First Impressions of DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster promises a blend of durability, adjustability, and deep concealment, all at a competitive price point. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each claiming to be the next best thing. What immediately caught my eye with the Mean Streak was its straightforward design, the use of Kydex, and the integrated “Claw” feature – a combination I’m always eager to test for real-world effectiveness.
For years, I’ve struggled to find that perfect IWB holster that balances comfort, accessibility, and concealment without breaking the bank. I needed a holster that could handle daily wear and tear while keeping my firearm securely in place and out of sight. The DeSantis Mean Streak presented itself as a potential solution, boasting features that directly addressed my concerns.
Unboxing the DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster revealed a holster that felt solid and well-constructed. The .080″ grey Kydex had a reassuring heft, and the hand-polished edges spoke to a level of attention to detail often missing in holsters at this price. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – it certainly looked the part, but the real test would be how it performed in practical use.
Compared to my older Galco Summer Comfort and a cheaper nylon IWB holster, the DeSantis Mean Streak stood out in terms of material quality and the promise of enhanced concealment due to the integrated “Claw.” I chose the Mean Streak primarily for its Kydex construction, its adjustable features, and DeSantis’s reputation for producing reliable holsters. My initial feeling was a pleasant surprise; the holster felt more premium than its price suggested.
Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster was a weekend training course focused on defensive pistol techniques. I wanted to see how it performed under the stress of drawing, re-holstering, and moving around in various positions. The holster was subjected to rapid draw drills, dry firing exercises, and extended periods of wear while performing other physically demanding tasks.
The DeSantis Mean Streak held up remarkably well in the dusty, slightly damp conditions of the outdoor range. The Kydex construction proved impervious to the light moisture, and the holster retained its shape and rigidity throughout the day. It took a little tweaking to get the ride height and cant just right, but once adjusted, the draw stroke became smooth and consistent.
Initially, the holster felt a bit stiff, but after a few hours of use, it began to conform to my body shape, improving comfort. The Mean Streak’s retention was secure without being overly tight, allowing for a confident draw without requiring excessive force. The only minor issue was a slight rubbing against my skin from the sweat guard during particularly active drills, but this was easily resolved by adjusting my undershirt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry and multiple range sessions, the DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It continues to hold its shape and retention, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. So far, I’ve observed no significant wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scuffs on the Kydex surface.
The holster’s durability has impressed me; even with constant use, the Kydex hasn’t cracked or warped. Maintenance is a breeze – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep it clean. This holster significantly outperforms cheaper, less durable IWB options I’ve used in the past, offering a superior balance of comfort, concealment, and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster
Specifications
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster is constructed from durable .080” grey Kydex. It features user-adjustable height and cant, allowing for customized carry positions. An integral sweat guard protects the firearm and the wearer’s body from sweat and friction.
The holster also includes an integrated “Claw” designed to push the grip of the gun closer to the body for deep concealment. All edges are meticulously hand polished for enhanced comfort and a refined appearance. The Mean Streak is built on precision CNC tooling, ensuring a precise fit and finish.
The holster is also RMR compatible, accommodating firearms with red dot sights, a crucial feature for modern shooters. It is available in both right- and left-handed versions for a wide range of popular firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster performs its primary job of securely and comfortably concealing a handgun remarkably well. The adjustable cant and ride height allow for a customized fit, promoting both accessibility and concealment. The holster’s retention is firm but not overly restrictive, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of concealment and accessibility. The “Claw” effectively minimizes printing, even with larger firearms. A minor weakness is the sweat guard, which, while functional, could be slightly more contoured for enhanced comfort during extended wear.
The Mean Streak meets, and in some ways exceeds, expectations for a holster in its price range. Its performance in terms of concealment, retention, and durability is impressive.
Design & Ergonomics
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster boasts a simple yet effective design. The Kydex construction provides excellent rigidity and ensures the holster retains its shape over time. The weight is minimal, contributing to comfortable all-day carry.
The holster is largely user-friendly, although some initial adjustment of the cant and ride height may be required to achieve optimal comfort and concealment. The smooth draw and re-holstering action speaks to well-considered ergonomics. The holster’s design prioritizes functionality and durability over flashy aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster, constructed from .080” Kydex, is built to last. Its robust construction ensures it will withstand the rigors of daily carry and frequent use. The Kydex material is resistant to moisture, sweat, and abrasion, minimizing the risk of damage or degradation.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Due to the nature of Kydex, no specialized cleaners or lubricants are needed. The holster’s simple design and durable materials contribute to its long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster itself comes with user-adjustable height and cant settings. It accommodates firearms with mounted RMR optics without modification. While it doesn’t ship with additional accessories, its compatibility with a wide range of popular firearms makes it a versatile choice.
The holster’s design is relatively streamlined, limiting extensive customization options beyond cant and height adjustments. However, its compatibility with RMR optics and various firearms enhances its adaptability.
Pros and Cons of DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Concealment: The integrated “Claw” effectively minimizes printing, making it ideal for concealed carry.
- Durable Kydex Construction: The .080″ Kydex material provides excellent rigidity and long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Cant and Ride Height: Offers a customized fit for enhanced comfort and accessibility.
- RMR Compatibility: Accommodates firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Smooth Draw and Re-holstering: The well-designed ergonomics promote a consistent and efficient draw stroke.
Cons
- Sweat Guard Comfort: The sweat guard could benefit from more contouring for improved comfort during extended wear.
- Limited Customization: Offers minimal customization options beyond cant and ride height adjustments.
Who Should Buy DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster?
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster is perfect for: Law enforcement officers, responsible concealed carriers, and anyone seeking a durable and concealable IWB holster at an affordable price. It is particularly well-suited for those who prioritize deep concealment and appreciate the added benefit of RMR compatibility. The user-adjustable features make it a great option for those still dialing in their preferred carry position.
Who should skip this product? Someone looking for a highly customizable holster with numerous accessory options or those prioritizing premium leather materials over Kydex.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality gun belt to ensure proper support and stability. Consider adding aftermarket belt clips if you prefer alternative attachment methods.
Conclusion on DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster
The DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster offers an impressive blend of performance, durability, and affordability. Its well-thought-out design, robust Kydex construction, and effective concealment features make it a standout option in its price range.
The price is justified by the holster’s quality materials, reliable performance, and long-term durability.
I would absolutely recommend the DeSantis Mean Streak IWB Holster to anyone looking for a dependable and concealable IWB holster. If you’re ready to upgrade your concealed carry setup, give the DeSantis Mean Streak a try – you won’t be disappointed.