The Skeleton is PHLster's minimalist IWB holster for pistols without a weapon-mounted light. The compact footprint, rounded edges and a smoothed profile makes the Skeleton ideal for users who want exceptional comfort and concealment under any clothing.
ModWing Concealment Claw: Every Skeleton ships with an adjustable ModWing that uses belt pressure to tuck the pistol grip into your body, reducing printing. Two interchangeable inserts (tall and short) let you dial in the amount of grip rotation for your body type and carry position. The ModWing also serves as the mounting interface for the Griphook clip and for Enigma compatibility.
Griphook Belt Clip: The included 1.5" polymer Griphook clip provides secure belt attachment right out of the box. If you prefer spring steel clips, the Skeleton's standard hole spacing accepts a DCC Mod4 clip as an aftermarket upgrade.
Fully Ambidextrous: The Skeleton's symmetrical folded design works for right-handed or left-handed carry. Ships assembled for right-hand use. Reverse the ModWing tip and reposition the Griphook clip to the opposite side — no additional parts needed.
Optics and Accessories: The Skeleton clears slide-mounted red dot optics and suppressor-height sights.
Fixed Retention: The Skeleton uses fixed retention — there are no retention screws to adjust. Retention is set during manufacturing using PHLster's temperature-controlled molding process with matched dies. If retention feels tight out of the box, break it in by repeatedly holstering and drawing; it will settle to a smooth, consistent feel. Aftermarket modifications like frame stippling or aftermarket trigger guards may affect retention.
Engineered for Durability: PHLster uses a meticulously temperature-controlled pressure-forming process with matched molding dies. Unlike holsters made with inconsistent heating that can stress the material, PHLster's process ensures consistent quality, optimal retention, and a holster that holds its shape over years of daily use.
Carry Positions: The Skeleton can be worn AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband) or strong-side IWB. Adjust the Griphook clip position for ride height and cant angle.
What's Included: Skeleton holster shell, 1.5" Griphook belt clip, ModWing with tall and short inserts, and all mounting hardware.
Enigma Compatible: The Skeleton is directly compatible with the Enigma Express (pre-assembled) and the Standard Enigma OS for beltless carry. The Skeleton is the holster included with the Enigma Express — if you want a complete beltless system with everything pre-assembled, the Express is the easiest way to get started.
For improved comfort and concealment, add the Wedge Rx.
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Important: The Skeleton is form-fitted for specific firearm models. You must select the correct gun model when ordering. Each Skeleton fits only the model it is made for, with specific exceptions noted below. The Skeleton does NOT fit guns with weapon-mounted lights or lasers attached.
Compatible Firearms
Select your firearm from the dropdown menu on the product page. Available models include:
Canik
- Canik METE SF
Glock
- Glock 19 (also fits Glock 23/27 Gen 1–4 and Glock 45)
- Glock 26
- Glock 43 / 43X (MOS compatible)
- Glock 48 (MOS compatible)
Heckler & Koch
- HK VP9 / VP9SK / VP9A1K
Sig Sauer
- Sig P365 / P365X
- Sig P365XL
- Sig P365-XMacro (and Macro variants — requires the Macro-specific Skeleton)
- Sig Fuse
Smith & Wesson
- S&W Shield 1.0 / 2.0 (3.1")
- S&W Shield Plus (4" model fits both 4" and 3.1" Shield Plus)
- S&W Shield X (Shield X and Shield X Carry Comp supported)
- S&W Bodyguard 2.0 (Bodyguard 2.0 Carry Comp also supported)
- S&W M&P 2.0 Compact (4")
Springfield
- Springfield Hellcat
- Springfield Hellcat Pro
Taurus
- Taurus GX4
- Taurus GX4 Carry
Walther
- Walther PDP-F (3.5" model ONLY)
Compatibility Notes
- Glock MOS: Glock 43, 43X, and 48 MOS models are compatible.
- Glock 45: Fits the Glock 19 Skeleton.
- Glock 23/27 Gen 1–4: Fit the Glock 19 Skeleton. Gen 5 .40 caliber Glocks are NOT supported.
- Shield Plus 4": Fits both the 4" and 3.1" Shield Plus models.
- Shield 1.0 & 2.0: Does NOT fit .45 caliber models.
- Shield X: Shield X and Shield X Carry Comp are supported. NOT compatible with any other Shield models.
- Bodyguard 2.0: Bodyguard 2.0 Carry Comp is also supported by the Bodyguard 2.0 Skeleton.
- Walther PDP-F: Fits ONLY the 3.5" model — NOT the 4".
- Hellcat: Hellcat Skeleton models do NOT fit Hellcat RDP versions.
- HK: VP9, VP9SK, and VP9A1K are the only supported models. No other HK pistols are compatible.
- Sig P365 Macro: The Macro and all Macro variants require the Macro-specific Skeleton. The Macro features a Picatinny-style rail, unlike the smooth rail on the P365/P365X/P365XL. Do not order the standard P365 Skeleton for a Macro.
- Sig P365 Macro TacOps: Only supported by the Fuse Skeleton — NOT by the standard Macro Skeleton.
- Canik METE SF: Only supports the METE SF. No other Canik models are compatible.
NOT Compatible
- P80, PSA, Shadow Systems, and other Glock analog / clone frames — NOT compatible with Glock Skeleton models
- Sig models with metal frames (factory or aftermarket, including AXG Legion) — NOT compatible
- Guns with weapon-mounted lights or lasers — The Skeleton is for guns without lights. For light-bearing carry, see the Floodlight2
Optics and Sights
- Red dot optics: Compatible
- Suppressor-height sights: Compatible (most models)
- Glock MOS plates: Compatible
- Manual safety: If your supported firearm has a factory manual safety, the holster supports it
Shield Arms R.O.C.
All current production Skeleton models are compatible with the Shield Arms R.O.C.
Not Sure Which Model to Order?
Contact PHLster support — we're happy to help you confirm which Skeleton fits your gun.
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Fixed Retention
The Skeleton uses fixed retention — there are no retention adjustment screws. Retention is set during PHLster's manufacturing process. If the holster feels tight out of the box, this is normal. Break it in by repeatedly holstering and drawing the gun. The retention will settle to a smooth, consistent feel after a short break-in period. Do NOT attempt to heat or reshape the holster to change retention.
Aftermarket parts and modifications — including frame stippling, aftermarket trigger guards, and aftermarket grip modules — can affect how the gun fits in the holster. If you've modified your gun and retention feels significantly different, contact PHLster support.
ModWing Inserts
The Skeleton ships with two ModWing inserts: tall and short. The tall insert provides more aggressive grip tuck — it pushes the grip of the gun harder into your body for maximum concealment. The short insert provides a milder effect. Start with the tall insert for AIWB carry. If the grip tuck feels excessive or uncomfortable, swap to the short insert.
The ModWing is reversible — flip the tip to the opposite side when switching between right-handed and left-handed carry.
Griphook Clip Positioning
The Griphook clip attaches through the ModWing hardware and can be positioned to adjust ride height. A higher position raises the gun relative to your beltline; a lower position sits it deeper. The Skeleton requires a 1.5" belt for the included Griphook clip.
Upgrading Your Clip
The Skeleton's hole spacing is compatible with the DCC Mod4 spring steel clip if you prefer a metal clip with a more aggressive grip on your belt. A Griphook and Hardware Kit is also available as a spare parts set.
Switching Hand Dominance
The Skeleton ships assembled for right-hand use. To switch to left-handed carry, reverse the ModWing tip and move the Griphook clip to the opposite side of the holster. The Skeleton's symmetrical folded design makes this a simple hardware swap.
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What guns does the Skeleton fit?
The Skeleton is form-fitted for specific gun models. You must select your gun from the dropdown menu when ordering. Available models include Glock 19/26/43/43X/48, Sig P365/P365X/P365XL/P365-XMacro/Fuse, S&W Shield/Shield Plus/Shield X/Bodyguard 2.0/M&P 2.0 Compact, Springfield Hellcat/Hellcat Pro, Walther PDP-F 3.5", HK VP9/VP9SK, Canik METE SF, and Taurus GX4/GX4 Carry. See the Compatibility tab for the full list and important notes about specific models.
Can I use a P80 or Shadow Systems frame with a Glock Skeleton?
No. P80, PSA, Shadow Systems, and other Glock analog or clone frames are NOT compatible with PHLster Glock holsters. Only factory Glock frames are supported.
Does the Skeleton fit my Sig with a metal frame?
No. Sig models with factory or aftermarket metal frames — including the P365-AXG Legion — are NOT compatible with the Skeleton.
I have a P365 Macro. Which Skeleton do I order?
Order the Macro-specific Skeleton. The P365 Macro has a Picatinny-style rail that is different from the smooth rail on the standard P365/P365X/P365XL. The standard P365 Skeleton will NOT fit the Macro. If you have a P365 Macro TacOps, that model is only supported by the Fuse Skeleton.
Does the Skeleton fit the Hellcat RDP?
No. The Hellcat Skeleton does NOT fit Hellcat RDP versions. Only the standard Hellcat and Hellcat Pro are supported.
Does the Skeleton fit the Walther PDP-F 4"?
No. The PDP-F Skeleton fits ONLY the 3.5" model. The 4" PDP-F is NOT compatible.
Can I adjust the retention?
No. The Skeleton uses fixed retention — there are no retention screws. Retention is set during manufacturing. If the holster feels tight out of the box, break it in by repeatedly holstering and drawing. The retention will smooth out with use. Do not attempt to heat or reshape the holster.
Is the Skeleton compatible with red dot optics?
Yes. The Skeleton is designed to clear slide-mounted red dot sights, suppressor-height sights, and Glock MOS plates. The top of the holster creates a tall tunnel with room for optic housings and tall front sights.
Can I use the Skeleton with my Enigma?
Yes. The Skeleton is directly compatible with both the Enigma Express and the Standard Enigma OS. The Skeleton is the holster that comes pre-installed on the Enigma Express. If you want a complete beltless carry system with everything pre-assembled and ready to wear, the Enigma Express is the easiest option.
What's the difference between the Skeleton and the Pro?
The Skeleton is a minimalist holster with no added muzzle length — the holster ends where the gun ends. It's the most compact option and is ideal for users who are sensitive to holster length. The Pro holster has a built-in wedge, extra muzzle length for the keel effect, and rounded surfaces designed to address common ergonomic challenges during extended seated wear. If your gun is short-barreled and tends to dig in when you sit, or you want a built-in wedge, the Pro may be more comfortable. If you want the smallest possible holster footprint, choose the Skeleton.
Can I carry the Skeleton strong-side IWB?
Yes. The Skeleton can be worn AIWB or strong-side IWB. Adjust the Griphook clip position and ModWing insert height for your preferred carry position.
Is the Skeleton ambidextrous?
Yes. The Skeleton's symmetrical folded design works for right-handed or left-handed carry. Ships assembled for right-hand use. Reverse the ModWing tip and move the Griphook clip to the opposite side — no additional parts needed.
Can I use a DCC Mod4 clip instead of the Griphook?
Yes. The Skeleton's hole spacing accepts a DCC Mod4 spring steel clip as an aftermarket upgrade. The DCC Mod4 provides a more aggressive grip on the belt and a lower profile than the polymer Griphook.
My gun has a factory manual safety. Does the Skeleton support it?
Yes. If your supported firearm has a factory manual safety, the Skeleton is designed to accommodate it.
What should I do to improve comfort?
Most people benefit from adding a Wedge Rx to the back of the holster. Wedges push the muzzle end away from your body and the grip closer in, improving both comfort and concealment. Try the tall ModWing insert first for better grip tuck, and experiment with clip positioning for the ideal ride height. PHLster's website has detailed wedge placement guides and instructional videos.
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PHLster Lifetime Warranty
All PHLster Kydex products are covered by a Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
- Coverage: Warranty covers manufacturing defects including cracks, warping, and hardware failure under normal use.
- Not Covered: Normal wear, cosmetic damage, modifications, or damage caused by misuse.
- 30-Day Returns: If you're not satisfied, return your product within 30 days of delivery for a full refund.
- Support: Contact us at phlsterholsters.com/support for warranty claims or questions.
