DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster Review

Let’s Dive into DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster

The DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster promises comfortable concealment and reliable retention for your firearm. Manufactured by DeSantis, a company known for its quality leather holsters, this rig aims to be a durable and dependable option for those needing a backup or deep concealment carry method. Let’s delve into whether it lives up to the “Die Hard” moniker.

I sought out an ankle holster to have a discreet backup option when my primary carry method isn’t feasible. Ankle carry offers a hands-free solution, especially useful during long drives or while wearing attire that limits belt carry. I was looking for something secure, comfortable for extended wear, and easily accessible.

Upon unboxing the DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster, my initial impression was mixed. The leather appeared robust, but the neoprene leg band felt less substantial than expected. The sheepskin padding seemed like a nice touch for comfort, and the thumb break closure instilled confidence in weapon retention.

Compared to Galco’s Ankle Glove, a popular choice, the DeSantis felt stiffer and less form-fitting. I also considered the Alien Gear ShapeShift Ankle Holster for its modularity, but I ultimately chose the Die Hard for its traditional leather construction, hoping for a classic, durable build. My first thought was cautiously optimistic.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster during a day at the range and while running errands. The range trip offered an opportunity to practice drawing from the ankle, while the errands allowed me to assess comfort and concealment in everyday scenarios. The weather was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and dry.

Drawing from the ankle required practice, feeling less natural than drawing from a belt holster. Adjusting the rig for optimal placement and tightness was crucial to preventing discomfort. After a few hours, I noticed some chafing around the upper edge of the neoprene band.

I experienced initial trouble with the thumb break, requiring significant force to unsnap. This issue raised some concerns about accessibility under duress. I needed to break it in before trusting it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster is showing signs of breaking in. The leather is becoming more pliable, and the thumb break has loosened slightly, improving draw speed. The neoprene band, however, remains my biggest concern.

Despite the sheepskin padding, the neoprene band still causes chafing after prolonged wear, especially in warmer weather. I’ve started wearing a thin sock beneath the band to mitigate this issue. The leather portion of the holster seems durable, with no visible wear and tear beyond normal creasing.

Maintaining the holster is simple: I wipe it down with a damp cloth and apply leather conditioner occasionally. Compared to my previous nylon ankle holster, the DeSantis Die Hard offers superior retention, but falls short in comfort for extended wear. The DeSantis doesn’t quite live up to my expectations, especially in comfort, but it is performing decently overall.

Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster

Specifications

The DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster is a leather ankle holster designed for concealed carry. It is available in black and is compatible with a wide range of firearms with barrel lengths between 2 and 4.5 inches. The holster type is explicitly an ankle holster, fitting “full size” handguns.

The holster features a matte finish for enhanced concealment. A conventional thumb break serves as the primary fastener/closure type, ensuring secure retention. It is designed for adult use and has a plain holster finish. The holster’s primary material is top-grain leather with a PU coating.

The top-grain leather construction provides durability and a classic aesthetic. The holster size is classified as “Full Size”, so ensure your firearm’s dimensions are compatible. The thumb break offers secure retention, essential for ankle carry.

Performance & Functionality

The DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster performs adequately in its primary function: securely concealing a firearm. The thumb break provides a positive retention, preventing accidental dislodging of the weapon. However, the initial stiffness and break-in period impact usability.

The rig’s primary weakness lies in its comfort during extended wear. The neoprene band can cause chafing and irritation, especially in warm conditions. The leather portion of the holster performs admirably, providing a secure and relatively smooth draw after break-in.

The holster meets expectations for retention and concealment, but falls short on comfort. The user should expect to experience comfort issues, potentially mitigated through added layers of protection.

Design & Ergonomics

The DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster features a classic ankle holster design. The use of top-grain leather gives it a professional and durable feel. The sheepskin padding on the neoprene band is intended to enhance comfort, although its effectiveness is debatable.

The rig’s design prioritizes retention over ergonomics. The stiff leather and tight fit can make the initial draw challenging. The thumb break requires deliberate action, which can be a positive or negative depending on individual preferences.

The learning curve is moderate. Achieving a smooth, reliable draw requires practice and adjusting the rig for optimal fit.

Durability & Maintenance

The leather construction of the DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster suggests a long lifespan with proper care. Regular cleaning and conditioning will prevent the leather from drying out and cracking. The neoprene band is likely to be the first component to show wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic leather care products. The holster’s simple design allows for easy cleaning and inspection. Replacement of the neoprene band might be necessary after several years of use, depending on frequency of wear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster does not come with many accessories. Some users find the addition of a calf strap beneficial for improved stability, which is sold separately. There are no other notable customization options for this particular model.

Users can experiment with different aftermarket retention straps or padding materials to enhance comfort. However, the holster’s basic design limits customization. Ensure that any additional straps or padding do not interfere with the holster’s retention capabilities.

Pros and Cons of DeSantis Die Hard Ankle Rig Holster