Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster

For those seeking ultimate concealment, the Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster offers a discreet solution. Designed by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster aims to provide secure carry within a pocket, minimizing printing and maximizing accessibility. The black suede finish adds a touch of class while maintaining a low profile.

My concealed carry journey has led me through numerous holsters, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Pocket carry, in particular, has always been attractive for its deep concealment capabilities, especially when I need to dress more casually or tuck in my shirt. I was looking for a reliable, comfortable, and easily accessible option that wouldn’t break the bank.

Upon receiving the Safariland Model 25, I was immediately impressed by its lightweight and compact design. The suede exterior felt smooth to the touch, and the overall build seemed solid. Initial inspection revealed no loose stitching or obvious defects, suggesting a reasonable level of quality control.

I considered other pocket holsters from DeSantis and Uncle Mike’s, but the Safariland name and the promise of a reinforced lining swayed my decision. I hoped the reinforced lining would keep the holster open for easy reholstering, a common issue with softer pocket holsters. The Safariland Model 25 seemed like a worthwhile upgrade.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the holster seemed well-made and perfectly suited for its intended purpose. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation. The real test, of course, would be how it performed during everyday carry and live-fire exercises.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved carrying a Ruger LCR .38 in the Safariland Model 25 during a typical workday, followed by a range session. I carried the holster in the front pocket of my jeans and cargo pants to evaluate comfort and concealment. The variety of clothing helped me establish a baseline feel for the holster.

The holster performed reasonably well in terms of concealment; it effectively disguised the outline of the firearm in both types of pants. However, the draw felt a bit awkward at first; the suede material created some friction against the pocket lining. I needed to practice drawing smoothly without pulling the entire holster out with the gun.

After a few hours of carry, I noticed a slight shifting of the holster within my pocket, requiring occasional readjustment. During the range session, I experienced some difficulty reholstering quickly, especially with the LCR .38. The holster tended to collapse slightly after the firearm was drawn, necessitating two hands to properly reholster.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland Model 25 showed minimal signs of wear and tear. The stitching remained intact, and the suede exterior retained its shape. The holster continued to provide adequate concealment, though the draw and reholstering remained slightly challenging with the LCR .38.

The durability appears solid; the holster is constructed from robust synthetic materials that seem resistant to abrasion and moisture. Cleaning is relatively simple; I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove lint and debris. The key is to avoid excessive moisture, as this could potentially damage the suede finish.

Compared to my previous experience with a Galco pocket holster, the Safariland Model 25 offers better concealment, but the Galco provided a smoother draw. The Safariland excels in disguising the firearm’s outline but requires more practice to master the draw and reholstering process, especially under stress. However, for maximum concealability, the Safariland holster wins out for me.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster

Specifications

The Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster is designed for concealed carry within a pocket. Its key specifications include:

• Material: Synthetic with a suede finish. The suede finish helps break up the outline and reduce printing through clothing.
• Color: Black. This classic color ensures the holster remains inconspicuous in most environments.
• Holster Type: Pocket Holster. Specifically designed for inside-the-pocket carry.
• Application: Concealment. Maximizes discretion for concealed carry purposes.

These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the holster’s ability to provide effective concealment and a secure carry. The synthetic construction balances durability and lightweight design, while the suede finish enhances its low-profile appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland Model 25 is to securely hold a handgun within a pocket while minimizing printing and facilitating a smooth draw. In this regard, it performs adequately but not perfectly. Concealment is excellent; the holster effectively breaks up the gun’s outline.

However, the draw stroke can be slightly sticky due to the suede’s friction against the pocket lining. Reholstering, especially with smaller revolvers like the LCR .38, can be challenging as the holster tends to collapse. A firmer reinforcement in the holster mouth would significantly improve this aspect.

The holster meets expectations for concealment but falls slightly short in terms of draw speed and reholstering ease. With practice, the draw can be improved, but the reholstering issue remains a concern, particularly in high-stress situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Model 25 features a minimalist design focused on maximizing concealment. The build quality is decent, with sturdy stitching and durable materials. However, the suede exterior is somewhat prone to collecting lint and debris.

The holster is lightweight and comfortable to carry for extended periods. There isn’t a significant learning curve; however, perfecting a smooth draw requires practice. The design could benefit from a slightly more rigid structure to maintain its shape during reholstering.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 25 appears to be reasonably durable, withstanding daily wear and tear without significant degradation. The synthetic materials are resistant to abrasion, and the stitching is well-reinforced. With proper care, it should last for several years.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and lint. The holster should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew or deterioration of the suede finish.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster is a standalone product and doesn’t typically require accessories or offer significant customization options. There are no integral mounting points or adjustable features. You could potentially add grip tape to the interior of the holster for a tighter fit, however.

The design is intended to be a minimalist solution for pocket carry. It’s compatible with a wide range of small to medium-sized handguns, but the fit may vary depending on the specific model. Always ensure a secure and proper fit before carrying any firearm in this holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 25 Inside The Pocket Holster