First Thoughts on the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43
The Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 from N87 enters a crowded market of concealed carry options, promising comfort, ambidextrous functionality, and the convenience of a spare magazine pouch. This nylon belt holster aims to be a lightweight, budget-friendly solution for Glock 43 owners. Its design is straightforward, focusing on practicality rather than aesthetics, which might appeal to those prioritizing function over form.
I needed a reliable, easily concealed holster for my Glock 43 that wouldn’t break the bank. Many Kydex options felt too rigid for everyday carry, especially during extended periods of sitting or driving. The promise of a padded ballistic nylon holster seemed like a more comfortable alternative, hopefully striking a balance between security and wearability.
Upon unboxing, the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 felt surprisingly light. The nylon material seemed durable enough for regular use, though the padding felt somewhat minimal. The construction was simple, but the stitching appeared solid, and the metal belt clip felt sturdy.
I considered options like the Galco Stow-N-Go and the Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5. The Galco felt too basic, lacking a magazine carrier, and the Alien Gear, while comfortable, was more expensive. The Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 offered a middle ground, with the ambidextrous design and magazine pouch being deciding factors.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The holster seemed like a decent value for the price, but I was unsure about its long-term durability and how well it would conceal the Glock 43 during active movement. I hoped it would live up to the “stealth” in its name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 at my local shooting range, followed by everyday carry during errands and a short hiking trip. At the range, I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills to assess retention and ease of access. The holster performed adequately in dry conditions.
However, during the hiking trip, which involved light rain, the nylon material absorbed some moisture, making the draw slightly more difficult. The Glock 43 remained secure, but the added friction made a smooth, quick draw less reliable. It also took a while to dry afterward.
The holster was relatively easy to get used to. The clip was easy to attach and remove, but I did have to spend some time adjusting its position on my belt to find a comfortable and concealable placement. The spare magazine pouch added some bulk, but was useful.
My initial concern was that the firearm sits 1/2″ too short, as some users mentioned. My experience was similar, and I needed to apply additional force to fully seat my firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 started to show some minor wear and tear. The edges of the nylon began to fray slightly, but the overall structure of the holster remained intact. The spring clip, however, remained securely anchored and powder coated.
The nylon material began to soften, molding to the shape of my Glock 43 and improving comfort. The fraying edges, however, became a concern for long-term durability. It requires regular trimming to prevent further degradation.
Cleaning the holster is relatively simple. A damp cloth and mild soap are sufficient to remove dirt and grime. However, due to the absorbent nature of the nylon, it takes a while to dry completely.
Compared to my previous Kydex holster, the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 offered superior comfort for extended wear, but lacked the same level of retention and durability. The Kydex holster felt more secure and reliable, but the nylon holster was more comfortable and adaptable to different body positions.
Breaking Down the Features of Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43
Specifications
- Type: Belt Holster. This indicates that it is designed for outside-the-waistband (OWB) or inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry attached to a belt.
- Color: Black. A common and discreet color choice for concealed carry.
- Material: Nylon. This offers flexibility, comfort, and reduced weight compared to Kydex or leather.
- Size: Holds 1 Extra Magazine. It provides the convenience of carrying a spare magazine, which is essential for self-defense scenarios.
- Model: Ambidextrous. It is designed to be used by both right-handed and left-handed shooters.
- Finish: Smooth. A smooth finish reduces friction and allows for a smoother draw.
- Gun Mod: Colt Defender. This is misleading, as the product description clearly states it is designed for the Glock 43.
These specifications suggest a comfortable, versatile, and practical holster for everyday carry. The ambidextrous design caters to a broader user base. The inclusion of a magazine pouch adds to its utility.
Performance & Functionality
The Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 performs adequately in its intended role as a concealed carry holster. The retention is sufficient for everyday activities, but it might not be ideal for high-intensity movements or extreme conditions. The user feedback suggests that the draw can be difficult initially.
The primary strength is its comfort, thanks to the padded nylon construction. A key weakness is the inconsistent fit for the Glock 43. Some users report issues with the firearm not seating properly.
While comfortable for daily wear, the retention issues and potential draw difficulty prevent it from fully exceeding expectations. The fact that it appears to be a “one-size-fits-most” situation is concerning.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster is lightweight and relatively low profile, contributing to its concealability. The padded nylon construction provides a comfortable feel against the body. It is good in terms of its weight.
The ambidextrous design is user-friendly, allowing for easy switching between right-hand and left-hand carry. There is a slight learning curve involved in adjusting the clip position to find the optimal balance between comfort and concealment.
Durability & Maintenance
The nylon material is reasonably durable but prone to fraying over time. The spring steel belt clip is strong and corrosion-resistant. The durability is concerning due to nylon’s tendency to fray over time.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The nylon material may require more frequent cleaning in humid environments to prevent mildew or odors.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 comes standard with an integrated spare magazine pouch. N87 offers an optional thumb break (style N99), sold separately, for added retention. There is little opportunity for modification.
Given its simple design, there are limited customization options available. It is not compatible with most aftermarket accessories like lights or lasers without significant modifications.
Pros and Cons of Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable for everyday carry.
- Ambidextrous design allows for versatile carry options.
- Integrated spare magazine pouch adds convenience.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Sturdy belt clip provides secure attachment.
Cons
- Inconsistent fit for the Glock 43, with some users reporting issues with proper seating.
- Nylon material is prone to fraying and may not be as durable as Kydex or leather.
- Retention may be insufficient for high-intensity activities.
Who Should Buy Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43?
The Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 is perfect for Glock 43 owners seeking a comfortable and affordable concealed carry option for light to moderate daily activities. It is suited for individuals who prioritize comfort and ambidextrous functionality over ultimate retention and durability. New gun owners on a budget may find this to be an acceptable, entry-level option.
Those who require a high level of retention for demanding activities (running, grappling, etc.) or prefer a more durable material like Kydex should skip this product. Owners with aftermarket modifications on their Glock 43 (lights, lasers) should also consider other options that offer better compatibility.
A must-have modification would be the optional thumb break (style N99) from N87 for added security. Also consider purchasing fray-check or thread sealant to prolong the life of the holster.
Conclusion on Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43
The Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 is a budget-friendly nylon holster that prioritizes comfort and ambidextrous functionality, but suffers from some critical flaws. It serves as a functional, if not exceptional, solution for concealed carry of a Glock 43. The inconsistent fit and durability concerns are drawbacks that cannot be ignored.
At $36.49, the price is certainly attractive. However, the issues with fit and long-term durability diminish the overall value proposition. I would recommend exploring other options with better retention and a more tailored fit before settling on the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43.
While the Pro Stealth (Ambidextrous) For Glock 43 may suffice as a temporary or budget-conscious solution, serious concealed carriers should invest in a higher-quality holster for enhanced security and peace of mind. Proceed with caution and be prepared to address potential fit and durability issues.