First Thoughts on the DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black
Concealed carry is a serious responsibility, and finding the right holster is paramount. The DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black promises a blend of comfort, security, and concealment for the popular M&P Compact. DeSantis Gunhide has a reputation for quality, so I was eager to see if the Intruder lived up to the hype.
My search for this holster started with a specific problem: I needed a comfortable and reliable IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) holster for my S&W M&P Compact 9mm. I wanted something that wouldn’t print easily and would allow for a smooth, confident draw. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the contrasting materials: smooth black leather against the rigid Kydex. The holster felt lightweight yet substantial, suggesting a good balance between comfort and retention.
I considered several other holsters, including offerings from Galco and CrossBreed. Ultimately, I chose the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder due to its hybrid design and the positive reviews I read regarding its comfort and adjustability. My first impression was a mix of anticipation and slight skepticism; hybrid holsters can sometimes be bulky, but the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder seemed promisingly streamlined. I was excited to finally put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the shooting range, a controlled environment to assess draw speed and comfort during movement. I wore the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder throughout a three-hour training session, focusing on drawing drills and target acquisition. The holster performed admirably, keeping the M&P Compact secure without impeding my draw stroke.
I also tested it during a rainy outdoor training day to evaluate its performance in adverse conditions. The leather portion of the holster did absorb some moisture, but it didn’t affect retention or comfort significantly. There was a slight learning curve in achieving the perfect cant adjustment, but once dialed in, the holster became incredibly comfortable. The initial stiffness of the belt clips, as mentioned in other reviews, was definitely noticeable during the first few uses.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of everyday carry, the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder has proven to be a reliable and comfortable choice. The leather has molded to my body, enhancing the overall fit and feel. I haven’t noticed any significant signs of wear and tear, a testament to the quality of the materials.
The holster requires minimal maintenance; occasional wiping down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean. Compared to my previous all-leather holster, the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder offers superior retention and doesn’t require constant adjustments. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a holster in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black
Specifications
The DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black is specifically designed for the S&W M&P Compact 9/40 with a 3.5″ barrel. It is a right-hand draw holster made from a combination of black leather and Kydex. The holster is an IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) style, designed for concealed carry.
- Type: Inside-The-Waistband: This means it’s designed for comfortable and discreet carry inside the waistband.
- Color: Black: A classic color that blends well with most clothing.
- Material: Leather/Kydex: This hybrid construction offers both comfort (leather) and retention/durability (Kydex).
- Model: Right: Indicates this holster is designed for right-handed shooters.
- Finish: Smooth: The smooth finish reduces friction and potential wear on the firearm.
- Gun Mod: S&W M&P Compact 9/40: This means it’s specifically molded for a secure and precise fit with the S&W M&P Compact 9/40 pistol.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and user experience. The Kydex provides excellent retention and a smooth draw, while the leather backing enhances comfort against the skin. The specific molding for the M&P Compact ensures a secure and reliable fit, crucial for concealed carry.
Performance & Functionality
The DeSantis Gunhide Intruder performs its job admirably, providing secure retention and a comfortable concealed carry experience. It allows for a smooth and consistent draw, which is essential for self-defense scenarios. One of its greatest strengths is its adjustable cant, allowing users to customize the draw angle to their preference.
A minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the belt clips, which can make it challenging to put on and take off. However, this stiffness also contributes to the holster’s secure attachment to the belt. Overall, the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder meets my expectations for a concealed carry holster, offering a solid balance of performance, comfort, and security.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s hybrid design is well-executed, combining the best qualities of both leather and Kydex. The smooth leather backing is comfortable against the skin, even during extended wear. The holster is relatively lightweight, minimizing bulk and discomfort.
The DeSantis Gunhide Intruder is generally user-friendly, although adjusting the cant requires some initial experimentation. The holster’s design ensures that the firearm is held securely in place, preventing accidental dislodging.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of leather and Kydex suggests that the holster will last for years with proper care. The leather may require occasional conditioning, but the Kydex is virtually maintenance-free. The holster appears to be well-constructed, with no obvious weak points.
Given the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship, I expect the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder to provide reliable service for a long time. Maintaining the holster is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning of the leather.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DeSantis Gunhide Intruder doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing instead on providing a functional and reliable holster out of the box. The adjustable cant is the primary customization option, allowing users to fine-tune the draw angle. While there aren’t specific aftermarket accessories designed for the Intruder, the universal belt clips can be replaced if desired.
The holster is compatible with standard 1.5″ belts, making it easy to integrate into existing concealed carry setups. The DeSantis Gunhide Intruder focuses on core functionality rather than extensive customization, making it a practical choice for everyday carry.
Pros and Cons of DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black
Pros
- Secure retention thanks to the custom-molded Kydex.
- Comfortable leather backing for all-day carry.
- Adjustable cant allows for personalized draw angle.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Excellent value for the price point.
Cons
- Belt clips can be stiff initially, making it difficult to put on and take off.
- Leather portion may absorb moisture in wet conditions.
Who Should Buy DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black?
The DeSantis Gunhide Intruder is perfect for individuals who prioritize comfortable and reliable concealed carry of their S&W M&P Compact 9/40. It’s an excellent choice for everyday carry and self-defense scenarios. This holster will particularly benefit those seeking a hybrid design that balances comfort with secure retention.
Those who prioritize rapid on-off capability or prefer a minimalist design might find the stiff belt clips or the hybrid construction less appealing. Someone who frequently carries in extremely wet conditions might prefer a fully synthetic holster. A good quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for use with the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder to maximize stability and comfort.
Conclusion on DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black
The DeSantis Gunhide 105KAM9Z0 Intruder Belt S&W M&P Compact 9/40 3.5″ Leather Black offers a compelling blend of comfort, security, and affordability. The hybrid design combines the best aspects of leather and Kydex, resulting in a holster that is both comfortable to wear and reliable in its performance. The price is definitely justified.
I would definitely recommend the DeSantis Gunhide Intruder to anyone looking for a quality IWB holster for their S&W M&P Compact 9/40. If you’re serious about concealed carry, invest in a DeSantis Gunhide Intruder – you won’t be disappointed!