DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH Review

The DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH Made a Bold First Impression

For over a decade, I’ve dedicated myself to the world of outdoor and tactical gear, and in that time, I’ve come to appreciate the critical importance of a reliable and comfortable concealed carry holster. When I purchased my Kimber Micro Carry 9, the need for a dependable inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster became immediately apparent. The DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH promised a minimalist design, secure retention, and comfortable carry—a combination I found highly appealing.

I was searching for a holster that would disappear under clothing and allow for a full range of motion without sacrificing security. I had previously used a bulkier hybrid holster, but it was uncomfortable during extended wear and printed easily. My hope was the DeSantis Inside Heat would offer a better solution for discreet everyday carry.

Upon receiving the holster, I was immediately impressed by its simplicity. The black saddle leather appeared well-formed, and the molding seemed precise. It was noticeably lighter than my previous holster, and the single belt clip design signaled a focus on minimalism. Compared to the hybrid holster and a molded Kydex option I had considered, the DeSantis felt like a return to basics, prioritizing comfort and concealability above all else. While the Kydex offered arguably greater retention, the leather’s potential for comfort and the DeSantis reputation swayed me.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for comfortable, discreet carry, but I also wondered if the single clip and minimalist design would provide adequate retention during strenuous activity. Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH was at my local shooting range. I spent several hours drawing and re-holstering the Kimber Micro 9, focusing on smooth and consistent movements. I also wore it during everyday errands, including trips to the grocery store and post office, to get a feel for its comfort and concealability.

The holster performed admirably during range drills. The Kimber Micro 9 drew smoothly, and the reinforced top allowed for relatively easy re-holstering, although it wasn’t quite as effortless as with a Kydex holster. Under a light jacket, the gun was virtually undetectable, and the holster remained securely in place even during moderate activity. However, the single clip did exhibit some slight movement on my belt, as noted by other users.

After my first range session, I noticed a small amount of discomfort around the pressure points where the leather contacted my skin. This subsided after a few days of break-in. There were no other issues, and I was overall pleased with the initial performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH has become a staple in my everyday carry setup. The leather has softened and molded to my body, significantly increasing comfort. I’ve worn it during hiking, yard work, and even while running errands, and it has proven to be a reliable and discreet option.

Durability has been surprisingly good. Despite daily wear and tear, the leather shows minimal signs of wear, and the stitching remains intact. I’ve paid close attention to the belt clip, which is a common point of failure in IWB holsters, and it appears to be holding up well, despite the slight side-to-side movement.

Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe the holster down with a damp cloth and apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple. Compared to the maintenance required for some multi-piece holsters, the DeSantis is incredibly low-maintenance. In comparison to my previous hybrid holster, the DESANTIS is significantly more comfortable and concealable, although it may not offer the same level of retention during extreme physical activity.

Breaking Down the Features of DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH

Specifications

• Manufacturer: DeSantis Gunhide
• Model: Inside Heat
• Color: Black
• Material: Saddle Leather
• Hand: Right Hand (RH)
• Firearm Compatibility: Kimber Micro Carry 9
• Carry Position: Inside-the-Waistband (IWB)
• Retention: Friction Fit
• Attachment: Powder Coated Spring Clip
• Reinforcement: Reinforced Top for Re-holstering

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance and suitability for concealed carry. The saddle leather construction offers a balance of comfort and durability, while the IWB design maximizes concealability. The friction fit retention relies on the precise molding of the leather to securely hold the firearm, which is critical for preventing accidental dislodgement.

Performance & Functionality

The DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH performs its intended function exceptionally well: providing a comfortable and discreet means of carrying the Kimber Micro 9. Its simplicity is its greatest strength. It allows for a relatively quick draw and easy re-holstering, although it lacks the adjustable retention of some Kydex models.

The main weakness lies in the slight movement of the belt clip. While this doesn’t affect the holster’s overall security, it can be a minor annoyance. Otherwise, it fulfills its purpose as a concealable, reliable IWB holster for the Kimber Micro 9. It meets my expectations for a minimalist leather holster, prioritizing comfort and concealability.

Design & Ergonomics

The DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH features a minimalist design crafted from black saddle leather. The holster is lightweight and conforms well to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort. The leather is smooth against the skin, and the single belt clip keeps the profile slim.

The design is inherently user-friendly, with no complicated straps or adjustments. The holster requires minimal break-in, and the Kimber Micro 9 fits snugly and securely. There is virtually no learning curve, making it ideal for both experienced and novice concealed carriers.

Durability & Maintenance

The saddle leather construction of the DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH suggests a reasonable lifespan with proper care. The reinforced top should prevent the holster from collapsing over time, while the sturdy belt clip should withstand repeated use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH is a minimalist holster with limited customization options. It does not come with any additional accessories beyond the holster itself.

Due to its basic design, there are no readily available aftermarket accessories or modifications. Its strength lies in its simplicity and focus on essential functionality, rather than customization.

Pros and Cons of DESANTIS INSIDE HEAT Black KIMBER MICRO CARRY 9 RH