The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material Made a Bold First Impression
The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material promises a minimalist, secure, and adjustable carry solution. Desantis Gunhide has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable holsters, and this model seemed to align with my desire for a simple, effective outside-the-waistband (OWB) option.
I’ve been searching for a low-profile OWB holster for my Glock 19. I needed something easily concealed under a light cover garment for everyday carry in cooler months. Opening the package, I immediately noticed the holster’s lightweight construction and clean design. The nylon material felt durable, and the adjustable tension screw was a welcome feature.
I considered other OWB holsters, including a Kydex model from a competing brand and a leather pancake holster. The Kydex felt too bulky for my needs, and the leather option, while comfortable, lacked the adjustability I desired. The Desantis Gunhide holster offered a good balance of concealability, security, and adjustability.
My first impression was positive. The holster seemed well-made for the price point and offered the minimalist design I was looking for. I was eager to test it out in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved a trip to the local shooting range, combined with some dry-fire practice at home. I wanted to assess the holster’s retention, draw speed, and comfort during extended use. The holster performed admirably at the range.
I practiced drawing and re-holstering my Glock 19 multiple times. The adjustable tension screw allowed me to fine-tune the retention to my preference. I also tested it while moving and bending to simulate real-world scenarios. The handgun stayed securely in place, even during rigorous activity.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Desantis Gunhide holster has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. I’ve worn it while running errands, hiking, and even during a weekend camping trip. The holster has held up well to various conditions.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the nylon material. It’s easy to clean with a damp cloth, and the adjustable tension screw remains secure. Compared to my previous experience with leather holsters, the Desantis Gunhide requires significantly less maintenance. It has exceeded my expectations for a nylon holster in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material
Specifications
The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material is a minimalist OWB holster designed for compact and subcompact 9mm and .40 caliber handguns. It accommodates belts up to 1.5 inches wide. The holster is constructed from durable black nylon material and features an adjustable tension device.
The holster’s minimalist design and adjustable tension are crucial for both security and comfort. The 1.5-inch belt loop is a standard size, ensuring compatibility with most everyday carry belts.
Performance & Functionality
The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material performs its core function effectively: securely holding and concealing a handgun. It allows for a smooth, relatively quick draw. The adjustable tension screw enables users to customize the retention to their preferred level.
The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and security. However, the nylon material, while durable, may not offer the same level of rigidity as Kydex or the refined look of leather. The holster meets expectations for its price point, but doesn’t necessarily exceed them in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Desantis Gunhide is designed with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The black nylon material is lightweight and relatively comfortable against the body. The minimalist design helps to minimize printing when worn under a cover garment.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment. The adjustable tension screw is easily accessible and can be adjusted with a screwdriver or similar tool. There is little to no learning curve involved in using this holster.
Durability & Maintenance
The nylon material appears to be quite durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use.
The holster is very easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. No special cleaning solutions or treatments are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material is relatively limited in terms of accessories and customization. It does not come with any additional accessories beyond the holster itself.
The adjustable tension screw allows for some degree of customization in terms of retention. However, the holster is not compatible with aftermarket accessories such as weapon lights or lasers without significant modifications.
Pros and Cons of Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it an excellent value for the money.
- Adjustable tension allows for customized retention.
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear.
- Durable nylon material is resistant to wear and tear.
- Minimalist design allows for easy concealment.
Cons
- Nylon material may not be as rigid or aesthetically pleasing as Kydex or leather.
- Limited customization options.
- Retention can loosen over time and require adjustment.
Who Should Buy Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material?
This holster is perfect for individuals seeking a reliable and affordable OWB carry solution for their compact or subcompact 9mm/.40 caliber handgun. It’s an excellent choice for everyday carry, range training, or general use. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who prioritize comfort and concealment over advanced features or customization.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who require a high degree of customization or want to attach weapon lights or lasers to their holster. It is also not the best choice for open carry, as it prioritizes concealment over quick access.
A sturdy belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory to pair with this holster.
Conclusion on Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material
The Desantis Gunhide 9mm/.40 cal up to 1.5″ Black – Black Color, Nylon Material offers a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and comfort. While it may not be the most feature-rich or aesthetically pleasing holster on the market, it delivers on its core promise of providing a secure and concealable OWB carry option.
The price is certainly justified for the level of performance and durability offered. It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious individuals who want a reliable holster for their everyday carry needs.
I would recommend the Desantis Gunhide to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and affordable OWB holster. Try it out and experience the comfort and security it offers!