Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black Review

The Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black Made a Bold First Impression

As someone deeply entrenched in the world of tactical gear and self-defense, the need for discreet and practical concealed carry options is always top of mind. The Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black caught my attention because it attempts to blend functionality with fashion, offering a method of carrying a firearm that doesn’t scream “tactical.” Could this be the answer for women seeking secure, everyday carry without sacrificing style?

I was specifically looking for an off-body carry option that wouldn’t hinder my movement or advertise the presence of a firearm. Many concealed carry purses on the market lean too heavily into either the “tactical” look or are poorly designed, making access to the firearm cumbersome. The Bulldog purse’s backpack style and promise of ambidextrous access were intriguing.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. The navy and black color scheme is certainly more subdued than some of the brighter, more overtly “fashionable” concealed carry purses I’ve encountered. The leather appeared decent, though I immediately suspected it was bonded rather than full-grain, a common cost-cutting measure. The stitching seemed adequate, but not exceptionally robust. The weight was surprisingly light, which could be good for all-day carry, but also potentially indicative of less durable materials.

Compared to other concealed carry purses I’ve examined, such as the Galco Escort or the Coronado Leather Concealment Purse, the Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black stands out for its backpack configuration and lower price point. The Galco and Coronado offerings utilize higher-quality materials and command significantly higher price tags, but they are shoulder bags, not backpacks. I ultimately chose the Bulldog purse to test its blend of affordability and practicality in a backpack form factor, a niche I haven’t yet explored extensively.

My first impression was one of reserved anticipation. I wasn’t blown away by the apparent quality, but I was intrigued by the design and eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. It was time to move beyond aesthetics and put this purse to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black during a typical week of errands and activities, from grocery shopping to attending a community event. I also took it to the range for a dedicated draw-and-fire practice session. The range environment provided a controlled setting to evaluate the access speed and overall comfort of carrying a firearm in this manner.

The weather was mild and dry during my initial testing, so I couldn’t assess its performance in wet conditions. The purse was relatively easy to get used to, though the ambidextrous access required some practice to ensure smooth and consistent draws from both sides. The universal holster included was a basic elastic design, and it accommodated my Glock 19 reasonably well, though a more form-fitting holster would have provided greater security.

One initial issue I encountered was the overall size of the concealed compartment. While it fit my Glock 19, it left little room for a spare magazine. The main compartment was also surprisingly small, limiting its usefulness for carrying everyday essentials.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of regular use, the Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black has shown some noticeable signs of wear. The “leather” has begun to show creases and scuffs, confirming my suspicion that it’s likely bonded leather rather than a more durable, full-grain option. The stitching, while initially adequate, has started to fray in a few high-stress areas, such as the strap attachment points.

Cleaning and maintaining the purse is relatively simple. A damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and smudges. However, I am concerned about the long-term durability of the material, especially if exposed to more challenging conditions.

Compared to my previous experience with higher-end concealed carry bags made from ballistic nylon and premium leather, the Bulldog purse falls short in terms of durability. However, considering the significant price difference, this is not entirely unexpected. It serves its purpose for discreet carry, but it’s not a piece of gear I would rely on in a truly demanding situation.

Breaking Down the Features of Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black

Specifications

• Ambidextrous Zippered Pistol Pocket: This allows access to the firearm from either side of the bag, catering to both left- and right-handed users. The zippered design provides a degree of security, preventing accidental exposure.
• Universal Fit Holster: The included holster is designed to accommodate a wide range of handgun sizes. It relies on elastic retention, which is a compromise between versatility and secure fit.
• Navy and Black Finish: The color scheme is intended to be discreet and blend in with common fashion accessories. This helps to avoid drawing unwanted attention to the fact that it’s a concealed carry bag.
• Backpack Style: Distributes weight evenly across the shoulders for comfortable all-day carry. It also allows for hands-free operation.
• Leather Construction: While not specified as full-grain, the exterior is constructed from leather or a leather-like material. This provides a degree of durability and aesthetic appeal.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the functionality and usability of the purse. The ambidextrous design enhances versatility, while the universal holster attempts to provide a one-size-fits-all solution for firearm retention. The color scheme aims for discretion, and the backpack style prioritizes comfort. The leather construction, though potentially not of the highest quality, contributes to the overall aesthetic and provides a basic level of protection.

Performance & Functionality

The Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black performs adequately for its intended purpose: discreetly carrying a handgun. The ambidextrous access works as advertised, allowing for relatively quick draws from either side. However, the elastic holster offers minimal retention, requiring practice to ensure the firearm doesn’t shift during movement.

The purse’s main weakness is its limited storage capacity. The concealed compartment is only large enough for the handgun itself, leaving little room for a spare magazine or other essential items. The main compartment is also smaller than expected, making it difficult to carry everyday necessities.

Overall, the Bulldog purse meets basic expectations for concealed carry. But it could be improved with a more secure holster and increased storage space.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The materials used are not premium, but they appear to be reasonably durable. The weight is light, which enhances comfort during extended wear.

The design is generally user-friendly, though the zipper placement for the concealed compartment could be improved for smoother access. The backpack straps are adjustable and provide a comfortable fit for most body types.

There is a slight learning curve associated with drawing from the ambidextrous compartment, but with practice, it becomes relatively intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The long-term durability of the Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black is questionable. The leather-like material is prone to scratches and wear, and the stitching may eventually fail in high-stress areas.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. However, the material is not particularly resistant to stains or water damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black comes with only the universal fit holster. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options are limited. The holster can be replaced with a more form-fitting alternative, but the overall design of the purse restricts other modifications. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is also limited due to the specific dimensions and configuration of the compartments. Bulldog does not offer any proprietary accessories specifically for this purse.

Pros and Cons of Bulldog BDP065 Backpack Style Purse Universal Handgun Leather Navy/Black