The Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type Made a Bold First Impression
Ankle carry. It’s a deep concealment method that’s always intrigued me. The Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type promises a comfortable and secure way to carry my S&W M&P Shield 9/40 – a firearm I often use when I need maximum concealability.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. What immediately caught my eye about this Desantis rig was its combination of traditional leather and modern materials. The blend suggested durability and comfort, two essential elements for any piece of gear I rely on.
I needed a solution for situations where belt carry was simply not an option, such as when wearing athletic clothing or needing to maintain a low profile in environments where printing was unacceptable. I considered other ankle rigs, including some generic nylon models and a couple of higher-end leather options. I ultimately chose the Desantis Die Hard because of its reputation for quality and the promise of sheepskin padding against the ankle, a feature I suspected would significantly improve comfort during extended wear.
Upon unboxing, the Desantis Die Hard exuded quality. The black leather was smooth and evenly finished, and the sheepskin padding felt plush. The construction seemed robust, inspiring confidence that it would hold up to daily wear and tear. I was initially excited by the promise of comfort and concealability, but a bit skeptical about the leather-neoprene combination; would it be too bulky or hot?
Real-World Testing: Putting Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Desantis Die Hard Ankle Rig at an outdoor shooting range, incorporating it into my usual drills with the M&P Shield. I wore it during a three-hour training session that involved movement, drawing from concealment, and reholstering exercises. The initial fit was snug, and the sheepskin padding immediately proved its worth, providing a comfortable buffer between the holster and my ankle.
Even on a relatively warm day, I didn’t experience excessive sweating or discomfort under the neoprene band. However, I did notice that drawing smoothly from the ankle required practice and a specific technique to avoid snagging my clothing. The thumb break released easily, but I needed to adjust my gait slightly to prevent the holster from shifting during more dynamic movements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Desantis Die Hard has proven to be a reliable and relatively comfortable ankle rig. I’ve worn it during long drives, extended periods of walking, and even some light hiking. The leather has molded to my Shield, providing a secure and snug fit.
While the sheepskin padding continues to provide excellent comfort, I have noticed slight wear and tear on the edges of the neoprene band, particularly where it rubs against my boot. Cleaning the holster is relatively simple; I wipe down the leather with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry, occasionally applying a leather conditioner to maintain its suppleness. Compared to my previous experiences with nylon ankle rigs, the Desantis model offers superior comfort and stability, though it does require more care to maintain its appearance and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type
Specifications
The Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type is specifically designed for the S&W M&P Shield 9mm and .40 caliber pistols. It features a top grain saddle leather holster body for secure retention and a smooth draw.
The rig uses a neoprene leg band for comfortable and secure attachment to the ankle. Inside the leg band is foam padding covered with sheepskin for comfort against the skin.
The holster includes a conventional thumb break for secure weapon retention and quick access. It comes in black and is designed for right-handed draw. These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s comfort, security, and concealability.
Performance & Functionality
The Desantis Die Hard Ankle Rig performs admirably in its intended role: providing deep concealment for a compact firearm. Its reliability is solid, with consistent retention and a smooth draw after a break-in period.
While the comfort is generally good thanks to the sheepskin, extended periods of wear can still cause some minor rubbing or chafing, particularly if you’re wearing thicker socks or boots. The main strength of this rig is its secure retention and relatively comfortable design for all-day carry. Its main weakness is the slight bulk, which can make it challenging to conceal under tighter pants or jeans.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Desantis Die Hard is well thought-out, blending classic leather craftsmanship with modern materials. The top-grain leather holster is meticulously molded to the shape of the M&P Shield, providing excellent retention and a secure fit.
The use of neoprene and sheepskin padding on the leg band significantly enhances comfort during extended wear. However, the overall bulk of the rig can be a challenge, especially for those with smaller ankles or tighter clothing. There is a slight learning curve associated with drawing from an ankle holster, requiring practice to develop a smooth and efficient technique.
Durability & Maintenance
The Desantis Die Hard appears to be a durable piece of kit, constructed from high-quality materials that should withstand years of use. The top-grain leather is resistant to wear and tear, and the neoprene band is reinforced to prevent stretching or fraying.
Regular maintenance involves wiping down the leather with a damp cloth and applying a leather conditioner to keep it supple. The sheepskin padding can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. With proper care, this ankle rig should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Desantis Die Hard is primarily designed as a standalone holster and doesn’t offer extensive customization options. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.
However, you can adjust the position of the holster on the leg band to achieve the desired level of concealment and comfort. The holster is compatible with the standard S&W M&P Shield 9mm and .40 magazines.
Pros and Cons of Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type
Pros
- Secure and reliable weapon retention thanks to the molded leather holster and thumb break.
- Comfortable for extended wear due to the sheepskin padding and neoprene leg band.
- High-quality construction with durable materials.
- Effective deep concealment for the S&W M&P Shield 9/40.
- Provides a viable option for concealed carry when belt carry is not feasible.
Cons
- Can be bulky and challenging to conceal under tight-fitting pants.
- Requires practice to develop a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
- Neoprene band can wear down over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type?
The Desantis Die Hard Ankle Rig is perfect for: law enforcement officers needing a backup weapon, individuals requiring deep concealment in professional settings, and anyone who needs a comfortable and secure way to carry their S&W M&P Shield 9/40 when belt carry isn’t possible.
This product might not be ideal for those with very small ankles or those who primarily wear tight-fitting clothing. Additionally, individuals who prioritize speed of draw above all else may find that other carry methods are more suitable.
A must-have modification would be to practice your draw stroke repeatedly, potentially with a training dummy firearm, to build muscle memory and improve efficiency. Consider wearing moisture-wicking socks to enhance comfort during extended wear.
Conclusion on Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type
The Desantis Gunhide Die Hard Ankle Rig S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather/Sheepskin Padding Material, Ankle Size, Ankle Holster Type is a well-made and reliable option for those seeking deep concealment for their M&P Shield. At $70.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and the comfort provided by the sheepskin padding.
I would personally recommend this ankle rig to anyone who needs a secure and comfortable way to carry their Shield when belt carry isn’t an option. If you value concealment, comfort, and quality craftsmanship, the Desantis Die Hard is an excellent choice. Go ahead and give it a try; you might find that ankle carry is the perfect solution for your concealed carry needs.