The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model Made a Bold First Impression
The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model is a no-frills, inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster designed for concealed carry. Made by DeSantis, a well-known name in the holster industry, this model promises a secure and comfortable carry for Glock 26, 27, and 33 pistols, as well as potentially fitting other similar-sized firearms. Its simple leather construction and affordable price point make it an attractive option for those seeking a basic, reliable holster.
I was on the hunt for a comfortable and concealable IWB holster for my Glock 27. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered good retention and all-day comfort. I had been using a rigid Kydex holster that was digging into my side and wanted to give leather a try.
The holster arrived in a simple plastic bag, no fancy packaging. The leather was a bit stiff at first touch, but the stitching looked clean and the overall construction seemed solid. It was lighter than my Kydex holster, which was a welcome surprise.
I considered a Galco Summer Comfort and a CrossBreed SnapSlide, both popular IWB options. The DeSantis Insider won out because of its lower price point, positive user reviews mentioning multi-gun compatibility, and the simplicity of its design. I was hoping for a comfortable leather holster without excessive bulk or unnecessary features.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The holster felt well-made for the price, but I was slightly concerned about the initial stiffness of the leather. I was excited to see if it would live up to its promise of comfortable, all-day concealed carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the DeSantis Insider Holster primarily at the shooting range and during everyday concealed carry for a week. My usual carry position is around 3:30-4:00 IWB, and I wore it with a sturdy gun belt. The weather during testing was mostly dry, but I did experience a few instances of light rain.
The holster performed adequately in both dry and slightly damp conditions. Drawing and re-holstering were a bit stiff initially but improved with repeated practice. I noticed that the leather absorbed some moisture during the rainy days, requiring a bit of extra drying and care afterward.
The holster required a break-in period of about 2-3 days of regular wear to become truly comfortable. Initially, the stiffness of the leather created pressure points, but it gradually molded to my body and became more comfortable. Re-holstering, in particular, felt awkward at first due to the lack of a reinforced opening.
The only real issue I encountered was the lack of a sweat shield. Perspiration tended to soak into the leather, which could potentially lead to corrosion on the firearm over time if not properly cleaned and maintained. This is a drawback compared to some hybrid holsters with sweat shields.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the DeSantis Insider has proven to be a decent, budget-friendly option for concealed carry. It’s not the most refined holster on the market, but it gets the job done. The leather has softened and molded to my body, making it more comfortable than when I first received it.
There are visible signs of wear and tear, primarily creasing and slight discoloration of the leather. The stitching, however, remains intact and shows no signs of unraveling. It’s clear that this isn’t a premium, heirloom-quality holster, but it’s holding up reasonably well for its price point.
Maintenance involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally applying leather conditioner to prevent drying and cracking. I also ensure that my firearm is thoroughly cleaned and oiled after each use to prevent corrosion from sweat absorption. Regular care is essential to prolonging the lifespan of this holster.
Compared to my previous Kydex holster, the DeSantis Insider offers improved comfort but sacrifices some of the speed and ease of re-holstering. It’s a trade-off between comfort and tactical efficiency. While the Kydex was faster, the leather is significantly more comfortable for all-day wear.
Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model
Specifications
The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model boasts a simple yet functional design. It is specifically molded for Glock 26, 27, and 33 models. The holster is constructed from black leather and designed for right-hand draw.
The holster features an open-top design for a quick draw. It utilizes a simple belt clip for secure IWB carry. Its compact design minimizes printing and maximizes concealability. The holster’s leather material offers a comfortable feel against the body.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the comfort, concealability, and draw speed of the holster. The molded fit ensures proper retention, while the open-top design allows for rapid access to the firearm. The leather material, while comfortable, requires regular maintenance to prevent deterioration.
Performance & Functionality
The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model performs adequately in its intended role as a concealed carry holster. It provides reasonable retention and allows for a relatively smooth draw. However, re-holstering can be a bit challenging due to the lack of a reinforced opening.
Its strengths lie in its comfortable leather construction and affordable price. Its weaknesses include the lack of a sweat shield and the difficulty of one-handed re-holstering. The holster meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly leather IWB holster but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster features a minimalist design focused on functionality and concealability. The leather is relatively thin, which helps to minimize bulk. It is comfortable against the skin after a break-in period.
The design is user-friendly, with no complex mechanisms or adjustments. However, the lack of a cant adjustment may be a drawback for some users. The holster’s simple belt clip is easy to attach and detach.
Durability & Maintenance
The DeSantis Insider is constructed from genuine leather, which is reasonably durable but requires proper care. With regular maintenance, it should last for several years of regular use. However, it is not as durable as Kydex or hybrid holsters.
Maintenance involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying leather conditioner as needed. It’s important to keep the holster clean and dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Repairing the holster may be difficult due to its simple construction and lack of replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model does not come with any accessories. Customization options are limited due to its simple design. The belt clip can be replaced with a different clip if desired, but other modifications are generally not recommended.
The holster is compatible with standard 1.5-inch wide gun belts. It may also work with some aftermarket belt clips designed for similar holsters. However, compatibility with other accessories is limited.
Pros and Cons of DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Comfortable leather construction, especially after a break-in period.
- Simple and minimalist design enhances concealability.
- Molded specifically for Glock 26/27/33, ensuring a secure fit.
- Decent retention for a leather holster, providing peace of mind.
Cons
- Lacks a sweat shield, potentially leading to corrosion on the firearm.
- Re-holstering can be difficult due to the lack of a reinforced opening.
- Limited customization options.
- The leather requires regular maintenance to prevent drying and cracking.
Who Should Buy DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model?
The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and comfortable leather IWB holster for their Glock 26/27/33. It is a good option for concealed carry permit holders and those new to carrying a firearm who want a simple, no-frills option.
Those who prioritize rapid re-holstering, maximum durability, or advanced features like adjustable cant should skip this product. Individuals who live in hot and humid climates or sweat heavily may also want to consider a holster with a sweat shield.
A sturdy gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance and comfort. Leather conditioner is also recommended for regular maintenance.
Conclusion on DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model
The DeSantis Insider Holster For Glock 26/27/33 IWB RH Black – Glock 33 Add Mod, Black Color, Leather Material, Any Model is a decent, budget-friendly option for concealed carry. It offers a comfortable leather construction and a simple, minimalist design. However, it lacks some of the features found in more expensive holsters, such as a sweat shield and a reinforced opening for re-holstering.
The price is certainly justified for what you get. If you’re looking for a basic leather IWB holster and don’t want to spend a lot of money, this is a reasonable choice.
I would personally recommend it to individuals on a tight budget who prioritize comfort over advanced features. It’s a good starting point for those new to concealed carry. Give the DeSantis Insider Holster a try if you value simplicity and affordability.