NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim Review

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim Made a Bold First Impression

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim immediately caught my eye with its promise of discreetly combining everyday practicality with personal safety. For someone who spends a significant amount of time outdoors and prioritizes personal security, the idea of a concealed carry purse that doesn’t scream “tactical” is incredibly appealing. The faux leather construction, braided handles, and readily accessible CCW compartment suggested a blend of style and functionality worth exploring.

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve faced the constant challenge of balancing practicality with blending into everyday life. I needed a discreet carry option that didn’t compromise on accessibility or security. Traditional concealed carry methods, like IWB holsters, can be uncomfortable and restrictive, especially during extended periods of activity.

Upon unboxing, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote felt surprisingly lightweight, considering its intended purpose. The faux leather appeared reasonably durable, and the braided handles seemed sturdy enough to handle a decent amount of weight. The magnetic snap-button closure on the front pocket and the zippered CCW compartment on the back offered a semblance of organization and security.

Compared to other concealed carry purses I’ve encountered, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote stood out for its lower price point and more subtle design. Many CCW purses either look overly tactical or sacrifice functionality for aesthetics. I chose the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote hoping to find a middle ground.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the materials didn’t scream high-end, the overall design and features seemed promising, especially considering the budget-friendly price tag of $9.99. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could deliver on its promise of discreet and reliable concealed carry.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote at my local shooting range, a controlled environment where I could safely evaluate its accessibility and functionality. I loaded my compact pistol into the included universal holster and placed it in the CCW compartment. Drawing from the purse took a little getting used to, but the single zipper access on the back proved to be relatively quick and easy.

The black-with-brown-trim design of the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote blended seamlessly into my normal everyday outfits without giving the impression that it was a firearm carrier. I also tried carrying it during a light hike in slightly damp conditions to assess its comfort and durability. The tote felt a bit awkward initially, but I quickly adjusted to its size and weight.

I didn’t experience any major issues during my first use. However, the universal holster felt a bit generic, and I would prefer a more custom-fitted option for better retention. Also, the magnetic snap-button closure on the front pocket felt somewhat weak, raising concerns about the security of items stored there.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a month of regular use, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote has shown some signs of wear and tear, particularly on the faux leather trim. The braided handles are holding up well, but the stitching on the seams of the main compartment is starting to fray in a few spots. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has kept the exterior relatively clean, but the PVC lining in the interior compartment is prone to scratches.

The faux leather’s durability is the main downside after weeks of regular use. The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote has definitely helped my confidence in safety preparedness.

Compared to other concealed carry bags I’ve used in the past, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote falls short in terms of overall durability and material quality. However, it outperforms them in terms of affordability and discreet design.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim

Specifications

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim features a faux leather exterior with braided carry handles. It measures 11″ H x 11 1/2″ W x 5 1/4″ D and weighs 31 oz.

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim includes a large front pocket with a magnetic snap-button closure, a zippered main compartment with a loop fastener patch for a holster, and a zippered CCW compartment on the back. The interior compartment is lined with PVC material. These specifications dictate the size, weight, and carrying capacity of the purse, directly impacting its comfort and usability.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote is to provide a discreet and accessible means of carrying a concealed firearm. The single-zipper access to the CCW compartment allows for relatively quick drawing, although practice is required to master the technique. The included universal holster accommodates most full, compact, and sub-compact pistols.

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote biggest strength is its affordability and discreet design. The main weakness is the quality of the materials and the generic holster. The product largely meets expectations for a concealed carry purse in its price range, but falls short of high-end alternatives.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote design prioritizes a non-tactical aesthetic, allowing it to blend seamlessly into everyday settings. The faux leather construction is lightweight and relatively comfortable to carry, though the braided handles can dig into the shoulder after extended periods. There is a slight learning curve involved in mastering the draw from the CCW compartment, but the overall design is user-friendly.

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote materials used are not the best out there, however the weight is manageable and comfortable. A bit of extra practice is required, however, it gets the job done.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the faux leather construction and budget-friendly price point, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote durability is a concern. Signs of wear and tear are already evident after a month of regular use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is recommended, but the PVC lining is susceptible to scratches and staining.

Maintenance is very easy, however, the lifetime of the product is concerning. Only time will tell how long the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote will last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote comes with a universal holster that attaches to the loop fastener patch in the main compartment. There are limited customization options available for this product, though users could potentially replace the universal holster with a more custom-fitted option from another brand.

Because of the low price point of the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote, there are very limited customizations. However, swapping out the included universal holster is always an option.

Pros and Cons of NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Braided Tote Black with Brown Trim