Quick answer
The Side by Side light compatible holster is a dedicated appendix carry system with a built-in magazine carrier, made from .093'' Kydex and molded for your specific weapon light. It is best for appendix carriers who want a spare magazine on board and a light bearing setup, and it is not for strongside carry or for anyone who wants a minimal single piece holster. If you want maximum concealment without a spare magazine, a low profile design like the Garage Sale Low Pro may suit you better.
Low Pro
What the Side by Side holster is and how it carries
The Side by Side, also called the SBS, is an appendix carry holster with a built-in magazine carrier. That means your pistol and a spare magazine ride together in one unit, which can simplify your draw and reload process. It is made from .093'' Kydex and is molded to work with the weapon light of your choosing. Because it is a light compatible holster, the holster body is shaped around the light, not just the pistol, so the light becomes part of the fit equation.
Why light bearing holster fit is different
A light bearing holster indexes on the light or on the pistol and light together, so the exact light model matters as much as the pistol model. The Side by Side is molded for your chosen light, which means you need to select the correct light option when ordering. If you change lights later, the holster may not fit. Retention also depends on the holster being molded for that specific light and pistol combination. This is why a light bearing holster buying guide should always start with your exact light model, not just your pistol model.
How to choose the right light compatible holster for your setup
Start by confirming your pistol and light combination. The Side by Side is molded for the weapon light of your choosing, so you need to know your light model before you order. Next, decide whether you want a built-in magazine carrier. The SBS includes one, which adds bulk but gives you a spare magazine at your fingertips. If you prefer a slimmer profile, a separate magazine carrier or a holster without one may be better. Finally, consider your carry position. The SBS is a dedicated appendix carry holster, so it is designed to be worn in front of the hip. If you carry strongside or behind the hip, this holster is not the right shape for you.
Retention and safety with a light bearing holster
Retention in a light bearing holster comes from the molded fit around the light and pistol. The Side by Side is made from .093'' Kydex, which is a rigid material that holds its shape. That rigidity helps with consistent retention, but it also means the holster will not flex to fit a different light or pistol. Always check that your pistol locks in securely and that the light does not interfere with holstering. If you are new to light bearing holsters, practice drawing and reholstering with an unloaded pistol until you are comfortable.
Comparing the Side by Side to a low profile option
The Garage Sale Low Pro is a different approach. It is described as the most concealable of the IWB holsters made by this maker, with two points of retention and a modwing claw attachment that pushes against your belt to minimize imprint. It accommodates optics, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels. If your priority is hiding the pistol with minimal bulk and you do not need a built-in magazine carrier, the Low Pro may be a better fit. The Side by Side, by contrast, adds the magazine carrier and is built for appendix carry with a light. Your choice depends on whether you value a spare magazine on board or the smallest possible footprint.
Decision rules for the Side by Side light compatible holster
- Carry position: The Side by Side is a dedicated appendix carry holster. If you carry appendix, it is designed for you. If you carry strongside or behind the hip, choose a different holster shape. Appendix only.
- Light model: The holster is molded for your specific weapon light. You must know your light model before ordering. If you might change lights, plan for a new holster. Match your exact light.
- Magazine carry: The built-in magazine carrier is a core feature. If you do not want to carry a spare magazine on the holster, this design adds unnecessary bulk. Only choose it if you want the spare mag on board.
- Concealment priority: If your top priority is the smallest possible imprint and you do not need a built-in mag carrier, the Low Pro design is more concealable and includes a modwing claw. For maximum concealment, consider the Low Pro instead.
Product facts
- Side by Side - Light Compatible: The Side By Side is a dedicated appendix carry holster with a built-in mag carrier, made from .093'' Kydex and molded for the weapon light of your choosing. This tells you the holster is purpose-built for appendix carry and requires you to match your exact light model when ordering.
- Garage Sale Low Pro - Light Compatible - Springfield Echelon w/ Surefire x300: The Garage Sale Low Pro is the most concealable IWB holster design from this maker, with two points of retention and a modwing claw attachment that pushes against your belt to minimize imprint. It accommodates optics, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels. If maximum concealment and optic compatibility matter more than a built-in magazine carrier, this is the alternative to consider.
Who should choose the Side by Side light compatible holster
Best for
- Appendix carry users who want a light bearing holster with a built-in spare magazine
- Shooters who have a fixed weapon light model and want a molded fit for that light
- Those who prefer a rigid .093'' Kydex holster for consistent retention
Not for
- Strongside or behind the hip carriers
- Anyone who wants a minimal holster without a magazine carrier
- Users who change weapon lights often or are unsure of their light model
