The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the world but often falling short. But the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material immediately stood out with its promise of versatility and simplicity. Could a holster truly deliver both inside-the-waistband (IWB) and outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry options effectively?
I was searching for a holster that could adapt to my diverse needs. From deep concealment during everyday carry to open carry on the range, I wanted one solution that wouldn’t break the bank. The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II’s dual-carry design and attractive price point made it a gamble worth taking.
Upon unboxing, the holster presented a straightforward, no-frills design. The black leather felt supple to the touch, a welcome change from the rigid synthetics I’ve grown accustomed to. The stitching appeared clean and the overall build quality seemed solid for the price, though the leather was noticeably thinner than some of my premium holsters.
Compared to my Galco KingTuk (primarily IWB) and my Safariland ALS (primarily OWB), the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II aimed to bridge the gap between these two specialized options. The KingTuk offers superior comfort for all-day IWB carry but lacks OWB capability. The Safariland ALS provides excellent retention and security for OWB use but is too bulky for effective concealment.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The leather was thinner than expected, but the design seemed well-thought-out, and the potential for both IWB and OWB carry was intriguing. I was eager to get it on the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material to the Test
First Use Experience
My first trial of the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material was at an outdoor shooting range in moderately humid conditions. I practiced drawing and re-holstering from both IWB and OWB configurations. The IWB carry, using the tuck-able C-clip, allowed for deep concealment under a light jacket.
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II performed reasonably well in both modes. Drawing from the IWB position required a deliberate effort to clear the garment. The OWB carry was more intuitive, though the lack of active retention made it feel less secure compared to dedicated OWB holsters.
After the first hour, I noticed the leather starting to soften and mold to the shape of my S&W M&P Shield. The initial stiffness began to dissipate. However, I did find the thumb break a bit stiff and requiring some breaking in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II has proven to be a dependable, albeit not exceptional, holster. The leather has softened considerably, improving both comfort and draw speed. Minor wear and tear is visible around the edges, but nothing significant.
Regular cleaning with a leather conditioner has kept the holster supple and prevented cracking. The stitching remains intact, and the thumb break has loosened up, allowing for faster draws. Compared to other hybrid holsters I’ve used, the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II holds its shape well.
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II doesn’t outperform my dedicated IWB or OWB holsters in their respective roles. However, it offers a convenient and affordable compromise for those who need both carry options. It has become a reliable option for situations where I need versatility without the bulk of carrying two separate holsters.
Breaking Down the Features of Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material
Specifications
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material is specifically designed for the S&W M&P Shield 9/40. It is constructed from black leather, featuring a thumb break for retention. The holster is designed for both IWB and OWB carry, offering a tuck-able 360-degree ‘C’ clip for IWB positioning.
The “C” clip allows for adjustable cant and ride height when carrying IWB. The design includes an integral belt loop for secure OWB carry. The leather material provides a degree of comfort, while the thumb break is designed for secure retention and quick access.
These specifications are crucial for a versatile holster. The leather ensures comfort against the body, while the thumb break provides a level of security. The dual-carry design is the defining feature, allowing users to switch between concealed and open carry based on their needs and circumstances.
Performance & Functionality
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II performs adequately in both IWB and OWB configurations. Its functionality lies primarily in its versatility. The draw stroke is smooth, but it’s not as fast as a dedicated competition holster.
The primary strength is its ability to adapt to different carry styles. A key weakness is the lack of active retention in OWB mode. It meets expectations as a budget-friendly, multi-purpose holster but doesn’t excel in any single area.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, especially considering the price point. The leather is comfortable against the skin for IWB carry. The holster is relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk.
There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the “C” clip for optimal IWB positioning. However, the overall design is relatively user-friendly. The thumb break is intuitive to use after a short break-in period.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II should last for several years of regular use. The leather requires occasional conditioning to prevent drying and cracking. The holster is relatively simple in design, which simplifies maintenance and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II comes with no additional accessories. The primary customization option is adjusting the cant and ride height of the IWB “C” clip. While not designed for extensive customization, it is compatible with standard 1.5-inch belts.
Pros and Cons of Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Versatile dual-carry design allows for both IWB and OWB options.
- Comfortable leather material molds to the body over time.
- Adjustable “C” clip enables customized IWB carry positioning.
- Simple design promotes ease of use and maintenance.
Cons
- Leather is thinner than premium holsters, potentially impacting long-term durability.
- Lack of active retention in OWB mode may be a concern for some users.
Who Should Buy Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material?
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II is perfect for concealed carriers seeking an affordable and versatile holster option for their S&W M&P Shield 9/40. It also suits individuals who occasionally require OWB carry on the range. It is also ideal for entry-level firearms enthusiasts seeking to familiarize themselves with different styles of carry.
Those prioritizing maximum concealment or requiring active retention for OWB carry should skip this product. A sturdy belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory to maximize the comfort and stability of the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II.
Conclusion on Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material
The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II S&W M&P Shield 9/40 Leather Black – Black Color, Leather Material offers a practical and affordable solution for those seeking a versatile holster. Its dual-carry design provides a good compromise between concealment and open carry. The holster’s comfortable leather construction and adjustable “C” clip enhance the user experience.
Considering its budget-friendly price, the value proposition is strong. The Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II is an excellent option for those new to concealed carry. I would recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and adaptable holster for their S&W M&P Shield 9/40.
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile holster that can adapt to your changing needs, the Desantis Gunhide Dual Carry II is definitely worth considering. Check it out and experience the convenience of dual-carry versatility for yourself!