What Makes USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster Stand Out?
The USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster offers a compelling proposition for concealed carry enthusiasts: a proven design from DeSantis, a reputable name in the holster industry, at a budget-friendly price. This particular holster adds the element of a thumb break to the popular Inside Heat design, promising enhanced retention.
I sought out this holster because I was looking for a reliable and affordable inside-the-waistband (IWB) option for my Glock 19. I needed something that balanced security, comfort, and ease of draw, without breaking the bank. The thumb break feature was particularly attractive as an added layer of retention, especially for everyday carry (EDC) in potentially dynamic environments.
Upon receiving the holster, the first thing I noticed was the distinctive smell of leather, a classic sign of a well-made product. The leather itself, while showing signs of use, felt sturdy and maintained its shape well. The stitching appeared solid, and the metal clip felt secure.
I considered the Safariland Model 578 GLS Pro-Fit and the Alien Gear ShapeShift Core Carry Pack. However, the DeSantis holster won out due to its simplicity, affordability, and the added security of the thumb break. The Safariland was too bulky for IWB, and the Alien Gear, while versatile, seemed overly complex for my needs.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While it’s used, it felt well-maintained. I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world carry scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wore the holster for several hours while moving and engaging in different shooting positions. The goal was to assess comfort, retention, and draw speed.
The leather conformed to my body quickly, making it surprisingly comfortable even after extended wear. The thumb break required some practice to release smoothly and consistently. However, after a few repetitions, it became quite natural.
The only initial issue was the stiffness of the leather around the trigger guard, which made re-holstering a bit awkward. This improved with use as the leather softened.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. The leather has continued to mold to my body, enhancing comfort and concealability. The thumb break remains secure and functions as intended, providing peace of mind.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear beyond the initial used condition. The stitching is holding up well, and the clip remains firmly attached to my belt. Routine cleaning with leather conditioner keeps the holster supple and prevents cracking.
Compared to previous IWB holsters I’ve used (primarily Kydex models), the DeSantis offers superior comfort, especially during prolonged carry. While Kydex excels in rigidity and speed, leather offers a more forgiving and natural feel against the body.
Breaking Down the Features of USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster
Specifications
- Type: Inside-the-Waistband (IWB). This allows for deep concealment.
- Material: Black Saddle Leather. Leather offers a comfortable and conforming fit.
- Retention: Thumb Break. The thumb break provides active retention.
- Clip: Powder Coated Spring Clip. This ensures secure attachment to the belt.
- Reinforced Mouth: The top of the holster is reinforced for easy re-holstering. This is crucial for safety and efficiency.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s comfort, security, and ease of use. The leather provides comfort and molds to the body, while the thumb break offers an added layer of retention. The reinforced mouth enhances safety during re-holstering.
Performance & Functionality
The USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster performs its primary function—concealed carry—exceptionally well. The thumb break provides excellent weapon retention, while the leather construction ensures comfort. Drawing and re-holstering are smooth and efficient after a brief break-in period.
The holster’s strengths lie in its comfortable leather construction, secure retention, and ease of concealment. A minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the leather, which requires some break-in time. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a used leather IWB holster at its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster features a minimalist design focused on functionality and comfort. The leather is thin enough to minimize bulk while still providing adequate support. The reinforced mouth aids in re-holstering, and the spring clip ensures a secure grip on the belt.
The holster is generally user-friendly. The only learning curve involves mastering the thumb break release, which becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its leather construction and the fact that it’s used, the holster’s lifespan depends on proper care. With regular cleaning and conditioning, it should last for several years. Simple leather conditioners will keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster itself doesn’t come with many accessories. However, the user can adjust the ride height slightly by positioning the clip differently on the belt. Aftermarket modifications are limited, but the leather can be molded slightly to improve the fit for specific firearms.
The holster is compatible with standard 1.5-inch belts, which are widely available. Users can also add a sweat guard or comfort pad to further enhance comfort.
Pros and Cons of USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster
Pros
- Comfortable leather construction that molds to the body.
- Secure thumb break retention for added peace of mind.
- Affordable price point, especially for a used model.
- Reinforced mouth for easy and safe re-holstering.
- Slim profile for effective concealment.
Cons
- Initial leather stiffness requires a break-in period.
- Thumb break requires practice to master.
Who Should Buy USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster?
This holster is perfect for individuals looking for an affordable and comfortable IWB carry option with the added security of a thumb break. It’s ideal for everyday carry, range use, and general concealed carry applications. It benefits those who appreciate the feel and performance of leather.
This product is not ideal for users who prioritize speed over security, or those who prefer the rigidity and minimal maintenance of Kydex holsters. Those who require rapid, competition-style draws may find the thumb break slows them down.
A must-have accessory is a quality leather conditioner to maintain the holster’s suppleness and prevent cracking. A sturdy belt designed for concealed carry is also essential for proper support and stability.
Conclusion on USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster
The USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster offers a compelling combination of affordability, comfort, and security. While the fact it’s used means there may be some signs of wear, a well-maintained model provides excellent value. The thumb break adds an extra layer of retention that many carriers will appreciate.
The price is definitely justified. It offers a functional and reliable concealed carry solution at a fraction of the cost of new, premium holsters.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and comfortable IWB carry option with enhanced retention. Check out the USED DeSantis Inside Heat T.B. IWB Leather Holster and experience the comfort and security of a proven design.