First Thoughts on the Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black
Pocket carry – it’s the concealed carry method that’s both incredibly convenient and fraught with potential pitfalls. Most dedicated carriers I know have a drawer full of pocket holsters, each promising a perfect draw and secure retention. Enter the Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black, a pocket holster boasting a unique approach to grip. Does it live up to the hype? That’s what I aimed to find out.
My journey to this holster began with a simple problem: finding a reliable pocket carry solution for my Springfield XD subcompact. I’ve used everything from leather to Kydex, and each had its drawbacks, either printing too much or failing to stay put during a draw. The Allen holster piqued my interest with its promise of “tacky spiderweb grips” designed to keep the holster securely in the pocket.
My first impression upon receiving the Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black was…underwhelming, to be honest. It’s a simple nylon holster, black as night, with a printed spiderweb pattern. I’ve seen more robust construction in lunch bags. Comparing it to my DeSantis Nemesis (a benchmark in pocket holsters) and a Sticky Holster MD-4, the Allen felt less substantial. I chose it specifically to test its retention capabilities and compare them to the “sticky” characteristic of the Sticky Holster. Hopeful, but skeptical, I was ready to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black at my local range during a concealed carry qualification course. I wore it in the front pocket of my standard jeans, performing draw drills throughout the day. While the holster stayed put in my pocket most of the time, the draw wasn’t as clean as I’d hoped. There were several instances where the holster came partially out with the gun.
Performance-wise, the holster didn’t fare well in a slightly humid environment. My hands were a little sweaty from the drills, which negatively impacted the grip while drawing. I had to consciously adjust my grip to avoid pulling the holster with the firearm. This added time and complexity to what should be a fluid motion. After the first use, I already saw wear starting around the muzzle end of the holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the initial wear has worsened. The Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black now shows fraying at the seams, which is disappointing but not unexpected given the price point. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth does the trick. However, the “tacky spiderweb grips” have lost some of their initial tackiness.
Comparing this to my regular DeSantis Nemesis, the Allen holster falls short. The Nemesis has maintained its shape and retention much better over time. The Allen holster also doesn’t provide the same level of confidence that my firearm will stay put during more active movements. Walking around, sitting, and even bending over all require constant re-adjustment.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black
Specifications
- Type: Pocket Holster. This design is specifically for concealed carry inside a pocket.
- Color: Black. This color provides discretion.
- Material: Nylon. Nylon is a common, lightweight, and relatively inexpensive material.
- Size: 05. This size corresponds to specific firearm dimensions.
- Model: Ambidextrous. This design works for both left and right-handed users.
- Finish: Textured. The texturing is intended to aid in retention.
- Gun Mod: Springfield XD. The holster is designed to fit the Springfield XD subcompact.
These specifications are relevant because they directly impact the user experience. A proper fit (Size 05 for Springfield XD) ensures secure retention. The ambidextrous design is a bonus for left-handed shooters. The nylon material is lightweight, but its long-term durability is questionable.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black is to provide a secure and discreet pocket carry solution. In practice, it only partially achieves this. The retention is adequate for static situations, but during active movement or a stressed draw, it falters.
The holster’s main strength is its ambidextrous design, which is a plus for left-handed individuals. A significant weakness is the draw; it’s not as smooth or reliable as other pocket holsters I’ve used. It mostly meets expectations as a very basic pocket holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black is a minimalist design. It’s lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk to the firearm. However, the nylon material feels cheap, and the “spiderweb” texture isn’t particularly comfortable against the skin.
There’s virtually no learning curve; you simply insert your firearm into the holster and place it in your pocket. However, the design lacks any features that enhance the draw, such as a reinforced mouth or a thumb break.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the nylon construction, I don’t expect the Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black to last more than a year with regular use. The fraying at the seams is a clear indication of its limited lifespan. Maintenance is easy, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Repair is not really an option. Once the seams start to fail, the holster is essentially disposable. This is a common trade-off with inexpensive nylon holsters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black doesn’t come with any accessories, nor is it designed for customization. There are no options for adding optics, lights, or different grips. Its simplicity is both a strength and a weakness.
It is theoretically compatible with aftermarket belt clips designed for pocket holsters (if you were so inclined to attach it to a belt), but I wouldn’t recommend this. The nylon material isn’t robust enough to support the weight of a firearm on a belt.
Pros and Cons of Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black
Pros
- Extremely Affordable Price. At under $12, it’s one of the cheapest pocket holsters on the market.
- Ambidextrous Design. It works for both left and right-handed users.
- Lightweight and Minimalist. It doesn’t add significant bulk for pocket carry.
Cons
- Questionable Durability. The nylon material is prone to fraying and wear.
- Unreliable Draw. The holster can sometimes come out with the firearm during a draw.
- Limited Retention. It’s not suitable for active movements or dynamic situations.
Who Should Buy Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black?
The Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black is perfect for budget-conscious individuals looking for a very basic pocket holster for occasional use. It might also serve as a temporary solution while waiting for a higher-quality holster to arrive. It’s suitable for individuals who primarily carry in static environments and prioritize affordability over durability and reliability.
This holster is not recommended for anyone who relies on pocket carry for self-defense in dynamic or high-stress situations. It’s also not suitable for individuals who demand high levels of durability and retention. Must-have accessories would include a higher-quality holster.
Conclusion on Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black
The Allen 44905 Spiderweb Handgun 05 Nylon Black is a holster that embodies the phrase “you get what you pay for.” While the price is undeniably attractive, the overall performance and durability leave much to be desired. The value proposition is questionable, as the limited lifespan and unreliable draw negate the initial cost savings.
Personally, I would not recommend this holster for serious concealed carry. The peace of mind that comes with a reliable and durable holster is worth the extra investment. If you’re looking for a long-term pocket carry solution, I encourage you to explore higher-quality options. Spend a little more and carry with confidence. Your life might depend on it.