Let’s Talk About Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag
The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag by VISM offers a blend of everyday practicality and discreet firearm storage. Designed for women who prioritize personal safety, this faux leather hobo bag incorporates a dedicated concealed carry compartment without sacrificing style. The $23.43 price tag makes it an accessible option, but does it deliver on its promise of functionality and concealment?
I was looking for a discreet and stylish way for my wife to carry a small handgun. She wanted something that didn’t scream “tactical” but still provided quick and reliable access to her firearm. The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag seemed like a potential solution.
Upon unboxing, the bag had a noticeable faux leather smell, but the quilting and hobo style were visually appealing. The material felt relatively sturdy for the price point, though not luxurious. Initial impressions leaned towards a functional design with compromises made to meet the budget.
Compared to higher-end concealed carry purses, the Vism bag lacked the refined craftsmanship and premium materials. Other options I considered were the Browning Women’s Allie Concealed Carry Handbag, which prioritized aesthetics and material quality at a higher price, and the Galco Escort Hidden Camera Bag, which was a more tactical approach. The Vism bag was chosen for its balance of affordability and discreet appearance.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The bag appeared functional and reasonably well-made for the price, but I had concerns about its long-term durability and the accessibility of the concealed carry compartment under stress.
Real-World Testing: Putting Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My wife initially tested the Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag at the shooting range and during everyday errands. She carried a Glock 43X in the concealed carry compartment. The bag performed adequately, allowing relatively quick access to the firearm with practice.
The weather was dry and mild during the initial testing. The bag’s faux leather exterior seemed water-resistant, but not waterproof. The zippers on the CCW compartment operated smoothly. There was an initial adjustment period to become familiar with the draw stroke and ensure consistent firearm presentation.
The only significant issue was the universal holster shifting within the compartment during more active movement. This required occasional adjustment to maintain optimal accessibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag is holding up reasonably well, considering its price point. The faux leather shows some minor creasing and scuffing, but no major tears or seam failures. The zippers continue to function smoothly.
The bag requires minimal maintenance. Wiping it down with a damp cloth removes most surface dirt and smudges. The interior PVC lining also makes cleaning spills easy. Its performance, while not exceptional, is acceptable for the price.
Compared to previous concealed carry methods, like inside-the-waistband holsters, the Vism bag offers superior comfort and concealment in certain situations. However, it lacks the speed and security of a dedicated holster system.
Breaking Down the Features of Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag
Specifications
- The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag is made from faux leather, giving it a classic appearance at an affordable price. The fabric is easy to clean, however, it is not as durable as real leather.
- This “Large” bag measures 12 inches in Height, 17 inches in Width, and 5 inches in Depth. This size offers ample space for everyday essentials along with the concealed carry firearm.
- The bag weighs 28 ounces (1.75 pounds), which is a reasonable weight for its size and function. The weight is light enough to be carried comfortably, however, a full load with a firearm can make it feel heavier.
- A universal holster with hook fastener patch on both sides is included. This allows for ambidextrous carry and accommodates a range of firearm sizes.
- The CCW compartment features two zippers for ambidextrous access. This allows for quick and easy access to the firearm from either side.
- The internal compartment is lined with PVC material. This is a useful feature, making it easy to clean and resistant to spills.
Performance & Functionality
The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag functions reasonably well as a concealed carry option, considering its price point. The ambidextrous access is a useful feature, and the universal holster offers flexibility. However, the holster’s tendency to shift and the faux leather material are drawbacks.
Its strength lies in its discreet appearance and affordability, making it a viable option for those on a budget. The main weakness is the holster’s security and the overall durability compared to more expensive options. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly concealed carry purse but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag features a hobo style design with a quilted front pocket, offering a blend of fashion and function. The bag includes side pockets and multiple internal compartments.
The build quality is adequate for the price. The faux leather and stitching are acceptable, though not exceptional. The bag is generally user-friendly with an intuitive layout, however, practice is required to master the draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the faux leather construction, the Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag is not expected to last as long as a genuine leather bag. However, with proper care, it should provide reasonable service for a year or two of regular use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. There are no easily replaceable parts, so repairs would likely require professional assistance or replacement of the entire bag.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag includes a universal holster with hook fastener patches. There are limited customization options beyond swapping out the included holster for a different hook-and-loop compatible model.
The bag is compatible with most generic hook-and-loop holsters designed for concealed carry purses. This allows users to customize the holster to fit their specific firearm and carry preferences.
Pros and Cons of Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag
Pros
- Affordable price point at around $23.
- Discreet, non-tactical design.
- Ambidextrous CCW compartment access.
- Includes a universal holster.
- Multiple compartments for organization.
Cons
- Faux leather material is less durable than genuine leather.
- Universal holster can shift within the compartment.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag?
The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag is perfect for women seeking an affordable and discreet concealed carry option that doesn’t scream “tactical.” It’s suitable for those who prioritize comfort and concealment over speed and security.
This bag is not ideal for those who require rapid access to their firearm or who prefer a more robust and durable concealed carry solution. Law enforcement or security personnel might find this bag insufficient for their needs.
A more secure and form-fitting holster would be a must-have accessory for enhancing the bag’s functionality. Additional internal organizers might also be beneficial for maximizing space and accessibility.
Conclusion on Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag
The Vism Concealed Carry Quilted Hobo Large Bag offers an accessible entry point into the world of concealed carry purses. Its discreet design and affordable price make it an appealing option for those on a budget.
While the faux leather construction and universal holster have limitations, the bag fulfills its primary function of providing concealed firearm storage. The price is justified for what it offers.
I would recommend it to individuals seeking an inexpensive and discreet concealed carry purse for light to moderate use. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to carry, this bag is worth considering. Take the leap and give yourself the peace of mind that comes with responsible concealed carry.