North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle Review

First Impressions of North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle

The North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle holster. It’s a simple, yet potentially crucial piece of gear for anyone who carries a North American Arms (NAA) mini revolver for self-defense. Given the diminutive size of NAA’s offerings, finding a comfortable and secure carry method can be challenging, and this holster aims to solve that problem.

I’ve been a long-time proponent of responsible concealed carry. I was constantly searching for a better method to carry my NAA .22LR. Standard pocket carry often felt insecure, and I wanted something that offered a more consistent draw.

Upon receiving the North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The brown leather and metal clip construction seemed durable enough, but I wondered how comfortable it would be for all-day carry. Compared to some of the more elaborate Kydex holsters I’ve used for larger firearms, this was a minimalist approach, leaving me curious about its effectiveness. I ultimately chose this holster due to its seemingly low profile and the promise of comfortable inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry specifically designed for the NAA mini revolver.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The holster seemed well-made for the price, but only real-world use would determine if it lived up to its promise of comfort and secure carry.


Real-World Testing: Putting North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle during a week-long hiking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I carried my NAA .22LR as a backup firearm for emergencies. The varied terrain and unpredictable weather provided an ideal environment to evaluate the holster’s performance.

The initial experience was surprisingly positive. The holster remained securely clipped to my waistband, even during strenuous uphill climbs. The .22LR stayed firmly in place. However, after a few hours, I noticed some discomfort around the clip area.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, the North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle has proven to be a reliable, though not perfect, carry solution. The leather has softened slightly, improving comfort. The clip, however, still occasionally digs into my side, especially when sitting for extended periods.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the metal clip has retained its tension. Maintaining the holster is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I prefer this holster over direct pocket carry for peace of mind, even with the occasional discomfort.

Breaking Down the Features of North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle

Specifications

The North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle holster is a minimalist IWB holster designed for North American Arms mini revolvers, specifically the Long Rifle model.

  • It features a brown leather construction. This provides a classic look and a degree of comfort against the skin.
  • It comes with a metal clip. This allows for secure attachment to a belt or waistband.
  • It’s designed for left-hand draw. This is an important consideration for left-handed shooters.
  • The price is $33.99. This makes it an affordable option for those seeking a basic IWB holster.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, comfort, and suitability for concealed carry. The left-hand design is a defining characteristic, while the leather and metal construction determine its durability and feel.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle is to provide secure and comfortable IWB carry for an NAA mini revolver.

  • It performs this function adequately. The gun stays securely in place, and the clip provides a reasonable level of retention.
  • The main weakness is comfort. The metal clip can cause discomfort, especially during prolonged wear.
  • The holster meets basic expectations for a minimalist IWB holster at its price point, but could be improved with a more comfortable clip design.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle is straightforward and utilitarian.

  • The brown leather provides a classic, low-profile look. The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk.
  • The holster isn’t exceptionally user-friendly. The clip can be difficult to attach and detach, and the lack of adjustability might be a concern for some users.

Durability & Maintenance

The North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle appears to be reasonably durable for its construction.

  • The leather is thick enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The metal clip should maintain its tension for a reasonable amount of time.
  • Maintaining the holster is simple. It only requires occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle is a relatively simple holster with limited customization options.

  • It doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no adjustable retention screws or cant adjustments.
  • Due to its minimalist design, compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited. Users might be able to modify the clip or add padding for comfort, but significant alterations would be difficult.

Pros and Cons of North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle

Pros

  • Affordable Price: At $33.99, it’s an entry-level option for IWB carry.
  • Secure Retention: The holster keeps the NAA mini revolver firmly in place.
  • Low Profile: The minimalist design aids in concealment.
  • Left-Handed Design: Specifically caters to left-handed shooters.
  • Durable Construction: Leather and metal clip provide reasonable longevity.

Cons

  • Clip Discomfort: The metal clip can dig into the wearer’s side.
  • Limited Adjustability: Lack of adjustable retention or cant.
  • Basic Design: Lacks features found in more advanced holsters.


Who Should Buy North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle?

This holster is perfect for:

  • Left-handed individuals seeking an affordable IWB holster for their NAA mini revolver.
  • Those prioritizing secure carry over ultimate comfort.
  • Users who prefer a minimalist design with no unnecessary features.

Who should skip this product?

  • Individuals who prioritize comfort above all else in a holster.
  • Those who require adjustable retention or cant.
  • Users looking for a holster with advanced features or customization options.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

  • Consider adding padding or moleskin to the clip area to improve comfort.
  • A higher-quality belt designed for concealed carry can also help distribute weight and reduce discomfort.

Conclusion on North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle

The North American Arms Inside the Pants Long Rifle holster provides a functional and affordable solution for IWB carry of an NAA mini revolver.

The price is justified for what it offers – a secure and relatively low-profile carry method. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for discomfort due to the metal clip.

I would recommend this holster to left-handed individuals on a budget who prioritize secure carry over ultimate comfort. If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills IWB holster for your NAA mini revolver, this is a viable option. Just be prepared to potentially make some minor modifications to improve comfort for all-day wear.

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