Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite Review
The premium sidecar holster with shock-cord flex technology for comfortable gun + magazine appendix carry.
Overall Rating
MSRP
Test Period
Recommended
Quick Take
The Tier 1 Axis Elite perfects the sidecar concept with its shock-cord flex system that allows independent movement between gun and magazine. After 3 months of testing, this proved to be the most comfortable sidecar design we've used, though the higher price reflects the premium build quality.
Contents
The Sidecar Concept Done Right
The Axis Elite represents Tier 1 Concealed's flagship sidecar holster, combining gun and spare magazine carry in one integrated unit. What sets it apart is the shock-cord connection that allows the two halves to move independently, solving the biggest complaint about rigid sidecar designs.
Key Features
- Shock-Cord Flex: Independent movement between gun and magazine
- Concealment Ridge: Built-in wedge for grip rotation
- Slim Profile: Minimal bulk despite dual components
- Premium Materials: USA-made Kydex and components
Revolutionary Shock-Cord Flex System
Traditional sidecar holsters are rigid, creating pressure points and limiting movement. The Axis Elite's shock-cord system connects the gun and magazine sides with flexible cord, allowing them to conform independently to your body's contours.
Benefits of Flex System
- • Eliminates pressure points
- • Better conformity to body shape
- • Improved comfort when sitting
- • Natural movement when bending
- • Reduced printing
Design Details
- • Military-grade shock cord
- • Adjustable tension
- • Field-replaceable if needed
- • Maintains alignment
- • Silent operation
Real-World Impact
During our testing, the flex system made extended carry sessions noticeably more comfortable. The ability to sit, drive, and move naturally without the rigid "plank" feeling of traditional sidecars is a game-changer for all-day carry.
3-Month Testing Results
Test Configuration
We tested with a Glock 19 and 15-round spare magazine. The holster was worn daily for 3 months, including office work, driving, physical activity, and formal occasions.
Performance Metrics
Concealment
• Excellent under untucked shirts
• Good with proper cover garment
• Wider footprint than single holster
• Concealment ridge helps significantly
Comfort
• Superior to rigid sidecars
• 8+ hour sessions comfortable
• Excellent when seated
• No hot spots or pressure points
Access & Draw
• Gun draw: 1.3s average
• Magazine access: Excellent
• Consistent presentation
• No interference between components
Durability
• Kydex: Perfect condition
• Shock cord: No stretching
• Hardware: Tight and secure
• Finish: Minimal wear
Magazine Carrier Performance
The integrated magazine carrier deserves special mention. Retention is adjustable and stayed perfect throughout testing. The angle and height are optimized for quick reloads while maintaining concealment. This integration is far superior to carrying a separate magazine pouch.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Shock-cord flex for superior comfort
- Gun + spare magazine in one unit
- Built-in concealment ridge
- Slim profile despite dual function
- Premium USA-made construction
- Excellent customer service
- Wide gun model selection
Cons
- Higher price than single holsters
- Wider footprint to conceal
- 3-4 week lead times
- Not ideal for smaller body frames
- Limited color/pattern options
Sidecar vs Separate Components
| Aspect | Axis Elite Sidecar | Separate Holster + Mag |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | One unit to position | Two items to adjust |
| Consistency | Always same position | Can shift independently |
| Concealment | Wider but flatter profile | Two separate bulges |
| Flexibility | Fixed configuration | Can adjust positions |
| Cost | $140 total | $100-150+ combined |
Final Verdict
Recommended
The Tier 1 Axis Elite is the best sidecar holster we've tested. The shock-cord flex system solves the comfort issues of rigid designs while maintaining all the benefits of integrated carry. If you want gun + magazine in one premium package, this is the gold standard.
Who Should Buy This
- • Those who want gun + magazine together
- • AIWB carriers seeking maximum capability
- • Users with medium to large frames
- • Quality-focused buyers
- • Those who value American-made products
Who Should Skip This
- • Smaller-framed individuals
- • Those who prefer modular setups
- • Budget-conscious buyers
- • Users who don't carry spare magazines
- • Those needing immediate shipping
Get the Tier 1 Axis Elite
Ready for the ultimate sidecar holster? Order your Axis Elite directly from Tier 1 Concealed.
*3-4 week lead time for custom orders