The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material Made a Bold First Impression
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material isn’t trying to be fancy, but it promises a simple, affordable solution for concealed carry. Offered by Blackhawk, a trusted name in tactical gear, this holster aims to provide comfortable, discreet carry for medium/intermediate frame double-action revolvers with 4-inch barrels. For under ten dollars, the promise of a functional IWB holster was intriguing, especially given my experience with higher-end options.
I’ve been carrying concealed for over a decade, primarily using Kydex or hybrid holsters. However, I was looking for a budget-friendly option for occasional carry of my Smith & Wesson Model 19, primarily for when I was doing yard work or quick errands around town where maximum concealment was paramount. My usual leather holster felt bulky in the summer heat. The Blackhawk holster promised a lighter, more breathable alternative.
My first impression of the Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster was…well, utilitarian. The black suede felt soft to the touch, but the overall construction appeared quite basic. Compared to my DeSantis Cozy Partner or even a cheap nylon holster, the Blackhawk looked undeniably simple. However, considering the rock-bottom price, I tempered my expectations.
I considered a few other super-budget holsters before settling on the Blackhawk. Some nylon options seemed flimsy, and others lacked any retention features. The Blackhawk’s retention strap and adjustable belt loop seemed like a step up in terms of security. At this price point, it was worth a try.
Honestly, I wasn’t blown away by the initial look, but I was cautiously optimistic. The promise of all-day comfort and protection for my revolver at such a minimal cost definitely piqued my interest. Time would tell if it could deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster at the range and while doing yard work on a hot summer day. My Smith & Wesson Model 19 fit snugly, and the suede felt surprisingly comfortable against my skin. The holster positioned the revolver at a decent depth for concealment.
The weather was hot and humid, and I was eager to test the “moisture barrier” claim. After a few hours of sweating in the sun, I checked the revolver. While the suede was damp, the gun itself remained relatively dry, a definite improvement over carrying without a holster or using an unlined leather option.
The draw was…okay. The retention strap required a firm tug, and re-holstering was a bit awkward due to the soft material collapsing. It definitely took some getting used to. The adjustable belt loop kept the holster relatively secure, but it shifted around more than my usual Kydex rig.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few months of occasional use, the Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster is showing its limitations. The suede is starting to wear in areas, particularly around the muzzle. The stitching appears to be holding up, but I wouldn’t expect it to last forever.
The holster is easy to clean – I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and let it air dry. However, the suede does absorb odors, so regular cleaning is necessary. The retention strap has stretched slightly, requiring further adjustment.
Compared to my more expensive holsters, the Blackhawk is a clear step down in terms of durability and security. However, for its intended purpose as a budget-friendly option for occasional carry, it’s performed adequately. It’s not something I would trust for serious self-defense scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material
Specifications
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material is specifically designed for right-handed shooters carrying medium/intermediate frame double-action revolvers with 4-inch barrels. It’s constructed from a large piece of black suede and features a built-in moisture barrier. The holster includes a retention strap with a snap closure and a rake-adjustable belt loop.
The most crucial spec is obviously the 4-inch barrel compatibility. Attempting to force a longer or shorter barrelled revolver into this holster could damage the firearm or compromise safety. The “Large” material size indicates it’s made to accommodate revolvers such as the Smith & Wesson K-frame or Ruger Security Six, which are considered medium/intermediate frame sizes.
Performance & Functionality
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster performs its primary function – concealing a handgun – reasonably well. The thin design and soft suede minimize bulk, making it comfortable to wear inside the waistband. The moisture barrier effectively protects the firearm from sweat, a significant advantage in warm climates.
However, the retention strap is somewhat slow to release, and re-holstering can be challenging due to the flexible material. The adjustable belt loop provides some control over the holster’s cant, but it’s not as secure as a more rigid attachment system. The overall functionality is adequate for casual carry, but not ideal for high-stress situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster is simple and straightforward. The suede provides a comfortable feel against the skin, and the thin profile minimizes printing. The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add much bulk to the overall carry system.
However, the flexible material can make it difficult to draw and re-holster quickly. There’s also a noticeable lack of support, causing the holster to collapse when the firearm is removed. Ergonomically, it’s acceptable for short periods, but not ideal for all-day wear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster is not built for heavy use. The suede will eventually wear out, and the stitching may come loose over time. The retention strap is also a potential point of failure.
Maintenance is relatively simple – wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. However, the suede can absorb odors and stains, so regular cleaning is recommended. Expect a lifespan of perhaps a year or two with moderate use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization options are extremely limited due to the basic design and materials. It’s not compatible with any aftermarket accessories such as lights or lasers.
Pros and Cons of Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material
Pros
- Affordable Price: The most significant advantage is the low cost, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Comfortable Suede: The suede material feels soft against the skin, enhancing comfort during carry.
- Minimalist Design: The thin profile minimizes bulk and printing, aiding concealment.
- Moisture Barrier: The built-in moisture barrier effectively protects the firearm from sweat.
- Rake Adjustable Belt Loop: Allows for cant adjustment to customize carry position.
Cons
- Limited Durability: The suede and stitching are not designed for heavy use and will eventually wear out.
- Slow Draw & Re-holstering: The flexible material makes it difficult to draw and re-holster quickly and smoothly.
- Lack of Support: The holster collapses when the firearm is removed, making re-holstering awkward.
Who Should Buy Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material?
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede holster is perfect for individuals seeking a budget-friendly, comfortable option for occasional concealed carry of a 4″ medium/intermediate frame DA revolver. It’s suitable for those who prioritize comfort and concealment over speed and durability. This holster would work well for someone needing a very inexpensive option for trips to the range or running errands in situations where deep concealment is needed.
This holster is not ideal for serious self-defense scenarios or individuals who require a highly durable and reliable holster. Law enforcement, security professionals, and those who carry frequently should invest in a higher-quality option. Anyone needing very fast access to their firearm should also look elsewhere.
A must-have modification (if you can even call it that) would be to reinforce the opening with some strategically placed duct tape. This would make re-holstering easier and extend the lifespan of the holster by preventing it from collapsing.
Conclusion on Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material
The Blackhawk Inside The Pants Black Suede 4″ Medium/Intermediate DA Revolver Right Hand – Black Color, 4″ Barrel Medium/Intermediate Double Action Gun Mod, Large Material is a basic, no-frills holster that delivers on its promise of comfortable concealment at an extremely affordable price. However, its limitations in terms of durability and functionality must be considered. It does not stand up well against even mid-tier competition but at its price point, that is to be expected.
The price is definitely justified if you understand its limitations. It’s a decent value for those seeking a temporary or occasional carry solution.
I would recommend it with a strong caveat: understand that this is a budget holster. If you need a reliable, durable holster for serious self-defense, look elsewhere. But if you just need something cheap and comfortable for occasional use, it’s worth considering. If you are on a budget, or need something inexpensive for a specific purpose, the Blackhawk Inside The Pants holster may be a good fit.
