Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster Review

First Thoughts on the Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster

For years, I’ve carried a variety of firearms, and with each new carry piece, the search for the perfect holster begins anew. Today, I’m sharing my experience with the Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster, a seemingly simple, yet potentially crucial piece of gear for concealed carry. The M&P 380 Shield EZ is a popular choice for those seeking a manageable and easy-to-rack pistol, and a good holster is paramount for safe and comfortable carry.

My quest for this particular holster stemmed from a need for a comfortable and concealable option for everyday carry of my M&P 380 Shield EZ. I wanted something that wouldn’t print easily under clothing and would be comfortable enough for all-day wear. I was looking for a holster that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Upon unboxing the holster, I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the design and the feel of the leather. The premium cowhide felt supple and well-crafted, a promising start. Its lightweight nature was also a welcome surprise, especially considering the often bulky nature of some IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters.

I considered other options like hybrid holsters with Kydex shells or all-Kydex holsters, but I ultimately chose this leather option for its potential comfort and classic look. I have generally found that leather molds to the body better than Kydex, enhancing all-day comfort. Also, the leather lining suggests a gentler treatment of my pistol’s finish.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the holster lived up to its promise of comfort and concealability, but also mindful of the potential drawbacks of leather holsters, such as break-in period and potential for stretching. Only real-world use would tell the full story.

Real-World Testing: Putting Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster during a week of daily errands and concealed carry practice at the range. I wore it while running errands, working at my desk, and even during a moderate hike, simulating various real-world scenarios.

The holster performed admirably in most conditions, though I did notice a slight increase in moisture retention during the hike, a common issue with leather in humid environments. The draw was initially a bit tight, but after a few practice draws, it loosened up nicely. I did have to adjust my belt to a slightly tighter setting than usual.

The initial break-in period required some getting used to, as the leather felt a bit stiff against my skin, however, I found that adding a thin undershirt greatly improved my comfort. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the holster concealed the M&P 380 Shield EZ, even under relatively light clothing. One minor issue was the clip, which was sturdy, but initially difficult to attach to my belt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. The leather has molded to the shape of my body and pistol, resulting in a more secure and natural fit.

There are some signs of wear and tear, primarily in the form of slight creasing and scuffing on the leather, but this is to be expected with regular use and doesn’t affect the holster’s functionality. I’ve been diligent in cleaning and conditioning the leather with a high-quality leather conditioner to maintain its suppleness and prevent cracking. The metal belt clip has maintained its grip and shows no signs of bending or weakening.

Compared to my previous experience with a Kydex holster, this leather holster offers superior comfort for all-day wear and causes less wear on the pistol’s finish. The only downside is that the leather requires more regular maintenance to prevent drying and cracking. Overall, the Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster has exceeded my initial expectations and has become my go-to holster for my M&P 380 Shield EZ.

Breaking Down the Features of Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster

Specifications

The Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ pistol. It is crafted from premium cowhide, providing a comfortable and durable platform for concealed carry. The holster is available in right-handed configurations, catering to the majority of shooters.

The holster features a leather lining to protect the gun’s finish and reduce wear. A metal belt holster clip ensures secure attachment to belts up to 1 ¾ inches wide. Its lightweight construction minimizes added bulk, crucial for comfortable IWB carry. The Manufacturer does not specify an exact weight.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall comfort, concealability, and longevity of the holster. The leather lining is particularly crucial for preserving the firearm’s finish, while the secure belt clip prevents accidental detachment. The cowhide offers both support and flexibility, which is paramount for all-day concealed carry comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster performs its job effectively by providing a secure, comfortable, and concealable platform for carrying the M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ. The holster offers adequate retention, keeping the pistol securely in place during movement, while still allowing for a smooth and relatively quick draw.

The holster’s strength lies in its comfort and concealability; however, the leather construction can retain moisture, which might be a concern in humid environments. The initial break-in period can also be slightly uncomfortable. It does meet my expectations for comfort and concealment, and the ease of draw is continually improving as the leather molds better.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster is commendable, with the premium cowhide showing solid stitching and attention to detail. The holster’s weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the carry setup. The leather lining is a welcome addition, protecting the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear.

The design is fairly user-friendly, with a simple IWB configuration. A slight learning curve is involved in finding the optimal placement for maximum comfort and concealment. The clip may also require some practice to attach quickly, but it’s a minor detail.

Durability & Maintenance

The Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster, constructed from premium cowhide, is expected to last for several years with proper care. Leather requires regular conditioning to prevent drying, cracking, and deformation.

The holster is relatively easy to maintain with basic leather care products. Regular cleaning and conditioning will extend its lifespan. Repairing any damage to the stitching or leather may require professional assistance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster does not come with any additional accessories. There are limited customization options available, as the holster is designed specifically for the M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ and is not adjustable.

While you cannot adjust the ride height or cant of the holster, aftermarket belt clips are commonly available in a variety of styles and depths. The holster should accommodate any standard 1.75-inch belt clip, if needed. While the holster offers limited customization, its simplicity and specific design provide a secure and comfortable carry experience for its intended purpose.

Pros and Cons of Black / Right Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield M2.0 EZ Leather IWB Inside the Waistband Holster