Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon Review

First Thoughts on the Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon

The Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon enters a crowded market of nylon holsters, promising a blend of durability, affordability, and functionality. As someone who’s spent over a decade evaluating tactical gear, I approached this holster with cautious optimism.

My need for a new holster arose from a desire for a comfortable and secure carry option for my Smith & Wesson Model 66 K-frame revolver. I was looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank, but still offered reliable retention and all-day comfort.

The initial impression upon unboxing was…underwhelming. The nylon felt thinner than I expected, and the overall construction appeared somewhat basic. I had previously used Bianchi leather holsters and a Kydex rig from Safariland, so the Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon felt like a step down in terms of perceived quality.

Compared to the DeSantis nylon holster I’ve used for semi-autos, the Bulldog PitBull seemed less refined. Ultimately, the price point swayed me; it’s hard to argue with the value proposition if it holds up to its claims.

I was neither excited nor disappointed initially, but more cautiously curious. The price was right, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon was at the local shooting range. I spent an afternoon practicing drawing and re-holstering drills. The weather was mild, and conditions were ideal for testing the holster’s comfort and accessibility.

Initially, the draw felt a little stiff, and the thumb break required some getting used to. After about an hour of practice, the leather thumb break loosened slightly making the draw a lot smoother. There was some initial concern about the retention; however, the thumb break proved to be secure.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon has held up reasonably well, considering its price. I’ve worn it during several hiking trips, and a few casual outings around town. While it shows some minor signs of wear and tear, particularly around the edges, the stitching remains intact, and the holster continues to function as intended.

Cleaning is relatively easy; a damp cloth and some mild soap are sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The holster dries quickly, and I haven’t noticed any issues with mildew or odor retention. The retention has actually improved slightly, becoming more form fitted to the revolver.

Compared to my experiences with higher-end holsters, the Bulldog PitBull doesn’t quite reach the same level of comfort or durability. However, it provides acceptable performance for the price and serves as a decent option for occasional use or as a backup holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon

Specifications

The Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon is designed for right-hand draw and is constructed from a durable nylon material with a water-resistant outer shell. It’s specifically sized to fit S&W J/K/L/N frame revolvers. The holster features a deluxe molded thumb break for secure retention.

The “Size 12” designation indicates the holster’s compatibility with specific revolver frame sizes, which is critical for a proper fit and secure carry. The textured finish provides a bit of grip and helps prevent slippage.

Performance & Functionality

The Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon performs adequately for its intended purpose. The holster securely holds the revolver in place, preventing accidental dislodgement. The thumb break provides a reasonably fast and intuitive draw once the user becomes accustomed to it.

However, the holster lacks some of the features found in higher-end models, such as adjustable retention screws or reinforced stitching. The nylon material is also less rigid than Kydex or leather, which can affect draw speed and ease of re-holstering. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly nylon holster, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon features a simple and straightforward design. The nylon construction keeps the weight down, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The holster rides high on the hip, which can aid in concealment.

However, the lack of contouring and the relatively thin padding can lead to some discomfort, especially during strenuous activity. The belt loop is adequately sized but lacks adjustability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon, while not as robust as leather or Kydex options, is surprisingly durable for its price. The nylon material resists tearing and abrasion to a certain extent. However, the stitching may be prone to wear and tear over time, especially with heavy use.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can damage the nylon.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon is a basic holster with limited customization options. It does not come with any additional accessories. Due to its simple design, it’s unlikely to be compatible with many aftermarket accessories.

Pros and Cons of Bulldog PitBull Revolver Hip Holster 12 Black Nylon