The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown Made a Bold First Impression
The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown isn’t your typical tactical gear. It’s a woven tote bag designed for concealed carry, blending functionality with everyday style. The Manufacturer, NcStar, is known for producing affordable accessories, and this tote aims to provide a discreet option for firearm owners.
For years, I’ve relied on traditional holsters and tactical bags, but sometimes a more subtle approach is needed. I was searching for a solution that allowed me to carry my firearm comfortably and discreetly without drawing unnecessary attention. The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown seemed like an interesting alternative, promising a blend of concealment and everyday practicality.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the woven exterior. It felt relatively sturdy, although the synthetic material was evident. The weight was surprisingly light, even before loading it with my everyday essentials and a firearm.
Compared to dedicated concealed carry bags from brands like 5.11 Tactical or Vertx, the NcStar tote is significantly less expensive. Those bags offer enhanced durability and tactical features, but they also have a distinctly tactical appearance. I ultimately chose the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown for its affordability and its ability to blend seamlessly into everyday situations.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The design was more discreet than I expected, but I had some concerns about the quality and the accessibility of the firearm in a high-pressure situation. For just $9.99, my expectations were tempered, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown was a trip to the local farmer’s market. I carried a compact 9mm pistol in the concealed carry compartment, along with my wallet, keys, and phone. The weather was sunny and warm, a typical summer day.
Drawing the firearm from the concealed compartment took some getting used to. The two zippers on either side of the compartment were easy enough to access, but maneuvering the universal holster and acquiring a proper grip required practice. I also noticed a slight printing of the firearm’s outline against the back of the tote, especially when I was carrying heavier items inside.
I didn’t experience any major issues during the first use, but the need for practice was evident. The speed and efficiency of drawing a firearm from this tote were significantly slower than with a traditional holster. However, it definitely was better in terms of concealment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown has held up reasonably well. The woven exterior shows no signs of significant wear and tear, although some minor fraying is starting to appear at the seams. The zippers still function smoothly.
Cleaning the tote is relatively simple; a damp cloth and mild soap are sufficient to remove most dirt and stains. The PVC lining in the interior compartment is easy to wipe down. However, I noticed the included holster is a bit flimsy after repeated draws.
Compared to other concealed carry methods, such as an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown offers superior comfort in hot weather. It outperforms dedicated tactical bags in terms of discreetness, but it falls short in terms of accessibility and speed. The trade off has to be calculated with any carry method, and this one leans heavily towards the discreet.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown
Specifications
- The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown measures 10 3/4″H x 13 1/2″ W x 4 3/4″ D. This size is adequate for carrying essential items alongside a concealed firearm.
- It weighs only 23 oz, making it lightweight and easy to carry throughout the day. The low weight is helpful as to not alert anyone to the fact it may be carrying a heavy firearm.
- The woven tote features a zippered main compartment, a front zippered pocket, and a concealed carry compartment on the back. The zippered compartments are adequate for carrying normal items.
- The primary CCW compartment is located on the back side of the purse with two zippers on either side for easy access to the holster. This allows for ambidextrous access to the firearm.
- It includes a universal holster that will fit most full/ compact/ sub-compacts with hook fastener patch on both sides of the holster for left or right handed use. This holster is basic, but functional.
- The interior compartment is lined with PVC material. This makes it easier to clean spills or accidents.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the tote’s usability and effectiveness as a concealed carry option. The dimensions determine how much you can carry, while the weight affects comfort. The placement and design of the concealed carry compartment dictate the speed and ease of access to your firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown performs adequately as a concealed carry option, especially considering its price point. It effectively conceals a firearm, blending in with everyday accessories. However, the draw speed is significantly slower than with traditional holsters.
Its strengths lie in its discreetness and affordability. The weaknesses are the slower draw speed and the potential for printing. It meets the basic expectation of concealing a firearm, but it falls short of exceeding expectations in terms of tactical performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price, although the materials feel somewhat cheap. The woven exterior is visually appealing, but it lacks the durability of higher-end tactical fabrics. It is user-friendly, with no complicated features or adjustments required.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, it should last for a reasonable amount of time, but it is not designed for heavy use or harsh environments. The tote is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Any serious use will likely show up on the tote quickly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown comes with a universal holster. There are not many customization options available other than swapping out the included holster for another hook-and-loop compatible holster. It is compatible with most universal hook-and-loop holsters. The lack of modularity is a downside.
Pros and Cons of NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown
Pros
- Affordable price point. The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown offers a very inexpensive entry point into concealed carry options.
- Discreet design. Its woven exterior and tote bag style effectively conceal a firearm without drawing attention.
- Lightweight and comfortable to carry. The tote’s light weight makes it comfortable for all-day use.
- Easy to clean and maintain. The PVC lining and woven exterior are easy to wipe down and keep clean.
- Acceptable main storage capacity. The large zippered center compartment can hold everyday items.
Cons
- Slower draw speed. Accessing the firearm from the concealed compartment is slower compared to traditional holsters.
- Potential for printing. The outline of the firearm may be visible under certain conditions.
- Questionable Holster Quality. The included holster is pretty flimsy.
Who Should Buy NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown?
The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown is perfect for individuals who prioritize discreet concealed carry and are on a tight budget. It is also a good option for those who need a comfortable and lightweight way to carry a firearm in non-permissive environments where a tactical bag would draw unwanted attention. The user must understand the trade-off between discreetness and speed of access.
This product is not suitable for individuals who require rapid access to their firearm or who operate in high-risk environments. Anyone who needs a highly durable and reliable concealed carry solution should skip this product. Those looking for customization options or modularity should also look elsewhere.
A must-have modification would be to replace the included universal holster with a higher-quality hook-and-loop compatible holster. This would enhance retention and potentially improve draw speed.
Conclusion on NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown
The NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown is a budget-friendly option for discreet concealed carry. It effectively conceals a firearm and blends in with everyday accessories, making it ideal for non-permissive environments. The slow draw speed and basic build quality are drawbacks to consider.
At a price of $9.99, the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown offers reasonable value. It is a viable option for those on a budget who prioritize discretion over tactical performance.
I would recommend it to individuals who understand its limitations and are willing to practice their draw. If you need an inexpensive and discreet concealed carry solution, give the NcStar VISM Concealed Carry Woven Tote Brown a try.