First Thoughts on the Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide
The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide arrives as a seemingly simple, yet potentially crucial piece of gear for concealed carry. Galco has a long-standing reputation for producing quality leather goods, and this holster appears to be a no-frills option aimed at providing secure and accessible carry for a popular handgun. The promise of comfortable carry and a fast draw is what initially piqued my interest.
As someone who has carried for both work and personal defense for over a decade, finding the right holster is a continuous quest. I’ve gone through countless models, seeking the ideal balance of comfort, concealment, and accessibility. I was specifically looking for an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for my Glock 17 that wouldn’t break the bank, but still offered reliable retention and a smooth draw.
My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The Steerhide leather feels sturdy, yet surprisingly supple. It doesn’t have that overly treated, plastic-like feel that some cheaper leather holsters exhibit. The stitching appears clean and consistent, and the injection-molded nylon clip seems robust enough to handle daily wear.
Compared to some of my other IWB holsters, such as a Kydex hybrid model from CrossBreed and a full-leather holster from DeSantis, the Galco Stow-N-Go seems less bulky. The CrossBreed, while comfortable, can be a bit wide, and the DeSantis, though beautiful, sometimes feels a bit too thick. I chose the Stow-N-Go because I wanted a minimalist leather option that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk and focused on the core purpose of securing my firearm.
I was cautiously optimistic after my initial inspection. I hoped the Galco Stow-N-Go would deliver on its promise of comfortable and concealed carry, but the real test would be how it performed during extended wear and under various conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Galco Stow-N-Go took place at the local shooting range. I wanted to assess its draw speed, retention, and overall comfort while practicing my defensive shooting drills. I wore it strong-side IWB at the 3 o’clock position, which is my preferred carry method.
The initial draw stroke felt surprisingly smooth. The open-top design allows for a full grip on the handgun right from the start. Re-holstering, however, took a little more getting used to because the mouth of the holster collapses somewhat after the gun is drawn.
I noticed this collapsing effect. I found that I needed to use my support hand to carefully guide the gun back into the holster. Despite this, I found no major issues. I was able to complete my drills with a level of confidence I felt comfortable with.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, the Galco Stow-N-Go has proven to be more durable than I initially anticipated. The Steerhide leather has conformed nicely to the shape of my Glock 17, enhancing retention and making for a snug, secure fit. The clip, despite being made of nylon, has held up well and shows no signs of loosening or cracking.
I’ve worn this holster in various conditions, from hot and humid days at the range to cooler evenings on hikes. The leather has remained relatively comfortable against my skin, even during periods of moderate perspiration. There has been some minor wear and tear. Specifically, I’ve seen some slight discoloration of the leather where it rubs against my jeans, but this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect functionality.
Maintenance is simple. I just wipe it down with a clean cloth every few days to remove any dust or debris. Compared to my previous IWB holsters, the Galco Stow-N-Go has provided a better balance of comfort and concealability. It doesn’t dig into my side. The CrossBreed is more comfortable, but significantly bulkier.
Breaking Down the Features of Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide
Specifications
The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide is designed for the Glock 17, as well as Glock 31 and Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm, and features an inside-the-pant (IWB) design. It’s constructed from black Center Cut Steerhide leather. The holster is designed for right-hand draw and has a plain finish, is ambidextrous, and fits belts up to 1.75″ wide.
The open-top design allows for a fast draw. The reinforced mouth aids in re-holstering. The injection-molded nylon clip provides secure attachment to the belt. The vertical orientation offers versatility for strong side, crossdraw, or appendix carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Galco Stow-N-Go performs its primary function – securing a Glock 17 – admirably. The retention is firm enough to keep the gun in place during normal activities. It is loose enough to allow for a smooth and relatively fast draw. The open-top design is a significant advantage for quick access.
A notable strength is the holster’s minimalist design, which reduces bulk and enhances concealability. Re-holstering can be a bit tricky, particularly with one hand. The lack of a sweat shield means that the gun can come into direct contact with your skin.
Overall, it meets expectations for a simple, functional IWB holster. It may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, but it offers a reliable carry solution at a reasonable price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Galco Stow-N-Go is solid, particularly considering its price point. The Steerhide leather is of decent quality and feels comfortable against the body. The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk to the firearm.
The design is straightforward and functional. It is, however, a bit basic. There’s no adjustable cant or retention, which might be a drawback for some users. The nylon clip is functional, but not as aesthetically pleasing as some metal clips.
Durability & Maintenance
The Steerhide leather is reasonably durable. It should last for several years with proper care. The nylon clip is likely the weakest point in terms of longevity.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning of the leather. Regular wiping down after use helps to prevent buildup of dirt and sweat.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Galco Stow-N-Go is a standalone holster. It doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited to the user’s belt and carry position.
While you can’t directly modify the holster itself, you can experiment with different belt types and carry positions to find the optimal setup for your body type and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide
Pros
- Affordable: The Galco Stow-N-Go offers excellent value for its price point.
- Comfortable: The Steerhide leather is comfortable against the skin, even during extended wear.
- Concealable: The minimalist design reduces bulk and enhances concealability.
- Fast Draw: The open-top design allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Versatile Carry: It can be used for strong side, crossdraw, or appendix carry.
Cons
- Re-holstering: The collapsing mouth can make one-handed re-holstering difficult.
- Limited Customization: No adjustable cant or retention.
- Nylon Clip: The nylon clip may not be as durable or aesthetically pleasing as metal options.
Who Should Buy Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide?
The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide is perfect for Glock 17 owners seeking an affordable, comfortable, and concealable IWB holster. It’s also a good option for those new to concealed carry who want a simple and reliable holster without breaking the bank. It suits both men and women looking for an affordable yet functional holster.
Those who prioritize one-handed re-holstering or require adjustable cant and retention should skip this product. Also, anyone seeking a holster with a sweat shield for added comfort and protection might want to explore other options. A good belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and concealment.
Conclusion on Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide
The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide is a solid, no-frills IWB holster that delivers on its core promises. It provides a comfortable and concealable carry option for the Glock 17 at an affordable price. While it has some limitations, such as the difficulty of one-handed re-holstering and the lack of customization options, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses.
The price is absolutely justified. For under $40, you get a quality leather holster from a reputable manufacturer. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly IWB holster for their Glock 17.
If you’re looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable way to carry your Glock 17, give the Galco Stow-N-Go a try. You might be surprised at how well it performs.