Let’s Dive into Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt is a no-frills, economically-priced option from Galco, a company renowned for its quality leather goods. This belt is designed to be a functional and affordable option for everyday carry. My interest in this belt stemmed from a need for a reliable, yet budget-conscious, belt to support my IWB (inside-the-waistband) carry pistol.
Upon receiving the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt, I immediately noticed its simple, utilitarian design. It’s a plain black leather belt with a nickel-plated buckle, nothing fancy but seemingly well-constructed. The leather felt reasonably stiff, giving me some initial hope that it would provide adequate support.
Compared to a dedicated gun belt from companies like Ares Gear or a premium leather belt from Bullhide Belts, the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt appears less robust. I chose the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt over those options primarily due to its price point, as I was looking for an entry-level option to see if a dedicated carry belt made a noticeable difference. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it looked like it could do the job, but I suspected its performance would depend on the weight of the firearm being carried.
Real-World Testing: Putting Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt primarily at the shooting range and during daily wear around town, carrying a Glock 19 in an IWB holster. The weather conditions during testing ranged from warm and sunny to cool and rainy. Using the belt was simple enough; threading it through my belt loops and fastening the buckle was straightforward.
Initially, the belt seemed adequate, but after a few hours of wearing it with the Glock 19, I noticed some significant sagging and bending. The belt clearly struggled to support the weight of the firearm and holster without deforming. This created discomfort and made drawing the weapon less efficient.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt showed signs of wear, particularly around the buckle and where the holster was positioned. The leather began to soften and stretch, further reducing its ability to support the weight of the firearm. Cleaning the belt was simple, just wiping it down with a damp cloth, but the sagging issue persisted.
Compared to my previous experience using a standard department store belt, the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt offered slightly better support initially, but the difference wasn’t substantial enough to justify its purchase as a dedicated gun belt. It underperformed in terms of long-term durability and support compared to other gun belts I’ve used that are constructed of more rigid materials.
Breaking Down the Features of Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt
Specifications
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt features the following specifications:
- Belt Width: 1 1/2″
- Color: Black
- Material: Double-thickness Premium Center Cut Steerhide
- Buckle: Nickel-plated solid brass casual buckle
These specifications are important because they directly impact the belt’s ability to support a holster and firearm. The 1 1/2″ width is a common and generally acceptable size for most belt loops and holster attachments. The double-thickness steerhide should theoretically provide adequate stiffness and support, but in practice, the quality of the leather appears to be a limiting factor.
Performance & Functionality
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt functions adequately as a regular pants belt, but it falls short as a dedicated gun belt for anything beyond a very lightweight pistol. Its primary weakness is its lack of stiffness and support when carrying a firearm, leading to sagging and discomfort. It meets basic expectations for a belt but does not exceed them for its intended purpose of supporting a concealed firearm.
The belt’s main strength is its affordability; however, its performance limitations ultimately outweigh the cost savings for serious concealed carriers. The double-thickness leather sounds good on paper, but in practice, it isn’t rigid enough to prevent significant sagging under the weight of a pistol.
Design & Ergonomics
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt has a simple and unassuming design. The materials used appear to be of decent quality for the price, although the leather could be stiffer and more durable. The belt is generally comfortable to wear when not carrying a firearm, but the comfort decreases significantly when a pistol is added.
There is no learning curve to using the belt. It functions like any other standard belt, which is both a pro and a con, as it lacks any features specifically designed to enhance its performance as a gun belt.
Durability & Maintenance
The longevity of the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt appears to be limited, based on my testing. The leather stretches and softens over time, reducing its ability to provide support. Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and leather conditioner.
Repairing the belt would likely involve replacing the buckle or stitching, but the underlying issue of stretching leather would remain. The overall durability is acceptable for a standard belt but below average for a gun belt.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt does not come with any specific accessories beyond the standard buckle. Customization options are limited, though the buckle could be replaced if desired. The belt is compatible with most standard IWB and OWB (outside-the-waistband) holsters that attach to a 1 1/2″ belt.
Aftermarket accessories, such as magazine pouches or knife sheaths, can also be attached, but the belt’s limited support capabilities will be further strained. Upgrading to a stiffer buckle might slightly improve its performance, but the fundamental issue of the leather’s lack of rigidity would remain.
Pros and Cons of Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt
Pros
- Economical Price makes it an accessible entry point for exploring dedicated carry belts.
- Simple and Understated Design blends in well with casual attire.
- 1 1/2″ Width is compatible with most holster attachments and belt loops.
- Genuine Leather Construction provides a classic look and feel.
- Well-known Manufacturer provides assurance of basic quality standards.
Cons
- Insufficient Stiffness for supporting a firearm and holster without significant sagging.
- Limited Durability with leather stretching and softening over time.
- Not a True Gun Belt, despite its name, and is better suited for light-duty use.
Who Should Buy Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt?
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt is perfect for individuals who:
- Are looking for a budget-friendly belt for light everyday carry with a very small firearm (e.g., a .380).
- Need a belt for occasional open carry where maximum support isn’t critical.
- Want a basic leather belt that can also function as a regular pants belt.
Who should skip this product?
- Anyone who carries a medium-to-large frame pistol (9mm or larger) IWB.
- Individuals who prioritize comfort and stability when carrying a firearm.
- Those seeking a durable and long-lasting gun belt for daily use.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality IWB or OWB holster that distributes weight effectively.
- Consider heavier-duty belt keepers to help minimize sagging.
Conclusion on Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt
The Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt is an adequate belt for general use but ultimately falls short as a dedicated gun belt for most concealed carriers. Its low price point is attractive, but the lack of stiffness and long-term durability limit its functionality and value. While the price is justified for a basic leather belt, it’s not justified as a dedicated gun belt.
I would not personally recommend the Galco CLB5 Carry Lite Belt to anyone serious about concealed carry with anything larger than a subcompact firearm. Spend a little more money and invest in a true gun belt that will provide the support, comfort, and durability you need. Consider this belt only if you are on an extremely tight budget and plan to carry a very lightweight pistol.