Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla Review

First Thoughts on the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla

The Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla promises a simple and affordable concealed carry solution. Designed for small to medium double-action revolvers, this holster aims to provide comfort and security inside the waistband, boasting a suede-like construction and moisture barrier. Having spent years evaluating various carry methods, from appendix rigs to chest holsters in demanding environments, I approached this offering with a critical eye, especially considering its budget-friendly price point.

My search for a compact and comfortable IWB holster for occasional revolver carry led me to the Grovtec US Inc. product. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank but offered reliable retention and minimal printing under clothing, a challenge I often face with larger frame revolvers.

Upon receiving the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla, my initial impression was mixed. The “Lammy Suede” material felt surprisingly thin, raising concerns about long-term durability and retention strength compared to thicker leather or Kydex options. I was immediately skeptical of the quality.

Compared to similar budget IWB holsters from brands like Uncle Mike’s or even some generic nylon holsters, the Grovtec US Inc. offering seemed to prioritize affordability above all else. I chose to test the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla hoping for a hidden gem, perhaps a surprisingly functional option despite the low price tag. However, I was initially disappointed by the apparent lack of robust construction and unsure if it would hold up under realistic carry conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla primarily at the shooting range and during a few days of everyday carry while running errands. The holster was paired with a small-frame, double-action .38 Special revolver. The idea was to assess its comfort, draw speed, and overall security in a relatively low-stress environment.

The initial draw felt awkward due to the holster’s flexible material collapsing slightly when attempting to re-holster. The retention was minimal, relying mostly on the pressure of the waistband. In humid conditions, the “moisture barrier” seemed insufficient, and I noticed some perspiration accumulating near the firearm’s grip after a few hours.

After the first range session, the belt clip already felt loose and showed signs of bending. The poor retention and uncomfortable draw made the first use far from ideal.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a couple of weeks of intermittent use, the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla showed significant signs of wear. The “Lammy Suede” was already fraying around the edges, and the stitching near the belt clip was starting to unravel. The belt clip itself became even looser, making me question its ability to securely retain the holster during more strenuous activity.

Cleaning was simple, involving a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. However, I was concerned that frequent cleaning would further degrade the already fragile material. Compared to my experience with well-made leather or Kydex holsters, the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla was a major letdown in terms of durability and long-term reliability. I found it disappointing and not a reliable option for everyday carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla

Specifications

• Type: Inside-The-Waistband (IWB) – This implies concealed carry inside the trousers, designed for minimal visibility.
  • The effectiveness of this concealment hinges on the holster’s slim profile, which is somewhat compromised by the material’s bulk and lack of rigid structure.
• Color: Black – A common and discreet color for concealment.
  • Black blends easily with most clothing, making it a practical choice for IWB holsters.
• Material: Suede (Lammy Suede) – A soft, supposedly durable nylon intended for comfort and retention.
  • The choice of “Lammy Suede” is questionable, given its limited durability and retention capabilities compared to traditional suede or modern synthetics.
• Size: 00 – Indicates a specific size designed for small to medium double-action revolvers.
  • The “00” sizing needs precise firearm compatibility for effective retention, which the holster seemingly struggles to achieve.
• Model: Right – Specifies right-hand draw.
  • This designation is crucial for ensuring proper draw orientation and accessibility for right-handed shooters.
• Finish: Smooth – Suggests a snag-free surface for a faster draw.
  • The “smooth” finish, while intended for speed, contributes to the lack of friction and retention, making the draw potentially less secure.
• Gun Mod: Sm/Med DA Revolver – Indicates compatibility with small to medium-sized double-action revolvers.
  • I found even smaller revolvers lacking a snug fit, which is alarming for safety.

Performance & Functionality

The Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla‘s primary function is to securely hold a firearm inside the waistband for concealed carry. In this regard, it falls short of expectations. The minimal retention, flimsy material, and loose belt clip compromise its ability to reliably secure the firearm during movement.

The holster’s “moisture barrier” is inadequate, failing to prevent perspiration from reaching the firearm in humid conditions. This can lead to corrosion and discomfort. The lack of a reinforced mouth makes re-holstering difficult and potentially unsafe, as the soft material collapses, requiring two hands to guide the firearm back into place.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s design prioritizes simplicity and affordability over functionality and comfort. The thin “Lammy Suede” material feels flimsy against the skin, and the lack of padding or reinforcement creates pressure points, especially when sitting or bending.

The belt clip is made of thin metal that bends easily, providing insufficient security and potentially allowing the holster to shift or come loose during wear. The overall construction lacks attention to detail, with rough edges and loose stitching detracting from the user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla‘s durability is a major concern. The “Lammy Suede” material is prone to fraying and tearing, and the stitching is weak and likely to unravel with regular use. The thin belt clip is susceptible to bending and breaking.

Maintaining the holster involves basic cleaning with a damp cloth. However, the delicate material is unlikely to withstand frequent cleaning or exposure to harsh chemicals. Considering its construction, the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla is unlikely to last more than a few months of regular use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla comes with no accessories and offers no customization options. The simple design and construction limit its compatibility with aftermarket modifications. Unlike Kydex holsters, which can be easily modified with adjustable retention screws or optic cuts, the Grovtec US Inc. offering is a one-size-fits-all solution with limited adaptability.

Pros and Cons of Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla

Who Should Buy Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla?

The Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla might be suitable for individuals who need an extremely inexpensive holster for very occasional use and are not concerned about long-term durability or security. This could include someone who rarely carries and needs a “just-in-case” option.

Anyone serious about concealed carry, self-defense, or regular firearm use should skip this product. The lack of retention, poor construction, and questionable reliability make it unsuitable for any situation where dependable performance is crucial. A proper holster made from Kydex or reinforced leather is highly recommended for safe and effective concealed carry.

A sturdy gun belt is a must-have accessory if you are considering this holster, though even with a proper belt, the holster’s shortcomings remain significant.

Conclusion on Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla

The Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla ultimately fails to deliver on its promise of a reliable and comfortable concealed carry solution. The low price point is appealing, but the compromises in material quality, construction, and functionality render it a poor value overall.

The price is NOT justified, because it sacrifices too much in safety and durability. It’s better to spend more money on a quality holster than to risk a negligent discharge or a compromised draw in a critical situation.

I would not personally recommend the Grovtec US Inc Inside-the-Pants Holster RH 00 Bla. Invest in a quality Kydex or leather holster from a reputable manufacturer for reliable performance and peace of mind. Don’t gamble with your safety; choose quality over cost.