DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand Review

First Thoughts on the DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand

The DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand enters a crowded market of concealed carry holsters, promising a blend of affordability and functionality. DeSantis Gunhide has a reputation for producing reliable gear, so I was eager to see how this particular model stacks up, especially given the popularity of the M&P Shield 9/40 for concealed carry. Does the Mean Streak live up to its name, offering a serious advantage in comfort and concealment, or does it fall short of the mark?

As someone who has spent over a decade carrying concealed firearms, I’m always searching for the “perfect” holster. Comfort, concealment, and accessibility are my Holy Trinity, and I was specifically looking for an IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster that wouldn’t break the bank. My existing IWB holster, while functional, was becoming uncomfortable during extended wear, especially in the warmer months.

Upon receiving the DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand, my initial impression was favorable. The gray color is a nice touch, offering a departure from the standard black. The material felt relatively durable, and the minimalist design seemed promising for concealment.

I considered options from Galco and CrossBreed, both reputable holster manufacturers. However, the DeSantis offered a similar design at a significantly lower price point, making it an attractive option for testing. The Galco’s leather, while beautiful, can be bulky, and the CrossBreed’s hybrid design, while comfortable, tends to be more expensive.

I was cautiously optimistic. The price point raised some concerns about long-term durability, but the initial design and feel gave me hope that the DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand could be a viable option for comfortable and effective concealed carry.

Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand at an outdoor shooting range, followed by a week of everyday carry during my normal routines. This included errands, outdoor activities, and just general day-to-day tasks in varying weather conditions. I wanted to see how it felt during both static range drills and dynamic real-world situations.

The holster performed surprisingly well in dry conditions at the range. The M&P Shield 9/40 drew smoothly and re-holstered with a satisfying click. The holster stayed securely in place during rapid-fire drills and movement exercises.

One immediate issue I noticed was the lack of breathability against my skin. During a particularly humid afternoon, the holster became noticeably uncomfortable due to sweat buildup. I also found the initial draw to be slightly slower than with my previous holster, requiring a more deliberate grip adjustment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After two months of almost daily carry, the DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand is showing some signs of wear, but remains functional. The gray finish has begun to fade slightly around the edges, particularly where it rubs against my belt. The stitching, however, remains intact and secure.

The holster requires minimal maintenance, but I’ve found it beneficial to wipe it down with a damp cloth every few days to remove sweat and grime. This helps prevent any unpleasant odors and keeps the material from becoming too stiff. So far, the holster has retained its shape and rigidity, and the gun still draws and re-holsters securely.

Compared to my previous all-leather IWB holster, the DeSantis Mean Streak is slightly less comfortable against bare skin, especially in hot weather. However, its slimmer profile provides better concealment under light clothing. The DeSantis definitely provides more utility for the summer months.

Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand

Specifications

The DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm and .40 S&W models. It’s constructed from a molded synthetic material, offering a lightweight and relatively durable platform for concealed carry. This particular model is designed for right-hand draw.

The gray color provides a more subdued aesthetic compared to traditional black holsters. Being an IWB holster, it’s designed for comfortable and discreet carry inside the waistband. This holster minimizes bulk, aiding in concealment.

The firearm fit being specific to the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 is crucial. This ensures proper retention and a smooth draw. The right-hand configuration is essential for right-handed shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand performs its core function of securely holding the M&P Shield 9/40 reasonably well. The weapon stays in place during normal activities, and the draw is relatively smooth and consistent after a short break-in period. However, the retention is not adjustable, which may be a concern for some users.

The holster’s primary strength is its slim profile, allowing for good concealment under a variety of clothing. The main weakness is the lack of breathability, which can lead to discomfort during extended wear in hot and humid conditions. For its price point, the DeSantis offers adequate performance, though it doesn’t necessarily exceed expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand boasts a simple, minimalist design that prioritizes function over aesthetics. The molded synthetic material is lightweight and relatively comfortable against the body (with proper clothing worn). There’s a slight learning curve to achieving a consistently smooth draw, mainly due to the fixed retention and the holster’s position inside the waistband.

The build quality is decent for a holster in this price range. The edges are reasonably smooth, and the stitching is secure. The holster’s lightweight design ensures the user won’t be weighed down.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care, but is unlikely to withstand heavy daily use for years on end. The synthetic material is resistant to scratches and abrasions, but it is susceptible to wear from constant friction.

Maintenance is simple: just wipe it down regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the material. Regular maintenance is recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand does not come with any included accessories, and offers limited customization options. There are no adjustable clips or retention settings. It is designed to be a simple, straightforward IWB holster.

While it may be compatible with some aftermarket belt clips, the design is not intended to be heavily modified. Users looking for greater customization should consider other holster options. This holster is designed for simplicity.

Pros and Cons of DeSantis Gunhide Mean Streak IWB Gray Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9/40 Right Hand