First Thoughts on the Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand holster. It’s a simple, no-frills option for concealed carry, designed by Blackhawk for left-handed shooters carrying a medium or intermediate double-action pistol. At a price point that won’t break the bank, it promises comfort and concealability.
I was looking for an affordable, comfortable IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster for my double-action pistol. I needed something that would allow for deep concealment without sacrificing all-day comfort. My previous experience with rigid Kydex holsters led me to seek a softer, more pliable option.
Unboxing was straightforward; no fancy packaging, just the holster itself. The initial impression was that it’s incredibly lightweight, thanks to the suede construction. The suede felt soft to the touch, and the nylon lining seemed smooth enough for a relatively easy draw. Compared to a similarly priced nylon holster from Uncle Mike’s, the Blackhawk seemed to offer a slightly more refined construction. A molded Kydex holster offered better retention, but at the cost of comfort.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly right, and the materials seemed adequate. I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world carry situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the holster during a typical day of errands and light activity around town. The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand was paired with my Smith & Wesson M&P 9c, a common “Med/Intermediate DA” gun. I carried it IWB around the 4 o’clock position.
The performance in dry conditions was acceptable. The draw was smooth enough, though not as crisp as with a more rigid holster. I noticed some initial discomfort as the suede rubbed against my skin, but this subsided after a short period.
I was surprised by how much the holster moved around initially. The single clip didn’t seem to provide enough stability, especially when bending or sitting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the holster started to show some signs of wear. The suede began to fray slightly around the edges of the belt clip. The nylon lining remained intact, but I noticed some lint and debris accumulating inside.
Durability-wise, the holster is showing its budget-friendly nature. The suede is not as robust as leather or Kydex, and I anticipate it will eventually require replacement. Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my experiences with higher-end leather holsters, the Blackhawk requires more frequent adjustments to maintain a comfortable and secure fit.
Breaking Down the Features of Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand
Specifications
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand is designed for inside-the-waistband carry. It features a soft laminate suede outer construction. The interior boasts a nylon lining.
This holster is black. The product’s size is listed as 02. It is specifically made for left-handed users and is designated for Med/Intermediate DA (Double Action) handguns. This translates to compatibility with pistols similar in size to a Glock 19 or a Smith & Wesson M&P Compact.
The suede offers a degree of comfort, while the nylon lining aids in drawing. The left-hand configuration ensures proper draw orientation for left-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand performs adequately for its intended purpose: concealed carry. Its strength lies in its concealability and relative comfort. The suede conforms to the body, minimizing printing.
The main weakness is its retention and stability. The single belt clip does not provide a secure hold, and the suede lacks rigidity. This leads to some movement and a slower draw compared to more structured holsters. It meets basic expectations for a budget IWB holster, but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable, considering the price point. The suede and nylon are functional, but not particularly luxurious. The weight is negligible, which is a definite plus for all-day carry. The holster is generally comfortable, but the suede can become abrasive against bare skin in hot weather.
The user-friendliness is high, as there is no significant learning curve. Simply clip it onto your belt and insert your handgun. The retention is entirely passive, relying on friction.
Durability & Maintenance
The holster’s longevity is a concern. The suede is prone to wear, and the stitching may eventually loosen with repeated use. Easy maintenance is a plus.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand comes with no additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to the holster’s basic design. It is not compatible with optics or weapon lights. Aftermarket belt clips might be compatible, but this would require careful measurement and experimentation.
Pros and Cons of Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Comfortable suede construction for all-day concealed carry.
- Lightweight design minimizes added bulk.
- Simple, user-friendly design requires no break-in period.
- Good concealability for smaller double-action handguns.
Cons
- Limited retention and stability due to single belt clip and soft construction.
- Suede is not as durable as leather or Kydex, and may show wear quickly.
- Minimal customization options.
Who Should Buy Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand?
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand is perfect for individuals new to concealed carry, who are seeking an affordable and comfortable option. It’s also well-suited for those who prioritize comfort over retention, and for those who carry only occasionally. It is also useful for those who need a cheap temporary holster.
Those who require a high level of retention, or those who frequently draw their weapon, should skip this product. Individuals who carry larger, heavier handguns might also find the holster lacking in support.
A sturdy gun belt is a must-have accessory to improve stability and reduce shifting.
Conclusion on Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand is a budget-friendly IWB holster that prioritizes comfort and concealability. It’s not the most durable or secure option on the market, but it serves its purpose as an entry-level holster.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s an inexpensive way to experiment with concealed carry.
I would recommend this holster to beginners or those on a tight budget. However, I would advise more experienced carriers to invest in a higher-quality holster for improved retention and durability.
If you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and comfortable IWB holster, give the Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ MedIntermediate DA Left Hand a try. You might be surprised by its value, or it might be a placeholder until you can afford something better, but either way it will hold your firearm.