NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black Review

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black Made a Bold First Impression

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black. At first glance, it presents itself as a fashionable, everyday tote, a subtle deception concealing a tactical purpose. I was intrigued by the promise of discreet concealed carry within a stylish package and was eager to evaluate its practicality and effectiveness.

For years, I’ve grappled with the challenge of finding a concealed carry solution that seamlessly integrates into my daily life. Holsters can be uncomfortable and limiting, especially for women’s clothing. Purses designed specifically for concealed carry often sacrifice style for functionality. The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black seemed like a promising compromise, a way to carry securely without screaming “tactical.”

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was… well, mixed. The faux leather felt a bit plasticky, definitely reflective of the $9.99 price tag. However, the quilting on the front pocket added a touch of elegance, and the overall design was undeniably discreet. Compared to other CCW purses I’ve seen, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black definitely prioritizes blending in. I’ve tried more robust options like the Galco Escort, which prioritizes construction, and the Coronado Leather CCW Handbag, which goes for a more upscale leather look, both of which are significantly more expensive. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the NcStar could deliver on its core promise despite its budget-friendly materials. Was I excited? Not exactly. Intrigued and cautiously optimistic, yes.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first foray with the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black was a trip to the local shooting range. I wanted to assess ease of access and how comfortably it integrated into a practical shooting scenario. The range environment provided a controlled setting to test the draw and re-holstering procedures. I focused on speed and security, aiming to replicate a defensive situation as closely as possible.

The weather was surprisingly humid, which made gripping the purse a little slick. Accessing the firearm from the rear CCW compartment proved surprisingly easy, thanks to the dual zippers. However, re-holstering took a bit of practice as the included universal holster is somewhat loose. The magnetic snap on the front pocket was convenient for storing magazines, but I did find myself wishing for a dedicated mag pouch inside the CCW compartment. No major issues arose during this initial use, but the limitations of the universal holster became apparent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black for everyday errands and outings, its strengths and weaknesses became more pronounced. The faux leather, while not luxurious, has proven surprisingly resistant to scratches and scuffs. However, the stitching around the zippers shows some signs of wear, particularly with frequent use of the CCW compartment.

Cleaning the purse is simple – a damp cloth wipes away most dirt and grime. However, the PVC lining inside the main compartment can get sticky in hot weather. Compared to my experiences with other concealed carry bags that use higher-quality materials, the NcStar requires more frequent attention to prevent stickiness. While it hasn’t outperformed my premium bags in terms of durability, it’s held up surprisingly well considering the price.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black

Specifications

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black offers a set of features tailored for discreet carry:

• Dimensions: 10 1/2″ H x 13″ W x 4 1/2″ D. This size strikes a balance between being spacious enough for essentials while remaining reasonably compact for everyday carry.
• Weight: 30 oz. At just under two pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry comfortably, even with a firearm and other items inside.
• Color: Black. The classic black color ensures versatility and discreetness, allowing it to blend in with various outfits and settings.
• Faux leather Tote purse. The exterior is constructed from faux leather.
• Large quilted front pocket with magnetic snap-button closure. This pocket offers convenient storage for items like phones, keys, or wallets.
• CCW compartment is located on the back side of the purse with two zippers on either side. This placement allows for ambidextrous access to the firearm.
• Large zippered center compartment features loop fastener patch for a holster with hook fasteners and a zippered pocket. The loop fastener provides a secure platform for attaching the included holster or other compatible accessories.
• Includes a universal holster that will fit most full/ compact/ sub-compacts with hook fastener patch on both sides of the holster for left or right handed use. This holster offers flexibility in terms of firearm compatibility and carry orientation.
• Interior compartment lined with PVC material. This lining provides a degree of water resistance and makes cleaning easier.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black‘s effectiveness as a concealed carry solution. The dimensions determine its capacity and concealability. The weight influences comfort during extended carry, and the materials affect durability and weather resistance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black is to provide discreet and secure concealed carry. In this regard, it performs reasonably well. The ambidextrous access and the loop fastener system offer flexibility and ease of use.

However, the included universal holster is a significant weakness. It’s somewhat generic and doesn’t provide a snug, secure fit for all firearms. It would benefit from a more tailored design or the option to use aftermarket holsters. Also, the purse does not have any feet, so it will easily fall over if you set it down.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black prioritizes blending in. It looks like a regular tote bag, which is a major advantage for discreet carry. The quilted front pocket adds a touch of style without drawing unwanted attention.

The weight is manageable, and the shoulder straps are comfortable enough for short to medium-length carry. However, the lack of padding on the straps can become uncomfortable during extended use. There isn’t a significant learning curve, its operation is intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The faux leather exterior appears durable enough for everyday use, but the overall construction quality reflects the budget-friendly price point. I anticipate the stitching around the zippers being the first point of failure with heavy use. Maintenance is straightforward – a damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning. However, it’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they could damage the faux leather and PVC lining.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black comes with a universal holster, which offers some flexibility in terms of firearm compatibility. However, the limited customization options are a drawback. The loop fastener system allows for using other hook-and-loop compatible holsters.

Pros and Cons of NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black?

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black is perfect for women who are new to concealed carry and want a discreet, budget-friendly option. It’s also suitable for individuals who prioritize blending in over tactical features. This tote would be a good fit for casual outings, errands, and situations where a low-profile carry method is desired.

Those who require a high level of security, a tailored holster fit, or premium materials should skip this product. Active shooters and anyone expecting prolonged engagements will be better served with dedicated tactical gear. A must-have modification would be replacing the included universal holster with a hook-and-loop compatible holster that’s specific to your firearm.

Conclusion on NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black is a surprisingly capable concealed carry option for the price. While it doesn’t offer the premium materials or tailored fit of higher-end bags, it delivers on its core promise of discreet and accessible carry. The price is absolutely justified.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and inconspicuous way to carry a firearm. Just be sure to invest in a better holster. For $9.99, it’s hard to go wrong. Consider adding the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Quilted Tote Black to your concealed carry setup – a discreet and budget-friendly option that blends seamlessly into everyday life.

Check Best Price HERE