PHLSTER

Standard Enigma: How do I use it?

The Standard Enigma comes to you in pieces so that you can customize your perfect fit. Once you have attached Enigmas faceplate to the Modwing, Raven Wing, or Dark Wing on your holster, you can start trying 2 of the 12 adjustment holes on your faceplate.

Modwing, Dark Wing, and Raven Wing

We encourage new Enigma users to start with R2 and L3 if their waist is under 33 inches or R2 and L2 for those over 33 inches. From there you will want to make your custom adjustment.

Standard Enigma Adjustment Guide

First, you will want to determine what ride height and gun placement is best for you. You can do this by moving your unloaded gun in its holster around on your stomach. The goal with placement is to find the balance between comfort, mobility, and concealment. Everyones body has natural peaks and valleys. Try to avoid putting your gun on a peak, and instead focus on putting it in a valley. For help with this process consider watching our Concealment Sweet Spot video and follow that up with our guide to the Poke and Check Method.

If you need the top of your gun to tuck more, you’ll want to use the top row of holes. If you need more grip tuck, use a larger wing insert or use the holes closest to the grip of your gun. For right handed uses, this will be R3 or R6, for left handed users, L3 or L6 shown the diagram above. 

As you go through the customization process, don’t forget to use your assembly directions and fit guide. Please also visit the Educational Resources drop down menu on our website if you need further adjustment modifications.

Do you need extra holster length?*

*If you’re carrying a longer-muzzled gun or a revolver, adding extra holster length may not be necessary for you, but for short semiautomatic guns, it’s often helpful.

Guns with short muzzles can be top-heavy and difficult to conceal comfortably. To solve this, some holsters have extra length added to the muzzle end. Like the keel on a boat, the extra muzzle length helps balance the holster, making it more comfortable and easier to conceal. This is especially true if you have a bit of a belly, which tends to push the grip out more and make the muzzle dig in.

Note that while extra muzzle length reduces grip printing, it can increase muzzle printing, which can be a concern with lower carry positions and tight fitting pants such as leggings or yoga pants. 

Learn more about the Keel Principle here.