Let’s Talk About Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops
The Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops is marketed as a solution for everyday concealed carry. Bravo Concealment touts its precise fit and comfortable design, making it an appealing option for those seeking an outside-the-waistband carry solution.
I was looking for a reliable OWB holster that wouldn’t break the bank and would offer a secure and comfortable carry for my Glock 43x. The promise of a precise fit and the ability to convert it to an IWB holster intrigued me.
Upon unboxing, the Bravo Concealment holster felt lightweight, but the Kydex seemed a bit thin. The edges, while rounded, felt slightly rough against the skin.
I considered the Safariland 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster and the Blackhawk! Serpa CQC Holster, both popular options. I chose the Bravo Concealment holster due to its lower price point and the promise of a custom fit, hoping it would offer a good balance of security and comfort.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The fit seemed snug, but I was concerned about the overall feel and the user feedback mentioning fit issues.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops at my local shooting range and while doing some light hiking. I wanted to assess its comfort and retention during both static and dynamic activities.
The holster performed poorly during the range session. The Glock 43x felt loose and not securely holstered as well as the draw felt slow and clunky.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Bravo Concealment holster, the initial concerns about its reliability were confirmed. The Kydex showed minor scratches and scuff marks, but more importantly, the fit never improved.
The retention remained inconsistent, and I never felt fully confident in the holster’s ability to securely hold my Glock 43x during more active movements. Cleaning was simple, requiring only a damp cloth, but the poor fit overshadowed any ease of maintenance.
Compared to my experience with other holsters, such as the Safariland 7TS, the Bravo Concealment fell short in terms of both security and comfort. It did not meet my expectations for a reliable and comfortable OWB carry solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Bravo Concealment.
- Color: Black.
- Hand: Right.
- Holster Type: Outside the Waistband Holster.
- Holster Material: Kydex.
- Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop.
- Holster Size: Small.
- Quantity: 1.
- Belt Loop/Snap Width: 1.5 in.
- Model Generation: 5.
- Included Accessories: None.
- Age Group: Adults.
- Fabric/Material: Kydex.
These specifications are important because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, comfort, and durability. The Kydex material determines the holster’s resistance to wear and tear, while the 1.5-inch belt loops ensure compatibility with standard belts.
Performance & Functionality
The Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops fails to adequately perform its primary function: securely holding the firearm. The loose fit and inconsistent retention led to a lack of confidence in its reliability.
Its strength is arguably its lightweight design, but the poor fit outweighs this benefit. The holster does not meet the expectation of a secure and comfortable OWB carry solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s build quality is underwhelming. The Kydex feels thin and the rounded edges are not as smooth as they should be.
There is a slight learning curve to re-holstering, but the larger issue is the loose fit. The rough edges can cause discomfort against the skin.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bravo Concealment holster appears reasonably durable, but the thin Kydex is prone to scratches. Maintenance is easy, requiring only a damp cloth for cleaning.
However, the long-term durability is questionable given the initial wear and tear observed after only a few weeks of use. The holster’s structural integrity may be compromised over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops comes with no included accessories. It can be converted to an IWB holster by changing the belt loops, which is a potential customization option.
However, the lack of compatibility with other popular accessories limits its versatility. Customization is primarily limited to changing the belt loops.
Pros and Cons of Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Lightweight design.
- Can be converted to IWB carry with different belt loops.
- 1.5-inch belt loops are compatible with standard belts.
Cons
- Poor fit and retention, particularly with stock Glock 43x.
- Thin Kydex material feels cheap and prone to scratches.
- Rough edges can cause discomfort.
Who Should Buy Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops?
The Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops might be suitable for individuals on a very tight budget who need a basic OWB holster for range use only and are willing to accept a compromise in fit and retention. This is not a holster I would recommend to someone looking for a good CCW option.
Individuals who prioritize secure retention, comfort, and durability should skip this product. Those who require a reliable holster for everyday concealed carry or tactical applications should look elsewhere.
A must-have modification would be aftermarket belt loops to improve stability and possibly help tighten the fit, but this adds to the overall cost. I recommend spending a little more for something better.
Conclusion on Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops
Overall, the Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops is a disappointing product. Its low price point is appealing, but the poor fit, thin Kydex, and inconsistent retention make it an unreliable choice for concealed carry.
The value proposition is questionable, as the compromised performance outweighs the affordability. A reliable holster is a critical piece of gear, and this one simply doesn’t deliver.
I would not personally recommend the Bravo Concealment OWB BCA Holster W/ 1.5 in Belt Loops, particularly for those with a stock Glock 43x. Spend a bit more for a holster that offers better fit, retention, and overall reliability. Don’t compromise on safety and comfort; invest in a quality holster that you can trust.