Let’s Talk About Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster is a classic example of functional simplicity, designed for concealed carry of the Smith & Wesson 99. Don Hume, a reputable name in the holster industry, crafts this holster from durable brown leather. Its primary appeal lies in its ease of use and comfortable inside-the-pant (IWB) design.
I’ve spent years searching for the “perfect” IWB holster; one that balances comfort, accessibility, and concealment. Many holsters are either too bulky, too uncomfortable, or simply don’t provide a secure enough hold. My hope was that this Don Hume offering would strike that elusive balance for my S&W 99.
Upon unboxing, the holster presented a no-frills, classic aesthetic. The leather felt firm yet pliable, suggesting both durability and a degree of comfort. The single metal clip appeared robust, inspiring confidence in its ability to stay put on my belt.
I’ve tried other IWB holsters in the past, including a hybrid Kydex/leather model and a full Kydex rig. The hybrid was comfortable but bulky, while the Kydex was slim but lacked the give needed for all-day carry. I chose the Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster for its promise of a streamlined, comfortable, and secure carry experience, hoping the leather would conform to my body over time.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It felt like a well-made, straightforward holster. I was particularly interested to see how the leather would break in and mold to both my body and the pistol.
Real-World Testing: Putting Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster at my local indoor shooting range. I wanted to assess its comfort and draw speed under controlled conditions. I wore it for several hours, both while standing and sitting, to get a feel for its everyday carry potential.
The holster performed adequately in dry conditions. The draw was smooth and consistent, after a bit of practice. There were no immediate issues with retention, and the holster stayed securely clipped to my belt throughout the range session.
It took a little practice to get used to the draw angle and the feel of the leather against my skin. The initial stiffness of the leather was noticeable, but not unbearable. One slight issue was that the muzzle of the pistol would occasionally poke me when sitting; a longer shirt was necessary for comfortable concealment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster has become significantly more comfortable. The leather has gradually softened and molded to the shape of my body and the pistol. The retention has remained consistent, providing a secure hold without being overly tight.
I’ve noticed some minor wear on the leather, primarily around the edges where the pistol rubs against the holster during drawing and re-holstering. This is expected with leather holsters and doesn’t seem to affect its functionality. The clip, however, still feels secure.
Maintenance is straightforward. I periodically wipe down the leather with a damp cloth and apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking. Overall, the holster is easy to care for.
Compared to previous IWB holsters I’ve used, the Don Hume provides a better balance of comfort and concealment, especially after the break-in period. While it may not be as fast to draw from as a dedicated competition holster, its everyday carry comfort makes it a worthwhile trade-off. It offers reliable, comfortable, and discreet concealed carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster
Specifications
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson 99 pistol. It is constructed from brown leather and features a single metal clip for attachment to the belt. The holster is right-hand oriented, and designed for inside-the-pant (IWB) carry.
The holster’s brown leather construction provides a degree of flexibility and comfort. The metal clip offers secure attachment to belts of various widths. Its right-hand orientation caters to right-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster performs its intended function adequately: providing a secure and relatively comfortable means of concealed carry for the S&W 99. Retention is solid, preventing accidental dislodging of the pistol. The draw stroke is smooth after the break-in period.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and relatively low price point. A potential area for improvement would be to add a sweat guard to protect the pistol from moisture and the wearer from discomfort. A reinforced mouth would also aid in re-holstering.
The holster meets basic expectations for a leather IWB holster in this price range. It’s not a high-performance competition rig, but it’s a reliable option for everyday concealed carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster boasts a classic, minimalist design. The brown leather construction provides a traditional aesthetic. The single metal clip is functional but lacks adjustability.
The build quality is decent for the price. The leather is reasonably thick and the stitching appears solid. Comfort is acceptable, especially after the break-in period.
The holster is relatively user-friendly. There’s no significant learning curve involved. Some users might find the lack of adjustability limiting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster appears to be fairly durable. With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use. Leather holsters generally require less maintenance than Kydex models.
Cleaning involves wiping down the leather with a damp cloth and applying a leather conditioner periodically. Repairs are typically limited to restitching or replacing the clip, which can often be done by a local leatherworker. Regular conditioning is crucial to prevent the leather from drying and cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster doesn’t come with any included accessories. Customization options are limited due to its simple design. Some users might choose to add a sweat guard or modify the clip, but these would require aftermarket modifications.
The holster is compatible with any S&W 99 variant within its intended size and shape. Aftermarket accessories like pistol-mounted lights or lasers may not be compatible without significant modification to the holster. Users should always check compatibility before attempting to use accessories with this holster.
Pros and Cons of Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster
Pros
- Relatively inexpensive, offering good value for the price.
- Comfortable for all-day carry, especially after the break-in period.
- Provides secure retention of the S&W 99 pistol.
- Durable leather construction ensures longevity with proper care.
- Simple, no-frills design is easy to use and maintain.
Cons
- Limited adjustability may not suit all users or carry positions.
- The leather, while durable, can show wear and tear over time.
- Lack of a sweat guard can lead to moisture buildup and discomfort in hot weather.
Who Should Buy Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster?
This holster is perfect for individuals seeking a reliable and affordable IWB carry option for their S&W 99. It suits those prioritizing comfort and simplicity over advanced features or adjustability. It’s ideal for everyday concealed carry in moderate climates.
Individuals who prefer highly adjustable holsters, or those requiring maximum concealment in extreme conditions, should skip this product. Those who carry frequently in hot, humid environments may want to consider a holster with a full sweat guard. Users who prioritize rapid draw speeds may find this holster too slow.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality gun belt to ensure proper support and concealment. A leather conditioner is essential for maintaining the holster’s longevity and suppleness. Consider a longer shirt for deep concealment when sitting or bending.
Conclusion on Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster
The Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster is a solid, if unspectacular, choice for concealed carry. It’s a reliable and comfortable option for everyday use, especially after the leather breaks in. It offers a good balance of affordability and functionality.
The price is definitely justified, considering its durability and overall performance. It’s an entry-level leather holster that performs its basic function well. It’s an excellent value for those looking for a simple and reliable S&W 99 holster.
I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a straightforward, comfortable, and affordable IWB holster for their S&W 99. It’s a no-nonsense option that gets the job done. If you’re looking for a dependable and budget-friendly concealed carry solution, give the Don Hume S&W 99 Right Hand Inside the Pant Leather Clip-On Holster a try – you might be pleasantly surprised!