First Thoughts on the Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black holster aims to be a comfortable and concealable IWB (Inside the Waistband) option for popular compact pistols. DeSantis Gunhide has a long history in the holster business, so I was keen to see how this modern iteration of their tuckable design performed. As someone who values deep concealment and comfort, this nylon holster piqued my interest.
I needed a comfortable and highly concealable holster for my Glock 26, especially for situations where I needed to tuck my shirt in. The ability to adjust the cant (angle) was also crucial for my preferred carry position. Upon unboxing, the holster felt lightweight and flexible, which gave me hope for all-day comfort.
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II is significantly more affordable than Kydex alternatives like the Vedder LightTuck or the CrossBreed SuperTuck. I chose the Tuck This II for its combination of tuckability, adjustability, and lower price point, hoping it could deliver adequate performance without breaking the bank. Initial impressions were positive, but I remained cautiously optimistic; the real test would be in its long-term comfort and retention.
Real-World Testing: Putting Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved a day at the range, followed by an evening out, all while carrying my Glock 26 in the Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II. The range provided an opportunity to test the holster’s retention during movement and drawing under controlled conditions. The evening out allowed me to evaluate its comfort during extended wear in a variety of positions. The holster performed decently during drills; drawing was relatively smooth after a few practice runs, and retention was adequate for basic maneuvers.
Carrying while walking and sitting was surprisingly comfortable, even in the humid summer weather. I found myself adjusting the cant slightly to find the optimal position for both concealment and comfort. There were no immediate signs of chafing or discomfort, but I did notice the nylon getting a little sweaty against my skin after several hours.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying my Glock 26 in the Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II, it has become a regular part of my concealed carry rotation. The durability is adequate; there are no rips or tears in the nylon, but I can see some slight fraying around the edges of the belt clip attachment point. Cleaning is easy; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to more rigid Kydex holsters I’ve used, the Tuck This II offers a significantly more comfortable experience, particularly when sitting for extended periods. However, the softer material doesn’t provide the same level of positive “click” retention as Kydex. This holster is a trade-off between comfort and that secure feeling.
Breaking Down the Features of Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black
Specifications
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black is designed specifically for compact handguns like the Glock 26, 27, 29, 30, 33, and 36. It is constructed from heavily padded 1050D black Ballistic nylon, known for its decent abrasion resistance. This holster is ambidextrous.
The adjustable belt tab accommodates belts up to 1 3/4″ wide, allowing for cross-draw to strong-side carry. The holster’s design incorporates a tuckable feature. This allows the shirt to be tucked between the gun and trousers. Auto-loader versions have a built-in magazine pouch on the holster spine, a convenient touch.
Performance & Functionality
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II performs reasonably well as a concealed carry holster, prioritizing comfort and tuckability. The adjustable belt tab allows for a wide range of carry positions. This increases its versatility for different body types and clothing styles. The built-in magazine pouch on the autoloader version is a nice addition for carrying a spare magazine.
The holster’s main weakness is its retention compared to Kydex options. The nylon construction offers less positive retention. Those expecting a distinct “click” will likely be disappointed. While the holster adequately secures the handgun during normal activity, it may not be ideal for extremely active or high-risk situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II boasts a simple, functional design with a focus on comfort. The heavily padded nylon provides a comfortable barrier between the gun and the body. The adjustable belt tab allows for a high degree of customization in terms of cant and ride height.
The holster is relatively user-friendly. The learning curve is minimal. However, achieving the optimal tuck and draw requires some experimentation with belt placement and clothing.
Durability & Maintenance
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II, constructed from 1050D Ballistic nylon, offers decent durability for its price point. While not as robust as Kydex, the nylon resists abrasion and tearing under normal use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth will help maintain its condition.
The holster’s simple design makes repairs relatively straightforward if needed. Replacement belt clips are readily available, and minor fraying can be addressed with basic sewing skills.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II is fairly limited in terms of accessories and customization options. It is primarily designed as a standalone holster. The main customization option is the adjustable belt tab. This allows for cant and ride height adjustments.
Aftermarket accessories such as wedges or pads may be added to further enhance comfort and concealment, but these are not specifically designed for the Tuck This II. The holster’s compatibility with firearms equipped with laser sights may be limited due to its generic design, as noted in user feedback.
Pros and Cons of Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day carry, especially when sitting.
- Highly adjustable cant and ride height for personalized positioning.
- Affordable price point compared to Kydex options.
- Decent concealment, especially with the tuckable design.
- Lightweight and flexible design reduces bulk.
Cons
- Retention is weaker compared to Kydex holsters.
- Nylon material can get sweaty against the skin in hot weather.
- Durability is adequate but not exceptional; some fraying may occur over time.
Who Should Buy Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black?
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black is perfect for concealed carriers who prioritize comfort and tuckability, particularly those who spend a lot of time sitting. It is also a good option for budget-conscious individuals seeking a functional IWB holster without breaking the bank. Those who want a holster that is great for concealing a pistol with laser sight also benefit from it.
Those who require a high level of retention for active or high-risk situations should skip this product and consider a Kydex alternative. Individuals who prefer a very positive “click” when holstering their firearm may also find the nylon construction unsatisfying.
A must-have modification would be adding a wedge or pad to the holster to further enhance concealment and comfort.
Conclusion on Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black
The Desantis Gunhide Tuck This II For Glock 26/27 Nylon Black offers a compelling combination of comfort, concealability, and affordability. While it may not provide the same level of retention as more rigid holsters, its adjustable design and padded nylon construction make it a comfortable option for all-day carry. The price is justified for what it offers.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and tuckable IWB holster on a budget. If you are okay with sacrificing a little retention for a lot of comfort and tuckability, then this is the holster for you. Take the plunge and experience comfortable concealed carry without breaking the bank!