First Thoughts on the Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand holster is a classic example of minimalist design meeting functional needs. Galco has been a trusted name in holsters for decades, and their reputation for quality leather goods precedes them. This particular model is designed specifically for the Ruger LCP II, a popular choice for concealed carry due to its small size and lightweight nature. My initial interest was sparked by the need for a comfortable and easily concealable holster for my own LCP II, something that wouldn’t add bulk or discomfort during everyday wear.
My quest for the ideal LCP II holster had been ongoing for some time. I’d previously tried a hybrid Kydex/leather holster and a generic nylon IWB, but neither provided the right balance of comfort, retention, and concealability. The Kydex was too rigid and uncomfortable against my skin, while the nylon lacked sufficient retention and felt flimsy. The Galco Stow-N-Go promised a simple, leather solution, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Unboxing the Stow-N-Go, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the leather. The black steerhide felt supple yet sturdy, and the stitching appeared clean and precise. The minimalist design was evident, with only a single injection-molded nylon clip for belt attachment. It was noticeably lighter and less bulky than my previous holsters, which was a definite plus. My first thought was, “This might just be the one.”
Compared to the Alien Gear ShapeShift Core Carry Pack (too bulky) and the DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster (lacked IWB security), the Galco offered a streamlined profile that seemed perfect for IWB carry. I also considered the Vedder LightTuck, a Kydex option, but ultimately preferred the comfort of leather against my skin for all-day carry. I was excited about the potential for all-day comfort and deep concealment this holster offered.
First impressions were positive. I was excited to finally have a holster that seemed tailored to the LCP II’s strengths: small size and ease of concealment. The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand appeared to be a well-made, comfortable, and concealable option, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand was during a typical day of running errands and light outdoor activity. I wore it strong side, around the 3:30 position, under a light t-shirt and jeans. This immediately gave me an idea of the holster’s concealability and comfort during normal daily tasks.
The holster performed admirably even during the humid summer day. The leather remained comfortable against my skin, and the LCP II stayed securely in place during moderate activity like walking and bending. There was no noticeable printing through my shirt, which was a major concern with my previous holsters.
It took only a few minutes to adjust to drawing from the Stow-N-Go. The open-top design allowed for a quick and smooth draw, and the reinforced mouth made re-holstering relatively easy. However, I did notice that the mouth tended to collapse slightly after drawing, requiring a bit of extra effort to re-holster safely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. The leather has molded nicely to the shape of my LCP II, improving retention and draw speed. It has become my go-to option for everyday carry.
The holster has held up remarkably well with minimal signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the leather has retained its shape and rigidity. The nylon clip is still secure and shows no signs of loosening.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe down the leather with a damp cloth every few days to remove any sweat or dirt. I also apply a leather conditioner occasionally to keep it supple and prevent cracking. This simple routine keeps the holster looking and performing its best.
Compared to my previous experiences with other holsters, the Galco Stow-N-Go has significantly outperformed them in terms of comfort and concealability. It’s a no-frills, reliable holster that does exactly what it’s designed to do: securely and comfortably carry a Ruger LCP II concealed inside the waistband. The holster remains my go-to option, even over more expensive options.
Breaking Down the Features of Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand
Specifications
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand is specifically designed for the Ruger LCP II pistol. Its Type is Inside-The-Pant (IWB), offering discreet concealed carry. The holster’s Color is black, providing a low-profile look.
The Material is premium center cut steerhide leather, ensuring both comfort and durability. The Model is designed for right-hand draw. It is explicitly fitted for the Gun Model Ruger LCP II. The holster is designed to fit belts up to 1.75″ wide.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The IWB design allows for deep concealment, while the leather construction ensures comfort against the skin. The right-hand configuration and LCP II-specific molding provide a secure and precise fit. The belt clip size compatibility ensures the holster works with common belt sizes.
Performance & Functionality
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand performs its job admirably, providing secure and comfortable concealed carry. The holster’s retention is adequate, holding the LCP II securely in place without being overly difficult to draw. Its simple design ensures reliable usability.
Its main strength is its simplicity and comfort. The holster’s minimalist design makes it easy to use and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The primary weakness is the collapsing mouth after drawing, which can make re-holstering a bit tricky.
It meets expectations for a basic leather IWB holster. The Galco Stow-N-Go is not fancy, but it’s reliable and comfortable, which are the most important qualities for a concealed carry holster. It provides a dependable method to carry a small pistol every day.
Design & Ergonomics
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand boasts a minimalist and functional design. The holster is constructed from premium center cut steerhide, which is both durable and comfortable against the skin. The lightweight construction adds minimal bulk to the carry setup.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or break-in period. The open-top design allows for a quick and natural draw stroke, and the injection-molded nylon clip securely attaches to the belt. The holster provides a secure, comfortable, and unobtrusive carry method.
Durability & Maintenance
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand is built to last. The premium leather construction and sturdy stitching ensure long-term durability. Regular maintenance, such as wiping down the leather and applying conditioner, will further extend its lifespan.
Maintaining the holster is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning are sufficient to keep it in good condition. With proper care, the Stow-N-Go should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand is a minimalist holster and doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. The primary component is the injection-molded nylon clip. There are no included customization options beyond what Galco offers in terms of color and hand orientation.
While the Stow-N-Go itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, it is compatible with standard belts up to 1.75″ wide. Users can choose their preferred belt style and buckle type. This allows for a degree of personalization in the overall carry setup.
Pros and Cons of Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand
Pros
- Comfortable leather construction: Offers all-day comfort against the skin.
- Minimalist design: Provides deep concealment without adding bulk.
- Secure retention: Keeps the LCP II securely in place during activity.
- Easy draw: Open-top design allows for a quick and natural draw stroke.
- Durable construction: Built to last with quality materials and stitching.
Cons
- Collapsing mouth: Can make re-holstering a bit tricky.
- Limited customization: Offers minimal adjustability.
- No cant adjustment: Fixed vertical orientation may not suit all users.
Who Should Buy Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand?
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand is perfect for individuals seeking a comfortable and concealable IWB holster for their Ruger LCP II. It’s ideal for those who prioritize comfort and simplicity over advanced features and customization. This holster would be greatly appreciated by everyday concealed carriers.
Those who prefer a more adjustable holster with cant and ride height options should skip this product. Also, individuals who require active retention or a more rigid holster body may find the Stow-N-Go lacking. If one needs the utmost in adjustment, another product will likely be required.
A sturdy gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance. A quality gun belt will provide added stability and prevent the holster from shifting during movement. Leather conditioner is also recommended to maintain the holster’s leather quality.
Conclusion on Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand
The Galco Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Ruger LCP II Right Hand is a reliable and comfortable holster that excels in simplicity and concealability. It’s a no-frills option that gets the job done without breaking the bank. The premium leather provides all-day comfort, and the minimalist design ensures deep concealment.
While it lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive holsters, the Stow-N-Go offers excellent value for the price. It’s a well-made, durable holster that will provide years of reliable service with proper care. The simple, dependable design will likely appeal to a broad range of LCP II carriers.
I would personally recommend the Galco Stow-N-Go to anyone looking for a basic, comfortable, and concealable IWB holster for their Ruger LCP II. If you value simplicity and comfort over advanced features, this holster is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the comfort and concealability of a classic leather IWB holster!