DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster Review

Why the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster Caught My Eye

For years, I’ve been on the hunt for that perfect pocket holster—one that disappears into my attire while keeping my everyday carry secure and instantly accessible. After trying a variety of materials and designs that promised the moon but delivered mediocrity, I stumbled upon the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster. Its unique sticky exterior, coupled with a smooth interior and the innovative removable flap, immediately piqued my interest. The promise of a holster that truly stays put, while still facilitating a lightning-fast draw, felt like the holy grail of concealed carry.

My search began with a desire for discretion and ease of use. I needed something that wouldn’t print through my pants, wouldn’t shift around as I moved, and would allow me to present my firearm with confidence in any situation. I had experimented with various leather and Kydex pocket holsters, some of which were good, but often presented trade-offs – either they were too bulky, too loose, or the draw was less than ideal. The Super Fly, an evolution of DeSantis’s known Nemesis line, seemed to directly address these common frustrations with its innovative approach.

From the moment I unboxed the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster, I could feel the difference. The exterior material is unlike anything I’d felt before; it possesses a pronounced, almost tacky grip that immediately suggests it won’t be migrating anywhere. The interior, in contrast, felt surprisingly slick and smooth, hinting at the low-friction draw promised. The build quality felt robust for a pocket holster, with clean stitching and a solid, semi-rigid construction that suggests it will hold its shape over time. It felt purposeful, designed for the specific task of discreet pocket carry.

I had previously considered models from Sticky Holsters and other fabric-based makers, but the DeSantis Super Fly offered a distinct advantage with its reversible flap. This feature alone made it a more compelling choice, as it offered an added layer of concealment that many other pocket holsters simply lack. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism mixed with genuine excitement; it felt like I might finally have found a solution that truly ticked all the boxes.

Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster was in the most mundane yet critical of environments: everyday civilian life. I slipped it into the front pocket of my favorite pair of well-worn jeans, loaded with my Ruger LC9s. The immediate sensation was one of security; the holster clung to the denim fabric, refusing to budge even as I walked, sat, and bent. The pistol itself felt well-seated, the trigger completely covered, and there was no discernible printing through the fabric.

The true test, however, came when I needed to draw. In a controlled setting at my home range, I practiced drawing from the pocket. The smooth interior lining of the holster allowed my pistol to slide out with surprising speed and ease, unimpeded by the sticky exterior holding the holster firmly in place. The reversible flap, which I initially found a bit peculiar, proved to be surprisingly effective. When used, it created a cleaner break from the pocket material, further enhancing the draw and preventing the holster from coming out with the gun.

I also experimented with the flap removed and reversed. With the flap detached, the holster performed much like a traditional sticky pocket holster. Reversing the flap and attaching it to the bottom of the holster added a bit of bulk but offered a unique way to “hook” onto the pocket opening, enhancing concealment and making the draw smoother. This added versatility was a welcome surprise and demonstrated DeSantis’s thoughtful design process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After weeks of consistent pocket carry, the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster has proven its mettle. The sticky exterior material, despite constant friction from fabric and occasional contact with my hand, has shown no signs of degradation. It continues to grip my pockets with the same tenacity as day one, a testament to its robust construction. I’ve subjected it to the rigors of daily commutes, crowded shopping trips, and even a long afternoon of yard work, and it remained a steadfast presence, never shifting or allowing the pistol to become loose.

Durability has been excellent. There are no tears, fraying seams, or loss of form. The semi-rigid nature of the holster means it doesn’t collapse when the firearm is drawn, which is crucial for reholstering and maintaining consistent pocket placement. I haven’t had to perform any special maintenance beyond an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove lint, and even then, the material seems resistant to holding onto debris. Compared to some fabric holsters that can become baggy or lose their shape over time, this pocket holster feels as solid and reliable as when I first received it.

Its performance hasn’t waned with repeated draws and reholstering. The slick interior continues to facilitate a smooth draw, and reholstering is generally straightforward, though it requires a conscious effort to ensure the pistol is correctly seated without snagging. This is common with many pocket holsters, but the Super Fly’s ability to maintain its shape makes it easier than some flimsier alternatives. It has certainly outperformed many of the less expensive, less structured pocket holsters I’ve used in the past, offering a balance of security, comfort, and accessibility that is hard to beat.

Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster

Specifications

The DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster is designed to accommodate pistols with barrel lengths ranging from 2 to 4.5 inches. This generous range means it can fit a wide variety of popular compact and subcompact firearms. Its construction features a sticky, rubberized fabric on the exterior, engineered to maximize friction against pocket linings, thus preventing any unwanted movement.

Inside, the holster boasts a slick pack cloth lining, which significantly reduces friction for a fast and smooth draw. The design is ambidextrous, allowing for use in either the front or back pocket, though front pocket carry is generally recommended for quicker access and better concealment. A key innovation is its removable and reversible outer flap, secured by Velcro, which can be adjusted for optimal concealment. The holster is manufactured in the USA and offers Level I retention, meaning retention is primarily passive, relying on the snug fit and the holster’s grip.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster is to provide secure, discreet, and accessible pocket carry, and it excels in this regard. The sticky exterior is, without exaggeration, one of the best I’ve encountered. It genuinely clings to fabric, making the holster feel like an extension of the pocket itself rather than a separate item that could shift. This superior grip is paramount for ensuring the firearm remains in place during daily activities, preventing accidental exposure.

Its performance in facilitating a quick draw is equally impressive. The slick pack cloth interior lives up to its promise, allowing the pistol to glide out with minimal resistance. This is critical in a self-defense scenario where every fraction of a second counts. The reversible outer flap is a standout feature; when properly adjusted, it effectively breaks up the outline of the firearm, significantly reducing printing. It can also be removed entirely if desired, offering a choice in concealment strategy.

While the Level I retention is typical for pocket holsters, the snug fit of the holster to the specific firearm model is paramount. For the firearms it’s designed for, like the Ruger LC9 or Beretta Nano, the fit is typically excellent, providing secure passive retention. My only minor gripe is that reholstering can sometimes require a deliberate two-handed approach to ensure the pistol is fully seated without snagging on the holster opening, a common characteristic of pocket holsters that prioritize slimness and concealment.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster is both functional and surprisingly clever. Its rubberized exterior is not just about grip; it also provides a degree of padding. The semi-rigid construction is crucial, preventing the holster from collapsing when empty, which aids greatly in reholstering and maintaining consistent pocket placement. This firmness, combined with the slick interior, creates an intuitive draw experience.

Ergonomically, the holster is designed for pocket carry and excels in comfort. It lies flat against the leg and doesn’t create uncomfortable pressure points, even during extended periods of sitting or walking. The ambidextrous design means it works equally well whether you prefer to carry in your right or left front pocket, or even your back pocket, though the latter is generally less accessible. The reversible flap adds a unique ergonomic element, allowing users to customize the draw feel and concealment profile.

The overall build quality is robust. The stitching is neat and appears durable, and the materials feel like they are designed to withstand the abrasions of daily pocket life. The absence of any sharp edges or protruding parts ensures that it won’t snag on clothing or cause discomfort. The black finish is unobtrusive and matches most pocket linings well, contributing to its discreet nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster is built for durability in a challenging environment – the inside of a pocket. The rubberized exterior fabric has proven exceptionally resistant to wear and tear. After significant use, it shows no signs of stretching, fraying, or losing its grippy texture. This material choice is a key factor in its longevity.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any lint or dust that might accumulate. The material doesn’t readily absorb moisture or odors, making it easy to keep clean and hygienic. Unlike leather holsters that might require conditioning, or Kydex that can scratch, the Super Fly requires minimal upkeep. Its semi-rigid form factor ensures it maintains its shape, preventing the common issue of fabric holsters becoming misshapen over time.

Potential failure points are minimal for this type of holster. The primary components are the fabric itself, the stitching, and the Velcro for the flap. All appear to be of high quality, suggesting that premature failure is unlikely under normal use. For a pocket holster designed for everyday carry, its durability and low maintenance requirements make it an attractive long-term solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The most significant “accessory” and customization option for the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster is its removable and reversible outer flap. This feature allows the user to tailor the holster’s concealment capabilities. The flap can be attached to the front or back of the holster using the Velcro closure, and its position can be adjusted to optimize how it breaks up the firearm’s silhouette against the pocket.

While the holster itself is quite self-contained, the ability to remove the flap entirely means it can function as a more traditional sticky pocket holster if preferred. This offers a level of versatility that isn’t found in many fixed-design pocket holsters. The ambidextrous design also serves as a form of customization, allowing users to choose their preferred pocket placement without needing a different holster. There are no other bundled accessories, as the holster is designed to be a standalone solution for pocket carry.

Pros and Cons of DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster

Who Should Buy DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster?

The DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize discreet and comfortable pocket carry for their compact or subcompact firearms. It’s ideal for those who need a holster that truly stays put, whether they are wearing jeans, slacks, or even cargo shorts. If you find other pocket holsters shifting or printing, this model offers a superior solution.

Anyone looking for an easy-to-use, reliable method for carrying a firearm for everyday concealed carry will find this holster incredibly beneficial. It’s particularly suited for those who don’t want the complexity of belt holsters or the bulk of larger concealed carry methods. If you carry a firearm like a Ruger LC9, Beretta Nano, or similar-sized pistols and value a secure, fast draw, this holster should be high on your list.

Conversely, individuals who need a highly rigid holster for duty use or those who carry very large firearms that are simply not suitable for pocket carry should look elsewhere. This is fundamentally a concealed carry pocket holster, not a tactical duty rig. For those who prefer minimal bulk and don’t mind the slight learning curve for reholstering, the Super Fly is a fantastic option. A complementary item would simply be a firearm that fits its intended size range well.

Conclusion on DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster

The DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster stands out in a crowded market with its intelligent design and effective execution of core principles. Its sticky exterior is truly a game-changer, providing unparalleled security in the pocket, while the slick interior ensures a fluid and rapid draw. The innovative removable and reversible flap adds a significant layer of concealment, making it an exceptional choice for those who demand discretion.

Considering its price point of around $52.89, the value proposition is strong. You receive a durable, USA-made holster that significantly enhances the usability and security of your concealed carry setup. It offers performance and features that rival more expensive options, all wrapped in a compact and comfortable package.

I can confidently recommend the DeSantis Super Fly Pocket Holster to anyone seeking a superior pocket carry solution, especially for firearms like the Ruger LC9 or Beretta Nano. If you’ve struggled with holsters that migrate or print, or if you simply want the confidence of a secure and accessible firearm, this holster is a wise investment that delivers on its promises.