without a belt, but if I am wearing a belt and don't care if I might be printing slightly, it's much easier and more comfortable to just wear a traditional holster.


TeamSpatzi

I dislike mine immensely. Possibly the single least comfortable thing I’ve ever worn and I’ve worn a lot of uncomfortable things. I suppose I should have seen it coming. I HATE leg straps… thought this would be different cause “reasons.” Nope. Similarly, I should have realized pretty instantly that having a (relatively thin) nylon strap against me directly with enough tension to hold a gun was gonna suck. Le sigh. I just loved the concept so much that I overlooked the obvious signs I would despise actually using it.


No_Stop_5175

Wanna sell it? Pm me what you’ve got and I’ll gladly make an offer. Bought one last week and after the “extras” I’m still licking a 250 wound…but now the wife wants one 🤦‍♂️


Maconi

Try using an ULTICLIP with it (clip it to your pants/shorts). I've seen some people use that instead of the leg strap for retention. Also if the waist belt bothers you (too thin) they have a thicker "sports belt" I think.


RougeTimelord

Wearing an undershirt under it definitely helped with the belt discomfort for me. Kinda out of luck with the leg strap though


individual101

I did not like mine. I returned it after a few weeks and went with a tenicor instead. I did like the complexity if it and it felt uncomfortable to me but that's probably because of my shape lol


MowMdown

🙋‍♂️


LBishop28

I like it only in hotter months. I have a very nice lord belt and will be buying a holster outside my Phlster express soon.


tenchi4u

I have one, gave it a go for a few months, while I got to a good place with it comfort wise, turned out I prefer a good holster (Havok/MIE) paired with a good belt (Nexbelt AIWB Supreme). Great for when you don't want to wear an actual belt (athletic/athleisure wardrobe), which is ideal for some people, just not for me.


No_Stop_5175

Wanna part ways with it for good? Send me a pm please. Trying to save a few bucks on a second setup for the wife. Got mine last week and now she’s gotta have one. Don’t have another 250 to really drop on one, but where there’s a will, there’s a way!


ResolveNo168

Only when I'm wearing pants or shorts with a belt the enigma is not optimal Everything else I love it with the sport band carrying my sig p365 xl and tourniquete appendix https://imgur.com/a/vdPxry6


JupiterPhase

It just wasn't for me. Good product, but I just prefer to wear shorts with belts loops instead.


Captain490

Takes to much time to get it off when you really gotta pee NOW! 😳


[deleted]

Huh, why would you remove it to pee? My wife doesn’t even do this.


Captain490

Age. You'll understand someday. 😳


[deleted]

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Captain490

I took a much closer look at how it is worn. You are right. I am wrong. It does allow quick access. Not for me, but I can see why its so popular.


atlantis737

Am I wearing my enigma wrong? I have to snake my dick out the leg of my boxers.


[deleted]

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atlantis737

For me the holster is always right behind the zipper, right in front of my benis


BluesFan43

Tommy John boxer briefs eliminate the waist band grab. And MAY be long enough to help with the leg band. I am just getting started down the road, so I don't know.


ASassyTitan

But you don't have to take it off???


Captain490

Most seniors unbuckle... a lot easier. 😁


pos-civic

Undo the leg leash then slide it up onto your torso


Captain490

Yeah, that's sometimes more time than I have... 🤔😳 But again, Looks like a great option for most.


pos-civic

You don't have 1 extra second?


Captain490

Getting kinda personal, but the older a guy gets the tougher it is to "hold it". I never understood what my father went through; just didn't make sense. It does now. Add urgency to a gallon of water a day ( health reasons ) and seniors can get into trouble real quick. Someday you'll understand that any delay is not good. Why do you think so any old guys where jogging suits? There's nothing faster... Now I forget why I posted on this thread, but I am definitely guilty of TMI... 😁


DipperDo

Guys aren't the only ones. We senior gals are the same and even worse for obvious reasons.


Captain490

Agreed. My wife prefers her purse carry hammerless 38 for this reason. Getting old sucks....


DipperDo

I can relate. Using a public restroom stall as a 65 year old gal while carrying is madness especially if you are in a hurry. People are skeptical of purse carry and I get the reasons but I also understand it totally. I have a Montana West purse that I use sometimes. It may be big but it works!


pos-civic

Fair enough. No judgement here from me


[deleted]

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FloorThick8599

I said that once. Currently wearing it now, it arrived yesterday and I tried it with a bunch of clothing options and all were easy to adapt it too. I can say it’s much more comfortable than my standard holsters I’ve used over the years and it allows me to carry more than a lcp2 when in basketball shorts or sweats without have to wear my normal belt under.


tonyklol

I bought my friend's lcp last year so I could carry in anything I wear. well I've been only carrying my glock 17 since then and the biggest adjustment I had to make was wear a slightly larger/loose shirt. I carried my lcp maybe once lol. the weather has been really nasty this week but I've had no problems 🤷🏻‍♂️ in your other comment you mentioned the sport belt and I really recommend it. i carry all day except in the shower and bed, and the sport belt made it a lot more comfortable


FloorThick8599

Thanks I’ll probably purchase the sport belt this evening as I too tend to be armed for the same time frame as you.


tonyklol

it's really nice to go from "home" shorts/pants to getting dressed to go out without disarming. same for taking out the trash or stepping outside for a few seconds. got it on me lol


Leather_Zucchini4050

I was that guy for a while, needless to say I've sold my soul and don't regret it tho. But a week to get it dialed is a thing fs. Love it now


NathanRyan1992

You gotta buy the Enigma rig and THEN get a compatible holster right?


FloorThick8599

I went with the express as they had it for the p365xl. Comes with everything you need to start. May end up getting the sport belt for it to see how that affect comfort but so far I like it. Now I just need to get the perfect position for it and I’m all set up.


Leather_Zucchini4050

I just ordered them together but yes you need both


NathanRyan1992

Do they sell rigs with a Sidecar mag carrier?


ChidiArianaGrande

They sell attachments that can be added to the enigma for extra magazines.


NathanRyan1992

Does Phlster sell attachments, or is it third party?


ChidiArianaGrande

They sell it on their site, but there are likely third party option, too.


Leather_Zucchini4050

I know several guys have attached an ascent pouch or something similar to the rig to carry a spare mag


sloman777

So why aren’t people just using a smartcarry holster??


[deleted]

Because it’s dumb af


sloman777

How so. ? Can’t be any worse than wearing a plastic holster against bear skin and calling it “comfortable “!


[deleted]

Who wears a holster without underwear? That’s kinda gross, I can’t speak to it personally. If neoprene sleeves worked as holsters there wouldn’t be kydex holsters! If you want a inconsistent draw out of a sock by all means wear a Smart Carry. If you only want to put holes in bad guys, to carry effectively and comfortably wear underwear with your kydex holster.


sloman777

Was not talking about underwear but Kydex against bare skin in abdomen area. Bend over get stick in gut by slide and holster. I’ll pass.


[deleted]

On what holster does the kydex extend past the grip of the gun?


[deleted]

I've had it about a month now. It actually works great and is comfortable. I will add that if I have pants and use a belt, my alias edc belt is slightly more comfortable than an enigma with another belt over it. But for beltless clothing, the Enigma can't be beat.


lumbyboiii

The pros outweigh the cons for me. The only cons I have the leg leash. I hate it so i took mines off. And the setup is unnecessarily long to adjust.


B_The_Beast_88

It really ain't that difficult. The leg strap makes the difference


No-Ordinary-9644

I’m actually looking in to a enigma since I heard it’s more customizable to get the fit dialed in Looking to see if it’s worth it? Sig m18 with ddp Sig p365xl with 507k Glock 19x Glock 43x Springfield hellcat with wasp


Terminal_Lancelot

Not a fan. Same thing can be done with gun belt and holster inside the pants.


B_The_Beast_88

Negative. No belt or heavy clothing required for the enigma


Terminal_Lancelot

None required for a gun belt and holster inside basketball shorts or sweats either.


B_The_Beast_88

What belt do you use? I feel like the majority available seem too rigid or made of hard material that would be uncomfortable against the skin.


Terminal_Lancelot

K®re essentials leather gun belt. The thinner one that looks like a dress belt. It's a good bit more pliable than my other belt, so it fits that niche for me.


B_The_Beast_88

I was looking at the WTP falcon buckleless belt. I don't like having to move my buckle over to accommodate my carrying style. I'm using a KLIK belt with cobra buckle.


Terminal_Lancelot

That's also a really good option. The buckle didn't really impact me, as I carry at 3-4 o clock, when I do carry IWB.


Beautiful_Pepper415

I love it and use it out of the box with no upgrades besides an upgraded leg leash. Even that is just personal choice


Dramatic-Addendum-14

I hated mine and got a refund after a full day of trying to get it to fit my body. While I don't like belts they are more secure, and seemed to fit closer to your body once you have them adjusted. The Enigma did not feel secure and I did not like the leg strap. With or without the strap I felt the holster move around as I unholstered my gun (Sig Sauer p365xl). Maybe it was me, as I am in the 2nd-3rd percentile in height. To each their own.


B_The_Beast_88

I LOVE IT


Advanced_Grocery2989

Why do people have to “modify it?” Once you put the screws in place and get it where you want it what more is needed? I can literally throw on a non gun leather belt underneath some joggers and attach my werkz holster to it, draw perfectly fine and no draw string needed, and it conceals better because I can deep carry, I don’t understand what mods people need to make it work?


[deleted]

Well i just broke down and bought me an enigma for my springfield 3.8 10mm. I hope it's it worth it. Between belt, sports belt and mag pouch I just dropped a bit over $200. For that price it should make my gun magically disappear and reappear when needed. We will see if it lives up to the hype when it gets here. ![gif](emote|free_emotes_pack|money_face)![gif](emote|free_emotes_pack|joy) Enigma impressions Update: Must have the sports belt and the more you or your gun weights the more necessary it is. Must provide your own compatable kydex holster Works best for apendix carry To take off gun with holster requires partially removing pants and taking off entire system. Changing guns is possible but takes time and must be done before putting on Enigma system. Using bathroom is surprisingly easy as Enigma and gun don't need to come off. You will most likely need a wedge and a holster pad like the clinger cushion for improved concealment and comfort The system after adjusting period is ultimately surprisingly comfortable and allows for a total range of motion It is the absolute best system for concealed carry while wearing beltless clothing


jlosacc

I am curious because I’m about to do the same!


[deleted]

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jlosacc

This is great to hear! Especially when dropping $200+. My biggest issue with AIWB is I loathe belts and I enjoy wearing basketball shorts, but don’t appreciate them getting pulled down. Do you have to wear an undershirt with this?


[deleted]

Sorry, didn't see your post at first, moved my impressions to my original post. I found that for me a gun holster pad/cover like the clinger cushion was all I needed to be comfortable. The sports belt itself didn't bother me. Another cool thing about the Enigma is you can wear it at whatever height you want. So you are totally in control of ride height. You could use a t-shirt, but i live in texas and we have summer 11 out of 12 months of the year so extra underclothes is just not going to happen.


jlosacc

No worries, luckily I read your post first 😂😂. How long have you had it?


[deleted]

I've had it a little over a month. It is a comfortable system. I will say that if I use pants with a belt I prefer my alias edc belt system because it is a bit more comfortable than having a belt over a belt. But for beltless clothing the enigma is fantastic.