Tenicor Velo4 Vs. Certum3: A Concealed Carry Showdown

I’ve spent years searching for the perfect holster, testing countless designs while carrying my Glock 19 and Sig P365 XL.

As a concealed carry enthusiast, I know the struggle of balancing comfort, concealment, and accessibility.

 That’s why I’m excited to compare the Tenicor Velo4 and Certum3 holsters, two top-tier options for appendix (AIWB) and inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry.

 In this article, I’ll share my hands-on experience, break down their pros and cons, and help you decide which holster fits your lifestyle. Let’s explore these game-changers together.

Comparison Table: Velo4 Vs. Certum3

My Journey With Concealed Carry Holsters

I’ve been carrying concealed for over a decade, and let me tell you, finding the right holster feels like chasing a unicorn. I’ve tried leather, hybrid, and Kydex holsters, each with its quirks. Some were too bulky, others dug into my hip, and a few failed to conceal my Glock 19 under a fitted shirt. When I stumbled across Tenicor, a company known for precision craftsmanship and innovative design, I was intrigued. Their Velo4 and Certum3 holsters promised to solve my carry woes, so I decided to put them to the test. For a month, I carried both with my Glock 19 and Sig P365 XL, switching between AIWB and IWB positions, wearing everything from gym shorts to slacks. Here’s what I learned.

Velo4: The Appendix Carry Specialist

The Velo4 is Tenicor’s flagship AIWB holster, designed specifically for carrying in front of the hip, around the 1 o’clock position for right-handed shooters. The moment I picked it up, I could feel the quality. Made from 0.093-inch-thick thermoplastic, it’s lightweight yet tough as nails. The holster’s defining feature is its built-in body contour wedge, a molded curve that tucks the gun’s grip into your body, reducing printing. I wore it with a fitted T-shirt, and my Glock 19 vanished—no bulge, no outline.

The Velo4’s camming bar, a small ridge near the trigger guard, works with the wedge to rotate the grip inward when you cinch your belt. This duo is a game-changer for concealment, especially for someone like me who’s 5’10” and 180 pounds with an average build. I could bend, sit, or run without the grip poking out. The holster also features Discreet Carry Concepts (DCC) MOD4 clips, which grip my 1.5-inch Tenicor ZERO belt like a vice. I tried the snap loops too, and they offered similar stability but were easier to remove.

Another standout is the Velo4’s versatility with optics and barrels. It’s compatible with most slide-mounted red dot sights, suppressor-height sights, and threaded barrels. My Glock 19 with a Holosun 507C fit perfectly, with no wiggle. The dual tension screws let me fine-tune retention, ensuring a smooth draw (I clocked 0.8 seconds consistently) while keeping the gun secure during a 5K run. The open-bottom design also accommodates longer slides, like a Glock 17, which adds stability for smaller guns like my Sig P365 XL by acting like a keel to prevent tipping.

But the Velo4 isn’t perfect. The built-in wedge, while genius for concealment, can create a hotspot on sensitive skin, especially if you’re lean or carry for long hours. I felt slight pressure on my pelvis after a 12-hour day, though loosening my belt helped. It’s also strictly an AIWB holster, so if you prefer carrying at 3 or 4 o’clock, you’re out of luck. Some users on forums like The Outdoors Trader noted the ride height feels high, though I found the inch of adjustment sufficient for my needs. Lastly, at $95-$105, it’s pricier than budget Kydex holsters, but the lifetime warranty and build quality justify the cost.

Certum3: The Versatile All-Rounder

The Certum3 is Tenicor’s answer to flexibility, designed for both AIWB and IWB hip carry (3-4 o’clock). Like the Velo4, it’s crafted from 0.093-inch thermoplastic, giving it a robust yet sleek feel. I ordered mine for $119 with T1 clips by Discreet Carry Concepts, which lock onto my belt with impressive tenacity. The Certum3’s standout feature is its adaptability. With nearly an inch of ride height adjustment and 30 degrees of cant, I could dial in the perfect position for my Glock 19, whether appendix or strong-side.

Instead of a built-in wedge, the Certum3 offers three detachable camming bars (1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”) for AIWB carry. These bars rotate the grip inward, similar to the Velo4’s camming bar, but you can remove them for hip carry or add a foam wedge for extra comfort. I slapped on a Mastermind Tactics pillow wedge, and it rivaled the Velo4’s concealment while feeling softer against my body. The Certum3’s slim profile and rounded edges prevented any digging into my hip, even when I carried at 3 o’clock for a day of errands.

Like the Velo4, the Certum3 supports most red dot sights, suppressor-height sights, and threaded barrels. My Sig P365 XL with a threaded barrel fit snugly, and the dual tension screws ensured a secure hold. The mid-ride sweat guard allowed a full thumb grip without snagging my shirt, and my draw times matched the Velo4’s 0.8 seconds. I also appreciated the Certum3’s compatibility with various belt attachments—T1 clips, snap loops, or soft loops—making it easy to switch setups.

However, the Certum3 has its quirks. Without the foam wedge, its AIWB concealment isn’t as seamless as the Velo4’s, especially for larger guns. Some Reddit users mentioned adding a foam wedge to match the Velo4’s tuck, which worked for me but adds an extra step. The T1 clips, while secure, occasionally snagged on thicker 1.75-inch belts, requiring me to sand the edges slightly. Also, the Certum3’s $119 price tag is steeper than the Velo4, though its versatility justifies the premium for multi-position carriers.

Pros And Cons: Breaking It Down

Velo4 Pros

• Superior AIWB Concealment: The built-in wedge and camming bar make your gun disappear under light clothing.
• Optic and Barrel Compatibility: Fits most red dots, suppressor sights, and threaded barrels.
• Secure Retention: Dual tension screws and precise molding keep your gun locked in.
• Comfort for Most: Anatomically designed curves reduce hotspots for many body types.
• Lifetime Warranty: Tenicor’s no-questions-asked return policy and warranty are unbeatable.

Velo4 Cons

• AIWB Only: Not suitable for hip carry, limiting versatility.
• Potential Hotspots: The built-in wedge can press on sensitive areas during long wear.
• Ride Height Concerns: Some users find it rides high, though adjustable.
• Pricey for Budget Buyers: $95-$105 is steep compared to $50 Kydex options.

Certum3 Pros

• Versatile Carry: Excels at both AIWB and IWB hip carry with adjustable cant.
• Customizable Concealment: Detachable camming bars and optional foam wedge offer flexibility.
• Durable Build: 0.093” thermoplastic and steel hardware ensure longevity.
• Optic-Friendly: Supports red dots, suppressor sights, and threaded barrels.
• Top-Notch Support: Tenicor’s lifetime warranty and easy returns are a win.

Certum3 Cons

• Less AIWB Tuck: Needs a foam wedge to match Velo4’s concealment.
• Clip Snagging: T1 clips can catch on thicker belts, requiring minor tweaks.
• Higher Cost: $119 is pricier than the Velo4 and budget holsters.
• Slightly Bulkier: Thicker profile than the Velo4 when used with a wedge.

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Head-To-Head: Which Holster Wins?

Comparing the Velo4 and Certum3 is like choosing between a sports car and an SUV—both are excellent, but they serve different purposes. If you’re dedicated to AIWB carry, the Velo4 is your go-to. Its built-in wedge and camming bar make concealment effortless, especially for compact guns like the Sig P365 or Glock 19. I wore it for a week straight, and my gun stayed invisible even under a fitted polo. The molded design feels purpose-built, and the open-bottom accommodates longer slides for added stability.

But if you switch between appendix and hip carry, the Certum3 is the clear winner. Its adjustable camming bars and cant options let me fine-tune the setup for my Glock 19 at 3 o’clock or AIWB. Adding a foam wedge made it nearly as concealable as the Velo4, and the rounded edges kept it comfortable all day. The Certum3’s flexibility is unmatched, especially if you carry in varied situations—like office settings one day and hiking the next.

For comfort, the Certum3 edges out slightly when used with a foam wedge, as the Velo4’s hard wedge caused minor discomfort after 12 hours. However, the Velo4’s sleeker profile feels less intrusive for AIWB. Both holsters offer stellar retention and draw speed, with no noticeable difference in my 0.8-second draws. Price-wise, the Velo4 saves you $14-$24, but the Certum3’s versatility justifies the extra cost if you need multi-position carry.

Real-World Testing: My Experience

To give you a clear picture, I tested both holsters in real-world scenarios. For the Velo4, I carried my Glock 19 AIWB during a 10-hour workday, including meetings, driving, and a quick gym session. The holster stayed secure, with no shifting, even during squats. The wedge kept the grip tucked, but I noticed slight pressure when sitting for long periods. Loosening my belt by one notch fixed it, as a Reddit user suggested.

The Certum3 shone during a weekend of mixed activities. I carried my Sig P365 XL at 3 o’clock for a hike, then switched to AIWB for a casual dinner. The adjustable camming bar (I used the 3/8” option) tucked the grip nicely, and the foam wedge I added made it as comfortable as my favorite sneakers. The T1 clips held firm, though I had to be careful removing them from my thicker belt to avoid snagging.

Both holsters impressed me with their build quality. The 0.093-inch thermoplastic showed no scratches or wear after a month, and the steel hardware stayed tight with a drop of blue thread locker. Tenicor’s customer service also deserves a shoutout—I swapped a clip style for the Certum3, and they covered shipping, no hassle.

Community Feedback: What Others Say

I scoured forums like Reddit, The Outdoors Trader, and Glock Talk to see what other carriers think. The Velo4 gets rave reviews for its AIWB concealment, with users praising the wedge for minimizing printing. However, some, like a SIG Talk poster, found the wedge too aggressive, causing hotspots. The Certum3 is lauded for its versatility, with users appreciating the ability to switch carry positions. A few noted the need for a foam wedge to match the concealment of dedicated AIWB holsters, echoing my experience. Both holsters are praised for Tenicor’s stellar return policy, with many users swapping models to find their perfect fit.

Making Your Choice

Your decision boils down to carry style and priorities. If you’re all-in on AIWB, the Velo4’s purpose-built design offers unmatched concealment and simplicity. It’s ideal for urban carry or active lifestyles where printing is a no-go. If you need flexibility to carry appendix or on the hip, the Certum3’s adjustable features make it a versatile companion. It’s perfect for those who switch positions based on attire or activity.

For me, the Certum3 became my daily driver because I value the option to carry at 3 o’clock for longer drives or formal settings. But when I know I’ll be in casual clothes and need maximum concealment, the Velo4 is my pick. Consider your body type, carry position, and lifestyle. If you’re unsure, Tenicor’s return policy lets you try both risk-free.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

To keep either holster in top shape, I recommend a weekly wipe with a damp cloth to remove sweat and dust. A toothbrush works wonders for cleaning lint from screws and clips. Check retention screws monthly with a Phillips screwdriver, and use blue thread locker to prevent loosening. Store the holster in a cool, dry place—never leave it in a hot car, as high temperatures can warp the thermoplastic. These simple steps ensure your Velo4 or Certum3 lasts for years.

Why Tenicor Stands Out

Tenicor’s commitment to quality sets them apart. Both holsters are made in the USA with precision CNC machining, ensuring a “Trucise” fit that hugs your gun perfectly. The lifetime warranty and no-questions-asked return policy give you confidence to experiment. Compared to budget holsters, which often lack durability or optic compatibility, the Velo4 and Certum3 feel like investments in your safety and comfort.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Your Perfect Carry Awaits

After testing the Tenicor Velo4 and Certum3, I’m convinced they’re among the best holsters out there. The Velo4’s AIWB prowess makes it a dream for concealability, while the Certum3’s flexibility lets you adapt to any situation. You can’t go wrong with either, but your choice depends on whether you prioritize dedicated appendix carry or multi-position versatility. Try one—or both—with Tenicor’s risk-free returns, and find the holster that makes you feel confident and comfortable every day.