BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models Review

What Makes BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models Stand Out?

In the world of concealed carry, finding the right holster is paramount. It’s about more than just having a place to store your firearm. It’s about comfort, accessibility, and confidence, knowing your weapon is secure and readily available should the need arise. The BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models offers a seemingly simple solution for those seeking a minimalist and affordable IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) carry option, specifically designed for select Taurus firearms.

I’ve spent years searching for the “perfect” IWB holster. The usual suspects – Kydex, leather hybrids – all had their drawbacks, mainly comfort after extended wear. I was looking for a holster that wouldn’t break the bank and would disappear under my clothes while maintaining a decent level of retention and draw speed.

Upon unboxing, the BlackHawk holster felt surprisingly soft. The laminate suede-like outer shell gives it a comfortable texture, a stark contrast to the rigid materials I’m used to. Its light weight was immediately noticeable, a welcome change from heavier leather or polymer alternatives.

Compared to my DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster, the BlackHawk offers more secure retention and a belt clip for IWB carry. The Galco Stow-N-Go, a more traditional leather IWB, felt bulkier and less breathable against the skin. I chose the BlackHawk because it seemed like the best compromise between comfort, concealment, and affordability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The holster seemed well-made for its price point. I was particularly intrigued by the potential for all-day comfort, a feature that has eluded me with other IWB holsters.


Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models during a week of everyday carry. I paired it with my Taurus PT111 G2, a common and compact choice. My daily activities included running errands, working at my desk, and light yard work.

The holster performed adequately in dry conditions but showed its limitations when subjected to even mild perspiration. The suede-like material absorbed moisture, becoming slightly less comfortable and potentially affecting the draw over time. I found the draw relatively smooth thanks to the nylon lining, but the retention strap felt a little flimsy and slow to manipulate.

The holster was surprisingly comfortable at first. After several hours of wear, the edges of the belt clip started to dig into my skin slightly. I also noticed that the holster shifted position somewhat, requiring minor adjustments throughout the day.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of sporadic use, the BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models has shown some signs of wear. The laminate material is starting to fray slightly around the edges. The hook & loop retention strap has also lost some of its grip.

The holster’s durability is questionable. The suede-like material is prone to wear and tear, especially with regular use. Cleaning is simple enough with a damp cloth, but it’s difficult to remove embedded dirt and sweat completely.

Compared to my more robust Kydex holsters, the BlackHawk definitely falls short in terms of long-term durability and reliability. It’s a comfortable option for occasional carry, but I wouldn’t rely on it for serious duty or high-stress situations. The ease of draw, while decent initially, noticeably degrades with wear on the retention strap.

Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models

Specifications

  • Material: Constructed of soft laminate suede-like outer material. This offers a degree of comfort but sacrifices durability compared to Kydex or leather.
  • Lining: Features a smooth nylon lining for easy draw. This is a beneficial addition for preventing snags and allows for a smoother release of the firearm.
  • Attachment: Equipped with a belt clip that slips over pants or a belt for retention. The clip is a basic metal design, offering limited adjustability.
  • Retention: Includes a fold-over hook & loop retention strap. This provides an additional layer of security but can slow down the draw if not properly trained.

These specifications matter because they dictate the overall comfort, concealment, and draw speed of the holster. The materials used impact durability and how well the holster holds up to daily wear and tear. The belt clip and retention strap are crucial for secure and reliable carry.

Performance & Functionality

The BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models performs adequately for basic concealed carry. It offers a reasonable level of concealment and a relatively comfortable fit, especially during shorter periods of wear.

However, the holster has several weaknesses. The retention strap is slow to disengage, the suede-like material is not very durable, and the belt clip lacks adjustability. It meets basic expectations for an affordable IWB holster, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster features a simple and minimalist design. The laminate construction keeps the weight down and provides a relatively soft feel against the skin.

The ergonomics are adequate but not exceptional. There is a noticeable learning curve associated with consistently and quickly disengaging the retention strap. The belt clip design is simple, but provides little adjustability for ride height or cant.

Durability & Maintenance

The BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models is not designed for extreme durability. The suede-like material will likely show signs of wear and tear after extended use.

Maintenance is relatively simple. The holster can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. However, the laminate material is not resistant to moisture or stains.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models is a basic holster with limited accessory options. There are no provisions for attaching lights, lasers, or other accessories.

There are very few customization options available. The ride height and cant cannot be adjusted. It is compatible with the intended Taurus firearm model only.

Pros and Cons of BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models

Pros

  • Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
  • Soft laminate suede-like outer material offers decent initial comfort.
  • Smooth nylon lining facilitates a relatively easy draw.
  • Lightweight design minimizes bulk and printing.
  • Decent concealment for a basic IWB holster.

Cons

  • Durability is questionable due to the use of less robust materials.
  • Hook & loop retention strap can be slow and cumbersome to disengage.
  • Limited adjustability of the belt clip for ride height and cant.
  • Suede-like material absorbs moisture and can become uncomfortable over time.
  • Minimal customization options available.


Who Should Buy BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models?

The BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models is perfect for individuals new to concealed carry who are on a tight budget and looking for a simple, comfortable option for occasional use. It is well-suited for those who prioritize affordability and concealment over long-term durability and performance.

This is not the right holster for those who carry daily, prioritize durability and reliability, or require a fast and consistent draw. Law enforcement, security personnel, or anyone facing potentially high-stress situations should invest in a more robust and feature-rich holster.

A must-have modification would be replacing the belt clip with a higher quality aftermarket clip offering better retention and adjustability. Practice drawing with the retention strap to improve speed and consistency.

Conclusion on BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models

The BlackHawk Inside-the-Pant Clip Holsters, Taurus – 1 out of 9 models provides a basic and affordable entry point into the world of concealed carry. It offers a decent level of comfort and concealment at a price that’s hard to beat.

However, its limitations in terms of durability, retention, and adjustability must be considered. The price is justified for its intended purpose: infrequent, low-stress concealed carry.

I would recommend this holster with reservations. It’s a good option for beginners or those on a tight budget, but experienced shooters should consider investing in a higher-quality holster for improved performance and longevity. If you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful option, it’s worth a try. But if you are serious about concealed carry and rely on it for personal defense, invest in something more reliable.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top