The Purse/style F/Color 001 Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve specialized in tactical gear, advising everyone from seasoned operators to weekend warriors. Concealed carry for women has always been a challenging topic, often involving compromises in style or accessibility. When I first encountered the Purse/style F/Color 001, a braided tote described as a CCW handbag with a universal holster, I was intrigued, especially given its incredibly low price of $9.99.
My primary problem was finding an affordable, stylish, and functional CCW option for female clients who didn’t want to sacrifice fashion for safety. Most CCW purses on the market are either overpriced, bulky, or scream “tactical,” which defeats the purpose of discreet carry. I picked this one hoping it would bridge that gap, offering a budget-friendly entry point into the world of concealed carry purses.
Unboxing the Purse/style F/Color 001 was… underwhelming. The design is simple, a basic black braided tote. The material felt inexpensive, and the overall build quality appeared commensurate with the price point.
Compared to a high-end leather CCW purse from Galco or even a mid-range nylon option from 5.11, the Purse/style F/Color 001 felt significantly less robust. I had hoped it would compete with some of the more budget friendly options on the market, but I was immediately worried about longevity. My first impression was a mixture of surprise and concern – could something this inexpensive actually be viable for concealed carry?
Real-World Testing: Putting Purse/style F/Color 001 to the Test
First Use Experience
I decided to test the Purse/style F/Color 001 in a variety of scenarios, starting with a simple range trip. I wanted to assess its functionality in a controlled environment before subjecting it to more demanding conditions. I also used it for some local errands to get a feel for it in a more casual setting.
The range trip revealed some immediate limitations. While the Purse/style F/Color 001 did technically accommodate my compact 9mm and the included universal holster functioned, drawing the firearm was slow and awkward. The tote’s opening wasn’t wide enough for a smooth draw, and the material bunched up, hindering access.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of occasional use, the Purse/style F/Color 001 showed signs of wear. The braiding started to fray slightly, and the stitching on the internal compartments appeared strained. It became clear that this was not a bag built for heavy use or long-term durability.
Cleaning was easy enough – a damp cloth wiped away most dirt and grime. The low price point made me less concerned about babying it, but also underscored its disposable nature. Compared to my experiences with other tactical bags and CCW purses that are built to withstand harsh conditions, the Purse/style F/Color 001 fell short in terms of longevity and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Purse/style F/Color 001
Specifications
- Style: Braided Tote
- Color: Black
- Intended Use: CCW Handbag
- Included: Universal Holster
- Price: $9.99
These specifications highlight the Purse/style F/Color 001’s core purpose – to provide a basic, affordable CCW option. However, the lack of detailed material specifications or dimensions raises concerns about quality and functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Purse/style F/Color 001’s performance is underwhelming, to say the least. Its primary function, concealed carry, is hampered by its awkward draw and flimsy construction. It technically works, but it doesn’t inspire confidence in a real-world self-defense scenario.
The strengths are its low price and discreet appearance. However, the weaknesses far outweigh the positives, including the difficult draw, questionable durability, and overall lack of refinement. It barely meets expectations, functioning more as a novelty item than a reliable CCW solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and unassuming, blending in with typical fashion totes. The build quality, however, is poor. The materials feel cheap, and the overall construction lacks the robustness required for regular use.
The Purse/style F/Color 001 is user-friendly in the sense that it requires no special knowledge or training to use. However, the awkward draw and uncomfortable carry detract from its usability. There’s no real learning curve, but that’s because there’s not much to learn.
Durability & Maintenance
The Purse/style F/Color 001 is not built to last. The materials are prone to wear and tear, and the stitching is likely to fail under stress. I wouldn’t expect it to last more than a few months of regular use.
Maintenance is minimal – a quick wipe down is all it needs. However, the disposable nature of the product means that repair is not a viable option. If something breaks, you’re better off replacing it.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Purse/style F/Color 001 comes with a universal holster. This holster is adaptable to fit various handguns.
There are no other readily available accessories or customization options specifically designed for the Purse/style F/Color 001. Its basic design and construction limit its compatibility with aftermarket upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Purse/style F/Color 001
Pros
- Very low price point – highly affordable.
- Discreet, unassuming design – doesn’t scream “tactical.”
- Includes a universal holster – provides basic retention.
Cons
- Awkward and slow draw – compromises self-defense capability.
- Poor build quality and durability – not built to last.
- Cheap materials – feel flimsy and uncomfortable.
Who Should Buy Purse/style F/Color 001?
The Purse/style F/Color 001 is perfect for someone on an extremely tight budget who needs a temporary or backup CCW solution. It might also be suitable for someone who wants to test the waters with concealed carry purses without making a significant investment.
Who should skip this product? Anyone who values quality, durability, and reliable access to their firearm should avoid the Purse/style F/Color 001. Those who rely on their firearm for self-defense should invest in a higher-quality, more functional CCW option.
Must-have accessories or modifications? I’d recommend a better holster that provides more secure retention and easier access. However, given the overall quality of the Purse/style F/Color 001, it’s probably not worth investing in significant upgrades.
Conclusion on Purse/style F/Color 001
The Purse/style F/Color 001 is a prime example of “you get what you pay for.” While the $9.99 price tag is undeniably attractive, the product’s poor quality and compromised functionality make it a questionable value proposition. It might serve as a temporary or backup solution, but it’s not a reliable or durable CCW option.
Personally, I cannot recommend the Purse/style F/Color 001 for anyone who takes self-defense seriously. There are better options available, even at slightly higher price points.
My final thought: invest in quality when it comes to your personal safety. The Purse/style F/Color 001 is a tempting bargain, but it’s ultimately a false economy. Instead, research other purse options and consider paying a little more for enhanced performance, longevity and peace of mind.