The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod Made a Bold First Impression
In the realm of concealed carry, finding the perfect holster is akin to discovering the Holy Grail. The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod enters the arena promising a blend of accessibility, comfort, and concealment for a common platform. This holster seeks to address the challenges faced by many who carry a Glock 17, 22, or 31 while maintaining a budget-friendly price point.
For years, I’ve wrestled with the trade-offs between comfort and speed in concealed carry. I needed a holster that wouldn’t feel like a medieval torture device after a few hours, yet would allow for a rapid and reliable draw when the situation demanded it. The market is flooded with options, but many fail to deliver on both fronts, either sacrificing comfort for speed or vice versa.
Upon unboxing the Galco Stow-N-Go, I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the design. The black steerhide exuded a no-nonsense, functional aesthetic. It felt lightweight and relatively thin, suggesting it might actually live up to its “Stow-N-Go” moniker.
Compared to other all-kydex IWB holsters I’ve used, the Galco offered a potentially more comfortable alternative thanks to the leather construction. Conversely, against hybrid holsters with larger sweat guards and wider platforms, the Stow-N-Go appeared more streamlined and potentially easier to conceal under lighter clothing. My initial pick was influenced by Galco’s reputation and the promise of a fast draw combined with decent concealment.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The holster appeared well-made for the price, but the true test would be in the carrying and drawing. Could it deliver on both comfort and speed, or would it fall victim to the common compromises of concealed carry?
Real-World Testing: Putting Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod to the Test
First Use Experience
My first foray with the Galco Stow-N-Go involved a trip to the shooting range. I wanted to assess its draw speed and retention under controlled conditions. I tested it strong side at the 3 o’clock position, replicating my preferred carry style.
The Galco performed admirably, allowing for a relatively smooth and fast draw. The open-top design certainly aided in quick access to the firearm. Initially, the holster felt a bit stiff, but I anticipated it would break in over time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, the Galco Stow-N-Go has proven to be a reliable, albeit imperfect, companion. The steerhide has softened, conforming better to my body and increasing comfort levels. The holster shows minimal signs of wear, with only slight scuffing on the leather near the belt clip.
Maintaining the Galco is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it clean. Compared to my experiences with full-kydex holsters, the leather requires a bit more care to prevent drying and cracking over the long term. However, the increased comfort makes this minor upkeep worthwhile.
Breaking Down the Features of Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod
Specifications
The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod is designed for inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry. It accommodates Glock 17, 22, and 31 pistols. The holster is constructed from black, center-cut steerhide, offering a blend of durability and comfort.
The holster features an injection-molded nylon belt clip, accommodating belts up to 1.75 inches wide. It is designed for a vertical carry, with no cant or angle adjustment. The Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod is an unusual, and potentially confusing addition to the product description, as the holster is explicitly for Glocks.
Performance & Functionality
The Galco Stow-N-Go excels in its primary function: providing a secure and accessible means of carrying a Glock pistol. The reinforced mouth allows for easy reholstering, even with one hand. The open-top design facilitates a rapid draw, crucial in defensive situations.
The holster’s simplicity is both a strength and a weakness. The lack of adjustable cant or ride height may not suit all users. Also, the retention is solely dependent on the friction of the leather against the firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Galco Stow-N-Go boasts a minimalist design, prioritizing function over fancy aesthetics. The all-leather construction offers a comfortable feel against the skin. The lack of sharp edges prevents chafing or irritation during extended wear.
The holster’s slim profile aids in concealment, making it suitable for wearing under lighter clothing. However, the single belt clip design can sometimes allow the holster to shift slightly, requiring minor adjustments throughout the day.
Durability & Maintenance
The Galco Stow-N-Go appears to be reasonably durable for its price point. The steerhide construction should withstand daily use for a considerable period. Regular conditioning of the leather is recommended to prevent drying and cracking, prolonging the holster’s lifespan.
The simple design makes maintenance straightforward. A quick wipe down with a leather cleaner and conditioner is all that’s typically needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Galco Stow-N-Go is a fairly basic holster, and doesn’t offer much in the way of customization. It is what it is, a simple, leather IWB holster. Aftermarket belt clips might be compatible, but the stock clip is functional.
Since the holster is designed for specific Glock models, there is no need for modifications related to gun fit. Users can potentially adjust the ride height by modifying the belt clip attachment points, but this would require some DIY skills.
Pros and Cons of Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod
Pros
- Comfortable leather construction for all-day carry.
- Open-top design allows for a fast and efficient draw.
- Reinforced mouth facilitates easy one-handed reholstering.
- Slim profile aids in concealment under various clothing types.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- Fixed vertical carry with no cant or ride height adjustment.
- Retention is solely dependent on leather friction, potentially requiring break-in period.
- Single belt clip design can sometimes lead to holster shifting.
Who Should Buy Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod?
The Galco Stow-N-Go is perfect for Glock 17, 22, and 31 owners seeking a comfortable and affordable IWB holster. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a fast draw and simple design. This is a good choice for individuals new to concealed carry or those on a tight budget who want a reliable holster.
Those who prefer adjustable cant and ride height, or require active retention, should skip this product. Individuals carrying in demanding environments where secure retention is paramount might also want to consider other options. A good leather conditioner is a must-have accessory for maintaining the Galco Stow-N-Go.
Conclusion on Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod
The Galco Stow-N-Go Inside The Pants For Glock 17 Black Steerhide – Hi-Point C9 Comp 9mm Add Mod, Black Color, Steerhide Material, Glock17/22/31 Gun Mod offers a solid value proposition. It balances comfort, accessibility, and affordability in a simple, functional package. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end holsters, it delivers reliable performance for everyday concealed carry.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend this holster to Glock owners seeking a comfortable and budget-friendly IWB option. If you’re looking for a no-frills, reliable holster that gets the job done, the Galco Stow-N-Go is definitely worth considering.