First Thoughts on the Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black is an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster designed for concealed carry of the Glock 42 and Glock 43 pistols. Desantis Gunhide aims to balance comfort and concealment with its hybrid leather and Kydex construction. Its tuck-able design and adjustable cant are features that caught my eye.
For years, I struggled to find a comfortable and reliable IWB holster for my Glock 43. Many were either too bulky, too uncomfortable, or didn’t provide adequate retention. My search centered on finding a holster that wouldn’t dig into my side during all-day carry. The Desantis Intruder’s hybrid design seemed promising in this regard.
Upon unboxing, the holster appeared well-constructed. The combination of premium steer-hide and Kydex gave off a sense of quality. The smooth finish and thoughtful design showed promise in both function and appearance.
I considered the Galco KingTuk and the CrossBreed SuperTuck before settling on the Desantis Intruder. The Intruder seemed to offer a similar hybrid design at a slightly more affordable price point. I was also drawn to the Desantis reputation for producing quality holsters.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black appeared to be a well-made holster. I was eager to see if it could live up to its promises of comfort and concealment in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black at my local shooting range and during my daily activities around town. This included running errands, light yard work, and extended periods of sitting. I wanted to assess its comfort and concealability during everyday wear.
The holster performed surprisingly well, even in the sweltering summer heat. I was concerned the leather backing would become excessively sweaty, but it wicked away moisture reasonably well. The pistol was secure, and drawing was smooth and consistent.
The initial adjustment took some time, figuring out the optimal ride height and cant. Once dialed in, however, the holster became remarkably comfortable. I was particularly pleased that the holster stayed put even during more strenuous activity.
I noticed some initial stiffness in the leather, making re-holstering slightly difficult at first. This improved significantly after a few days of wear. There was no discomfort or printing, giving confidence when carrying.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. The leather has molded to my body, enhancing the fit and feel. The Kydex portion remains rigid and securely holds the pistol.
The durability has been impressive; there are no significant signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the leather hasn’t cracked or warped. The Kydex maintains its shape, providing consistent retention.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe down the leather with a damp cloth occasionally and apply a leather conditioner every few weeks. The Kydex requires minimal cleaning. The holster remains functional and comfortable with very little maintenance.
Compared to my previous all-Kydex holster, the Desantis Intruder is a significant improvement in comfort. The leather backing provides a much softer and more forgiving feel against the skin. It has exceeded my expectations for an IWB holster in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black
Specifications
- Type: Inside-The-Waistband (IWB). This designates the holster for concealed carry inside the waistband, maximizing concealment.
- Color: Black. The black color offers a low-profile, discreet appearance, aiding in concealment.
- Material: Leather and Kydex. The combination of leather and Kydex offers comfort and durability.
- Model: Right-hand (RH). This holster is specifically designed for right-handed shooters.
- Finish: Smooth. The smooth finish reduces friction and wear on the firearm’s finish.
- Gun Mod: Glock 42/43. The holster is molded to specifically fit the Glock 42 and Glock 43 models.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s comfort, concealment, and functionality. The leather backing offers comfort, while the Kydex provides secure retention. The right-hand design ensures proper draw and re-holstering for right-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black performs its job exceptionally well. It provides secure retention, comfortable carry, and effective concealment. Its adjustable cant allows for personalized positioning for optimal draw.
The holster’s strengths lie in its comfort and concealability. The leather backing molds to the body, providing a comfortable interface. The Kydex ensures a secure and reliable hold on the firearm.
One area for potential improvement is the initial stiffness of the leather. A break-in period is required for optimal comfort and ease of re-holstering. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive for a holster in this price range. The combination of top-grain steer-hide and durable Kydex results in a robust and long-lasting product. The weight is minimal, ensuring it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black is relatively user-friendly. Adjusting the cant and ride height is straightforward. A slight learning curve exists due to the initial stiffness of the leather.
Durability & Maintenance
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black appears to be built to last. The quality materials and construction suggest a long lifespan with proper care. Consistent use shows only minor signs of wear.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and conditioning of the leather will extend its life. The Kydex component requires minimal attention.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black does not come with any additional accessories. However, its adjustable cant and ride height provide a degree of customization. It is compatible with standard 1.5-inch belt loops, offering compatibility with a wide range of belts.
There is no accommodation for aftermarket lights or lasers.
Pros and Cons of Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black
Pros
- Excellent Comfort: The leather backing provides a comfortable interface against the skin for all-day carry.
- Secure Retention: The Kydex shell offers a firm and reliable hold on the Glock 42/43.
- Good Concealment: The IWB design and adjustable cant aid in discreet carry.
- Durable Construction: The combination of quality leather and Kydex ensures longevity.
- Affordable Price: It provides excellent value for its performance and features.
Cons
- Leather Requires Break-in: The leather backing can be stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
- No Light/Laser Compatibility: The holster is not designed to accommodate firearms with lights or lasers attached.
Who Should Buy Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black?
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black is perfect for individuals seeking a comfortable and concealable IWB holster for their Glock 42 or Glock 43. It’s an excellent choice for everyday carry, self-defense, and those prioritizing comfort during extended wear. It is suitable for both new and experienced gun owners.
Those who require a holster that accommodates lights or lasers should skip this product. Individuals who prefer all-Kydex holsters or those unwilling to break in a leather holster might also want to consider other options.
A high-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal comfort and stability. Proper gun belt selection is key to successful concealed carry.
Conclusion on Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black
The Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black is a well-designed and functional IWB holster that delivers on its promises of comfort and concealment. It offers an excellent balance of quality, performance, and affordability. The hybrid leather and Kydex construction provides a comfortable and secure carry experience.
At a price of $48.49, the Desantis Intruder offers excellent value. It is an investment in comfort and security that is well worth the cost.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Desantis Gunhide Intruder RH For Glock 42/43 Leather Black to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable IWB holster for their Glock 42 or Glock 43. If you are looking for a comfortable, concealable, and affordable holster, give the Desantis Intruder a try – you won’t be disappointed.