Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black Review

First Thoughts on the Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black

The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black is a minimalist outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster designed for comfortable and discreet carry. Desantis Gunhide, a well-respected name in the holster industry, promises secure retention and easy accessibility. This holster is particularly appealing for those seeking a no-frills, lightweight solution for concealed carry.

I was looking for an OWB holster that would allow me to comfortably carry my S&W M&P Shield 9mm concealed under a shirt. The goal was to find something that wouldn’t add excessive bulk while still providing secure retention and a smooth draw. I needed a holster that would be easily adjustable for ride height and cant, allowing me to find the perfect position for my body type and preferred carry style.

Upon unboxing, the Desantis Gunhide immediately impressed me with its simplicity and clean lines. The black nylon felt durable and well-molded to the shape of a handgun, with no rough edges or obvious imperfections. It was remarkably lightweight, and I was confident it would add minimal weight to my carry setup.

Compared to other OWB holsters I’ve used, such as the Safariland 578 Pro-Fit GLS and the Blackhawk Serpa CQC, the Desantis Gunhide is significantly more streamlined. I chose the Desantis Gunhide for its focus on minimalist design and concealability. The others were too bulky.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I appreciated the minimalist design and the promise of comfortable concealed carry, but I was also curious to see how well the holster would perform in real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Desantis Gunhide at my local shooting range during a practice session focused on drawing and firing drills. The holster performed admirably, providing a secure grip on my S&W M&P Shield and allowing for a smooth, consistent draw. I also tested it during a day of hiking in moderate weather.

The holster remained comfortable and didn’t shift or dig into my side, even during strenuous activity. After a few practice draws, I felt confident in my ability to quickly and efficiently access my firearm from the holster. There was no rain during the hike, but the humidity was high.

I initially found the tension adjustment screw a little finicky, but after a few adjustments, I was able to find the perfect balance between retention and ease of draw.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Desantis Gunhide has proven to be a reliable and durable holster. The nylon has held up well, with no signs of significant wear or tear. It maintains its shape and retention.

I’ve carried my S&W M&P Shield in this holster during various activities, including daily concealed carry, range sessions, and even some light outdoor activities like yard work. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or grime. It cleans easily, and no special cleaning products are required.

Compared to my previous OWB holster, the Desantis Gunhide offers superior comfort and concealability. It has exceeded my expectations for a minimalist OWB holster, proving to be a valuable addition to my everyday carry setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black

Specifications

• Type: Belt Slide. This means the holster attaches to the belt via slots, making it easy to put on and take off.
• Color: Black. The black color ensures it remains discreet and blends well with most clothing.
• Material: Nylon. The use of nylon offers durability and resistance to moisture.
• Model: Right. This indicates it’s designed for right-handed shooters.
• Finish: Molded. The molded finish provides a snug and secure fit for the specified firearm.
• Gun Mod: S&W M&P Shield 9/40. Specifically designed for the S&W M&P Shield in 9mm or .40 caliber.

These specifications are crucial because they ensure the holster fits the intended firearm securely, offers a comfortable carry, and is durable enough for regular use. The nylon material and molded finish are essential for retention and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Desantis Gunhide performs its primary function – securely holding the firearm and allowing for a smooth draw – exceptionally well. The adjustable tension device provides the ability to customize the retention to my preference. I can set the tension to my preference.

The holster’s main strengths lie in its minimalist design, comfortable carry, and secure retention. The tension screw could be more refined, but overall, it’s a minor drawback. It meets my expectations for a basic, reliable OWB holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is commendable, given the holster’s price point. The nylon is durable, and the molding is precise. It’s surprisingly comfortable against the body, even during extended wear.

There is virtually no learning curve with this holster. It is intuitive and easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Desantis Gunhide is built to last. The nylon material is resistant to wear and tear. Minimal maintenance is required, typically just a wipe down with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Desantis Gunhide comes with only the holster itself. The tension is the only adjustable part. It is compatible with any standard 1.5″ belt.

Pros and Cons of Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black

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Who Should Buy Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black?

The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black is perfect for individuals looking for a minimalist and affordable OWB holster for concealed carry. It’s ideal for those who prioritize comfort, concealability, and secure retention. This holster is well suited to those who carry S&W M&P Shields and want a simple and reliable method.

This product may not be suitable for individuals who prefer more feature-rich holsters with advanced retention systems or multiple adjustment points. Those who require a very fast draw for competition use may prefer a different style of holster.

A high-quality 1.5″ belt is a must-have accessory to ensure stability and proper weight distribution.

Conclusion on Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black

The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black is a solid and reliable minimalist OWB holster that offers excellent value for the price. It delivers on its promise of comfortable concealed carry with secure retention.

At $43.99, the price is definitely justified. The Desantis Gunhide offers a practical and affordable solution for carrying your S&W M&P Shield.

I would absolutely recommend the Desantis Gunhide to anyone seeking a simple, comfortable, and reliable OWB holster. If you’re looking for a no-frills holster that gets the job done without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice.

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