First Thoughts on the Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand
In the world of concealed carry, finding the perfect holster is akin to a knight seeking the Holy Grail. The Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand enters the fray as Safariland’s minimalist contender, promising a smaller package and the renowned quality synonymous with the brand. As someone who’s spent over a decade navigating the nuances of tactical gear, I was particularly interested in how Safariland translated their reputation for duty-grade holsters into a more concealable IWB (Inside the Waistband) design.
I’d been searching for a holster that offered a balance between comfort, secure retention, and minimal bulk for my Glock 19. Many IWB holsters sacrifice one of these elements in pursuit of another. Would the Safariland Species strike that elusive balance?
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the holster’s streamlined design. The SafariLaminate material felt robust yet surprisingly thin. Its lightweight profile immediately suggested a comfortable carry experience. Compared to my Galco KingTuk and a hybrid holster from CrossBreed, the Species seemed significantly less bulky, piquing my interest to see if it would perform as well on the body. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the construction appeared solid, and the design was undeniably sleek, leaving me eager to test its real-world application.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland Species was a day at the range, followed by an afternoon of errands around town. I carried my Glock 19 in the 3 o’clock position. The first few draws felt a little stiff, but the tension adjustment screw quickly remedied that. It allowed me to customize the draw to my liking.
The weather was humid, typical of a Georgia summer, but the suede lining seemed to do a decent job of minimizing moisture buildup against the firearm. I noticed no significant discomfort or printing while seated in my car or walking through the grocery store. The holster stayed securely in place.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent carry, the Safariland Species has proven to be a reliable and comfortable option. The SafariLaminate construction shows no signs of wear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new.
Compared to some of my previous IWB holsters, the Species stands out in its ability to maintain a consistent draw stroke. The molded design provides a secure and repeatable grip. The holster gives confidence in its retention capabilities without sacrificing accessibility. It definitely outperforms generic nylon holsters in both comfort and retention, although it lacks the customizability of some higher-end, multi-material options.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand
Specifications
The Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand is purpose-built for the Glock 19. It features a minimalist design intended for comfortable concealed carry.
- Material: SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction.
- Color: Black.
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand.
- Gun Compatibility: Glock 19 (also compatible with optics).
- Retention: Integrated passive trigger guard retention with tension adjustment.
- Lining: Suede.
- Attachment: Belt Clip.
The choice of SafariLaminate ensures superior durability and longevity. The passive trigger guard retention provides a tactile and adjustable draw. Suede lining protects the firearm’s finish.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Species performs admirably in its intended role as a minimalist IWB holster. The tension adjustment is a crucial feature. It allows users to fine-tune the draw to their preferred resistance. The holster’s passive retention is secure enough for everyday carry. Yet, it allows for a quick and decisive draw when needed.
The streamlined design minimizes printing, making it easier to conceal the Glock 19 under various clothing types. A minor weakness lies in the fixed ride height. Some users might prefer adjustable cant or ride height. The holster does meet expectations for secure, comfortable concealment, particularly at its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, a testament to Safariland’s manufacturing expertise. The SafariLaminate is rigid and holds its shape well, ensuring consistent re-holstering.
The holster’s lightweight design contributes to comfortable all-day carry. There’s minimal learning curve. The intuitive tension adjustment allows for quick customization.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate material is exceptionally durable. It resists wear and tear from daily use. The suede lining requires minimal maintenance. Regular wiping keeps it clean.
Based on its construction, the Safariland Species should last for years of reliable service. The simple design minimizes potential failure points.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand is a standalone holster. No included accessories are provided besides the standard belt clip.
As specified, this model is compatible with optics-equipped Glock 19s. While there aren’t many customization options for the holster itself, it readily accommodates various aftermarket Glock 19 accessories.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand
Pros
- Minimalist design for enhanced concealment.
- Durable SafariLaminate construction ensures longevity.
- Adjustable tension for personalized draw preference.
- Suede lining protects firearm finish.
- Optics compatibility expands usability.
Cons
- Fixed ride height and cant limit customization.
- Minimalist design might not appeal to users who prefer enhanced features.
Who Should Buy Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand?
The Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand is perfect for Glock 19 owners seeking a reliable, minimalist, and comfortable IWB holster for concealed carry. It’s well-suited for everyday carry, range use, and those prioritizing a slim profile.
Individuals who prefer highly adjustable holsters with multiple carry positions or those needing active retention systems might want to explore other options. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal comfort and stability with this holster.
Conclusion on Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand
The Safariland Species IWB For Glock 19 Black SafariLaminate Belt Clip Right Hand delivers on its promise of a minimalist, durable, and comfortable concealed carry experience. Safariland has successfully translated its reputation for quality into a streamlined IWB design.
At a price point of $47.49, the value proposition is strong. It offers reliable performance and durability that rivals more expensive options. I would recommend the Safariland Species to anyone seeking a no-nonsense IWB holster for their Glock 19. If you value comfort, concealment, and Safariland’s proven quality, this holster is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your carry today!