First Impressions of Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn entered a crowded market of outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters, promising a blend of comfort, concealment, and secure retention for the popular S&W Shield EZ. As a seasoned professional in tactical gear, I’ve handled countless holsters, and I approached this one with a healthy dose of skepticism tempered by curiosity. The hybrid design, combining a polymer shell with a leather backing, hinted at a potential sweet spot between rigidity and comfort, a balance often sought but rarely achieved perfectly.
I was in the market for a reliable OWB holster for range days and potential open carry scenarios with my S&W Shield EZ. I needed something that wouldn’t print excessively under light clothing and offered a secure, yet accessible, draw.
Upon receiving the Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn, my initial impression was positive. The brown leather backplate looked well-stitched and felt reasonably supple, while the polymer shell seemed adequately molded to the Shield EZ’s profile. Its lightweight nature was immediately apparent.
Compared to a full Kydex OWB holster from Blackhawk and a leather pancake holster from Galco, the Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn stood out due to its minimalist design. I picked the Versacarry because it seemed to offer a better compromise between concealment and ease of draw, something the others lacked.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn presented a unique combination of materials and design, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn at an outdoor shooting range. The day was moderately warm, around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze.
The holster performed adequately, providing a secure hold on the Shield EZ during movement. The draw was relatively smooth after a few practice repetitions, though the polymer shell exhibited some initial friction. No unexpected issues arose during my first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including range sessions and some limited open carry while hiking, the Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn has held up fairly well. The leather backplate has molded slightly to my body, increasing comfort.
Minor wear marks are visible on the polymer shell where it contacts the slide, but the holster’s structural integrity remains intact. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth suffices to remove any dirt or sweat. Overall, the Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn performs comparably to other hybrid holsters I’ve used, with no major disappointments.
Breaking Down the Features of Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn
Specifications
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield EZ. It features a brown leather backplate and a custom-molded polymer front.
The holster is designed for right-hand draw and features adjustable tension. The forward cant aids in concealment. These specifications are important because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, comfort, and draw characteristics.
Performance & Functionality
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn performs its primary job of securely holding the S&W Shield EZ reasonably well. The adjustable tension allows for customizing the retention force, though the polymer shell’s initial friction can cause a slightly less-than-smooth draw.
The holster’s strengths lie in its lightweight design and relatively comfortable leather backing. The main weakness is the polymer shell’s friction against the slide during the draw. It mostly meets expectations for a holster in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn is acceptable for its price point. The materials used are adequate, and the stitching on the leather backplate appears sturdy.
The holster is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The adjustable tension is a welcome feature, but the polymer shell could benefit from smoother edges.
Durability & Maintenance
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn should last for several years with regular use, given its materials and construction. Maintaining the holster is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The leather backplate may require occasional conditioning to prevent drying and cracking over time. Overall, the holster is relatively low-maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn does not come with any included accessories beyond the adjustable tension screw. Customization options are limited, as the holster is specifically molded for the S&W Shield EZ.
While some users may attempt to modify the polymer shell for compatibility with aftermarket sights, this is not officially supported by Versacarry. The holster is designed to work with the stock configuration of the Shield EZ.
Pros and Cons of Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable due to the hybrid design.
- Adjustable tension allows for customized retention.
- Forward cant aids in concealment.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Specifically molded for the S&W Shield EZ for secure fit.
Cons
- Polymer shell can cause friction during draw.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn?
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and reasonably comfortable OWB holster for their S&W Shield EZ. It’s well-suited for range use, casual open carry (where legal), and those who appreciate a minimalist design.
Those who prioritize a super-fast, friction-free draw or require extensive customization options should skip this product. A good belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and prevent sagging.
Conclusion on Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn
The Versacarry Vslide Holster Owb Hybrid S&w Shield Ez Poly/brwn presents a decent value proposition for its price point. It offers a comfortable and relatively concealable OWB carry option for the S&W Shield EZ.
While the polymer shell’s friction during the draw is a minor drawback, the holster’s overall performance and affordability make it a worthwhile consideration. I would recommend this holster to anyone looking for a budget-friendly OWB option for their Shield EZ. If you’re seeking a comfortable and affordable OWB holster for your S&W Shield EZ, the Versacarry Vslide Holster is definitely worth a look.