When I started carrying and trying various holsters and setups, one product that kept being mentioned to me was the PHLster Enigma. I finally purchased the Enigma a couple years into my concealed carry journey. I wish I had purchased it much earlier, as it quickly became my go-to setup.
The PHLster Enigma is a concealed carry system that allows the firearm to be carried without reliance on a belt. This is a game-changer because it opens up an entirely new way to think about what you can wear while carrying. The Enigma can be worn with athletic wear, sweatpants, scrubs, dresses, shorts, and other beltless clothing. It also offers great concealment with jeans or other pants with which you might traditionally still wear a belt, but it frees you from dependence on the belt for carrying purposes. This means you can tuck your shirt in or choose to completely ditch the belt if that’s what your outfit calls for
I currently carry a Sig P365X, and the PHLster Enigma has given me the most flexibility and comfort with concealment. While it has a learning curve, I believe it’s one of the best concealment setups on the market and can be a staple in everyone’s closet.
What Is the PHLster Enigma?
Unlike traditional holsters and other beltless carry setups, the PHLster Enigma uses a faceplate, adjustable belt, and leg leash to carry and anchor the firearm directly on the body. PHLster offers the Enigma Express and Enigma Light Bearing Express, which are pre-assembled for you, right out of the box. If the Express line does not work with your firearm, then the Enigma OS Standard and Light Bearing may be good options for you. These allow you to use your own compatible holster with the system. Compatible holsters can be found here: How to Find an Enigma Compatible Holster for the Standard Enigma OS.
Depending on where on the body you want to carry, the adjustable belt allows you to expand or decrease belt length, while the adjustable leg leash anchors the belt to your body to ensure a smooth and safe draw. PHLster also offers a Sport Belt, an optional accessory that replaces the standard belt with a wider elastic panel for comfort and has integrated pockets for extra storage. Other accessories include wedges and wings. Using these items to tailor the setup to your unique fit can offer improved concealability and increased comfort.
The Enigma does come with a learning curve, but PHLster works hard to provide education and easy-to-follow tutorials. I currently use the Enigma Express with a Sport Belt. The Sport Belt was simple to install and the Express required little setup. PHLster offers a variety of tutorials and setup videos that can help ensure everything is put together properly. They also offer videos and tune-up classes that can help you figure out the best placement of the system for your body and achieve the best concealment possible.
What's New in the V2?
When you order the Enigma, you’ll receive their V2, which was released in 2025 as a replacement for the original V1. If you currently have a V1, there are a few changes and upgrades to note if you’re considering purchasing the V2.
First, the V2 features a molded polymer faceplate with smoother edges that should feel more comfortable against the body during all-day wear when compared to the Tegris faceplate on the V1. The texture on the V2 also grips clothes better which can allow for less slippage and better concealment. I haven’t noticed much of a difference in comfort regarding the faceplate between the two models (I found the V1 to be quite comfortable), but I have noticed better concealment with the V2.
Second, the leg leash, which keeps the Enigma anchored to your body and aids in concealment, has been improved. The V1 leg leash had a single point leg leash that many users often modified or replaced for added comfort. The new V2 leg leash has an added elastic section and softer webbing for added comfort and comes with a quick adjust buckle system for easier adjustment. Additionally, the V2 offers a two point leg leash option. Personally, the V2 leg leash is noticeably more comfortable and easier to adjust.
The final noticeable difference between the V1 and V2 is the adjustable belt. While the V1 belt wasn’t necessarily uncomfortable, the V2 webbing is softer and doesn’t seem to dig into skin as much. The belt material may not be a make or break when deciding to upgrade to the V2, but its additional comfort is something to note.
Overall, the general shape and geometry of the two models remain the same. The V2 wasn’t a redesign of the Enigma, rather, it is simply a refinement. Parts from V1 that users frequently modified, such as the leg leash, were noted by PHLster and refined accordingly. If you currently have the V1, there is no urgent need or rush to purchase the V2; however, if you’re seeking added comfort and don’t mind purchasing a second Enigma, the V2 is worth the money.
Concealment Performance
The Enigma offers high concealment capability with a variety of clothes and dressing styles. The adjustable belt and leg leash work together to allow users to practice deep concealment while enjoying more clothing options (such as shorts with shorter tops). Additionally, the curved faceplate reduces printing which means you may be able to wear tighter clothes than what you’d normally be able to wear when using traditional holsters.
The Enigma is durable and has a high degree of retention which allows for great performance with athletic wear and when running or working out. It’s comfortable to train in, and I’ve never had to worry about my firearm when running with my Enigma. The Enigma is also comfortable to wear during martial arts and self-defense training, which gives me confidence that it can perform well in real-life scenarios.
Daily Wear Outfits
From a comfort standpoint, the Enigma takes some getting used to, but after getting everything adjusted and learning how the system works with your body it can be the most comfortable setup you’ll own. After trying several different beltless carry options, I’ve found the Enigma to have the most comfort with the best concealment. I’m able to comfortably and securely complete routine daily tasks, including running, sitting, and bending with the Enigma. After a long day, just like any holster or carry setup, you may still be ready to take it off. However, after trying several of the carry options on the market, I’ve found the Enigma to be a system I can wear for an entire day while enjoying the highest level of comfort available. As I mentioned before, PHLster sells a variety of accessories that can help with comfort and concealment, such as their Sport Bands and Wedges, so even if it’s not perfect for you right out of the box, it is easily tunable to your body and your style.
Final Verdict
I highly recommend the Enigma, and I’ve actually encouraged several of my students and followers to purchase it. It offers high concealment performance with comfort, durability, and flexibility. The learning curve is part of the process, but PHLster’s high-quality videos and tutorials make the learning process easier. The product is worth the learning curve, and the Enigma will likely become a go-to option for you just like it did for me.
