What Makes DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models Stand Out?
For over a decade, I’ve handled and assessed countless pieces of tactical and outdoor gear. Holsters, in particular, are crucial for responsible firearm ownership, and finding the right one can be a game-changer. Today, I’m diving deep into the DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models, a holster designed for versatility and concealed carry.
My search for a holster often involves finding a balance between comfort, retention, and adaptability. I needed a holster that could comfortably accommodate inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry, but also offer an outside-the-waistband (OWB) option for range days or open carry situations. The DeSantis Dual Carry II promises exactly that, a blend of both worlds.
Unboxing the DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models, I was immediately struck by the feel of the leather. It wasn’t the stiff, overly treated leather you sometimes find in mass-produced holsters. Instead, it possessed a supple, almost broken-in quality. It suggested comfort right out of the box. Compared to a Kydex-only holster, this felt more forgiving against the body.
I considered other hybrid holsters, like those from CrossBreed or StealthGear, which offer Kydex shells mounted on leather or synthetic backings. I wanted the simplicity and classic feel of an all-leather design for this particular carry setup. Also, the Dual Carry II’s ability to switch between IWB and OWB without needing to swap out the entire holster was appealing.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Leather holsters can sometimes lack the precise molding and retention of Kydex. But, the overall design and DeSantis‘ reputation gave me hope that this holster would deliver on its promises. I was excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the range, focusing on both IWB and OWB configurations. The weather was warm, hovering around 80 degrees, which meant sweat would be a factor, especially in the IWB setup. I carried my Ruger Security-9 in the DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models for several hours, running drills and practicing draws from concealment.
The IWB carry was surprisingly comfortable. The soft leather conformed well to my body, minimizing pressure points. Drawing from the IWB position, however, took some practice. The thumb break, while secure, required a deliberate and firm snap to release. Shifting to OWB was easy, accomplished by threading a belt through the integral loop. In OWB mode, the draw was faster and more natural.
After a few hours, I noticed some minor discomfort from sweat. While the leather was comfortable, it did absorb moisture. No immediate issues arose, but I knew regular cleaning would be essential. There were no other surprises, positive or negative, after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a month of using the DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models in various scenarios, including daily concealed carry and weekend hikes, I have a better understanding of its long-term performance. The leather has softened slightly, further enhancing comfort. However, it hasn’t lost its shape or structural integrity.
Durability has been impressive. Despite constant use and exposure to sweat, the stitching remains intact, and the leather shows no signs of cracking or significant wear. The thumb break still functions reliably, although I’ve applied a bit of leather conditioner to keep it supple.
Maintenance is straightforward. I wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use and apply leather conditioner every couple of weeks. This keeps the leather clean and prevents it from drying out. Compared to my experience with all-Kydex holsters, the DeSantis Dual Carry II requires more care. But, the added comfort justifies the effort. This outperforms cheaper nylon holsters I’ve used.
Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models
Specifications
Material: Soft, non-molded leather. This provides a comfortable feel against the body, particularly important for IWB carry.
Carry Style: Dual Carry – IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband). This offers versatility for different carry preferences and situations.
Retention: Thumb break. The thumb break provides an added layer of security, ensuring the firearm stays in place during movement.
Clip: Tuck-able 360-degree ‘C’ clip. This allows for adjustable positioning within the waistband and enables tucking in a shirt for deeper concealment.
OWB Loop: Integral belt loop. This loop allows for secure and stable OWB carry.
Optional J-Clip: Available at extra cost. This clip provides an alternative IWB carry option, potentially offering deeper concealment.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s comfort, retention, and versatility. The leather construction ensures comfort, while the thumb break and clips offer secure carry. The dual carry design makes this a flexible choice for different needs.
Performance & Functionality
The DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models performs its job admirably, offering both comfortable concealed carry and a functional OWB option. The retention is secure, thanks to the thumb break, but it does require a deliberate action to release. Usability is good overall, but the draw stroke takes practice, particularly from the IWB position.
The main strength lies in its versatility. Being able to quickly transition between IWB and OWB carry is a significant advantage. The primary weakness is the lack of precise molding found in Kydex holsters. It relies more on friction and the thumb break for retention. It meets my expectations for a leather holster in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with durable stitching and good quality leather. The weight is minimal, adding little bulk to the firearm. Comfort is excellent for a leather holster, especially for IWB carry.
The design is relatively simple and straightforward. There is a slight learning curve associated with the thumb break. But the overall design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models should last for years. The leather is relatively durable, but requires regular cleaning and conditioning. It is easy to maintain with basic leather care products.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes with the integrated belt loop and the ‘C’ clip for IWB carry. The optional J-clip, available at extra cost, provides an alternative IWB carry method.
There aren’t many other customization options available directly for the holster. However, compatibility with different belts is crucial for optimal performance. It is compatible with most standard width gun belts.
Pros and Cons of DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models
Pros
- Versatile dual-carry design: Allows for both IWB and OWB carry, adapting to different situations and preferences.
- Comfortable leather construction: The soft leather provides all-day comfort, especially for IWB carry.
- Secure retention: The thumb break ensures the firearm stays in place during movement.
- Adjustable clip: The 360-degree ‘C’ clip allows for customizable positioning and cant.
- Affordable price: Offers good value for the features and quality provided.
Cons
- Draw requires practice: The thumb break and leather construction necessitate a deliberate draw stroke, especially from IWB.
- Leather requires maintenance: Regular cleaning and conditioning are essential to maintain the leather’s integrity.
Who Should Buy DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models?
The DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models is perfect for individuals who prioritize comfort and versatility in a concealed carry holster. It’s a good choice for those who appreciate the classic feel of leather and want a holster that can adapt to different carry styles. It is also suitable for Ruger owners looking for a reliable and affordable holster option.
Those who demand the absolute fastest draw possible or prefer the rigid retention of Kydex should skip this product. Law enforcement officers who require Level 2 or Level 3 retention holsters would likely find this holster unsuitable for duty use.
A high-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance and comfort. Leather conditioner is also essential for maintaining the holster’s longevity.
Conclusion on DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models
The DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models is a well-designed and versatile holster that offers a good balance of comfort, retention, and affordability. While it may not be the fastest or most technologically advanced holster on the market, its dual-carry design and comfortable leather construction make it a solid choice for everyday concealed carry.
At $47.99, the price is definitely justified, especially considering the dual-carry capability. This is a good choice for anyone seeking a comfortable, reliable, and versatile leather holster for their Ruger. I personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and functional option.
If you value comfort, versatility, and classic design in a concealed carry holster, the DeSantis Dual Carry II Leather IWB Holster, Ruger – 1 out of 20 models is worth considering. Give it a try, and experience the comfort and versatility for yourself.